iPad Buying Guide (2024) - Don’t Waste Your Money!

Summary

This video script offers a comprehensive guide to choosing the right iPad in 2024, comparing the base 10th gen model, the mini, the refreshed 11-inch and new 13-inch Airs, and the high-end Pro models. It covers key considerations like app compatibility, storage, cellular options, and accessories like Apple Pencils and keyboards. The script highlights the value of the 10th gen iPad and the 13-inch Air, while noting the Pro models' advanced OLED displays and M4 chip, which come at a premium price.

Takeaways

• 📚 Nearly every app is compatible across all iPad models, including the most affordable 10th gen iPad and the high-end iPad Pro.
• 💰 The cost of iPads can escalate quickly with additional accessories like keyboards and Apple Pencils, so consider your budget carefully.
• 🔍 It's beneficial to consider older or refurbished models for cost savings, as they can offer more storage at a lower price.
• 🛍️ Extras like storage capacity, cellular connectivity, and accessories should be chosen based on individual needs and usage.
• 🖌️ The Apple Pencil and keyboard are important for a more laptop-like experience, but remember that engraving can reduce resale value.
• 💻 Comparing iPads to laptops, especially MacBooks, is essential as they may offer more functionality for similar prices.
• 📱 iPadOS 18 will bring new features like home screen customization and improved handwriting tools, enhancing the iPad experience.
• 🌐 Connectivity is a key consideration with the move to USB-C ports across all iPads, facilitating faster data transfer and charging.
• 🎨 The iPad Pro models now feature an OLED display, offering superior image quality and contrast compared to LCD models.
• 🔑 The iPad lineup has expanded with a new 13-inch iPad Air, providing a larger screen option at a lower price point than the Pro.
• 🔄 The iPad Mini has not been updated for some time and, while compact, may not offer the best value for its price.

Q & A

What are the key points to consider when buying an iPad according to the video?

The key points include the apps compatibility across all iPads, the purpose of the iPad purchase, considering older or refurbished models for cost savings, choosing the right storage and connectivity options, and considering whether a laptop might be a better option given the price difference.

How has the iPad lineup changed in terms of design and ports?

The iPad lineup now features slimmer designs without the chunky bezels, home button, and headphone jack found in older models. All models now support USB-C ports instead of lightning cables.

What are the differences between the 10th generation iPad and the iPad Air?

The 10th generation iPad is the base model with a 10.9-inch 60Hz LCD screen, A14 Bionic chip, and starts at $349. The iPad Air has a faster M2 chip, starts with 128GB storage, and offers features like Center Stage for the front camera and compatibility with the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil Pro.

Why might someone choose the iPad Mini over other iPad models?

The iPad Mini is the most compact and portable option, making it ideal for those who want a device that can fit in a pocket or for those who prefer a smaller screen for reading or showing pictures to clients.

What are the benefits of the Paperlike screen protector mentioned in the video?

Paperlike provides a unique texture that makes writing and drawing on the iPad screen feel more like writing on paper. It offers better control, reduces wrist strain, minimizes glare, and works as a screen protector.

What is the starting price for the 10th generation iPad and what does it include?

The 10th generation iPad starts at $349 and includes features like a 10.9-inch 60Hz LCD screen, A14 Bionic chip, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, and support for the first-generation Apple Pencil.

What are the main differences between the iPad Air and the iPad Pro?

The iPad Pro has a higher refresh rate of 120Hz, OLED display, M4 chip, and starts with 256GB storage. It also supports the new Apple Pencil Pro and has a more premium build. The iPad Air has a 60Hz LCD screen, M2 chip, and starts with 128GB storage.

What is the significance of the M series chip in the iPad Air and iPad Pro?

The M series chip in the iPad Air and iPad Pro allows for faster performance, better compatibility with new Siri and Apple intelligence features, and improved graphics capabilities for gaming and video editing.

What are the storage options for the new iPad Pro models?

The new iPad Pro models start with 256GB of storage and offer options up to 2TB. The 1TB and 2TB models also feature 16GB of RAM and additional processor cores.

What are the advantages of the OLED display in the new iPad Pro models?

The OLED display in the new iPad Pro models offers deeper blacks, better contrast, no light bleed or blooming, and a 120Hz refresh rate for a smoother experience.

Which iPad models support the new Apple Pencil Pro?

The new iPad Pro models and the new iPad Air models support the new Apple Pencil Pro, which offers features like haptic feedback and barrel roll controls.

Why might the iPad Pro be a hard sell despite its advanced features?

The iPad Pro might be a hard sell because it is very expensive and does not offer fundamentally different capabilities compared to the iPad Air or even older Pro models, which may still meet most users' needs.

What is the recommended iPad model for those on a budget?

For those on a budget, the 10th generation iPad is recommended due to its good value at $349, offering all the essential iPad features for most users.

Which iPad model offers the best balance between price and features for a large screen?

The 13-inch iPad Air offers the best balance between price and features for those seeking a large screen, as it is significantly cheaper than the 13-inch iPad Pro while still offering an M series chip and Apple Pencil Pro support.