Purchasing an iPad might seem straightforward, but it’s not always that simple. Apple offers four primary iPad models, each with distinct advantages. Moreover, there’s a growing market for older iPads, complicating the decision-making process. Given their similar appearances, it’s crucial to understand what you’re purchasing and its fair value. This guide outlines the current best iPad options, upcoming releases, key distinctions between models, and the outdated versions to avoid. Additionally, we discuss the suitable Apple Pencil options for your needs.
Best for Most People
Apple iPad (2022, 10th Gen) We originally said the iPad (10th-gen) (7/10, unoow Review) was an awkward choice—it was too expensive for a basic iPad and the ninth-generation version was a better value. But now that Apple reduced the price of this iPad by $100 and also discontinued the previous version (although you can still find it at third-party retailers), we think the 10th-gen is the best for most people.
Apple has modernized the design with uniform slim bezels around a larger 10.9-inch Liquid Retina (IPS LCD) display. There’s finally a USB-C port instead of Lightning, so you can charge it with the same cable as you use to charge a MacBook (or iPhone 15). The cellular model now supports 5G, and like on the iPad Air, the Touch ID sensor is integrated into the power button that sits on the top edge of the slate.
The rear camera has been upgraded to 12 megapixels, instead of 8 megapixels. But, perhaps most importantly, the 12-MP selfie camera has been moved to the center of it (in landscape mode), so you’ll no longer have to uncomfortably stare to the side during video calls.
It’s powered by Apple’s A14 Bionic chip—the same that’s in the iPhone 12—which Apple claims delivers 20 percent faster performance and a 10 percent bump in graphics over the ninth-gen model; it never felt sluggish in our testing. However, it’s worth noting it still doesn’t have a fully laminated display. So, there’s an air gap between the screen and the glass, which can make interactions with the Apple Pencil feel a smidge imprecise.
You also don’t get second-gen Apple Pencil support—it only works with the first-gen stylus; now that the Lightning port is gone, you need to use an adapter to recharge the Pencil. (It’s included if you buy a new first-gen Apple Pencil, but if you already have one, the adapter is $9.) This iPad also supports the Magic Keyboard Folio and the original Smart Folio case. Read our Best iPad Accessories guide for more alternatives.
The Best Air !
Apple iPad Air (2024, M2) Note: A previous version of this article stated that the iPad Air used the M4 chip; it uses the M2. It also stated it’s compatible with the second-generation Apple Pencil and the new Magic Keyboard; it supports the Apple Pencil (USB-C) and the first-generation Magic Keyboard. The text below has been corrected to reflect this.
Even the most basic one is plenty powerful for most tasks, but the 2024 iPad Air steps things up with an all-new M2 processor—the same one that powers the 13-inch MacBook Air and MacBook Pro from 2022. It’s worth noting, however, that it has an 8-core CPU and 9-core GPU—Apple originally claimed the latter was a 10-core GPU, but the company has since updated its site with the correct specs. Compared to the M1, Apple claims the M2 is almost 50 percent faster than the M1-powered version and three times faster than the iPad with the A14 Bionic chip. Coming from the M1-powered iPad Air.
I didn’t notice much of a difference with the M2 chip. Performance was smooth, even with a variety of apps running simultaneously. You’ll likely only notice a difference if you’re coming from an older A-series chip.
You also now have the choice between an 11-inch and a 13-inch Liquid Retina display. The latter is an ideal choice for those who don’t want to spend money on an iPad Pro if all you want is a bigger screen. The design (which originally debuted on the 2020 iPad Air) remains unchanged, with slim bezels, a USB-C port, and Touch ID built into the top power button. The only difference is the front-facing camera placement—Apple moved the 12-megapixel sensor in landscape orientation (with support for Center Stage).
The 13-inch i- Air (8/10, unoow Recommends) is worth it solely for the bigger and brighter display. Whether you’re using the iPad as your main screen or secondary display to work off of, it’s a lot more comfortable to stare at for long periods. It’s great for entertainment too—the viewing experience is just far more enjoyable on a bigger tablet. But if you’re eyeing the 11-inch model.
we recommend looking into the M1-powered iPad Air instead. It packs a slightly smaller 10.9-inch screen, but it’s still a great choice, especially if you don’t want to spend too much. Apple no longer sells it directly, but we suggest finding it on sale for $450 or less ($550 or less for the 256-gigabyte version). The M2-powered versions also have the same battery life as the previous version—Apple claims 10 hours of web browsing or watching video on Wi-Fi. On a busy workday, using Chrome, Slack, Safari, and Zoom, I reached 5 percent after about six hours.
