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Best iPad in 2024: a comprehensive guide

Updated on 22 July 2024

iPad buying guide 2024: Find the Best iPad for your needs and budget

Choosing the best iPad can be a daunting task given the numerous models and features available. Apple’s iPad line up is known for its versatility and powerful performance, catering to a wide range of users from casual consumers to professionals. With the 2024 releases, Apple has once again set the bar high, offering something for everyone. Whether you need a device for productivity, creativity, or everyday use, an iPad fits your needs.

In this comprehensive guide, we will dive deep into the best iPad of 2024, helping you make an informed decision. We will explore the top models, breaking down their specifications, pros, and cons, and providing insight into who each model is best suited for. Additionally, we'll discuss why buying a refurbished iPad from Back Market is a smart and eco-friendly choice.

What is the best iPad to buy?

This video explains the sizes and capabilities of each Apple iPad, so you’ll feel confident in your choice when you decide to buy.

To help you quickly identify the best iPad for your needs, we've summarised the top choices in various categories. This table will give you an at-a-glance view of the best iPads for 2024, whether you're looking for the best overall performance, the most affordable option, or something that offers the best portability.

Best iPad of 2024 winners

Best iPad Overall: iPad (10th generation)

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The iPad 10th generation (Verified Refurbished from *£302) offers a great mix of both affordability and performance. The newest of the basic iPad series, the iPad (10th generation) boasts an A14 Bionic chip, high-quality Liquid Retina display, and versatile photo and video capabilities. While it’s not the cheapest iPad out there, it’s perfect for those looking for a reliable everyday option without breaking the bank. Whether you’re making grocery lists, FaceTiming with friends, or streaming videos, the iPad (10th generation) is your best option.

Specifications:

  • Display: 10.9-inch Liquid Retina

  • Processor: A14 Bionic chip

  • Storage: 64GB, 256GB

  • Camera: 12MP Wide

  • Front camera: 12 MP

  • Battery life: Up to 10 hours of surfing or watching videos on wi-fi

  • Weight: 16 oz

Pros

Cons

👍 The mid-range price point for reliable performance with A14 Bionic chip

👎 Not powerful enough for heavy-duty creative tasks

👍 Modern design

👎 Limited storage options

👍 High-quality camera with 4K video capabilities

👎 No Face ID

👍 Supports Apple Pencil (1st Generation) and Magic Keyboard

Best Affordable: iPad (9th generation)

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The iPad 9th generation (Verified Refurbished from *£227) is the best affordable option for 2024 and is perfect for those who need a reliable tablet. It provides a great balance of performance and price, making it perfect for everyday use such as browsing the web, streaming videos, and handling basic productivity tasks. It may not have all the bells and whistles of the Pro models, but it’s more than capable for most users.

Specifications:

  • Display: 10.2-inch Retina

  • Processor: A13 Bionic chip

  • Storage: 64GB, 256GB

  • Camera: 8MP Wide

  • Front camera: 8 MP

  • Battery life: Up to 10 hours of surfing or watching videos on wi-fi

  • Weight: 17 oz

Pros

Cons

👍 Affordable

👎 Basic design

👍 Great for basic everyday tasks like browsing and streaming

👎 Limited storage options

👍 Supports Apple Pencil (1st generation) and Smart Keyboard

👎 Not the best choice for heavy multitasking or advanced creative work

Best iPad for Portability: iPad mini (2021)

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When it comes to portability, the iPad mini 6 (Verified Refurbished from *£360) takes the crown. This compact powerhouse is perfect for those who need a device that can easily fit in a bag or even a large pocket. Despite its smaller size, the iPad mini doesn’t compromise on performance, thanks to its A15 Bionic chip. Its lightweight design and powerful internals make it ideal for reading, note-taking, and light productivity tasks. If you’re constantly on the move, the iPad mini’s compact size and robust capabilities will serve you well.

