Apple iPad tablets are remarkably versatile tools for everyday tasks and processor-intensive creative projects alike. But with so many iPad models on the market, all at vastly different price points, it can be tricky to pick the right Apple tablet for your needs in 2024. Confused about all the differences between the iPad, iPad Air, iPad Mini and iPad Pro models? Not sure about what memory and connectivity options? Well, keep reading.
Compiled by our in-house team of consumer tech experts , this buyer’s guide focuses on all of the current Apple iPad models and will help you choose the right one for you or the person you’re buying a tablet for. But, if you’re seeking a tablet for a child, be sure to check out our separate guide on best tablets for kids . Here are some of the popular iPad models and configurations, although as you’ll discover, many more options are available: Display Size : 10.
2-inches | Display Type : Retina Display | Processor : A13 Bionic | Internal Storage Options : 64GB or 128GB | Casing Color Options : Space Gray, Silver | Port : Lightning | Wireless Connectivity : Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 4. 2 | Apple Pencil Support : 1st Gen. | Keyboard Support : Apple Smart Keyboard | Security : Touch ID | Size : 9.
8 x 6. 8 x 0. 29 inches | Weight : 1.
07 pounds This is Apple’s starter iPad. It offers all of the core features that people love about these tablets, but none of the more advanced features. It’s ideal for kids (elementary through middle school age).
We also recommend it for adults who need just basic tablet for web surfing, email, streaming video and audio, and video calling. Like all current iPads, this 9th Generation version allows users run two apps at once in split-screen mode. It also offers up to 10 hours of battery life per charge, and it’s compatible with the Apple Pencil (1st Generation).
This means users can write or draw on the display or annotate files. For note taking, we recommend the optional Goodnotes app, although there are plenty of others to choose from. This iPad is equipped with a 12MP ultra-wide, front-facing camera and an 8MP wide camera on the back.
And while this is Apple’s lowest-end version of the iPad, it runs iPadOS 17 (or later) and comes with the same impressive collection of preinstalled apps as every other iPad model. It’s also compatible with all of the same apps from the App Store, as well as all of Apple’s services, including AppleTV+, Apple Music and Apple Arcade. For older students (or any adult who’s on a budget), we recommend the iPad (10th Generation) over this one, because it offers more up-to-date technology and a slightly more powerful processor.
But for younger users and people who need just basic tablet functionality, this iPad (9th Generation), which was first released back in 2021, is a solid option. With a usual starting price of $329 (it’s on sale now for $250), it offers a really good value. If you give a younger child access to this tablet, we strongly recommend a screen protector film , which you can find for as little as $7 on Amazon.
This will help protect the display from scratches and cracks. A sturdy, kid-friendly iPad case will also guard the iPad against accidental drops. Display Size : 10.
9-inches | Display Type : Liquid Retina | Processor : A14 Bionic | Internal Storage Options : 64GB or 256GB | Casing Color Options : Silver, Blue, Pink, Yellow | Port : USB Type-C | Wireless Connectivity : Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5. 2 | Apple Pencil Support : 1st Gen or USB-C version | Keyboard Support : Apple Magic Keyboard Folio | Security : Touch ID | Size : 9. 79 x 7.
07 x 0. 28 inches | Weight : 1. 05 Thanks to its slightly newer and more advanced technology versus the 9th Generation, we recommend this version for high-school students and adults who want all of the benefits of an iPad without having to spend a fortune.
With this model, you get a 10. 9-inch Liquid Retina touchscreen display, along with the processing power of the A14 Bionic chip. The 10th Generation also comes in a nice selection of colors and works with the Apple Pencil and/or an optional keyboard, which can extend its capabilities.
This iPad’s display and processor allow users to stream 4K resolution video or edit their own 4K videos. And when it comes to customizing the tablet, users get access to almost 2 million apps from the App Store, plus the preinstalled apps that come with iPadOS 17 (or later). This version of the iPad is a step up from a starter model, but is not as powerful as the newer iPad Pro versions.
