In today’s digital age, tablets have become an essential gadget for people from all walks of life. An iPad is one of the most popular tablets available in the market. They are popular due to their unique hardware, secure operating system, and consistent performance. They have a long lifespan, with many lasting six years or more. When it comes to purchasing an iPad, it is important to remember that not all iPads are created equal. In this blog post, we will guide you through the process of selecting an appropriate iPad that will suit your needs.
Why iPads Stand Out
Apple’s iPad is a much-desired choice for many due to its proprietary hardware and operating system. Unlike their Android counterparts, the iPad’s operating system is unique to Apple, making it a distinct player in the tech market. The security features of iPads are superior owing to Apple’s strict app approval process, which significantly reduces the risk of malware installation.
In terms of performance, iPads offer greater uniformity and stability compared to many of their counterparts. This is due to the close integration between the hardware and software as they are both designed and controlled by Apple. The electronics within an iPad are robust, allowing them to last up to six years or more, depending on usage and care.
Understanding Different Models of iPads
Apple offers a range of iPads to cater to different user needs and preferences. We’ll delve into some of the most sought-after iPad models currently available. As of July 2023, Apple sells four main models: the basic iPad, iPad Mini, iPad Air, and iPad Pro. Each model caters to different user needs and preferences with varying features and specifications. Here’s a brief rundown:
1. iPad
First launched in 2010, the iPad is now in its 10th generation as of October 2022. It’s the most budget-friendly iPad, making it an ideal entry-level choice. However, it has the weakest processor chip and display among the iPads. Key features include a 10.2” screen, an A14 processor chip, 64 GB of storage, and compatibility with a USB-C cable.
Yes, it is not using the Apple Lightning connector. It has an 8MP rear camera and a 12MP front camera. It is suitable for making video call.
This device is suitable for activities like watching videos, reading books, surfing the web, and sending text messages. It is compatible with the 1st-generation Apple Pencil, whereas other models can support the 2nd-generation Apple Pencil. And the latest one has a 5G cellular version.
iPad (10th generation)
- Year: 2022
- Capacity: 64 GB, 256 GB
- Model numbers (on the back cover):
A2696 on iPad (10th generation)
A2757 on iPad (10th generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular
A2777 on iPad (10th generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular (China mainland only) - Black front bezel
- The nano-SIM tray is on the right side of the iPad (10th generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular
- Cameras:
Front: Ultra Wide on landscape edge
Back: Wide - Touch ID sensor on the Top button
iPad (9th generation)
- Year: 2021
- Capacity: 64 GB, 256 GB
- Model numbers (on the back cover):
A2602 on iPad (9th generation)
A2604 on iPad (9th generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular
A2603 on iPad (9th generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular (North America only)
A2605 on iPad (9th generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular (China mainland only) - Black front bezel
- The nano-SIM tray is on the right side of the iPad (9th generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular
- Front Ultra Wide camera
- Back wide camera
- Touch ID sensor on the Home button
iPad (8th generation) – IPad Air 2020 Test
- Year: 2020
- Capacity: 32 GB, 128 GB
- Model numbers (on the back cover):
- A2270 on iPad (8th generation)
- A2428, A2429, A2430 on iPad (8th generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular
- White or black front bezel
- The nano-SIM tray is on the right side of the iPad (8th generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular
- FaceTime HD and back camera
- Touch ID sensor on the Home button
iPad (7th generation)
- Year: 2019
- Capacity: 32 GB, 128 GB
- Model number (on the back cover):
- A2197 on the iPad (7th generation) Wi-Fi
- A2200, A2198 on the iPad (7th generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular
- White or black front bezel
