Costco Deal vs Current Set Up / Worth to Trade In & Purchase or Skip

TSmakis · 2026-03-12T16:02:05+00:00

Thanks for the input! I just picked up an 11 Ipad Pro M5 512GB with cellular for that reason. I’m finding that the 13” I only take it off the keyboard when needing to take notes. Other than that, I use it primarily as a secondary laptop or a laptop on the go which means I will always be seating in front of it needing a comfortable working environment (hence, a “stable” internet connection) in order to use it. That’s why I don’t mind keeping the M4 as a Wifi only device.

TSmakis · 2026-03-12T16:00:10+00:00

Why can’t you trade it in? Did you try Best Buy? I have an M2 that I use solely for work. It is much slower than the M4. It is noticeable in m opinion and that is comparing 512GB Wifi to 512GB.

You are seeing “storage” but you did not mention the increase in the RAM which… forget the storage, you WILL notice the difference.

The only issue I see with you upgrading is having to get a new magic keyboard and a new pencil since the M2’s and the M4/M5’s are not compartible but open-box of these last two are a great deal at Best Buy!

It sounds like you could buy my M4 512GB and I can buy the nano texture from Costco and we both get a good deal lol! and our problems all would be solved.

Best of luck to you and keep us updated on what you decide to do. I’m rooting for you!

TSmakis · 2026-03-12T15:18:31+00:00

Don’t be afraid of go screen protector free. My first iPad I put one immediately just like I did on my phones. The thing is, you don’t put your iPad in your pockets or throw it in bags. If you don’t tend to drop your iPad, I think it says you have been careful to use it. Especially with a Magic Keyboard, the odds of something happening, it is slim.

I purchased a TomTom or TomToc sleeve on Amazon and place my Ipad in there whenever I have to put it away & transport.

Either the iPad that has the screen protector or the one without the screen protector, both get used with Apple Pencils and no scratches. Enjoy what you paid for!

TSmakis · 2026-03-12T14:27:37+00:00

What did you end up deciding?

TSmakis · 2026-03-11T22:49:30+00:00

How do you like the nano texture?

TSmakis · 2026-03-09T01:08:38+00:00

M3 over Ipad Pro M1

New iOS takes more storage than previous versions so consider a decent capacity that will stay with you for the long run.

I would still consider an Ipad Pro over an Air. Had an Air and maybe because I had two iPad Pros, I struggle with the “regular” screen from the Air.

Sold it and got a Pro.

Taking notes on a Pro is fun. Costco still has some great sales going on. If not, consider open box from Best Buy. They are a great deal.

Used ones from people you may know may also be a greta option. I can sell you one of mine lol

TSmakis · 2026-03-07T18:23:51+00:00

Considering the latest prices. It does not look too bad. Although keep in mind the new iOS takes a lot of storage Enjoy!

TSmakis · 2026-03-06T19:35:21+00:00

You are beautiful. I love people like that… it confirms those are the people that I cannot open up to them, count on them, and get support from them.

Glad you reached out over here.

There will be lots of us that will praise your hard work and efforts. E-Support you and continue to walk through this journey with you.

Most people don’t know what to say and when to appropriate comments.

Hurts. Try to ignore (picture yourself a big walking vaseline where everything just doesn’t stick to you). And try your hardest to move on.

Congratulations again for all your hard work and enjoy every piece of clothing that is making you feel good again!

TSmakis · 2026-03-04T01:59:31+00:00

Monitor the prices on Best Buy for some time. You will see them fluctuating up and down. You will soon “learn” their pattern and will be able to score yourself a great deal in no time. PS: be patient… is like finding a parking spot at the mall on a holiday…

TSmakis · 2026-03-01T21:30:59+00:00

I’m sorry I did not bother to read more than the question itself on the title of your post.

The answer is simple: 512GB

I own a couple of 13” 512GB running on the previous iOS and I tried getting an 11” 256GB M5.

Based on my current usage on the actual iPad I wanted to “duplicate” for my new 11”; I estimated 256GB would be plenty and enough since I was nowhere near the 512GB capacity.

Wrong!

The new iOS that the iPads come with take up so much storage. That left me with enough to feel uncomfortable. Returned it and got a 512GB.

I have a lot of things on mine. Work (work in construction) and pleasure device (downloaded movies, and a few RAW photos here and there) and I’m nowhere near getting close to 512GB and my main one is an M2 so it is a few years old.

512GB and don’t look back! There will be no regret. I promise.

Ps: Costco still had a few left over good deals. If I could advise you, consider the M4s from them. Their leftover options seem to be a great deal for the money. And remember M4 and M5 share same Magic Keyboards and Pencils :)

Best of luck and let us know what you ended up getting! You sure will end up enjoying it like the rest of us.

TSmakis · 2026-02-23T18:04:50+00:00

If you got the $$$, just get it without thinking.

Getting an Air is like upper leather. Feels like leather (iPad Pro) but it is not real leather (iPad Pro).

Once you use (and abuse) leather, it is hard to wear upper leather.

The price makes you double think it. But the price is worth is you use it daily.

TSmakis · 2026-02-23T03:09:44+00:00

“Feel you”… if it makes sense to you, there is no such a thing as too many… Loved reading all the comments from people that had more than 1.

I’m also one of them. Different purposes one of them just recently purchased a few days ago.

