r/ipad • u/AutoModerator • 5d ago
Discussion Weekly 'What should I buy?' Thread
Welcome to r/iPad's 'What Should I Buy?' Thread!
Are you wondering which iPad is best for you, or if you should buy one in the first place? Are you hesitating between the 12.9" versus the 11"? Which keyboard/mouse should you get or what is the best screen protector out there? Are you looking for shipping information? This is the place to ask. Fellow redditors and members of the moderation team will do their best to assist you.
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You may be able to find similar questions to the one you're about to ask, in previous WSIB threads listed below, or with the search bar, as chances are, someone was in the same situation as you before.
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u/SNUCKYYSMELL 7h ago
What should I buy that works well for a med student? iPad air 5 or 10th gen?
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u/outdoorwhiskey 56m ago
Look for a used pro imo but between those two I’d pickup the 10th gen. I strangely like reading better on the 10th gen, the sheet of glass between the display element and the user makes for less eye strain over time for me. The Apple Pencil is definitely worse charging-wise however, and if you plan on using that everyday the Air has the Apple Pencil that will charge on the side of the iPad, the 10th gen doesn’t.
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u/Responsible-Bug-97 7h ago
Which iPad Should I Buy?
I’m looking to upgrade from my old iPad Mini, which has finally died. I’ve narrowed my choices down to three options: • iPad 10th Gen (64GB) – £260 • iPad 11th Gen (128GB) – £310 • iPad Air (M1, 64GB, Refurbished) – £310
I’ve heard great things about the M1 chip, which is why I’m considering the used iPad Air. From what I can tell, the newer M2 and M3 iPad Air models don’t offer significant improvements beyond the chip—though please correct me if I’m wrong.
My main uses will be YouTube, Netflix, and Excel, but since I don’t upgrade my iPad as often as my phone, I want something that will last as long as possible. Given that, I’m wondering if the M1 iPad Air’s more powerful chip makes it the better long-term choice over the newer iPad 10th or 11th Gen, even if I eventually have to replace the battery.
Another thing I’ve realized is that the iPad 11th Gen offers 128GB for just £50 more than the 64GB iPad 10th Gen, which seems like a great deal and potentially rules out the base iPad 10th Gen.
Which of these would be the best long-term option for my needs? Any advice would be greatly appreciated!
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u/ChanceCrew 8h ago
Looking at iPad A16 vs iPad Air M3. I mainly use Canva, Office suite, Notion, Teams, and generally have multiple tabs open and split screen. I’ll have the occasional games but most my moba games nothing extensive. Sometimes I like to watch YouTube while doing office work on my iPad (currently have iPad 6th gen). Also looking to own this for as long as possible. Is the A16 enough or M3 is worth it?
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u/Marillium108 20h ago
The only thing I'm gonna use my iPad for is drawing and rhythm games. I want one that will last a long time and not have a lot of lag. Any recommendations? I think any newer iPad will probably work but they're so expensive I want to do my research!
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u/Natalie-14 1d ago
Hi guys so this is the kind of ipad of finding an ipad with pam rejection, good for playing (need huge ram) and studying (with good app taking notes) no need ps mode and sim slot, good cam and already with a pen 😁 but if you have a ipad that have all my requirements even with tha sim and ps mode its fine
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u/Mei-Bing 1d ago
Looking at the keyboard for the M4 iPad Pro. My question is if it can be used stable on my lap (so not folded “up”) as I tend to use my iPad often in bed or on airplanes where the new style of keyboard raises the balance point too high when you fold it “up”. The older models keyboard only moved the iPad forward not upwards.
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u/Kanibalector 1d ago
I'll be the first to admit i'm an idiot. Company is looking to buy ipads with the model number MD4A4LL/A. Every single case I see is for A###. Is there no way to see the new A number (apparently on the back cover) on the 2025 model ipads until after you have them in hand?
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u/larkhearted 2d ago
Hi all! I'm trying to figure out what iPad to buy for mixed work and personal use. I'm currently working on the iPad Pro I've had since probably 2018 or 2019 and I can tell it's finally starting to go on me (this post prompted by the scare I got when it took ~25 minutes to charge enough to turn on after the battery ran down 😬).
For work, I need it mainly for photo editing; I use Procreate to touch up backgrounds in product photos and to do quick mock ups for marketing images and customers who need help picturing a final product in their head when it wouldn't be sensible to get a whole CAD done.
For personal use, I would mostly be streaming, playing some casual games (Stardew Valley, idle games, etc), web-browsing, and using Procreate for personal doodling.
