Which iPad to Buy in 2024

This year, Apple has introduced significant upgrades to its iPad lineup. The iPad Pro models now feature the cutting-edge M4 chip and stunning OLED displays, making them the most powerful tablets Apple has ever produced. The iPad Air has been refreshed with the M2 chip and comes in new sizes, offering a great balance of performance and price. The 10th-generation iPad brings modern features at an affordable price point, while the iPad Mini remains the top choice for those needing a compact and portable device.

The iPad lineup continues to evolve each year, pushing the boundaries of what a tablet can do. In 2024, Apple has once again raised the bar with exciting updates across its iPad range. Whether you’re a professional looking for a powerful workstation, a student in need of a reliable study tool, or someone who wants a versatile device for everyday use, there’s an iPad for you.

iPad Pro (2024) – iPad Pro 11-inch and 13-inch

The iPad Pro 2024 models represent the pinnacle of Apple’s tablet technology. With cutting-edge hardware, advanced displays, and powerful performance, these tablets are designed to meet the needs of professionals and power users who demand the best in a portable form factor.

Key Features:

• Display: The iPad Pro 2024 features an Ultra Retina XDR OLED display, available in both 11-inch and 13-inch sizes. This display offers stunning color accuracy, deep blacks, and an impressive contrast ratio, making it ideal for creative work and media consumption. The 120Hz ProMotion technology ensures ultra-smooth scrolling and responsiveness, enhancing the overall user experience.
• Performance: At the heart of the iPad Pro 2024 is the M4 chip, Apple’s most powerful processor yet. This chip delivers exceptional performance with improved thermal management, allowing for sustained high performance during intensive tasks. The M4 chip’s rendering capabilities make it perfect for graphic designers, video editors, and anyone needing a high-performance tablet.
• Storage Options: The iPad Pro comes with a range of storage options to suit different needs, starting from 256GB and going up to a massive 2TB. This allows users to choose the storage capacity that best fits their requirements, whether it’s for storing large files, apps, or media libraries.
• Camera: The iPad Pro is equipped with a 12MP rear camera and a 12MP TrueDepth front camera. The rear camera supports advanced photography features and 4K video recording, making it great for capturing high-quality images and videos. The front camera features Center Stage, which keeps you perfectly framed during video calls even as you move around.
• Connectivity: The iPad Pro supports 5G connectivity, ensuring fast and reliable internet access on the go. Additionally, it features Thunderbolt/USB 4 capabilities, offering high-speed data transfer and connectivity with a wide range of peripherals, including external displays and storage devices.
• Accessories: The iPad Pro is compatible with the new Apple Pencil Pro, which offers improved precision and responsiveness, making it an excellent tool for artists and note-takers. The redesigned Magic Keyboard provides a comfortable typing experience and includes a trackpad, turning the iPad Pro into a powerful laptop alternative.

Best For:

The iPad Pro 2024 models are best suited for professionals and power users. Here are some examples of use cases:

Graphic Designers and Artists: The high-resolution OLED display and Apple Pencil Pro make it perfect for creating detailed artwork and design work.

Video Editors: The powerful M4 chip and large storage options allow for efficient video editing and rendering.

Business Professionals: The combination of 5G connectivity, Thunderbolt/USB 4, and the Magic Keyboard transforms the iPad Pro into a versatile work tool for presentations, document editing, and multitasking.

Tech Enthusiasts: Users who want the latest and greatest technology with cutting-edge features and performance.

iPad Air (2024) – iPad Air 11-inch and 13-inch

The iPad Air 2024 models position themselves as versatile and affordable alternatives to the iPad Pro. They offer a great balance of performance, features, and price, making them an excellent choice for a wide range of users.