It can easily handle all of the most common tasks people use their tablet for. Display Size : 10. 9-inches | Display Type : Liquid Retina | Processor : M1 | Internal Storage Options : 64GB or 256GB | Casing Color Options : Space Gray, Blue, Pink, Purple, Starlight | Port : USB Type-C | Wireless Connectivity : Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.
0 | Apple Pencil Support : 2nd Gen or USB-C version | Keyboard Support : Apple Magic Keyboard or Smart Keyboard Folio | Security : Touch ID | Size : 9. 74 x 7. 02 x 0.
24 inches | Weight : 1. 02 pounds Originally, the iPad Air was introduced to provide a thinner, lighter tablet that still offered a good-size display. But over the years, the iPad Pros also got lighter and thinner.
These higher-end iPads use a higher-end display and a more powerful processor. With this in mind, the current iPad Air (5th Generation) falls somewhere in the middle when comparing it with later iPads. This model can easily handle common tasks.
It does a wonderful job streaming video and audio and can be used for video calls. It takes advantage of Apple’s M1 processor, so it’s really good for gaming, too. It’s certainly a higher-end alternative to the iPad 9th and 10th generations.
Choosing the iPad Air (5th Generation) becomes a matter of personal preference — whether you like how it feels in your hands. The tablet’s support for Wi-Fi 6 ensures fast connectivity to the internet. If you wind up purchasing the iPad Air, we highly recommend spending a bit more to get 256GB of internal storage; for even an average user, 64GB usually doesn’t cut it these days, unless you plan to rely heavily on cloud-based storage.
Display Size : 8. 3-inches | Display Type : Liquid Retina | Processor : A15 Bionic | Internal Storage Options : 64GB or 256GB | Casing Color Options : Space Gray, Pink, Purple, Starlight | Port : USB Type-C | Wireless Connectivity : Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5. 0 | Apple Pencil Support : 2nd Gen or USB-C version | Keyboard Support : Any Bluetooth keyboard | Security : Touch ID | Size : 7.
69 x 5. 3 x 0. 25 inches | Weight : 0.
65 pounds When it comes to reading e-books or other tasks that require holding the tablet for a long time, the iPad Mini is the perfect. It’s more compact and lighter than any of the other iPad models, yet still offers the processing power needed to run iPadOS17 (or later) and any apps. The 8.
3-inch Liquid Retina display offers a maximum brightness of 500 nits and provides an impressive 2,266 x 1,488 pixel resolution. Apple’s A15 Bionic processor is powerful enough to handle everyday tasks and multitasking (but it’s not as powerful as Apple’s newer M1 or M2 processors). And because the tablet is lightweight and easy to hold with one hand, it’s ideal for video calls.
In fact, the tablet’s two microphones and stereo speakers do an excellent job ensuring that you’ll be heard, and that the speakers sounds good. Since the 6th Generation limits your internal storage options to either 64GB or 256GB, again we highly recommend going with the higher capacity. And since Wi-Fi is so readily available these days, unless you have a very specific need for the Wi-Fi + Cellular version of this tablet, most users will do just fine with the less expensive Wi-Fi only version.
Unlike traditional e-readers that have an e-ink or Paperwhite display, the iPad Mini offers a vibrant, full-color display. This makes reading photo-heavy e-books enjoyable. Plus, you can read digital editions of newspapers and magazines in full color.
Of course, the iPad Mini also does a great job streaming video and audio. And with an Apple Pencil, it can be used as a feature-packed note taking tool. But that just scratches the surface of what this tablet can do, because it’s fully compatible with iPadOS 17 (or later) and all compatible apps.
So, if you’re looking for a full-featured iPad with a lighter and more compact design, the iPad Mini is the option for you. Display Size : 11-inches | Display Type : Liquid Retina | Processor : M2 | Internal Storage Options : 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, or 2TB | Casing Color Options : Space Gray, Silver | Port : USB Type-C | Wireless Connectivity : Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5. 3 | Apple Pencil Support : 2nd Gen or USB-C version | Keyboard Support : Apple Magic Keyboard, Apple Smart Keyboard Folio | Security : Face ID | Size : 9.