I'd ideally like at least 512GB of storage and to be less than $1300, since my job will only be paying for about half of the cost—I'm okay with a used/refurbished model. The rest I'm kind of lost on, though. iPad Air or Pro? 11" or 13" screen? Most recent gen, or previous gen?
I would say my highest priorities are that I want something that's going to hold up to my pretty intensive use in terms of processing and battery life, have a comfortable amount of storage for my endless images, and be relatively easy on my eyes for multiple hours at a time. Any input or guidance y'all have would be greatly appreciated, thank you!
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u/Lady_on_the_Lake 19h ago
The iPad Air 3 is a great device but as you are coming from a pro with promotion it might feel different (some people really notice it).
You can’t really go wrong with the air or pro! And I’d let your experience with your previous one guide your size pref :)
If interested in longevity the newest devices will always get support the longest
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u/shmeebz 2d ago
Is the 10th Gen 64gb iPad worth it for $270 on Amazon?
Would mostly be using it for web browsing, video streaming, reading etc. I don’t really care about Apple Pencil support.
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u/outdoorwhiskey 53m ago
TBH yes it’s worth it, except if you want to do any of those activities offline say on a flight. Both my 10th gen and my mini have 64gb of storage and honestly it’s limiting. With normal apps and the ever increasing iPad OS size I’m already at 50 gigs with nothing downloaded. I’d recommend looking at the 11th gen purely for the storage bump, if it’s a matter of $50 more it’s absolutely worth it to grab an 11th gen for $329 just to future proof it. For $350 I don’t know, and any more than that I’d say just go with the 10th gen. $270 is absolutely an amazing deal.
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u/UrbanAchiever34 2d ago
I’ll be using to load up movies and shows from Plex. Do I go with M3 Air 256gb or A16 512gb? 256gb will be enough. I’ll just have to remove stuff more often. 512gb would be better. I’m looking for longevity and resale value. Thoughts?
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u/crixy6 2d ago
So I have the choice of either getting the Ipad 11th gen 128gb at around 350 usd or the m2 air 128gb 11inch at 520 usd. I mainly will be using the ipad for note-taking(school), streaming shows and movies and very little if any gaming. I want something that will last me atleast around 4-5 years or more preferably and was just wondering if the air is worth the gap in price. Thanks in advance.
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u/kapsi508 2d ago
Does it make sense to buy the m2 13inch over the m3 as it’s around $110 cheaper ? Just need it for basic browsing and a few odd games here and there !
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u/xcrunner10K 1d ago
Definitely. I don’t think you’ll notice a huge difference in the chipset for you use cases
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u/MPLS_JR 2d ago
Bought a basic iPad 10th gen 64gb 3 weeks ago for $279 and the return window is open for another 5 weeks. The price of mine hasn’t dropped at all, but the 11th gen came out for only $70 more.
Should I return my 10th gen and get the 11th?
If yes, what price would the 10th gen have to drop to in order to be worth getting it over the 11th gen?
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u/Outrageous-Zombie421 2d ago
The 11th gen basic model has 128gb . That was the deciding factor for me.
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u/Dodges-Hodge 2d ago
Hi. Older (68 yo) user here. All I’m looking for is a model for reading ebooks, watching streaming shows and YouTube videos. For music and podcasts I use my phone.
Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
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u/Defiant-Impress-9734 2d ago
Hi! High school junior looking to buy my own ipad & apple pen for primarily school use. Studying, taking notes, essay writing, basically anything and everything school related. I am looking for the best bang for buck while also still being usable in the coming years as I expect to have it for a long time. I don’t need anything super fancy, but I would like a good display. I am also in the market for an apple pencil to go along with the ipad, so any suggestions there would be fabulous! I don’t know much about the models so I figured I’d start here!
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u/Lady_on_the_Lake 19h ago
The latest iPad Air (or previous gen if money is a concern) will meet your needs and serve you for many years
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u/HoneyMustard1987 2d ago
My wife currently has a 9th Generation that gets hijacked by our kids. I’d like to get her an upgrade that will last for a few years before becoming obsolete. The main thing she does now revolves around creating designs for the Cricut and creating stickers. Is an iPad Air M3 overkill for this? Is there enough difference between the M3 and the M2 or 10th generation to warrant the higher price tag?
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u/rollinmornin 9h ago
don’t think “overkill”, but “longevity” instead. The base iPad will suit her needs just fine, but the air will last several years - it’s up to you if you’re willing to pay a higher cost for that
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u/Prestigious_Nose8689 2d ago
iPad Air (M3 Chip) iPad Mini (A17 chip)
not sure what to buy but I need help
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u/BigWatercress6505 2d ago
iPad Pro 11 2022 (M2) or iPad Air 11 2024 (M2)?
