Which Apple Device for Ekahau Survey? iPhone vs. iPad – Pro vs. Non-Pro

April 28, 2025

When working with Ekahau Survey, one question always comes up sooner or later:

Which Apple device is the right one for me – iPhone or iPad? Pro or Non-Pro?

As an Ekahau ECSE Trainer, I get asked this question all the time. Here’s a compact overview to make your decision easier.

	iPad	iPhone
Screen Size	✅ Large – ideal for better visibility	❌ Smaller – less overview
Weight	❌ Heavier – exhausting over time	✅ Lightweight – perfect for longer surveys
Camera	Good	✅ Even better – especially on Pro models
External Battery	❌ Not possible during survey	✅ MagSafe allows external power during survey

Important note about the iPad: 👉 Only Cellular models support GPS! Make sure to choose accordingly if you need GPS during your surveys.

	Pro	Non-Pro
AutoPilot	✅ Works better – thanks to LiDAR & enhanced sensors	✅ Works – but less precise
JustGo	✅ Available only on Pro models (requires LiDAR)	❌ Not possible
Camera	✅ Best possible quality	Good, but not Pro-level

Conclusion

🔋 Want to use an external battery? Then the iPhone is a strong choice.
📍 Need GPS? Make sure to get a Cellular iPad or iPhone.
🚀 Planning to use AutoPilot or JustGo? Then you’ll definitely need a Pro device.

Personally, I always use an iPhone for my surveys.

It’s noticeably more handy, lightweight, and comfortable – especially during long site walks.
It’s also ideal for photo documentation.

Analysis is still very manageable despite the smaller screen – but I usually perform my detailed evaluations back on the laptop anyway.

So if you want to stay as mobile, flexible, and MagSafe-powered as possible, an iPhone is a great choice.

I’ve also summarized everything in a handy PDF – perfect for internal discussions or sharing with your colleagues: 👉 PDF Download

I’d love to hear from you – either by comment, email, or during the next ECSE training!