I am a cave man appraiser. What mobile type should i get, a phone or a note book. And which brand.
Here are the options and pros and cons. I have been using an Apple IPHONE for years. I like it for these reasons: 1) It has a very good camera for wide angle shots. 2) I can upload the data as soon as I am done. I don’t have to use the hotspot with another device. Sometimes data is limited for hotspots. 3) It is small enough I can stick in my pocket if I have to open fences, climb a rock wall, or whatever. 4) It’s just easier to maneuver and deal with in the field.
The cons: It is smaller for sketching. For 90% of the houses you do it will work just fine. But there are times for very big houses I have used my IPAD for screen size. This is why if you get an IPHONE get the biggest one. Some people also use the IPAD mini. The main issues with the IPAD is size and not as good of a camera. I used an IPAD for years and just didn’t like handling it.
And you DO NOT want to drop an IPAD. I bought a really good case (military grade) when I used the IPAD. And by the way even with an IPHONE have a very good case. You will drop it. As far as the camera I often had trouble getting back far enough for good pictures.
The MAIN pro on the IPAD (or IPAD mini) is it is easier to see for sketching. And if sight is an issue for you, then that may be the way to go.
The cons: The main camera is not as good for wide angle shots as stated. If it had a better camera I would probably still be using it.
When I used the IPAD I carried a bag that I could sling over my shoulder and put the IPAD in if I needed both hands. And I put other stuff in the bag as well. Also if I got an IPAD now I would probably get something that had a data plan (extra cost). That way you could upload inspection right after completing it.
So my recommendation: Get a the LARGEST IPHONE you can with a good wide angle camera; especially if you rarely do large houses. And if you can find a deal on an IPAD I would get it. And frankly I use my IPAD all the time for other things. They now have nice keyboards and they work like small laptops. But I am all things Apple because everything automatically integrates with the system.
I don’t know about the Android phones. I would maybe talk to the guys at Alamode for the Android issues.
And PS. You may want to get a good stylus. I often just use my finger, but more often I use a stylus.
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