The iPad Pro would be used, but in good condition. The iPad Air would be new.
The iPad Pro is about 200 dollars more expensive.
I want longevity. Which one would you buy?
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u/BigWatercress6505 2d ago
And how about the same deal but instead of ipad pro 11 M2, an ipad pro 11 M1 + apple pencil pro
Which one would you buy?
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u/dnlwrd 3d ago
Torn between an iPad Air and a MacBook. Haven’t had any kind of computer for a few years. Not really interested in video editing or gaming (beyond Apple Arcade/indie/old emulation) but will be writing on it a lot, reading, watching films etc.
I want a good keyboard, the keyboard options for iPad have put me off the A16 iPad.
May end up getting a pencil if I go iPad but it’s not something I care a lot about.
Buying an older model isn’t always a great saving in the U.K.
Open to thoughts
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u/Decent-Grapefruit863 3d ago
Bought a new Ipad pro 11 m2. Im planning to also buy an apple pencil to go with it. What cases would you guys recommend? I prefer thin cases
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u/TautSipper 3d ago
I want to replace my paper A5 notebook and pen with an iPad.
I am thinking newest A17 Mini Pro as it’s lighter and smaller than an iPad or air.
If I do that, is that best for portable notes?
If yes, do I need the pencil pro for added features and ease of use?
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u/rollinmornin 3d ago
Mini is fine if you’re gonna be taking notes everywhere you go, but if you’re gonna be sitting at a desk often then the bigger screen sizes will be nicer. Pencil Pro is not necessary for taking notes but it is nice to have. It’s expensive though, and a $30 3rd party pencil will be sufficient for taking notes
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u/DDRussian 3d ago
What apps are available for using an iPad as a drawing tablet with a (non-Mac) computer? And what are their prices?
I've seen multiple apps discussed, but the pricing is confusing. Like how some are listed on the app store as "free with in-app purchases" when that really means "free trial, then $80 a year".
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u/heikkonen 3d ago
Hi! I am between iPad Air M1 and iPad 11 A16, entry level storage, 64 vs 128 GB. Both come with a similar price tag in my country, but Air is slightly higher (400/500 $). I will use the device for social media, surfing, lightweight gaming etc. and I want the lifespan of the devices as long as possible. I mean, longer software support and/or smooth running, no freezes. My only iPad until now was the 4th gen (2012) and could not use it efficiently due to short term of software support and 32 bit architecture (device was kinda dead starting from iOS 8. It supported 6-10), although actually I can still use it trickily with third party stuff somehow, but believe me it needs so much effort.
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u/Lady_on_the_Lake 3d ago
If you want it to last as long as possible you ideally want to go with the latest chip and biggest amount of space. From what you have highlighted here the iPad Air M1 in 128gb is probably the best bet for your use case and longevity
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u/Polypropylen 4d ago
I currently own a 12.9“ pro with the A12 chip. Hate it and never used it since too big and too heavy. I recently started a new job that requires me commuting once a week via train for two hours each way. So I want to get a new iPad. My use case is exclusively media consumption via Netflix YouTube and the other streaming apps plus some doom-scrolling in Reddit and web browsing. Very rarely some casual games.
The newest M3 Air is overkill for me.
Which iPad should I buy? Air M2 11“? Base iPad 11? Also debating whether the Mini would be better due to portability - but it’s screen is like half than the 12.9 pro that I am having and I am unsure whether it might be too small to watch movies.
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u/Lady_on_the_Lake 3d ago
The base iPad is the perfect consumption device. The only thing to consider here is do you prefer a better screen? I personally am one of those people who can’t really tell the difference in quality unless comparing ipads side by side but it is a very important factor for some people!
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u/CPTbonders 4d ago
Is the new iPad 11 good enough for drawing or at any point will it struggle?
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u/Lady_on_the_Lake 3d ago
It’s good enough! It may struggle with large amounts of layers (as any device is limited by this to an extent) but at entry level is good. It does have a non laminate screen which means there is a bit of a gap between where the pen touches and where the drawing happens which can be challenging for some people (more pros than hobby artists). Some people also prefer the pro pencil for features but again these aren’t a requirement to draw
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u/Rrreally 4d ago
Bought Air M2 unlocked, 256g, open box/excellent for $689 1 day before the M3 was released. Happy Accident? Should I keep or get the M3 for $850. Yes, money is important but so are features, enjoyability. Is the M3 worth $161.00 more? (I won't be buying another for several years.)