- The nano-SIM tray is on the right side of the iPad (7th generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular
- FaceTime HD and back camera*
- Touch ID sensor on the Home button
iPad (6th generation)
- Year: 2018
- Capacity: 32 GB, 128 GB
- Model number (on the back cover):
- A1893 on the iPad (6th generation) Wi-Fi
- A1954 on the iPad (6th generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular
- White or black front bezel
- The nano-SIM tray is on the right side of the iPad (6th generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular
- FaceTime HD and back camera*
- Touch ID sensor on the Home button
iPad (5th generation)
- Year: 2017
- Capacity: 32 GB, 128 GB
- Model number (on the back cover):
- A1822 on the iPad (5th generation) Wi-Fi
- A1823 on the iPad (5th generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular
- White or black front bezel
- The nano-SIM tray is on the right side of the iPad (5th generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular
- FaceTime HD and back camera*
- Touch ID sensor on the Home button
iPad (4th generation)
- Year: Late 2012
- Capacity: 16 GB, 32 GB, 64 GB, 128 GB
- Model number (on the back cover):
A1458 on the iPad (4th generation) Wi-Fi
A1459 on the iPad (4th generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular
A1460 on the iPad (4th generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular (MM) - White or black front bezel
- The micro-SIM tray is on the right side of the iPad (4th generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular
- FaceTime HD and iSight cameras*
iPad (3rd generation)
- Year: Early 2012
- Capacity: 16 GB, 32 GB, 64 GB
- Model number (on the back cover):
A1416 on the iPad (3rd generation) Wi-Fi
A1430 on the iPad (3rd generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular
A1403 on the iPad (3rd generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular (VZ) - White or black front bezel
- The micro-SIM tray is on the right side of the iPad (3rd generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular
- FaceTime and iSight cameras*
iPad 2
- Year: 2011
- Capacity: 16 GB, 32 GB, 64 GB
- Model number (on the back cover):
A1395 on the iPad 2 (Wi-Fi)
A1396 on the iPad 2 (GSM model)
A1397 on the iPad 2 (CDMA model) - White or black front bezel
- The micro-SIM tray is on the right side of iPad (GSM model only)
- FaceTime and rear cameras*
iPad
- Year: 2010
- Capacity: 16 GB, 32 GB, 64 GB
- Model number (on the back cover):
A1219 on the iPad (Wi-Fi)
A1337 on the iPad (Wi-Fi + 3G) - Black front bezel
- Standard SIM tray on the iPad (Wi-Fi + 3G)
2. iPad Mini
Introduced in 2012, the 6th generation iPad Mini, as of 2022. It is the smallest iPad model. It boasts a 7.9” or 8.3” display, a 12 MP front and rear camera, and an A15 processor chip. That is 40% faster with its A15 processor chip and a 6-core CPU! Ideal for those seeking portability without compromising on performance. It supports 5G and USB, adding to its versatility and options.
iPad mini (6th generation)
- Year: 2021
- Capacity: 64 GB, 256 GB
- Model number (on back cover):
A2567 on iPad mini (6th generation)
A2568 on iPad mini (6th generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular
A2569 on iPad mini (6th generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular (China mainland only) - The nano-SIM tray is on the right side of the iPad mini (6th generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular
- Back camera with flash
- Touch ID sensor in Touch ID button
iPad mini (5th generation)
- Year: 2019
- Capacity: 64 GB, 256 GB
- Model number (on back cover):
A2133 on iPad mini (5th generation)
A2124, A2126 on iPad mini (5th generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular
A2125 on iPad mini (5th generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular (China mainland only) - The nano-SIM tray is on the right side of the iPad mini (5th generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular
- Touch ID sensor on the Home button
iPad mini 4
- Year: Late 2015
- Capacity: 16 GB, 32 GB, 64 GB, 128 GB
- Model number (on the back cover):
A1538 on the iPad mini 4
A1550 on the iPad mini 4 Wi-Fi + Cellular - White or black front bezel
- The nano-SIM tray is on the right side of the iPad mini 4 Wi-Fi + Cellular
- FaceTime HD and iSight cameras*
- Touch ID sensor on the Home button
iPad mini 3
- Year: Late 2014
- Capacity: 16 GB, 64 GB, 128 GB
- Model number (on the back cover):
A1599 on the iPad mini 3
A1600 on the iPad mini 3 Wi-Fi + Cellular - White or black front bezel