Key Features:

• Display: The iPad Air features a Liquid Retina display with True Tone technology. This display provides vibrant colors and sharp details, making it ideal for everything from media consumption to creative work. The True Tone feature adjusts the display’s color temperature based on the ambient lighting, ensuring a comfortable viewing experience in any environment.
• Performance: Powered by the M2 chip, the iPad Air delivers impressive performance. This chip handles everything from everyday tasks to more demanding applications with ease. The M2 chip ensures smooth multitasking, quick app launches, and efficient power usage, making the iPad Air a highly capable device for both work and play.
• Storage Options: The iPad Air is available with various storage options to suit different needs, ranging from 128GB to 1TB. This allows users to choose the right amount of storage based on their requirements, whether it’s for storing documents, media files, or apps.
• Camera: The iPad Air comes equipped with a 12MP rear camera and a FaceTime HD front camera. The rear camera supports high-quality photo and video capture, while the front camera is perfect for video calls and selfies. Both cameras benefit from advanced features such as Smart HDR, which enhances image quality in various lighting conditions.
• Connectivity: The iPad Air features a USB-C port, offering versatile connectivity options. This port supports charging, data transfer, and connection to external accessories such as displays and storage devices. Additionally, optional cellular models provide internet access on the go, making the iPad Air a truly portable device.
• Accessories: The iPad Air is compatible with the Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard. The Apple Pencil offers precision and responsiveness for drawing, note-taking, and other creative tasks. The Magic Keyboard provides a comfortable typing experience and includes a trackpad, transforming the iPad Air into a versatile productivity tool.

Best For:

The iPad Air 2024 models are best suited for general users who need advanced features without the Pro’s cost. They are ideal for:

Students: The combination of performance, portability, and affordability makes it perfect for academic tasks, note-taking, and research.

Professionals: Those who need a powerful tablet for work-related tasks but do not require the top-tier performance of the iPad Pro.

Creative Users: Artists and designers who want a capable device for drawing and design work with the Apple Pencil, but at a lower price point.

iPad (10th Generation)

The iPad 10th Generation is the most affordable modern iPad in Apple’s lineup, providing a great entry point for users who want a versatile and capable tablet without breaking the bank.

Key Features:

• Display: The iPad 10th Generation features an 11-inch panel that delivers a sharp and vibrant viewing experience. However, it is not fully laminated, which means there is a small air gap between the glass and the display. This can result in minor reflections and less vibrant colors compared to the iPad Air and iPad Pro.
• Performance: Powered by the A14 Bionic chip, the iPad 10th Generation offers solid performance for everyday tasks such as browsing the web, streaming videos, and using productivity apps. While it’s not as powerful as the M-series chips found in the higher-end models, the A14 is more than capable for most users.
• Storage Options: The iPad 10th Generation comes with two storage options: 64GB and 256GB. These options provide flexibility for users to choose the storage capacity that best suits their needs, whether it’s for storing apps, photos, or other media.
• Camera: The tablet is equipped with a 12MP front camera and an 8MP rear camera. The front camera is particularly useful for video calls and selfies, while the rear camera is adequate for casual photography and document scanning. Both cameras benefit from Apple’s advanced imaging technology to enhance photo and video quality.
• Connectivity: The iPad 10th Generation features a USB-C port, which allows for versatile connectivity options, including charging, data transfer, and connecting to external accessories. It also supports Wi-Fi 6, providing faster and more reliable internet connectivity compared to previous models.
• Accessories: The iPad 10th Generation is compatible with the Magic Keyboard Folio, which offers a comfortable typing experience and includes a trackpad for enhanced productivity. This accessory transforms the iPad into a versatile tool for work and play.

Best For:

The iPad 10th Generation is best suited for budget-conscious users and students. Its affordability, solid performance, and modern design make it an excellent choice for those looking for a capable tablet without the higher price tag of the iPad Air or Pro. It is ideal for:

Students: Perfect for note-taking, research, and online learning with the Magic Keyboard Folio.

Casual Users: Great for everyday tasks such as browsing, streaming, and social media.

New iPad Users: An excellent entry point for those new to the iPad ecosystem.

iPad Mini

Overview: The iPad Mini 2024 is positioned as the compact choice for users who prioritize portability without sacrificing performance. Its small size makes it incredibly convenient for on-the-go use, fitting easily into bags and even large pockets.

Key Features:

Display: The iPad Mini features an 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display. This display offers sharp and vibrant visuals with True Tone technology, which adjusts the screen’s color temperature based on the surrounding light, providing a more comfortable viewing experience. The compact size makes it ideal for reading, browsing, and media consumption on the go.