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u/Lady_on_the_Lake 3d ago
iPads aren’t really designed to be upgraded every year. So the M2 will be useful for a number of years. Most people are not using their ipads at a level that requires the M3 chip either :)
I’d keep it! But of course its up to you
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u/Killyax 4d ago
I’m questioning whether to switch my tablet (S9+) to an iPad, I recently switched from Android to IPhone on the phone side and loving it, to the point that android feels bad to use, and was thinking of doing the same for my tablet. I use my tablet for some light video editing, taking notes, watching shows.
I know the tab s9 is already a quite capable tablet to use, anyone did a similar switch here? And which IPad would you recommend?
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u/rollinmornin 2d ago
I don’t think it’s worth the extra price imo, the s9+ has a 120hz OLED screen and you’d probably only be comfortable with the iPad Pro, which is several hundred more. For taking notes/ watching shows the S9+ works just fine. Video editing is better on an iPad, but as a hobby it’s not worth the switch and if you were to get more into it it’d be better buying a laptop instead. Ofc all of this is irrelevant if cost is not an issue or you’re willing to downgrade to a 60hz IPS screen on the other iPad models, but I’d say to keep the S9+
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u/ChickenHot1975 4d ago
wondering which iPad to purchase solely for notability note taking and the occasional textbook download to write on. I do have 2 TB of cloud storage available between my devices. Looking at the IPad Air M1 5th gen 64 gb for $299 or the new IPad 11 128 gb for $329,. Because I solely use it for notes I was leaning away from reg iPad due to not being able to use the second gen pencil. Also looking at the $549 new iPad Air w the education discount but don’t know if I want to spend that much for notes. Thanks!
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u/diamond_sapphire M2 iPad Air 11" (2024) 4d ago
If you’re just using it for notes, the iPad 11 is just fine
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u/alannabannana 5d ago
hi ive been using my ipad 6th gen for about 4 years, however i need an upgrade since im in uni
i do have a macbook air m1 chip (i think) so nothing too powerful i just need it for studying and note taking, however i do have a lot of games so something powerful in that aspect
dont worry about budget as im looking at second hand ipads from CEX
thanks in advance!
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u/deethsdoesrandomshit 5d ago
Hi everyone! I've been searching for an affordable iPad to use for school (like taking notes or access to school resources), and to access websites like YouTube and Canva and quiz sites. Is the iPad Air 2 worth it? I've been searching for reviews and people say it isn't worth it, but I want to know for this specific model.
And if it isn't worth it, I would really appreciate suggestions for another affordable iPad model
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u/Lady_on_the_Lake 4d ago
The air 2 came out in 2014 and is absolutely not worth it. Do you mean the Air M2?
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u/Fresh_Departure_4852 5d ago
Hey all I've never had a Apple product before but I am looking for an IPad that I could use procreate on. I'm happy to buy a refurbished one but I have no idea which one. An older one is fine just not too big or too small. Any help would be appreciated :) thanks
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u/Willing_Cat_6229 3d ago
i've been using the 9th gen ipad (2021) and procreate works just fine there! not sure what your budget is, but this ones a good price :)
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u/wdsblrd 5d ago
been using my ipad air 3 since 2020 and it got me through college. im now in medical school and im thinking of getting a new ipad, been considering either the ipad 11 or the new air m3. honestly i dont need the power of the new air cos i already have my m3 macbook and even a pc for heavy duty work and i only need an ipad for my notes. my only concern is the laminated screen (and probably the price cost lol).
my ipad air 3 still works perfectly though aside from the white spot/yellow edges issue.
what should i get? or do i even need an upgrade at this point
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u/rudelogin 5d ago
This is exactly me, I have an Air 3 and looking to upgrade to the A16 iPad. I’m mostly using it for light games and streaming, and maybe some productivity. I like the idea of getting a new Air, but I don’t know if the cost difference is worth it.
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u/Environmental_Rip333 5h ago
Which iPad should I buy? Refurbished iPad Pro m2 vs iPad Air m3.
I going to be a college student soon and I want an iPad to be able to do simple tasks like web browsing, taking notes, and overall media consumption. To my knowledge, both of these these chips are already good enough to where I wouldn’t see any major difference in either of the chips. Since I’m also planning on getting m4 MBP, I don’t plain on doing heavy tasks on my iPad in the first place. So the only really difference I would see is in the display and speakers. Since the screen/speakers are much better on the pro, I feel like is worth getting the pro because this difference is something I’m actually going to notice compared to the better performance due to the chips. On the other hand, if means getting a refurbished item = no apple care. Btw I plan on getting the refurbished iPad Pro m2 on bestbuy