- The nano-SIM tray is on the left side of the iPad mini 3 Wi-Fi + Cellular
- FaceTime HD and iSight cameras*
- Touch ID sensor on the Home button
iPad mini 2
- Year: Late 2013 and early 2014
- Capacity: 16 GB, 32 GB, 64 GB, 128 GB
- Model number (on the back cover):
A1489 on the iPad mini 2 Wi-Fi
A1490 on the iPad mini 2 Wi-Fi + Cellular
A1491 on the iPad mini 2 Wi-Fi + Cellular (TD-LTE)–released early 2014 - White or black front bezel
- The nano-SIM tray is on the left side of iPad mini 2 with Retina display Wi-Fi + Cellular
- FaceTime HD and iSight cameras*
iPad mini
- Year: Late 2012
- Capacity: 16 GB, 32 GB, 64 GB
- Model number (on the back cover):
A1432 on the iPad mini Wi-Fi
A1454 on the iPad mini Wi-Fi + Cellular
A1455 on the iPad mini Wi-Fi + Cellular (MM) - White or black front bezel
- The nano-SIM tray is on the left side of iPad mini Wi-Fi + Cellular
- FaceTime HD and iSight cameras*
3. iPad Air
iPad Air has seen multiple iterations since its introduction in 2013. The latest model, as of July 2023, is the iPad Air (5th generation), released in 2022. This model features a 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display, the M1 chip for enhanced processing power, and compatibility with the 2nd-generation Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard.
iPad Air sits between the basic iPad and the more advanced iPad Pro in Apple’s lineup. Offering a balance of performance, features, and price. It is a lighter version of the standard iPad. Sharing similar features with the iPad Pro but it has a 10.9” display and is less expensive. The latest 5th-generation model uses an M1 processor chip.
It also supports 5G connectivity on cellular models, offers up to 256GB of storage, and comes in five different colors: Space Gray, Silver, Rose Gold, Green, and Sky Blue. The iPad Air is suitable for both personal and professional use, capable of handling tasks ranging from web browsing and media consumption to more demanding creative and productivity tasks.
However, it’s important to note that the iPad Air is less expensive than the iPad Pro. But it is still a significant investment compared to the basic iPad model.
iPad Air (5th generation)
- Year: 2022
- Capacity: 64 GB, 256 GB
- Model number (on back cover):
A2588 on iPad Air (5th generation)
A2589, A2591 on iPad Air (5th generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular - The nano-SIM tray is on the right side of the iPad Air (5th generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular
- FaceTime HD camera, back Wide camera*
- Touch ID sensor on the Top button
iPad Air (4th generation)
- Year: 2020
- Capacity: 64 GB, 256 GB
- Model number (on back cover):
A2316 on iPad Air (4th generation)
A2324, A2325, A2072 on iPad Air (4th generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular - The nano-SIM tray is on the right side of the iPad Air (4th generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular
- FaceTime HD camera, back Wide camera*
- Touch ID sensor on the Top button
iPad Air (3rd generation)
- Year: 2019
- Capacity: 64 GB, 256 GB
- Model number (on back cover):
A2152 on iPad Air (3rd generation)
A2123, A2153 on iPad Air (3rd generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular
A2154 on iPad Air (3rd generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular (China mainland only) - The nano-SIM tray is on the right side of the iPad Air (3rd generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular
- FaceTime HD camera, back Wide camera*
- Touch ID sensor on the Home button
iPad Air 2
- Year: Late 2014
- Capacity: 16 GB, 32 GB, 64 GB, 128 GB
- Model number (on the back cover):
A1566 on the iPad Air 2
A1567 on the iPad Air 2 Wi-Fi + Cellular - White or black front bezel
- The nano-SIM tray is on the right side of the iPad Air 2 Wi-Fi + Cellular
- FaceTime HD camera, back Wide camera*
- Touch ID sensor on the Home button
iPad Air
- Year: Late 2013 and early 2014
- Capacity: 16 GB, 32 GB, 64 GB, 128 GB
- Model number (on the back cover):
A1474 on the iPad Air Wi-Fi
A1475 on the iPad Air Wi-Fi + Cellular
A1476 on the iPad Air Wi-Fi + Cellular (TD-LTE)—released early 2014 - White or black front bezel
- The nano-SIM tray is on the right side of the iPad Air Wi-Fi + Cellular
- FaceTime HD camera, back Wide camera*
4. iPad Pro
The most advanced and priciest iPad, the Pro model has the most potent processor and the best screen quality, even supporting 4K video recording.
