Best Ipads to buy for every use
Apple continues to treat its fans with the best iPads to buy for 2021. At the time of writing, we may select among four Apple tablet models. The best choice will depend on how you’ll use your Apple device.
We’ll go through the four types of iPads one by one, including their features and specifications. Afterward, we will suggest the best options depending on purposes. Then, we will talk about what to do with your old iPad and other Apple options.
Everyone uses tablets and computers more due to the recent online work and study trends. As a result, it’s no wonder you’re looking for the best iPads to buy right now. Hopefully, this guide can help you choose the most suitable Apple tablet for your needs!
iPad: All-around pick for everyone
Ask for an iPad, and here’s the vanilla option. It’s not the Pro, Mini, or the Air. But the iPad gives a few of their specialties. It’s the middle of the pack at the median of the iPad prices.
The iPad can do what the other variants can. It doesn’t excel in any particular aspect, though. It’s the 8th-generation iPad with all the features you’d expect.
For example, it can run almost any game, as long as it’s compatible with your iOS version. However, you may see slightly better performance from the other versions.
If you use the Apple iPad for drawing, this year’s model allows it, too. Also, you may use the Apple Pencil to sketch seamlessly. However, your drafts may look clearer on other iPads.
What to Know
This year’s iPad is also adequate for studying and working. You may attach a Smart Keyboard to type your thesis or write an email. Still, the other models provide additional features.
The 2021 iPad has a home button that functions like the Touch ID scanner. Sadly, it lacks other features and parts. For example, it doesn’t offer a USB-C port or Face ID.
With this lukewarm recommendation, why is it still one of the best iPad to buy? If you’re struggling to choose from the Apple lineup, the basic iPad is a safe option.
You may have difficulty considering their pros and cons. If that’s the case, you may consider purchasing the basic iPad. Prices start from $329.
Specs:
- Screen: 10.2” Retina display
- Processor: A12 Bionic chip
- Storage: 32GB or 128GB
- Battery life: 10 hours
- Front camera: 1.2Mp
- Rear camera: 8Mp
- Included accessories: Lightning to USB-C Cable, USB-C Power Adaptor
iPad mini: Half phone, half tablet, still powerful
Photo Credit: PCmag.com
Have you ever heard of a phablet? It’s a combination of the words “phone” and “tablet.” Phablets are bigger than most smartphones but smaller than tablets.
With the iPad mini, you still possess the power of the standard iPad. It also uses the A12 Bionic chip. Yet, it uses a smaller screen than this year’s basic option.
What’s more, the mini version’s battery has enough juice for 10 hours.
However, it has a much better 7Mp front camera. This beats the standard model if you want great selfies!
It also works as a notepad. Students use tablets for school nowadays. The problem is tablets can be cumbersome. Meanwhile, you can bring out the mini iPad mini more conveniently.
If you need to take notes quickly, bring out the mini iPad. Include an Apple Pencil, and you can jot (or doodle) away. The wide display also lets you read notes.
Also, it’s an appropriate gaming tablet. It gives you enough screen to see the action. However, you can still carry it around easily. The other Apple tablets give better performance, though.
For binge-watching, the iPad mini lets you do it on the go. If you don’t like viewing a tiny screen, the iPad mini gives more display space. It achieves all this while being at the right weight.
It’s one of the best iPads to buy if you want something better than the standard version. The iPad mini will set your budget further, though. Its price starts at $399.
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Specs:
- Screen: 7.9” Retina display
- Processor: A12 bionic processor
- Storage: 64GB or 256GB
- Battery life: 10 hours
- Front camera: 7Mp
- Rear camera: 8Mp
- Included accessories: Lightning to USB-C Cable, USB-C Power Adaptor
iPad Air: Incredible and portable
This one performs almost at the level of the iPad Pro. You may even use the iPad Air for work. It’s a powerful tablet that may also function as a super-compact workstation.
It’s highly convenient to bring anywhere. Attach a Smart Keyboard on it, and you’re all set for typing. It has better 4G and Wi-Fi performance, too. You’ll have no problems submitting those emails.
Everyone meets using video conferences nowadays. Fortunately, the iPad Air is a great choice for this. Its front camera beats most of the built-in and add-on webcams.
You won’t look grainy during your next Zoom meeting. With the advanced Wi-Fi, your feed will seem smoother too. Yet, there are a few snags you’ll see once you use them for work.
What to Keep in Mind
It doesn’t allow you to multitask. Let’s say you’re in the midst of a Zoom call. If you need to check an email quickly, the camera turns off. This could be a major turn-off for business people.
There’s also the issue of awkward camera placement. You’d probably use it in landscape view for Zoom. Unfortunately, the camera will be at the side. Expect your portrait to skew a bit.
For drawing, though, it’s the best iPad to buy next to the Pro. The iPad Air uses a Liquid Retina Display. It bestows the screen with an almost paper-like finish.
The iPad Air truly works like a digital sketchbook that doesn’t run out of pages. This is also important if you draw for a living. Low-quality screens may ruin how your art looks.
The iPad Air could be an affordable alternative to the iPad Pro. Yet, it’s almost double the cost of the standard iPad and iPad mini. The iPad Pro starts at $599.