Supported accessories can get a little confusing. It’s compatible with the Apple Pencil (USB-C) and the new Apple Pencil Pro. It won’t work with the second-generation Apple Pencil though. It also works with the first-generation Magic Keyboard case and not the latest redesigned version. If you don’t need a keyboard and trackpad, Apple also offers the Smart Folio case.
Best for Portability
Apple iPad Mini (2021, 6th Gen) The Mini looks like no Mini that came before (8/10, unoow Recommends). Apple’s 2021 refresh mimics the design of the iPad Pro, with slimmer bezels around the 8.3-inch screen. It’s a little shorter than its predecessor, and its compact size makes it the best slate to take with you everywhere. You might even be able to fit it into your cargo pants pocket.
It loses the Home button but doesn’t adopt Face ID—like on the iPad Air and 10th-gen iPad, Touch ID is baked into the power button. It has sub-6 5G connectivity if you add a cellular plan, but best of all is the USB-C charging port, so you can recharge it with your MacBook charger.
With the A15 Bionic processor (released in 2021 with the iPhone 13), it can handle pretty much any intensive app or game. It has improved cameras on the front and back (plus Center Stage on the selfie cam) and second-generation Apple Pencil support, so the stylus magnetically attaches to the edge and charges simultaneously. It won’t roll off the desk! The iPad Mini has frequently dropped to $400, so try to catch it on sale.
The Pro !
Apple iPad Pro (M4, 2024, 11-Inch and 13-Inch) Apple’s latest Pro tablets (6/10, unoow Review) pack the largest amount of notable upgrades we’ve seen in years. You’ll now have the choice between an 11-inch and a slightly larger 13-inch size. I tested the 13-inch and recommend the bigger size if you plan on working off the iPad Pro full-time. Apple also upgraded the display from mini-LED to OLED (on both sizes). Known as Ultra Retina XDR, it’s made of a new display technology called Tandem OLED which consists of two fused OLED layers, resulting in a brighter screen.
Apple says both sizes can hit 1,600 nits of peak brightness in HDR and 1,000 nits with SDR content. I didn’t notice a difference coming from mini-LED, but you’ll certainly notice it if you’re coming from an older iPad Pro with a Liquid Retina display. For an extra $100, you can also opt for nano-textured glass on the 1-TB or 2-TB configurations.
The matte finish reduces glare but still feels the same as standard glass. This is also the thinnest Apple product yet. The 13-inch model is 5.1 mm thick (1.3 mm thinner than the previous version), while the 11-inch measures 5.3 mm (0.8 mm thinner than the 2022 model). They’re also lighter, coming in at 1.28 pounds and 0.98 pounds, respectively.
Apple made some changes to its camera systems on both the front and back too. The rear camera now consists of a single 12-megapixel wide camera (the company nixed the 10-megapixel ultrawide camera included in the previous version), along with a lidar scanner and a new adaptive True Tone flash to improve document scanning in harsh lighting.
It works well! Tapping Scan Document when the page is under the camera works well, and is a lot quicker than using the feature via the Notes app on my iPhone. As with the iPad Air and iPad (10th-gen), the front-facing camera has been moved to the center top edge of the tablet. These new models are also compatible with the new Magic Keyboard, Apple Pencil Pro, and Smart Folio case. It’s worth noting they’re not backward compatible with older accessories—not only because of the new thin and light chassis but also because the magnets on the back of the tablet have been rearranged.
The iPad Pro is powered by an all-new M4 chip with a CPU that can handle up to 10 cores (models with 256 GB and 512 GB come with a 9-core CPU), which Apple says delivers up to 1.5 times faster CPU performance compared to the M2 in the previous iPad Pro, while the 10-core GPU is up to four times faster. It doesn’t feel all that different from using an M2-powered iPad Pro—performance is smooth, responsive, and snappy. But it’s tough to recommend this tablet right now. It’s expensive and it feels like the processor’s full capabilities remain to be seen.
We recommend holding off until Apple announces iPadOS 18 at its annual Worldwide Developers Conference in June. Even if the groundbreaking features don’t pan out, the M2-powered iPad Pro is still a great option. You can find it at third-party retailers (wait until it’s on sale).