Since its debut in 2015, multiple versions of the iPad Pro have been released, each bringing enhancements in terms of performance, display quality, and added features. The latest iteration, as of July 2023, is the iPad Pro (6th generation), which was introduced in 2022.
iPad Pro 12.9-inch (6th generation)
- Year: 2022
- Capacity: 128 GB, 256 GB, 512 GB, 1 TB, 2 TB
- Model number (on the back cover):
A2436 on iPad Pro 12.9-inch (6th generation)
A2764 on iPad Pro 12.9-inch (6th generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular
A2437 on iPad Pro 12.9-inch (6th generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular with mmWave
A2766 on iPad Pro 12.9-inch (6th generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular (China mainland only) - Black front bezel
- Liquid Retina XDR display
- The nano-SIM tray is on the right side of the iPad Pro Wi-Fi + Cellular
- Cameras:
Front: Ultra Wide
Back: Wide, Ultra Wide - LiDAR Scanner
- Face ID sensor
iPad Pro 11-inch (4th generation)
- Year: 2022
- Capacity: 128 GB, 256 GB, 512 GB, 1 TB, 2 TB
- Model number (on the back cover):
A2759 on iPad Pro 11-inch (4th generation)
A2435 on iPad Pro 11-inch (4th generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular
A2761 on iPad Pro 11-inch (4th generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular with mmWave
A2762 on iPad Pro 11-inch (4th generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular (China mainland only) - Black front bezel
- Liquid Retina display
- The nano-SIM tray is on the right side of the iPad Pro Wi-Fi + Cellular
- Cameras:
Front: Ultra Wide
Back: Wide, Ultra Wide - LiDAR Scanner
- Face ID sensor
iPad Pro 12.9-inch (5th generation)
- Year: 2021
- Capacity: 128 GB, 256 GB, 512 GB, 1 TB, 2 TB
- Model number (on the back cover):
A2378 on the iPad Pro
A2461 on the iPad Pro Wi-Fi + Cellular
A2379 on the iPad Pro Wi-Fi + Cellular with mmWave - A2462 on the iPad Pro Wi-Fi + Cellular (China mainland only)
- Black front bezel
- Liquid Retina XDR display
- The nano-SIM tray is on the right side of the iPad Pro Wi-Fi + Cellular
- Front TrueDepth camera, Wide camera, Ultra Wide camera
- LiDAR Scanner
- Face ID sensor
iPad Pro 11-inch (3rd generation)
- Year: 2021
- Capacity: 128 GB, 256 GB, 512 GB, 1 TB, 2 TB
- Model number (on the back cover):
A2377 on the iPad Pro
A2459 on the iPad Pro Wi-Fi + Cellular
A2301 on the iPad Pro Wi-Fi + Cellular with mmWave
A2460 on the iPad Pro Wi-Fi + Cellular (China mainland only) - Black front bezel
- Liquid Retina display
- The nano-SIM tray is on the right side of the iPad Pro Wi-Fi + Cellular
- Front TrueDepth camera, Wide camera, Ultra Wide camera
- LiDAR Scanner
- Face ID sensor
iPad Pro 12.9-inch (4th generation) –IPad Pro 2020 Review
- Year: 2020
- Capacity: 128 GB, 256 GB, 512 GB, 1 TB
- Model number (on the back cover):
A2229 on the iPad Pro
A2069, A2232 on the iPad Pro Wi-Fi + Cellular
A2233 on the iPad Pro Wi-Fi + Cellular (China mainland only) - Black front bezel
- The nano-SIM tray is on the right side of the iPad Pro Wi-Fi + Cellular
- Front TrueDepth camera, Wide camera, Ultra Wide camera
- LiDAR Scanner
- Face ID sensor