Performance: The iPad Mini is powered by the A15 Bionic chip, the same processor found in the iPhone 13 series. This chip ensures smooth and responsive performance, capable of handling demanding apps and multitasking with ease. The A15 Bionic chip brings substantial performance improvements, making the iPad Mini a powerful device despite its small size.

Storage Options: The iPad Mini comes with two storage options: 64GB and 256GB. These options allow users to choose the right amount of storage based on their needs, whether it’s for apps, games, or media files.

Camera: The iPad Mini is equipped with a 12MP front camera and a 12MP rear camera. The front camera supports features like Center Stage, which keeps you centered in the frame during video calls. The rear camera is perfect for capturing photos and videos, with support for Smart HDR to enhance image quality in various lighting conditions.

Connectivity: The iPad Mini features a USB-C port, providing versatile connectivity options for charging, data transfer, and connecting to accessories. Optional cellular models are available, offering 5G connectivity for fast internet access on the go, making the iPad Mini a truly portable device.

Accessories: The iPad Mini is compatible with the second-generation Apple Pencil, making it a great tool for note-taking, drawing, and other creative tasks. The Apple Pencil attaches magnetically to the side of the iPad Mini for easy storage and charging.

Best For:

The iPad Mini 2024 models are best suited for users who need a highly portable device. It is ideal for:

Travelers: Perfect for on-the-go use due to its compact size and lightweight design.

Students: Great for note-taking and quick access to educational resources with the Apple Pencil.

Professionals: Suitable for those who need a powerful yet portable device for work-related tasks.

Casual Users: Excellent for reading, browsing, and media consumption in a compact form factor.

Technical comparisons of the different iPad Models

How to Choose the Right iPad

Consider Your Needs: Different use cases can significantly impact which iPad is the best choice for you. Here are some scenarios to consider:

1. Professional Use: If you need a powerful device for graphic design, video editing, or other intensive tasks, the iPad Pro with its M4 chip and high-end display options will be the best fit.
2. General Use: For those who need a versatile tablet for everyday tasks like browsing, streaming, and light productivity, the iPad Air offers a great balance of performance and cost.
3. Budget-Conscious Users: The iPad 10th Generation provides essential features at an affordable price, making it perfect for students or those new to iPads.
4. Portability: If you require a compact device that can easily fit in a bag or large pocket, the iPad Mini is ideal with its small form factor and powerful A15 chip.

Budget Considerations:

Setting a budget is crucial when choosing an iPad. Here are some tips:

1. Future-Proofing: While it might be tempting to go for the cheapest option, consider how long you plan to use the device. Investing a bit more in a higher-end model can provide better longevity and performance, saving money in the long run.
2. Compare Models: Look at the features you get at each price point. The iPad Air, for instance, might offer more value with its M2 chip and larger storage options compared to the basic iPad models.

Storage Needs:

The amount of storage you need depends on how you plan to use your iPad:

1. Media Consumption: If you primarily use your iPad for watching videos, browsing the web, or using apps, a lower storage option (64GB or 128GB) might suffice.
2. Professional Work: For those using their iPad for professional tasks such as photo and video editing, or storing large files and applications, higher storage capacities (256GB, 512GB, or even 1TB and 2TB) will be necessary.
3. Consider Cloud Services: Using cloud storage services like iCloud, Google Drive, or Dropbox can help manage storage needs and keep your device from filling up too quickly.

Choosing the right iPad involves considering your specific needs, budget, and storage requirements. Whether you’re looking for the powerful performance of the iPad Pro, the versatile capabilities of the iPad Air, the affordability of the iPad 10th Generation, or the portability of the iPad Mini, there’s an option for everyone.

If you’re looking to make an environmentally friendly choice, consider exploring the refurbished iPads available at Techable.com. Refurbished iPads are a great green alternative to buying new, offering quality devices at lower prices while reducing electronic waste. By opting for a refurbished iPadPro for example, you not only save money but also contribute to a more sustainable future. Techable.com provides a wide selection of refurbished iPads, ensuring you can find the perfect device that meets your needs and supports environmental responsibility.