Exclusive iPad IOS Features: M1, M2, and M4 Chip Requirements
With iPadOS 16 and iPadOS 17, there are a few features only available on M1, M2, and M4-powered iPad models, while others are exclusive to the iPad Pro. The iPad Air (2022, 5th gen), 12.9-inch iPad Pro (2021, 5th gen), and 11-inch iPad Pro (2021, 3rd gen) have an M1 chip; the 12.9-inch iPad Pro (2022, 6th gen), 11-inch iPad Pro (2022, 4th gen), iPad Air (2024) have an M2 chip; the iPad Pro (2024) has an M4 chip. Below, we break down which features are available on what iPad model. Be sure to also check out our iPadOS 17 feature roundup.
- Reference Mode: Available on the 12.9-inch iPad Pro with M1, M2, and M4. Reference Mode allows you to use the tablet as a reference monitor to ensure color accuracy and consistent image quality when editing photos or videos with a secondary display.
- Stage Manager: Available on iPads with M1, M2, M4, and older iPad Pro models (2018 onward) with the A12X and A12Z chips. For a desktop-like multitasking experience, Stage Manager allows you to resize windows, overlap them, and group them together. You’ll also see recently used apps and windows appear on the left side of your screen.
- External Display Support: Available on iPads with M1, M2, and M4. When using Stage Manager, you can also connect the iPad Pro and iPad Air to an external display with resolutions up to 6K. That way, instead of mirroring the iPad to the display, you can access four apps on the external display and four apps on the tablet.
- Virtual Memory Swap: Available on iPads with M1, M2, and M4. If you’re in need of more memory for RAM-intensive apps, Virtual Memory Swap will increase the available memory for all your apps and provide up to 16 GB for more taxing apps. If you’re using an M1-powered iPad Air, this feature is only available on the 256-GB version.
- Apple Pencil Hover: Available on both sizes of the iPad Pro (M2 and M4) and iPad Air (M2). Using the second-generation Apple Pencil (on the M2-powered iPad Pro) and Apple Pencil Pro, you can hover the stylus millimeters above the screen and see a preview of what will happen before touching the display. For example, with a third-party graphic editing app like Pixelmator, hovering allows you to cycle through presets to see a live
Identify Your iPad Model: A Simple Guide
In the vast and diverse landscape of iPads, distinguishing the exact model you own can present a challenge, especially if you’re considering selling it or seeking accessories tailored to its specifications. Unlike the iPhone, which follows a sequential naming convention, iPads are labeled differently, contributing to the complexity. Nonetheless, there are simple steps you can take to identify your iPad model accurately.
Firstly, turn your attention to the back of your iPad. Etched near the “Designed by Apple in California” inscription, you’ll find a model number typically beginning with the letter A. This alphanumeric code serves as a unique identifier for your device.
Once you’ve located the model number, the next step involves visiting Apple’s official website. There, you can leverage the search functionality to locate your specific model based on its unique identifier. Utilizing your browser’s “Find in Page” feature can expedite this process, allowing you to quickly pinpoint the relevant information amidst the webpage’s content.
Accessory compatibility is another crucial consideration when determining your iPad model. Manufacturers often specify which iPad models their products support, helping consumers make informed decisions about their purchases. If you come across a retailer referencing a particular iPad generation, it’s helpful to cross-reference this information with Apple’s current lineup to ensure compatibility.
Understanding Apple’s current iPad lineup is key to navigating the diverse range of available models. As technology evolves, so too does Apple’s product offerings, with new models regularly introduced to the market. By staying informed about the latest releases and updates, you can make well-informed decisions regarding your iPad and its accessories.
In summary, identifying your iPad model involves a straightforward process that begins with locating the model number on the back of your device. From there, a quick visit to Apple’s website can provide comprehensive information about your specific model, helping you determine its compatibility with various accessories. By staying informed about the current lineup of iPads and their respective features, you can make informed decisions about your device and enhance your overall user experience.
Additionally, as the iPad lineup continues to evolve, it’s essential to keep abreast of any new developments or updates from Apple. By staying informed about the latest releases and advancements in iPad technology, you can ensure that your device remains up-to-date and equipped with the latest features and capabilities.
Ultimately, identifying your iPad model is the first step towards maximizing its potential and ensuring that it remains compatible with a wide range of accessories and software applications. With a bit of research and attention to detail, you can confidently navigate the world of iPads and make informed decisions about your device and its accessories.
- iPad: 10th generation (2022)
- iPad Mini: 6th generation (2021)
- iPad Air 11-inch: 6th generation (M2, 2024)
- iPad Air 13-inch: 1st generation (M2, 2024)
- iPad Pro 11-inch: 5th generation (M4, 2024)
- iPad Pro 13-inch: 7th generation (M4, 2024)
Top iPad Accessories to Enhance Your Experience
Enhance Your Tablet Experience
When purchasing a new iPad, various accessories can maximize its utility. Below, we’ve highlighted some top picks from our Best iPad Accessories guide. We’re currently evaluating accessories for the latest models and will provide our insights soon.