iPad Pro 11-inch (2nd generation)
- Year: 2020
- Capacity: 128 GB, 256 GB, 512 GB, 1 TB
- Model number (on the back cover):
A2228 on the iPad Pro
A2068, A2230 on the iPad Pro Wi-Fi + Cellular
A2231 on the iPad Pro Wi-Fi + Cellular (China mainland only) - Black front bezel
- The nano-SIM tray is on the right side of the iPad Pro Wi-Fi + Cellular
- Front TrueDepth camera, Wide camera, Ultra Wide camera
- LiDAR Scanner
- Face ID sensor
iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd generation)
- Year: 2018
- Capacity: 64 GB, 256 GB, 512 GB, 1 TB
- Model number (on the back cover):
A1876 on the iPad Pro
A2014, A1895 on the iPad Pro Wi-Fi + Cellular
A1983 on the iPad Pro Wi-Fi + Cellular (China mainland only) - Black front bezel
- The nano-SIM tray is on the right side of iPad Pro Wi-Fi + Cellular
- Front TrueDepth camera and back camera
- Face ID sensor
iPad Pro 11-inch
- Year: 2018
- Capacity: 64 GB, 256 GB, 512 GB, 1 TB
- Model number (on the back cover):
A1980 on the iPad Pro
A2013, A1934 on the iPad Pro Wi-Fi + Cellular
A1979 on the iPad Pro Wi-Fi + Cellular (China mainland only) - Black front bezel
- The nano-SIM tray is on the right side of the iPad Pro Wi-Fi + Cellular
- Front TrueDepth camera and back camera
- Face ID sensor
iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2nd generation)
- Year: 2017
- Capacity: 64 GB, 256 GB, 512 GB
- Model number (on the back cover):
A1670 on the iPad Pro
A1671 on the iPad Pro Wi-Fi + Cellular
A1821 on the iPad Pro Wi-Fi + Cellular (China mainland only) - White or black front bezel
- The nano-SIM tray is on the right side of the iPad Pro Wi-Fi + Cellular
- FaceTime HD camera and iSight camera with flash*
- Touch ID sensor on the Home button
iPad Pro (10.5-inch)
- Year: 2017
- Capacity: 64 GB, 256 GB, 512 GB
- Model number (on the back cover):
A1701 on the iPad Pro
A1709 on the iPad Pro Wi-Fi + Cellular
A1852 on the iPad Pro Wi-Fi + Cellular (China mainland only) - White or black front bezel
- The nano-SIM tray is on the right side of the iPad Pro Wi-Fi + Cellular
- FaceTime HD camera and iSight camera with flash*
- Touch ID sensor on the Home button
iPad Pro (9.7-inch)
- Year: 2016
- Capacity: 32 GB, 128 GB, 256 GB
- Model number (on the back cover):
A1673 on the iPad Pro
A1674 or A1675 on the iPad Pro Wi-Fi + Cellular - White or black front bezel
- The nano-SIM tray is on the right side of the iPad Pro Wi-Fi + Cellular
- FaceTime HD camera and iSight camera with flash*
- Touch ID sensor on the Home button
iPad Pro (12.9-inch)
- Year: 2015
- Capacity: 32 GB, 128 GB, 256 GB
- Model number (on the back cover):
A1584 on the iPad Pro
A1652 on the iPad Pro Wi-Fi + Cellular - White or black front bezel
- The nano-SIM tray is on the right side of the iPad Pro Wi-Fi + Cellular
- FaceTime HD and iSight cameras*
- Touch ID sensor on the Home button
iPads as a Productivity Tool
iPads are excellent for note-taking, especially for students and professionals. The ability to copy and paste images directly into notes is a particularly handy feature that enhances productivity. The large, high-resolution screen makes reading and annotating documents a breeze.
