Apple iPads

An iPad is what Apple calls their line of Tablet Computers. A Tablet is a type of handheld portable computer designed with a single touch screen interface that replicates the input functions of a mouse and keyboard.

In general, there are three different ecosystems that a Tablet can belong to. These ecosystems depend on the operating system that the device is running and will determine what sort of software applications or apps that you can install. Apple uses their own operating system called iOS for their iPads.

When comparing an iPad to other Tablets it is worth thinking about the technology you already own. If you already own other Apple products like an iPhone, iMac or AirPods then you will likely find an iPad to be familiar to use and convenient to pair with other devices. Products within the Apple ecosystem work well together, making file sharing and access quick and easy. Any apps you have purchased on other Apple devices should be free to download if an iPad version is available.

An iPad can connect to the internet using two types of networking technologies: Wi-Fi and mobile networks. All iPads can connect to the internet via an available Wi-Fi network, but only iPads that list “Cellular” connectivity can connect to a mobile network.

An iPad with cellular connectivity has a slot for a SIM Card and can connect to mobile 3G, 4G or even 5G networks in the same way that a Mobile Phone can. Like a smartphone, an iPad with cellular connectivity will need a separate SIM Card with an active mobile network data plan to use it. You will also only be able to connect if you are in an area with sufficient mobile network coverage.

An iPad with cellular connectivity is the most versatile, particularly if you are likely to be using it on commutes or out and about. Having access to a mobile network connection also works well as a backup at home or the office in case the internet cuts out or in case of emergencies, like severe weather events where you may experience power outages.

The iPad is a portable, handheld computer with a touchscreen interface. Like most modern tech, the iPad is powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery. These types of batteries charge quickly and are lighter, charge faster and are longer lasting than other battery types. But over time the battery will become less efficient as it experiences wear and tear from frequent use.

If your iPad is still under its original warranty or is covered by AppleCare extended warranty, then a faulty battery can be replaced by Apple at no extra cost. Apple will also replace an iPad battery outside of its warranty period, when the battery is worn out for an additional servicing fee.

There are things you can do to ensure your battery will last longer. A Wi-Fi connection is less power intensive than using a mobile network connection, but when there is no Wi-Fi in range you can save power by turning it off. Turning off Bluetooth when not in use and only charging the iPad when necessary to 80% of maximum capacity will also help.

If you have your heart set on an iPad rather than another Tablet, then the next challenge will be figuring out which iPad works best for you. Apple offers a few different models across a range of price points.

The original 10.2-inch iPad model is a great entry-level iPad for entertainment and study. If you are looking for something to keep the kids entertained on a long commute or while out and about, this model will be a good choice but be sure to buy a sturdy iPad Case.

The iPad Pro is the premium line with powerful hardware and a variety of features that bring it in line with a MacBook. This is a great option for digital artists and creative professionals who use intensive apps like those in Adobe Creative Cloud.

The iPad Air has many of the iPad Pro’s features at a lower price point. Both these models are enhanced by using an attached keyboard and an Apple Pencil. The iPad Mini offers similar performance to an iPad Air at a smaller size.

The standard iPad is the most practical choice for primary school-aged students, sitting at the cheapest ipad price point in Apple's current range while still covering everything a younger student needs. It handles apps like Google Classroom, Seesaw, Book Creator, and the full Microsoft 365 suite without issue. The 10.9-inch screen size is large enough for reading and drawing activities without being unwieldy for smaller hands.

Pairing the iPad with a protective case is highly recommended for school use, as drop protection significantly extends the device's lifespan in a classroom or bag environment. Apple Pencil (1st generation) compatibility on the standard iPad also makes it a useful tool for handwriting practice and creative projects. For families comparing options across the full range, the iPad Air is worth considering for older students who would benefit from a faster chip and support for the 2nd generation Apple Pencil.

iPads do not support wireless charging via Qi or MagSafe. All current iPad models charge via USB-C, which replaced the older Lightning connector across the full iPad range. USB-C charging is faster and more versatile than Lightning, supporting faster wired charging speeds and compatibility with a wide range of third-party cables and chargers.

Apple supports iPads with iPadOS updates for a significantly longer period than most Android tablet manufacturers support their devices. Current and recent iPad models typically receive five to seven years of software updates from their original release date, which keeps features, security patches, and app compatibility current well into the device's lifespan. An iPad Air tablet, for example, generally remains fully functional for around 5 to 6 years on average.

The length of update support varies by model and generation. Older iPads are eventually retired from iPadOS updates when hardware limitations prevent new features from functioning correctly. Checking which iPadOS version a specific model supports is a useful step when buying an older or refurbished iPad. For current models available new, update longevity is not a practical concern for most buyers.

All current iPad models support both Bluetooth keyboards and mice, as well as wired USB-C keyboards and pointing devices via the USB-C port or a compatible hub. The Magic Keyboard with trackpad is Apple's dedicated keyboard accessory and attaches magnetically to compatible iPad Air and iPad Pro models via the Smart Connector, providing a laptop-style typing experience. Third-party Bluetooth keyboards are also widely compatible with all iPad models through standard pairing.

Mouse and trackpad support in iPadOS is fully integrated, with a visible cursor that adapts its shape contextually depending on what it hovers over. This makes the iPad a genuinely practical productivity device when paired with input accessories. The iPad Air buying guide and iPad Pro buying guide both cover keyboard and accessory compatibility in more detail for those models, while the iPad mini buying guide covers accessory options for the compact model.