For those of us who are ordinary people, the iPad has become a powerful assistant in our daily lives. Not only does it have all the advantages of the iPhone, but it also offers the added convenience that can only be enjoyed on laptops.
At the same time, it's a big screen and a lot of apps that are customized for tablets. If you are planning to join the iPad family, you will surely be attracted by its charm.
However, Apple currently has four different iPad models, and if you count the two different iPad Pros, there are five options. With so many iPads, which one is the best one for you?
For advanced users, it may not be wise to opt for a model that is too cheap. The same is true for light users who only use the iPad occasionally.
Don't worry, choosing the right iPad for you is much easier than you think. Here are some of the key factors you need to consider when choosing.
iPad 10th generation (2022)
The iPad debuted 13 years ago, and since then, it has become a shining star in the tablet market with its outstanding performance. However, even so, this iPad still has a lot to improve. For example, the basic model only offers 64GB of storage, which is obviously stretched thin these days.
Of course, users can choose the 256GB version, but such an upgrade comes at an additional cost of 1,200 yuan, which is the same as the price of the basic iPad Air.
But the good news is that the design of the iPad has finally been updated. Now, like other models, the new iPad is superior in design. There is no longer a home button on the power button, which is equipped with USB-C and Touch ID.
What's different is that it's also the only iPad to have the front-facing FaceTime camera on the long side, which is undoubtedly a boon for users who are keen on video calls.
However, the fly in the ointment is that despite the new design, the processor and Apple Pencil support are still outdated. The A14 Bionic chip it is equipped with, although it is the same as the iPhone 12 series, has acceptable performance, but in the iPad family, it has fallen a little behind.
Another thing to note is that if you are planning to buy an Apple Pencil, then this iPad still supports the first generation Apple Pencil, but it needs to be charged by plugging it into the iPad.
Then here comes the problem, the Lightning port has been deprecated, which means that you can no longer charge your Apple Pencil through this port. The good news is that if you're upgrading from an older standard iPad, then you don't need to replace your Apple Pencil.
Overall, this basic iPad is best suited for those who only intend to use it for reading, watching movies, light gaming. Of course, it's also a great design for kids or people who don't use the iPad too much. But if you need it to carry heavier tasks, we recommend that you consider skipping this one.
iPad mini
The iPad mini has undergone a sea change in recent years, transforming it into a standout device for students, reading enthusiasts, and casual users who appreciate a small display.
However, despite being the smallest member of the family, it is not the most budget-friendly option. The basic model only comes with 64GB of storage, and the price starts at a whopping 3999 yuan, which undoubtedly discourages users on a budget.
The display of this tablet is only 8.3 inches, and some people may like it and some people will dislike it. For reference, both the iPad and iPad Air come with a 10.9-inch display.
Internally, the iPad mini is powered by the top-of-the-line A15 Bionic chip, which is undoubtedly more powerful than the iPad's processor, which is more than enough for most users.
Due to its small size, this iPad is the best companion for travelers. If you're a frequent traveler, carrying your iPad mini will be a breeze and won't take up too much space in your luggage.
And, because this iPad supports the second-generation Apple Pencil, the iPad mini is very popular among students or people who like to take notes with a pen. Even though it doesn't have a large screen size, the reading experience is pretty good, especially when you're on the go.
However, if you're planning to use your iPad to watch movies or web videos, we recommend choosing a model with a larger screen. After all, a bigger screen is the best visual experience.
iPad Air
This tablet is a dream choice for many people. If you have a lot of money, then this product is definitely worth having. The 64GB base model costs only 4799 yuan, but it's definitely a great option for those who want to enjoy a large screen experience while working or playing.
Its powerful M1 chip, which we have seen in previous iPad Pro models. While slightly inferior to the M2 iPad Pro, the M1 iPad Air is still powerful enough to handle demanding applications and multitasking.
While it lacks some high-end features like Face ID, a 120Hz ProMotion display, Thunderbolt support, and a better camera, the iPad Air can basically be considered an affordable version of the iPad Pro.
It supports the second-generation Apple Pencil, Magic Keyboard, and even includes Wi-Fi 6 and 5G (if you opt for the Wi-Fi + cellular version).
Unless you need to store at least 1TB of space on your iPad or need a more professional camera, the iPad Air may be the best option for you. And, at least you can save 2,000 yuan, which is enough money for you to buy some other iPad accessories.
iPad Pro
Of course, when it comes to choosing the model of the iPad Pro, you may already have the answer in mind. Recall that a few years ago, Apple confidently claimed that the iPad was the perfect laptop replacement, and now they are referring to the iPad Pro.
This tablet, whether in 11-inch or 12.9-inch versions, is powered by a powerful M2 chip, making it more powerful than ever before and the most powerful iPad and tablet on the market today.
Among them, the M2 chip is only the tip of the iceberg of its powerful features. iPad Pro also features ProMotion technology, which automatically adjusts the screen refresh rate, saving battery power and giving you a smooth visual experience.
In addition, the dual cameras on the back and the LiDAR sensor, although most people may not need them now, undoubtedly offer you the possibility of taking high-quality photos and 4K videos.
For those users who are looking for the ultimate experience, buying an iPad Pro is undoubtedly the best option. Whether you're doing video or picture editing, need a lot of storage, or even Thunderbolt high-speed data transfer, it's got you covered.
This tablet is undoubtedly your right-hand man on the go.
Luckily, the two tablets are now quite similar in terms of functionality, so we only need to focus on screen size and display quality when choosing.
However, there are significant differences between the two, mainly in terms of price and resolution. The 12.9-inch model is equipped with a Liquid Retina XDR mini-LED display, while the 11-inch model comes with a Liquid Retina display. For professional image editors who need accurate color and high definition, the 12.9-inch screen is the ideal choice.
But for most people, the difference between the two is almost negligible, so there's no need to hesitate.
What really makes people stop is their price. The 11-inch iPad Pro starts at $6,799, while the 12.9-inch 128GB model starts at $9,299.
The iPad is designed for advanced users, but if you're looking for it, we recommend the 11-inch model. Not only will you get a better price, but you'll also have the potential to get 512GB of storage for the same price as the 12.9-inch iPad Pro.
Choose the iPad that's right for you
Apple offers a wide selection of iPads for all kinds of people, but when you dig deeper into what they have to offer, you'll see that the choices aren't really complicated. For a wide range of consumers, the iPad Air is undoubtedly the ideal choice.
Whether it's temporary use or long-term work or Xi, it meets your needs and provides you with superior features. If you're looking for a smaller model, the iPad mini is definitely worth considering. It's lightweight, portable, fast, reliable and durable, whether it's for work or Xi.
However, most people are better off avoiding the 10th generation iPad. There's nothing outstanding about this product, especially the high price tag, which puts it a little awkward between the 9th generation and the better iPad Air.
As for iPad Pro models, they are mainly suitable for professional users or those with deep pockets. But even then, these high-end products can be too extravagant.
Speaking of which, friends who want to buy Apple iPad already have their own choices, so you might as well share it with you in the comment area.
Editor's Note:
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