Specifications:

  • Display: 8.3-inch Liquid Retina

  • Processor: A15 Bionic chip

  • Storage: 64GB, 256GB

  • Camera: 12MP Wide

  • Front camera: 12 MP

  • Battery life: Up to 10 hours of surfing or watching videos on wi-fi

  • Weight: 16 oz

Pros

Cons

👍 Compact and portable, perfect for on-the-go use as it fits easily in one hand

👎 Smaller screen size may not be ideal for everyone

👍 Powerful A15 chip

👎 Higher price for its size

👍 Supports Apple Pencil (2nd generation)

Best iPad for Kids: iPad mini (2019)

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If you’re looking for the best iPad to get for your kids, the iPad mini 5 (Verified Refurbished from *£186) is a great choice. The compact and lightweight build makes it easy and comfortable for little hands to hold, and it offers up to 10 hours of battery life, making it the perfect entertainment option for long drives. It’s particularly useful for downloading gaming apps, watching videos, and listening to music – everything kids love to do. The perfect mix of affordability, reliability, and functionality, the iPad mini (2019) is the obvious choice for parents looking for a tablet for their young kids that won’t break the bank.

Specifications:

  • Display: 7.9-inch Retina

  • Processor: A12 Bionic chip

  • Storage: 64GB, 256GB

  • Camera: 8MP Wide

  • Front camera: 7 MP

  • Battery life: Up to 10 hours of web surfing or watching videos on wi-fi

  • Weight: 10 oz

Pros

Cons

👍 Extremely lightweight and easy to handle

👎 Limited storage options

👍 Ideal for gaming and watching videos

👎 Limited screen size that may be too small for some tasks

👍 Affordable

Best iPad for Students: iPad Air 5 (2022)

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For students, the versatile iPad Air 5 (Verified Refurbished from *£376) is the best choice. It strikes the perfect balance between performance, price, and portability. With the powerful M1 chip, it can handle demanding applications and multitasking, making it ideal for research, note-taking, and even creative projects. Its performance capabilities make it suitable for a wide range of tasks, from writing papers to editing videos. The compatibility with Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard further enhances its functionality, making it a complete solution for educational needs.

Specifications:

  • Display: 10.9-inch Liquid Retina

  • Processor: M1 chip

  • Storage: 64GB, 256GB

  • Camera: 12MP Wide

  • Front camera: 12 MP

  • Battery life: Up to 10 hours of surfing or watching videos on wi-fi

  • Weight: 16 oz

Pros

Cons

👍 Powerful M1 chip that makes it excellent for academic tasks and multitasking

👎 No Face ID

👍 Sleek and lightweight design

👎 Limited storage options

👍 Great balance of power and portability

👍 Supports Apple Pencil (2nd generation) and Magic Keyboard

Best iPad for Professionals: iPad Pro 6 (2022)

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For professionals who need top-tier performance and advanced features, the iPad Pro 6 (Verified Refurbished from *£574) is the ultimate tablet, offering power and versatility. With its M1 chip, stunning display, and extensive accessory support, it can handle anything from graphic design to complex data analysis. Whether you’re a professional video editor or a digital artist, this iPad can handle it all. The M1 chip ensures smooth performance, and the display is nothing short of spectacular. Additionally, the iPad Pro's support for the second-generation Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard makes it a versatile tool for any professional.

Specifications:

  • Display: 11-inch or 12.9-inch Liquid Retina

  • Processor: M1 chip

  • Storage: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB

  • Camera: 12MP Wide, 10MP Ultra Wide, LiDAR Scanner

  • Front camera: 12 MP

  • Battery life: Up to 10 hours of surfing or watching videos on wi-fi

  • Weight: 16 oz

Pros

Cons

👍 Exceptional performance with the M1 chip, making it ideal for professionals

👎 Expensive

👍 Stunning display quality that makes it excellent for creative tasks like video editing and graphic design

👎 Overkill for casual users

👍 Advanced camera system with LiDAR

👍 Supports Apple Pencil (2nd generation) and Magic Keyboard

So, Which iPad Should I Get?

Choosing the right iPad depends on your specific needs and budget. Whether you need a powerful tool for professional use, a compact device for everyday tasks, or an affordable option that doesn’t compromise performance, there’s an iPad for everyone. We hope this comprehensive guide has helped you identify the best iPad for 2024. Be sure to check out Back Market for the best deals on refurbished iPads and find the perfect one for you.