Key Considerations When Selecting an iPad
When you’re in the market for an iPad, there are several factors you should consider to ensure you make the best choice for your needs.
1. Determine your requirements
Before selecting an iPad, the first step is to understand your needs and what you’ll use the iPad for. If you are looking for an iPad for personal use, you might want to consider a model with a smaller screen and less storage. However, if you plan on using your iPad for multitasking, gaming, or video editing, you might consider a model with a larger screen and more storage.
2. Choose the appropriate size
iPads are available in four different sizes – iPad Mini, iPad Air, iPad Pro, and the standard iPad. Selecting the appropriate size depends on what you plan to use the device for and your budget. The standard iPad is the most affordable model, but if you are looking for a larger screen and more power, the iPad Pro might be the right choice.
3. Consider your budget
iPads come with different specs and features, and the prices vary depending on the model. While the iPad Pro is the most powerful and feature-rich model, it comes with a higher price tag. If you are on a tight budget, the standard iPad might be the right choice for you.
Renewed Models
If you’re budget-conscious, consider getting a renewed or refurbished model. These devices have been restored to like-new condition and are often significantly cheaper than brand-new models.
4. Look at available accessories
The iPad is a versatile device that can be used for a variety of tasks. To get the most out of your iPad, you should consider purchasing available accessories such as cases, screen protectors, keyboards, and styluses. These accessories not only enhance the usability of the device but also protect it from damage and enhance its functionality.
5. Check out reviews and ratings
Selecting an iPad can be overwhelming given the vast array of models and specifications. It’s always a good idea to check out reviews and ratings online from other individuals or experts before making a final decision.
Here are some customer impressions of their purchased iPads:
1. Refurbished Items
Some customers who bought refurbished iPads pointed out battery life issues, despite being satisfied with the display quality.
2. Note-Taking
Some customers appreciated the iPad for note-taking, valuing the ability to store all notes electronically and insert images from textbooks directly into their notes.
Keyboard
Depending on how you plan to use your iPad, you might want to get a keyboard. This can make typing long documents or emails much easier and more efficient.
Apple Pencil Compatibility
If you’re an artist or enjoy handwriting your notes, check to see if the iPad model you’re considering is compatible with the Apple Pencil. This tool can greatly enhance your iPad usage.
Protective Case
Finally, don’t forget about a protective case. iPads are sturdy, but they’re not immune to damage from falls or bumps. A good case can extend the lifespan of your device.
Here are some common questions and answers about iPads:
Is there a user manual for iPad?
Yes, you can download the user guide from Apple Books. Just tap Search, enter “iPad User Guide,” then tap Get, and wait for the book to download.
What are the disadvantages of having an iPad?
One disadvantage is that the iPad doesn’t support flash drives to expand storage. External hard drives and/or cloud storage can’t be used to store apps. While all tablets are inherently less expandable than laptops, which in turn are less expandable than desktop PCs, the iPad tends to be more limited than some Android tablets.
How many years will an iPad last?
iPads generally have a lifespan of about 5-6 years. It’s recommended to keep your software as up-to-date as possible and plan to replace your tablet every 3 years.
Should an iPad be left on all the time?
From a full charge, if the battery is healthy, most iPads can sustain about 10 days of inactivity before they will automatically shut down to protect the battery from deep discharge.
Conclusion
Selecting an iPad can be confusing due to the vast array of models and specifications. When selecting an iPad, it is important to consider its specs, size, budget, available accessories, and reviews. Understanding your requirements, and keeping these factors in mind can help you select the appropriate iPad that will meet your needs and enhance your digital experience.