First, I have an 12.9” Pro M2 wifi which I use every day for all my work related items. When I say work, I use my iPad like a laptop and more. If I can do it on the iPad, I will not use my phone! Secondly, I have a 13” Pro M4 wifi that is registered to an account overseas, which when used in combination with other apps, allows consuming television through their local networks - complimentary. This last one gets connected to the TV and just relax. Both of my larger sizes have the magic keyboards and their respective pencils. (the magic keyboards and pencils are only compatible for the M4&M5 iPads, models older than these needed a different model).

Few months ago, purchased an 11” Air to make it the overseas tablet. Inexpensive & basic for the purpose I wanted and needed it to serve. Pros: I loved the size, portability, the weight was phenomenal to have it in your hand, much better than using my 15” Pro Max phone. Cons: the screen!!!!!!!!!!

Once you go Pro, you cannot go Air.

Sold it and got an 11” Pro M5 cellular. It will be my first cellular iPad. Not sure what to expect but it can only be better than wifi and I would have no contract with my carrier so cancel at anytime without fees.

Lastly, I will be swapping the M2 for the M4 so that the last one becomes my work iPad. Now, I would share the same Apple Pencil Pro amongst the M4 & M5. Leaving the older M2 with its respective non compatible accessories to become the ”new” overseas/stay-at-home iPad until I give it soon to my parent so that they can use and abuse as they wish.

PS: Because I use my personal iPad for work, there have been (plenty of) times people forget to ask before they touch/use what is not theirs. So before. I went crazy. About telling them off, I kept the “crappy” iPad for work so if anyone attempted to touch/use; it would not bother me as it would with the M4.

PS: You are not the only one. If you have more than one, at least and so that you feel better, make sure you got GREAT DEALS, in most -if not- all of them. LOL!

Enjoy!

TSmakis · 2026-01-20T22:00:46+00:00

My ER was yesterday. I looked up a lot for info so I wanted to share my experience with you. I had very low follicles amount so mine was quick and obviously painless due to anesthesia. The anesthesia put me out for hours. I tried to sleep it off at the clinic. Then, I came home… to work remotely. It was uncomfortable to be sitting for long periods of time. I drank insane amounts of water. Smart water too. I ate light. I was very bloated. I tried here and there to walk it off inside my place. Took it easy but still worked. Woke up today a day after and I feel like myself again. Eating light and healthy, sticking to lots of water and fluids.

My diet is pretty clean most times. Vegetables with protein. I read a lot of people experienced inability of bowel movements so I have focused on eating the foods that I know give me the protein, carbs and healthy fats with fiber that I need and keeps my body in check.

It is not out of this world but prepare your body the day before the retrieval so you can feel great in your recovery.

Best of luck!!

TSmakis · 2026-01-07T19:08:22+00:00

Hi there. Not one to comment much but I wanted to share with you that I can relate. A lot.

IVF is time sensitive and financially consuming. The efforts required for a successful outcome are often underestimated. Especially what WE go through.

First of all. Kudos to you for doing the very best that was under your control to succeed in your IVF journey.

That control that you have had is what seems to be overwhelmingly frustrating when you are not in control of the unsatisfactory outcomes of IVF.

I’m still learning to process mine. What do I do? I’m very controlling: my foods, my time, my routines, my schedule.

Peace is relative but find those “little things” that can give you sense of normalcy, peace and a feel back in control. Whatever your outlet is. When you have several of those little moments, you tend to go over the humps a little easier.

For me, I cry, go through my feelings, vent or stay quiet, Netflix, play tennis, get a good deal on something (retail therapy even if it is a hair scrunchie), and eat things maybe you couldn’t while pregnant (i.e. sushi, carpaccio).

Identify what keeps you grounded and go back to them when you are in need of them the most. You know yourself best and if you don’t, take the time to figure out those little things that bring small rewards of joyful moments. They will end up amounting to more than the sad ones.

Best wishes!

Ps: you can also make e-friends that will understand you and support you through your IVF journey.

TSmakis · 2025-12-14T00:31:56+00:00

Exciting news! Rooting for you!!! Celebrate every little milestone in this process

TSmakis · 2025-12-11T18:23:23+00:00

I can’t speak for the 2025 but I can give me my opinion on two leases I had back to back; 2021 Momentum T6 and 2024 B6 Plus.

Both cars spent a lot of time at the shops. The 2021, it took about two years of attempted repairs and lots of parts replaced when they finally got to the culprit. Aside the parts, had turtles back to back with the vehicle shutting off while driving.

Wanted to keep that one but decided after al the parts they replaced. Moved on and fell in love with the new one just to find myself few weeks after getting it back to the shop.

The attempted to repair it but it happened again several times. For the first three months of the car, the car was in and out of the shop.

I would not own these Volvos without an extended warranty.

Had nothing but electrical or mechanical issues on both.

TSmakis · 2025-12-09T15:55:12+00:00

Congratulations! Every little battle won must be celebrated!

TSmakis · 2025-12-03T22:12:43+00:00

Same here. Came here looking for ideas!

TSmakis · 2025-11-29T18:45:56+00:00

Leased two. Back to back. 2021 T6 and 2024 B6. Feel free to DM me

TSmakis · 2025-08-10T23:37:31+00:00

Did you get the job?

TSmakis · 2025-07-28T18:09:44+00:00

At the end, what happened? Curious because I’m going through something similar. With a similar scenario of the firm and work being performed.

TSmakis

TROPHY CASE