Why Refurbished is Better

If budget is a concern, don't worry. Refurbished iPad models from Back Market offer a compelling alternative to new devices. They deliver the same functionality and performance as new iPads but at a fraction of the cost. Each refurbished iPad undergoes rigorous testing to ensure optimal quality, making it a reliable choice for users. Comparing iPad models side by side reveals that refurbished options from Back Market present a compelling alternative. Not only are they budget-friendly, but they also contribute to sustainability by extending the life cycle of existing devices. This aligns with Back Market's commitment to promoting the circular economy, making it a responsible choice for environmentally conscious users.

FAQs

Which iPad should I buy for school? Comparing iPad models for students

Parents and students often find themselves comparing iPad models, unsure which one fits their needs and budget. Among the various iPad models, the iPad Air (2022) stands out as an excellent option for students due to its powerful M1 chip, ensuring smooth performance for multitasking and running demanding educational apps. Its compatibility with Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard further enhances its versatility for notetaking, drawing, and essay writing. When considering which iPad to buy for school, the iPad Air's balance of power, features, and price often make it the top recommendation.

What iPad should I get for portability?

For those who prioritise portability, the iPad mini (2021) is the best choice. Its compact size and lightweight design make it easy to carry around, yet it doesn’t compromise performance. It’s ideal for on-the-go use, fitting comfortably in one hand or a small bag. Whether you’re traveling, commuting, or simply prefer a smaller device, the iPad mini is incredibly convenient.

Methodology

Choosing the best iPads for 2024 required a thorough evaluation of various models based on several key factors. Our methodology involved hands-on testing, performance benchmarking, and user feedback analysis to ensure each recommendation meets the diverse needs of different users. Here’s a detailed look at how we arrived at our top picks.

Key Factors in Evaluation

Performance

Firstly, we assessed the performance of each iPad, focusing on processing power, multitasking capabilities, and overall responsiveness. The inclusion of Apple’s M1 chip in some models has significantly raised the bar for performance, making those iPads suitable for professional and creative tasks. We conducted benchmark tests to measure the speed and efficiency of each device, ensuring our recommendations are backed by reliable data. For more detailed information on the capabilities of the M1 chip, you can read this article on Apple’s M1 chip.

Design and Build Quality

When determining the best iPad, design and build quality are paramount. The physical attributes of an iPad, including its size, weight, and display quality, play a crucial role in the user experience. We evaluated each model's portability and ergonomic design, particularly how comfortable it is to use for extended periods. The quality of the display was another critical factor, as a vibrant and sharp screen enhances both productivity and entertainment. For the best iPad experience, consider how often you'll be carrying it around and the types of activities you'll be using it for.

Storage Options and Battery Life

Storage options and battery life are crucial when deciding on the best iPad. Ample storage is essential for users who plan to store large files, apps, or media on their iPads. Meanwhile, battery life impacts the usability of the device throughout the day, particularly for students and professionals who may not have constant access to a power source. Our testing included real-world usage scenarios to gauge battery performance accurately, helping you determine the best iPad for your on-the-go needs.

User Feedback

User feedback and reviews from existing users provided additional insight for choosing the best iPad. Real-world experiences often highlight practical advantages or potential issues that might not be evident in technical specifications alone. By analysing user reviews, we gained a better understanding of how each iPad performs in everyday situations, helping you decide what is the best iPad for your specific use case.

Price and Value for Money

Lastly, we factored in price and value for money when determining the best iPad. While the latest models boast cutting-edge features, older models often provide excellent performance at a more affordable price. This iPad comparison will help you answer the question “which iPad should I buy” to get the most bang for your buck, balancing cost against features and performance.

Through this comprehensive methodology, we identified the top iPads of 2024, ensuring each model caters to different needs and preferences. Whether you're a student wondering “what iPad should I get” on a budget, a professional needing a powerful workhorse, or a casual user seeking a great entertainment device, this guide will help you find the best iPad that suits your lifestyle and budget.

*Price at date of writing

Haziq

Written by HaziqTech Expert for Back Market UK, Ireland & Australia

When not fighting the good fight for environmental sustainability, Haziq loves making reviews of everything and anything tech-related.

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