Your Ultimate Guide To iPads in 2024

Recently, I was exploring the idea of getting an iPad and discovered that the lineup is… quite interesting. We have the iPad 9th Gen, iPad 10th Gen, iPad Mini, iPad Air, iPad Pro 11-inch, and iPad Pro 12.9-inch. This array of choices makes the current lineup somewhat confusing. So, without further ado, let me guide you in choosing the right iPad for your needs.

iPad 9th Gen — Does the Job

From $329

Overview:

• This is the most affordable option in the iPad lineup.
• It features an older design and spec sheet but is reliable for everyday use.
• Ideal for kids watching YouTube, students taking notes, and entertainment during road trips.
• Equipped with an A13 Bionic chipset — not the fastest, but dependable for daily tasks without lagging.

Pros:

• Affordable: Entry-level pricing for the iPad experience.
• Software Experience: Offers a similar software experience as more expensive models.
• Connectivity: The only iPad in the current lineup with a headphone jack.

Cons:

• Design: An older and outdated design.
• Apple Pencil Compatibility: Supports only the 1st Gen Apple Pencil.
• Port: The only iPad in the lineup with a Lightning port.

iPad 10th Gen — “The Middle Child”

Price: From $449

Overview:

• Positioned as an upgrade from the 9th Gen without overshadowing the iPad Air.
• Features the latest design with a larger display but maintains the same physical size as the 9th Gen.
• Includes a Type-C port and is powered by an A14 Bionic chipset, similar to the iPhone 12 series.
• Appeals to the same demographic as the 9th Gen: kids, students, and general home use.

Pros:

• Design and Performance: Modern design with fast and responsive performance.
• Unique Feature: The only iPad in the lineup with a landscape-mounted front-facing camera, ideal for video calls.

Cons:

• Price: Higher cost for a base model iPad.
• Apple Pencil Compatibility: Supports only Apple Pencil 1, which requires a dongle for charging with the Type-C port.
• Display: Does not have a laminated display.

iPad Mini — “The Compact Powerhouse”

Price: From $499

Overview:

• The iPad Mini stands out as the most portable option in the iPad lineup.
• Despite its smaller size, it packs a substantial performance punch, making it ideal for those who need power on the go.
• Its compact form factor is perfect for reading, gaming, and use in environments where space is a premium, like travel or fieldwork.
• Includes advanced features and a robust A15 chipset, the one found in iPhone 13 series.

Pros:

• Portability: Exceptionally portable due to its smaller size, without compromising on screen quality.
• Performance: Offers powerful performance suitable for a wide range of tasks, including gaming and media consumption.
• Design: Modern and sleek design, appealing to those who prioritise aesthetics and ease of handling.

Cons:

• Price: While not the most expensive, it’s priced higher than the base models, making it a mid-tier option.
• Screen Size: The smaller screen might not be ideal for tasks requiring more screen real estate, like detailed creative work or extensive multitasking.
• Issues: the Mini suffers from a ‘Jelly scrolling’ issue

The iPad Mini is a unique offering in the iPad lineup, balancing compactness with performance. It’s suitable for users who need a highly portable device that doesn’t compromise on power and functionality.

iPad Air — The Balanced Choice

Price: From $599

Overview:

• Strikes a balance between affordability and advanced features.
• Offers a sleek design and improved performance over the lower-tier models.
• Ideal for those who need a bit more power for creative tasks, gaming, or more intensive applications.
• Equipped with a more powerful M1 chipset found in MacBooks.

Pros:

• Performance: Provides a significant performance upgrade suitable for more demanding tasks.
• Design: Features a modern, slim design that is appealing and portable.
• Display: Includes a better quality display compared to the 9th and 10th Gen models.

Cons:

• Price: More expensive than the base models, making it a mid-range option.
• Apple Pencil Compatibility: May require additional accessories for optimal use with Apple Pencil.

iPad Pro 11-inch & iPad Pro 12.9-inch — What is a Computer?

Price: From $799 (11-inch), From $999 (12.9-inch)

Overview:

• Represents the top-tier models in the iPad lineup, offering the best in performance, display, and features.
• 11-inch is more portable, while the 12.9-inch offers a larger display for those who prioritize screen real estate and features a groundbreaking Mini LED technology.
• Ideal for professionals and users who require the utmost in power and functionality for tasks like video editing, graphic design, and more intensive applications.
• Feature the most advanced chipsets and display technologies in the iPad range. Comes with the latest and greatest M2 chip.

Pros:

• Performance: Unmatched processing power for the most demanding applications.
• Display: Superior display quality, especially in the 12.9-inch model with its larger screen and Mini LED tech
• Features: Packed with additional features like better camera systems, LiDAR scanners, and more.

Cons:

• Price: Significantly more expensive, positioning them as premium options.
• Portability: The larger size of the 12.9-inch model might be a concern for those needing portability.

2023, the year iPads took a break.

Since the debut of the original iPad, Apple has been on a roll, refreshing their lineup annually. But 2023? It was a quiet year with no new iPad launches. However, 2024 is shaping up to be exciting: a revamped iPad Mini with the A16 Bionic chip, a fresh iPad Air, and iPad Pros flaunting OLED displays. So, should you hold off on these shiny new gadgets? Not necessarily. My advice? Go for the iPad that meets your needs today.