74 x 7. 02 x 0. 23 inches | Weight : 1.
03 pounds The iPad Pro tablets represent Apple’s highest-end and most powerful iPad models. You can choose between this version, with an 11-inch Liquid Retina display, or go with the larger 12. 9-inch touchscreen version that features an even more vibrant Liquid Retina XDR display.
This 11-inch version’s display offers a 1,000,000:1 contrast ratio and a maximum brightness of 1,600 nits. You also get a 120Hz refresh rate and use of the entire P3 color gamut. Combine all that with more than 2,500 local dimming zones, and what you get is vividly detailed photos, video content and graphics with life-like realism and color accuracy.
The main thing that sets the iPad Pro models apart is the powerful M2 processor. This allows the tablets to crush tasks that require a lot of power, like video editing or playing high-action and graphic-oriented games. Designed for people who need more out of their tablet, the iPad Pro models can take up to 2TB of internal storage.
And when you connect a keyboard to an iPad Pro or use it with an Apple Pencil, its capabilities begin to rival that of a MacBook laptop. For wireless connectivity, the iPad Pro supports Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5. 3, so you’ll enjoy fast connections.
The M2 processor features an 8-core CPU, 10-core GPU and 16-core neural engine, so it can easily handle just about any task. What we like about this iPad is that it offers four speakers (instead of just two), so when you’re watching movies or TV shows, or streaming music that supports Dolby Atmos, the audio will sound as if it’s surrounding you. This works even when you’re not using wireless headphones or earbuds.
And if you’re someone who does high-end video editing on the go, using the iPad Pro with Final Cut Pro gives you access to top-level tools. Likewise, Logic Pro for iPad transforms the tablet into a pro-level, mobile audio recording studio. For the average person, the 11-inch display and the overall size and weight of the 11-inch iPad Pro offers everything you need to be productive from just about anywhere.
For power users, we recommend purchasing this iPad Pro with the Apple Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil (2nd Generation). You’ll maximize your productivity and take full advantage of everything iPad has to offer, including a 10-hour battery life. Most people find 256GB or 512GB of internal storage to be more than adequate, especially if they plan to use storage options with Apple iCloud.
But for power users who need to edit longer videos or store a vast content library, the iPad Pro models offer a 1TB or 2TB internal storage option. Display Size : 12. 9-inches | Display Type : Liquid Retina XDR | Processor : M2 | Internal Storage Options : 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB or 2TB | Casing Color Options : Space Gray, Silver | Port : USB Type-C | Wireless Connectivity : Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.
3 | Apple Pencil Support : 2nd Gen or USB-C version | Keyboard Support : Apple Magic Keyboard or Apple Smart Keyboard Folio | Security : Face ID | Size : 11. 04 x 8. 47 x 0.
25 inches | Weight : 1. 5 pounds The 12. 9-inch iPad Pro (6th Generation) is currently Apple’s top-of-the-line and most powerful tablet.
It’s got the proprietary M2 processor and is the only iPad to offer a Liquid Retina XDR display with a 2,732 x 2,048 pixel resolution and 120Hz refresh rate. Thanks to mini-LED technology, the touchscreen offers a maximum brightness of 1,600 nits with a 1,000,000:1 contrast ratio. In a word, the display is gorgeous.
This iPad Pro supports Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5. 3 for wireless connectivity and gives you the option to have up to 2TB of storage within the device. This version of the iPad offers everything iPadOS 17 (or later) is capable of, so whether you’re doing pro-level video editing or audio editing; streaming content; crunching numbers, doing basic word processing; sitting in virtual meetings or playing games, the 12.
9-inch iPad Pro rivals a MacBook. Anyone will enjoy using the iPad Pro, but we recommend it for power users who will make the most of a 12. 9-inch display and the processing power of the M2 (which offers an 8-core CPU, 10-core GPU and 16-core Neural Engine).
