iPad 2024 Buying Guide

Which iPad to Buy in 2024: A Complete Guide Based on Your Needs

October 24, 20245 min read

Choosing the right iPad can be overwhelming with so many options available. This guide aims to help you select the best iPad by focusing on how you plan to use it and the key features you need to consider, such as performance, size, and storage. By understanding what matters most for your personal needs, you can make an informed decision.

Table of Contents

  1. Best iPad for Casual Use

  2. Best iPad for Portability

  3. Best iPad for Creatives and Power Users

  4. Best iPad for Students and Professionals

  5. What to Look For (Performance, Size, Storage)

  6. Accessories

  7. Take Control with Our Mastery Course

1. Best iPad for Casual Use

iPad 10th Gen

The iPad 10th Generation is ideal for users who primarily browse, stream, and use light apps. It's a budget-friendly alternative that offers a balance between performance and price.

  • Why It's Recommended: It features a 10.9-inch display and an A14 Bionic chip, making it perfect for basic tasks like streaming and email. It provides most of the core iPadOS features at an affordable price.

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  • Price: Starts at $349

If you mostly browse social media, stream shows, and occasionally use productivity apps like Notes or Mail, this iPad will meet your needs without breaking the bank.

2. Best iPad for Portability

iPad Mini

The iPad Mini (7th Generation) delivers a powerful boost with its A17 Pro chip, combining top-tier performance and portability. Enhanced with Apple Intelligence, it’s the most versatile compact iPad to date.

  • Why It's Recommended: Perfect for users who need portability without sacrificing performance, thanks to its compact size, long battery life, and optimized performance with the A17 Pro chip.

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  • Price: Starts at $499

Ideal for frequent travelers or commuters who need a small, versatile tablet for reading, email, or light app usage on the go. The iPad Mini fits easily into small bags and can be comfortably used with one hand.

3. Best iPad for Creatives and Power Users

iPad Pro

For professionals working in design, video editing, or using heavy apps, the iPad Pro (11-inch & 12.9-inch) is the ultimate choice. Its M4 chip and Liquid Retina XDR display deliver unmatched performance for intensive tasks.

  • Why It's Recommended: It excels in high-res media editing, gaming, and multitasking, with a stunning OLED display and top-tier accessory support.

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  • Price: Starts at $999.

Perfect for artists, video editors, and 3D designers who need powerful graphics processing in a portable form, making it an ideal alternative to a laptop for performance-heavy tasks.

4. Best iPad for Students and Professionals

iPad Air

For those who need a blend of power and price, the iPad Air (5th Generation) is a top choice. It offers many high-end features without the steep price of the iPad Pro.

  • Why It's Recommended: Powered by the M2 chip, the iPad Air is perfect for multitasking, making it ideal for students and professionals working on productivity apps or light creative projects.

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  • Price: Starts at $599.

Ideal for students or professionals needing a powerful device for note-taking, running multiple apps, and completing light creative tasks like photo editing, all without the high price tag of the iPad Pro. The iPad Air is a balance of power and portability, perfect for carrying to lectures or meetings while still having the capability to handle demanding tasks.

5. What to Look For (Performance, Size, Storage)

Specs

Performance:

  • A14 Chip (iPad 10th Gen): Best for casual users who need reliable, everyday performance.

  • A15 Chip (iPad Mini): Great for multitasking and moderate app usage.

  • M2 Chip (iPad Air): Ideal for users who need to multitask between apps or handle light creative tasks, while also ensuring a long device lifespan.

  • M4 Chip (iPad Pro): Best for power users or creatives running heavy apps like video editors or 3D rendering tools.

Size:

  • iPad Mini (8.3-inch): Best for portability and travel.

  • iPad 10th Gen (10.9-inch): Standard size, great for everyday use.

  • iPad Air & Pro 11-inch: Slightly larger, great for work or light creative tasks.

  • iPad Air & Pro 13-inch: Ideal for those needing a larger display for professional work.

Storage:

  • 64GB: The bare minimum for a very occasional user. Ideal for those who only browse the web, check emails, and install a few basic apps.
    Example: Stores up to 500 photos, 10 short videos, and about 30 apps.

  • 128GB: The recommended minimum for an average user. Perfect for those who use their iPad regularly for various apps, media storage, and some productivity tasks.
    Example: Stores up to 2,000 photos, 30 short videos, and about 75 apps.

  • 256GB: Great for moderate users who need storage for apps, media, and some creative work, such as light photo or video editing.
    Example: Stores up to 5,000 photos, 100 short videos, and about 150 apps.

  • 512GB and up: Essential for professionals working with large files and demanding applications like video editing, 3D modeling, or creative projects.
    Example: Stores up to 10,000 photos, 250 short videos, and about 250 apps, with extra room for large project files.

6. Accessories

To truly unlock the potential of your iPad, choosing the right accessories can elevate your experience and productivity. Here are essential add-ons to enhance your experience and productivity:

  • Apple Pencil (1st and 2nd Gen): Perfect for note-taking, drawing, and creative tasks. The 2nd Gen offers magnetic attachment for easy charging.
    Ideal for: Designers, students, and professionals.

  • Magic Keyboard: Transform your iPad into a laptop-like device with responsive keys and a built-in trackpad.
    Ideal for: Writers, students, and multitaskers.

  • Cases and Covers: Protect your iPad while adding functionality like stands or Apple Pencil storage.
    Ideal for: All users looking for style and protection.

  • Screen Protectors: Prevent scratches and damage with tempered glass protectors.
    Ideal for: On-the-go users and those using Apple Pencil frequently.

7. Take Control with Our Mastery Course

Choosing the right iPad depends on your unique needs. Whether you need a tablet for casual use, professional creative work, or portability, there’s an iPad that fits your lifestyle. Use this guide to match your needs with the right model and enjoy the power of Apple’s ecosystem.

If you’re looking to get the most out of your iPad or iPhone and want to master every feature with ease, consider subscribing to our iPad and iPhone Mastery Course. Whether you’re new to Apple devices or just looking to enhance your skills, our course will guide you step by step.

Want to learn more? Visit The Tech Course or contact us if you have any questions!

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The Tech Course Team

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