Zugu Case for $50: Our preferred folio case offers durability with a rigid bumper and a magnetized cover. It provides versatility with eight screen angles and includes a slot for your Apple Pencil.
Logitech Combo Touch (10th-gen) for $160: This keyboard, trackpad, and kickstand combo enhances productivity and easily connects via Apple’s Smart Connector.
Paperlike Charcoal Folio Case for $70: Featuring a sketchbook-like design and two viewing angles, this case ensures a lightweight and secure fit for your iPad.
Apple Magic Trackpad 2 for $110: With Force Touch sensors and iPadOS gesture support, this trackpad reduces screen interaction and seamlessly pairs via Bluetooth.
Logitech K380 Bluetooth Keyboard for $40: Lightweight and portable, this keyboard can connect to three devices via Bluetooth and boasts long-lasting battery life.
Twelve South HoverBar Duo 2.0 for $80: Serving as both a mount and a stand, this versatile accessory provides hands-free viewing and convenient desk use.
Twelve South StayGo Mini USB-C Hub for $59: Addressing port limitations, this hub offers various ports including USB-C, USB-A, HDMI, and a headphone jack, ensuring connectivity convenience.
Worth Considering: Older iPad Models
While Apple no longer sells these iPads, they remain solid options if you can find them at a good discount. Look for deals at third-party retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and B&H. Always compare prices with the latest models to ensure you’re getting a worthwhile discount.
iPad Pro (2022, 6th Gen): These models feature the same M2 chip found in the MacBook Air (2022), Mac Mini, and iPad Air (2024). They boast a superb mini-LED screen with a 120-Hz refresh rate, a dual-camera system with a lidar sensor, and a front-facing camera with Center Stage support. Additionally, they have great speakers and mics and are compatible with the original Magic Keyboard case, second-generation Apple Pencil, and Apple Pencil with USB-C. We recommend buying the 11-inch model if it’s $749 or less, and the 12.9-inch model if it’s $900 or less.
iPad Air (2022, 5th Gen): This iPad Air is powered by the M1 processor, has a 10.9-inch LCD screen, a USB-C port, Touch ID in the top power button, and 5G support. It’s a powerful, lightweight tablet suitable for most tasks and supports the second-generation Apple Pencil, Apple Pencil with USB-C, and the Magic Keyboard case. Only buy it if it’s $450 or less.
iPad (2021, 9th Gen): The ninth-generation iPad features a 10.2-inch display, a Home button with Touch ID, an A13 Bionic chip (from the iPhone 11), True Tone support, and a 12-megapixel front camera with Center Stage. It works with the first-generation Apple Pencil and Apple’s Smart Keyboard. It’s a great affordable basic tablet option.
Older models are becoming harder to find. They won’t be your forever iPad but should last a couple of years. Ensure you get them at a lower price than newer models.
- iPad (8th Gen): Released in 2020, it’s now hard to recommend, especially since the 9th-gen model often sells for $250. Only consider it if you find it for less.
- iPad Air (2020): Aim to pay between $300 and $350.
- iPad Mini (5th Gen): Don’t spend more than $250.
OTHER AMAZON ITEMS
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Buying an iPad might seem straightforward, but with four main models, each offering unique strengths, and a variety of older versions still available, making the right choice requires careful consideration. This guide outlines the best current models, upcoming releases, the important differences between versions, and older models worth considering. We also help you pick the right Apple Pencil.
The 10th-generation iPad (2022) is a solid choice for most users, featuring a fresh design, an A14 Bionic chip, a 10.9-inch LCD screen, and a 12-megapixel selfie camera with Center Stage. Priced at $449, it supports the first-generation Apple Pencil and offers good performance for everyday tasks like browsing, streaming, and light productivity.
The 6th-generation iPad Mini (2021) is perfect for those who need a portable yet powerful device. It features an A15 Bionic chip, an 8.3-inch screen, Touch ID in the power button, and USB-C charging. With support for the second-generation Apple Pencil, it’s ideal for note-taking and drawing on the go, fitting easily into bags and purses.
The 5th-generation iPad Air (2022) combines portability with power, boasting a 10.9-inch screen, M1 processor, USB-C port, Touch ID, and 5G support. It’s lightweight and compatible with the second-generation Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard, making it perfect for productivity tasks.
The latest iPad Pro (2024) models, available in 11-inch and 13-inch sizes, feature M4 chips, OLED displays, improved cameras, and compatibility with new accessories like the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil Pro. Despite their high performance and advanced features, their price and power might be more than what the average user needs.
