WIth the release of the new iPad, Apple has created stronger differentiation between each model in the iPad lineup. From the almost pocket-sized iPad mini through to the gargantuan 12.9-inch iPad Pro, there is now a size, processor and price option for almost every one. But which iPad is right for you?
iPad
Who’s it for: This is the entry level iPad and its ideal for students and those looking for a device that’s primarily going to be used for content consumption. It’s handy for tapping a few emails or perhaps editing a document, but unless you invest in an external keyboard, it’s ideally suited to reading, watching videos and scrolling through your social media.
Quick specs:
- A14 processor
- 10.9″ display
- 64GB and 256GB configurations
- Cellular and Wi-Fi only options
- About 480g (depends on Cellular or Wi-Fi)
Pros: Lowest cost, decent screen size, finally moved to USB-C (which makes finding charging cables easier), front camera moved to long edger making it better for video calls, comes in four different colours.
Cons: Only supports the older Apple Pencil 1, requires an adaptor to charge the Apple Pencil, uses a last generation processor
Price: Wi-Fi models have a starting price of RRP A$749 inc. GST, and Wi-Fi + Cellular models start at RRP A$999 inc. GST. The iPad comes in.
iPad mini
Who’s it for: The smallest iPad is an interesting device. It has found favour in a number of vertical applications such as warehouses and policing where its small size makes it idea for mounting. The iPad mini, when coupled with an Apple Pencil and a note-taking app, is an ideal size to replace a paper-based notebook. That makes it a great tool for business users and students. But it’s also a great content consumption device.
Quick specs:
- A15 processor
- 8.3″ display
- 64GB and 256GB configurations
- Cellular and Wi-Fi only options
- About 295g (depends on Cellular or Wi-Fi)
Pros: small size, still uses a current generation A-series processor, supports Apple Pencil 2, excellent display using Apple’s Liquid Retina tech
Cons: screen may be too small for some, pricey compared to iPad
Price: Wi-Fi models of iPad mini start at A$749 inc. GST and Wi-Fi + Cellular models start at RRP A$979 inc. GST. The iPad mini comes in 64GB and 256GB configurations.
iPad Air
Who’s it for: This is where things get interesting. The iPad Air occupies the middle ground between the iPad and the iPad Pro. In my view, This is the iPad that is made for those who want a sometimes-replacement for a laptop but don’t need all the power of a laptop. If the iPad is for students, the iPad Air is pitched more towards business users.
Quick specs:
- M1 processor
- 10.9″ display
- 64GB and 256GB configurations
- Cellular and Wi-Fi only options
- About 461g (depends on Cellular or Wi-Fi)
Pros: better display and sound than the iPad, Apple Pencil 2 support, fast performance, supports more iPadOS 15 features
Cons: 64GB storage on base model, display isn’t as good as the iPad Pro
Price: Wi-Fi models of iPad mini start at A$999 inc. GST and Wi-Fi + Cellular models start at RRP A$1249 inc. GST. The iPad mini comes in 64GB and 256GB configurations.
iPad Pro
Who’s it for: The new iPad Pro’s launch information from Apple suggests the target audience is creative professionals. But when coupled with a decent keyboard accessory, the iPad Pro, particularly the 12.9″ option, is a potential laptop replacement for many users, although the lack of a ‘proper’ file system and support for some desktop-class apps might be an issue.
Quick specs:
- M2 processor
- 11″ and 12.9″ display options
- 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB and 2TB configurations
- Cellular and Wi-Fi only options
- About 466g for 11″ and 683g for 12.9″ (depends on Cellular or Wi-Fi)
Pros: power, excellent display and sound
Cons: front camera on short side is annoying, significant price premium
Price: Wi-Fi models of iPad Pro start at A$1399 inc. GST for the 11″ version and $1899 for the 12.9″ option. Wi-Fi + Cellular models start at A$1649 inc. GST for the 11″ version and $2149 for the 12.9″ option. The iPad Pro comes in 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB and 2TB configurations.
Anthony is the founder of Australian Apple News. He is a long-time Apple user and former editor of Australian Macworld. He has contributed to many technology magazines and newspapers as well as appearing regularly on radio and occasionally on TV.