The tablet is also equipped with five studio-quality microphones and an four-speaker sound system. If you have the budget, you won’t be disappointed with the performance of the 12. 9-inch iPad Pro, especially when you compare it to all of the other current models.
Since the Apple iPads can not be upgraded after purchase, it’s essential that you understand your needs and choose a solid configuration based on how you plan to use the tablet. While many Android-based tablets offer an integrated microSD memory card slot that can expand internal storage, this is not an option with any iPad. Let’s focus on the key decisions you’ll need to make when choosing an iPad: Model : If you choose an older version of any iPad, it will typically have a slower processor than the latest model and could feature a different size and type display, as well as other differences.
While current iPads periodically go on sale, you can often save money on the latest iterations if you’re willing to purchase a “renewed,” “refurbished,” “open box,” or “pre-owned” iPad. Since each retailer defines these terms differently, read the fine print so you understand exactly what you’re getting. Information about Amazon’s renewed products can be found on the company’s website .
Color : iPad models comes in an assortment of casing colors. The color you choose is a matter of personal preference and has no impact on the operation of the tablet. If you plan to purchase one of Apple’s iPad keyboards or Smart Folio covers, these will cover the back of the tablet, so you won’t even see its casing.
Storage : Depending on the iPad model, you’ll choose between two and five internal storage capacities. As a general rule, most people will find 64GB or even 128GB too small, especially if you plan to store a bunch of photos, video clips, TV shows and movies. Unless you know you need 1TB or even 2TB of internal storage, most people will find either 256GB or 512GB adequate, especially if they plan to use Apple iCloud or another cloud-based service.
Processor : Depending on what you plan to use your iPad for, you may require a higher level of processing and graphics power than what the core models are capable of. If this is the case, your options are limited to iPad Pro models with Apple’s M2 processor, as opposed to the A14, A15 or M1 processor. Wi-Fi only or Wi-Fi + cellular : A Wi-Fi-only iPad connects wirelessly to the internet using any network you have access to (at home or at work) or any public Wi-Fi hotspot.
You can also connect to a personal hotspot on your phone. The iPad configurations that support Wi-Fi with cellular cost a bit more upfront (usually around $100), but you’ll then need to active cellular data service through a provider. This will typically cost between $5 and $30 per month, depending on the provider, how much data you need, and whether you’ll use a 4G LTE or 5G cellular data network.
A cellular data plan for an iPad does not require a long-term contract. Subscription to AppleCare+ : An iPad is an advanced device with a touchscreen and other components that can suffer damage. (An iPad is not waterproof, or even water resistant.
) To protect your investment, Apple offers AppleCare+ for iPad. This plan covers repairs and gives you priority access to technical support 24/7. Depending on your model, a two year AppleCare+ plan will cost between $69 and $149.
If you choose a month-to-month AppleCare+ plan, you’ll pay between $3. 49 and $7. 99 per month and can keep the coverage going for as long as you like.
If you want AppleCare+ coverage for your iPad, you need to buy it within 60 days of the initial purchase. Without AppleCare+, the cost to repair a scratched or cracked display, for example, could cost you hundreds of dollars, versus a deductible of around $50 per incident. One of the great things about any iPad is that you can add apps and accessories to greatly expand its capabilities.
There are countless third-party companies that make compatible iPad accessories, but here’s a roundup of the genuine Apple iPad accessories we believe are the most useful. Before you buy an iPad accessory, make sure it’s designed for your model and generation number. Each model supports at least one optional Apple keyboard, which makes typing and data entry faster and more accurate.
It also provides an experience closer to a laptop. We’re huge fans of the Apple Magic Keyboard for the iPad Pro tablets, but any iPad will work with any Bluetooth-compatible keyboard. What’s particularly great about the Magic Keyboard, however, is that when it’s folded up, it serves as a protective cover.