Specs:
- Screen: 10.9” Liquid Retina display
- Chip: A14 bionic processor
- Storage: 64GB or 256GB
- Battery life: 10 hours
- Front camera: 7Mp
- Rear camera: 12Mp
- Included accessories: USB-C Charge Cable (1 meter), 20W USB-C Power Adapter
iPad Pro: The iOS powerhouse
Photo Credit: Apple.com
Photo Credit: Apple.com
Do you require top-tier performance from your Apple device? You’ll find it in the iPad Pro. At the time of writing, it’s one of the most powerful tablets on the market.
Where should we begin? The screen is comprised of 10,000 mini-LEDs and over 2,500 local dimming zones. Together, they deliver a dynamic range of colors perfect for your Netflix binge.
Do you require an iPad for your next Skype meeting? The Pro possesses an Ultra-Wide camera powered by a 12Mp sensor. All this to make sure you look sleek during video calls!
What’s more, the iPad Pro is also excellent for recording videos. The camera uses machine learning to sustain its focus on you at all times. Great when you’re demonstrating your new recipe!
Whatever you need, the Pro has you covered. View your art like never before with its top-of-the-line display. It even has the Scribble app that turns note-taking into breathtaking!
What lies inside this technological marvel?
It’s the M1 chip found inside Apple’s laptops. In other words, the iPad Pro is a highly portable mini PC.
You may choose between the 11-inch or the 12.9-inch model. Regardless of the iPad Pro models you choose, you still get the best Apple has to offer.
If you don’t mind splurging, the 12.9-inch iPad Pro gives you the screen space you need. As the name suggests, professional artists will love the high-quality display and extra-wide display.
On the other hand, the 11-inch variant is great for everyday use. It delivers the same top-tier quality in a slightly smaller package. This means it’s more convenient to fit inside a bag.
The 11-inch iPad Pro starts at $799. Meanwhile, the 12.9-inch model costs a staggering $1,099. No matter your pick, this is truly the best iPad to buy in 2021!
Specs
- Screen: 12.9” Liquid Retina XDR display or 11” Liquid Retina display
- Chip: M1 chip
- Storage: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB (for 12.9” model only)
- Battery life: 10 hours
- Front camera: 7Mp
- Rear camera: 12Mp + 10 Mp
- Included accessories: USB-C Charge Cable (1 meter), 20W USB-C Power Adapter
How to pick the iPad that fits you
Tablets do a myriad of tasks nowadays, from web browsing to video conferencing. No wonder it isn’t easy to choose one! How do you find the best iPad to buy?
First, let’s begin by determining your preferred screen size. After all, you control and view the tablet using the display. Here are the typical screen sizes and their uses:
- Seven inches – These are the most compact and cost-efficient tablets. Bring them during long trips to read ebooks or watch series momentarily. The smaller size often means subpar performance, though.
- Eight inches – These are slightly wider and a bit better than the 7-inch variants.
- 9 to 11 inches – If you need your tablets to operate for extended periods, purchase these. You’ll find most of the iPads in this category.
- Eleven inches or more – These are the widest and strongest models meant for professional work. If you plan to do your full-time job with a tablet, choose these.
Next, specify how much you are willing to spend. If you can’t afford the iPad Pro, perhaps the other varieties could suit your purposes.
Base your selection on how you will use the gadget:
- Studying – If you’re a student, the iPad Air is the best iPad to buy. You’d want your iPad to remain useful while you’re still in school. On the other hand, you might not have enough to splurge. It provides a balance of functionality and affordability.
- Gaming – The iPad mini balances gaming quality and tablet portability. The light weight means you can comfortably game for hours. Yet, you still enjoy the vibrant graphics to elevate your experience.
- Working – The iPad could be sufficient for your remote work needs. You probably will type and send emails on the device. If that’s the case, add a Magic Keyboard, and you have your new portable work device!
- Professional drawing – If you draw for a living, you need the best equipment for your commissions. You must ensure your art will look the absolute best to your client. The iPad Pro will project your masterpiece in the most accurate and vibrant colors. Add the second-generation Apple Pencil for the best experience!
Final Thoughts
Don’t waste your old Apple products. You may exchange them at your local Apple store. In return, you’ll receive credits the next time you purchase a new iPad!
If you can’t afford an Apple product this year, don’t fret. Apple provides various iPads at greatly reduced costs. The previous variants may still suit your purpose.
Instead of purchasing this, why not an iPhone 12? The newest flagship unit also has top-tier quality. If you’re opposed to bulky screens, this provides high performance, too.
Learn more about the best iPads to buy
What iPads no longer update?
Here are some of the previous models that Apple may discontinue supporting this year:
- iPhone 6s and 6s Plus
- iPhone SE (1st generation)
- iPad (5th generation)
- iPad mini two and iPad Air 2
Why is my old iPad so slow?
An app may be experiencing technical difficulties. Your device could be operating on an outdated system. Perhaps you’ve filled the storage space.
What can I do with an old iPad?
You may turn them over to a nearby Apple store. In exchange, you’ll receive credits. You may spend these on your next Apple product!