If you’re considering older models, the iPad Pro (2022, 6th Gen) with an M2 chip and the iPad Air (2022, 5th Gen) with an M1 processor are still excellent options if found at a good discount. These older models offer great performance and support for accessories like the second-generation Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard, making them worthy of consideration if you can find them at the right price.
HOW TO BUY FROM AMAZON
Buying an iPad from Amazon is a straightforward process that can be accomplished in a few simple steps. Here’s a detailed guide to help you navigate the process effectively and ensure you make a well-informed purchase.
Step 1: Create or Log In to Your Amazon Account
Before you can make a purchase, you need an Amazon account. If you already have one, simply log in with your username and password. If not, go to Amazon’s homepage and click on “Create your Amazon account.” Follow the prompts to provide your name, email address, and create a password. Once you have an account, you can start shopping.
Step 2: Search for the iPad
Once logged in, use the search bar at the top of the Amazon homepage. Type in the specific iPad model you’re interested in, such as “iPad 10th generation,” “iPad Mini 6th generation,” “iPad Air 5th generation,” or “iPad Pro 2024.” You can also use broader search terms like “iPad” if you’re still undecided. Amazon will display a list of relevant products based on your search terms.
Step 3: Filter and Sort Your Results
Amazon provides several filtering options to help you narrow down your choices. On the left side of the search results page, you can filter by price range, brand (Apple), customer reviews, storage capacity, screen size, and other features. If you want the latest model, filter by “Newest Arrivals.” You can also sort the results by relevance, price (low to high or high to low), average customer review, and more.
Step 4: Read Product Descriptions and Reviews
Once you find an iPad that interests you, click on the product title to view its details. Here, you’ll find comprehensive information about the iPad, including technical specifications, features, and customer reviews. Pay close attention to the product description to ensure it matches your requirements. Reviews and ratings from other buyers can provide valuable insights into the product’s performance and reliability.
Step 5: Check for Offers and Bundles
Amazon often provides special offers, discounts, and bundles that can save you money. Look for deals like price reductions, coupons, or bundled accessories such as the Apple Pencil, keyboard cases, or screen protectors. These offers are usually highlighted on the product page or under the “Special offers and product promotions” section.
Step 6: Choose the Right Seller
Amazon sells products directly, but also hosts third-party sellers. When selecting a seller, it’s important to consider their ratings and reviews. A highly rated seller is more likely to provide good customer service and authentic products. Amazon’s “Fulfilled by Amazon” option means the product will be shipped from an Amazon warehouse, offering faster delivery and easier returns.
Step 7: Add to Cart and Checkout
After selecting the desired iPad, click the “Add to Cart” button. You can continue shopping for other items or proceed directly to checkout by clicking the cart icon in the upper right corner. Review your cart to ensure all items are correct. Click “Proceed to checkout” to enter the shipping address and payment information.
Step 8: Enter Shipping and Payment Information
Amazon will prompt you to enter your shipping address. If you already have saved addresses, select the appropriate one. Next, choose your preferred shipping method. Standard shipping is usually free, but faster options like two-day or next-day delivery are available for an extra charge. Then, enter your payment information. Amazon accepts various payment methods, including credit/debit cards, Amazon gift cards, and sometimes payment plans.
Step 9: Review and Place Your Order
Before finalizing your purchase, review your order details, including the shipping address, payment method, and items in your cart. Make sure everything is correct. If you have an Amazon gift card or promotional code, enter it in the designated field to apply the discount. Once you’re satisfied with the order summary, click “Place your order.”
Step 10: Track Your Order
After placing your order, Amazon will send a confirmation email with the order details. You can track the shipment’s progress by going to “Your Orders” on the Amazon website or app. Here, you can see the estimated delivery date, shipping status, and tracking number. Amazon will also notify you via email when your order has shipped and when it has been delivered.
Step 11: Receive and Inspect Your iPad
When your iPad arrives, inspect the package for any damage during shipping. Open the box carefully and verify that you received the correct model and all included accessories. If there are any issues, such as receiving the wrong product or finding defects, Amazon’s return policy allows you to return or exchange the item within a specified period, typically 30 days.
Step 12: Leave a Review
After using your new iPad, consider leaving a review on Amazon to help other buyers make informed decisions. Share your experiences, both positive and negative, to contribute to the community and assist others in their purchasing journey.
By following these steps, you can confidently purchase an iPad from Amazon, ensuring you get the best value and a product that meets your needs.