Plus, it offers a nice range of angle adjustability and is powered by the iPad itself, so you never need to worry about charging the Magic Keyboard separately. And even with the Magic Keyboard connected, it does not require too much power, so the tablet’s overall battery life is barely impacted. When choosing any genuine Apple keyboard, these are iPad model specific, so be sure to choose a compatible version.
The optional Apple Pencil is a stylus that looks and feels just like a traditional pen, but it can write, draw or paint on an iPad’s display with great accuracy. And the 2nd Generation is also pressure sensitive. Many apps for the iPad are now compatible with Apple Pencil, so you can use your tablet as a virtual notepad for taking handwritten notes; easily annotate and sign documents (including PDF files); or using virtual paintbrushes to create works of art.
There are three versions of the Apple Pencil. Some of the older and lower-end tablets only work with the 1st Generation, while the higher-end and newer tablets support the 2nd Generation. Most recently, Apple introduced the scaled-down and more affordable Apple Pencil (USB-C) version, which is compatible with all current iPad models except the iPad 9th Generation.
This latest Apple Pencil charges using a USB Type-C cable and magnetically attaches to the side of an iPad for storage. Also, Apple Pencil (USB-C) version does not support the convenient magnetic charging feature, like the 2nd Generation. This Apple Pencil also does not support pressure sensitivity or the double-tap gesture (used for changing virtual writing and drawing tools) that people like about the 2nd Generation.
When it’s closed, Smart Cover protects an iPad’s display. When it’s open, it’s a stand. What makes it “smart” is that as soon as it covers the display, the tablet goes into sleep mode.
It then automatically wakes up when the cover is removed or folded back to serve as a stand. Every iPad model has its own version of the Smart Cover, so choose the appropriate size for your tablet. All of the Smart Covers come in a variety of colors.
The Smart Cover attaches to the iPad using integrated magnets. It stays firmly in place while being used, but it’s very easy to remove. Smart Folio Covers and Smart Covers look the same from the front.
However, what sets them apart is that the Folio Cover protects both the display and back of the tablet. Otherwise, it works exactly the same as the Smart Cover in terms of doubling as a stand. Keep in mind, because the Folio Cover protects both the front and back of the iPad, it does add a slight amount of extra thickness, but it also offers a higher level of protection.
Smart Folio Covers are available in a variety of colors. Be sure to purchase the Apple Smart Folio Cover that’s designed specifically for your iPad model. The AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) represent the most powerful earbuds in Apple’s AirPods lineup.
Top selling points are the spatial audio with a dynamic head tracking feature, and support of Dolby Atmos. Their noise cancelling technology also works exceptionally well. The design of the Apple AirPods Pro 2 is fairly similar to the previous generation, but Apple has introduced touch controls to the stems of the earbuds.
You can also now choose between a USB Type-C or Lightning compatible charging case. Battery life is up to six hours per charge, or up to 30 hours with multiple charges from the wireless charging case. These earbuds offer an IP54 rating for dust, sweat and water resistance.
They’re ideal for listening to any type of audio generated by an iPad, or for enjoying clear conversations on video calls or virtual meetings. The regular price of the AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) wireless earbuds is $249, but we often see them on sale at Amazon, Walmart , Target and other online retailers (like B&H Photo ) for $200 or less. Keep in mind, any wireless (Bluetooth) headphones or earbuds will work any iPad.
We recommend the AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) as the ideal audio companions for the iPad because they’re designed for use with Apple gear and generate high quality audio with active noise cancellation and spatial audio with dynamic head tracking. To learn about other headphones and earbuds that offer spatial audio, check out our coverage of the 11 best spatial audio headphones and earbuds for 2024 . Apple offers two versions of the iPad — the iPad Air, the iPad Mini — and two versions of the iPad Pro.
Each model has a variety of configuration options. iPad prices range from $329 to $2,399, depending on model and configuration. All current iPad models have a few similarities, as well as a variety of things that set each apart.
Here are 15 important features and functions that all of the current iPad models have in common:.
From: sanfranciscocbslocal
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