iPad

What’s the difference between iPad 10 and other Apple iPad models?

In the beginning there was only one iPad. However, with the tablet’s success, Apple recognized that different people had different needs. A tablet is not a “one size fits all” device.

The iPad Pro series is aimed at “prosumer” users, or those who require the best possible performance out of a tablet. It is equipped with Apple’s best Liquid Retina Display and larger display sizes (up to 12.9-inches), Apple’s most powerful mobile processor (the Apple M1), support for all Pro accessories, higher capacity storage, FaceID, and USB-C.

iPad Mini is aimed at users who want a tablet that’s as small and portable as possible. Its name says it all, with an 8.3-inch display. iPad Air is a premium tablet featuring a Liquid Retina Display with True Tone, an A13 processor and extra storage capacity.

The model aimed at most users is just called “iPad.” It is designed to be affordable and ideal for typical tablet use situations. The latest 10th generation iPad has a larger 10.9-inch Liquid Retina Display, an A14 Bionic chip and the choice of 64GB or 256GB of storage. It’s perfect for updating social media, streaming video, mobile gaming, remote learning, web browsing on the sofa, and more. You can even attach an optional Smart Keyboard to use iPad 10th generation as an ultra-compact laptop replacement. With the optional first-generation Apple Pencil, you can draw on it, mark up documents, or take notes.

What’s the difference between iPad 10th generation and previous versions?

The big leaps in the iPad 10 are a larger display that continues the improved colour accuracy in any light, and the larger display removes the home button, placing Touch ID on the power button on the side. The A14 Bionic processor with Neural Engine offers 20% faster CPu and 10% better graphics performance than the previous iPad. The 12MP Ultra Wide front FaceTime HD camera has HDR,1080p video at 60fps, and support for “Centre Stage” video calls. It is now situated along the side, positioned more appropriately in the middle during video calls and in landscape orientation. Base storage is 64GB, with the option of 256GB.

With the iPad 8 and iPad 9, you still get decent performance and a 10.2-inch Retina display. The iPad 7 and iPad 6 have a smaller 9.7-inch Retina display and up to 10-hour battery life, but their processors aren’t as powerful as newer models. With the iPad 4th generation, power takes a dip because of an older A6X chip. This was the first iPad model to switch from the old dock connector to Lightning, and it has a 5MP primary camera instead of the 8MP version found in more recent iPads. It still has a 9.7-inch Retina display, but you’ll notice the side bezels are chunkier than in newer iPads.

What to consider when buying an iPad

Once you’ve decided to buy an iPad (versus an iPad Pro, iPad Air or iPad Mini), it really comes down to the features you need, and your budget.

If having the fastest processor, largest and most accurate display, maximum storage capacity, and the latest camera (especially for video calls), you’ll want to shop the new iPad 10th generation. This is also the best choice for gaming or productivity apps that might require more processing or GPU power.

If access to accessories like the Apple Pencil and Apple Smart Keyboard are important, the iPad 7, iPad 8 or iPad 9 will also work.

From there, older generations will offer lower prices, but their features get more dated. However, for casual use (web surfing, streaming video, reading) even an older generation iPad will offer an enjoyable experience.