It’s both thrilling and nerve-wracking to be ready for college life. Knowing that you have the tools necessary to complete assignments, take notes in class, and relax with Netflix and video games after a long day is a huge relief. With the addition of the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil, the iPad is now one of the most adaptable gadgets on the market, serving as a viable laptop replacement for many students. It can be difficult to decide on the best iPad for students due to Apple’s broad selection of models. But I’m sure Macworld readers wouldn’t have an issue with it. In this article, we will discuss the best iPad for students for note taking and drawing, the latest iPad, and the iPad 10th generation.
What Is an iPad?
Apple’s iPad is a tablet computer with a touch screen. The first-generation iPad was released in 2010. There are four distinct iPad lines available from Apple: the iPad, iPad mini, iPad Air, and iPad Pro. Also, there is a wide range of colors for each model. They also have Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for wireless connectivity, both running Apple’s iPadOS mobile OS. The newest models are ready for 5G cellular data.
In addition, these handheld computers are more robust than smartphones, but they still lack some of the functionality of laptops. They are simple to operate and come with the latest and greatest in Apple-designed and updated software and hardware.
How Does an iPad Work?
iPads are equipped with essential components such as a central processing unit, memory, a display, and front and back cameras. The devices feature iPadOS, which is Apple’s unique version of iOS built specifically for the iPad. They include a visually engaging touchscreen display and offer compatibility with cellular networks. Additionally, they are equipped with essential components like a microphone, speaker, and connectors such as USB-C. The users turn on the device, then log in and start the necessary programs.
Furthermore, iPad applications can be acquired through the official distribution platform known as the Apple App Store. The consideration of battery life is crucial when utilizing an iPad, similar to other mobile devices. The power management of the gadget shows a consistent pattern of enhancement with the introduction of each successive generation.
How are iPads Used?
The iPad is a multifunctional device that can be utilized for a wide range of functions. In the context of commercial settings, individuals engaged in mobility occupations, such as delivery and repair staff, as well as on-site customer care representatives, exhibit a higher propensity for utilizing tablets. iPads offer a multitude of practical functionalities for mobile usage and boast a user-friendly interface. In an office environment, individuals tend to prefer the utilization of laptop or desktop systems. However, iPads can serve as a viable substitute for laptops in some circumstances.
There are a multitude of applications for which iPads are utilized.
- Promotional Talks. Salespeople, marketers, and other nomadic employees can benefit from using iPads as a presentation tool. Because of their high-definition screen and user-friendly touch interface, they are ideal for showcasing products and delivering sales presentations.
- In-car point-of-sale systems, or mPOS. The iPad is quickly becoming the preferred mPOS device. iPads can be converted into mobile point-of-sale terminals with the use of specialist software and accessories like card readers, allowing businesses to accept payments anywhere from a storefront to a trade show floor to a customer’s office.
- Communication. They are compatible with Apple’s FaceTime video telephony service and are widely utilized for a variety of communication purposes.
- Productivity. These gadgets are ideal for checking email, making presentations, revising documents, coordinating with coworkers, interviewing clients, and keeping track of appointments.
- Education. E-books, online learning platforms, and interactive quizzes are just some of the ways that students put them to use.
- Accessibility. They are helpful aids for those with visual and other impairments and physical difficulties.
Is It Better to Use an iPad or Laptop for College?
Typically, an iPad is most suitable for the purpose of note-taking during academic lectures for students or engaging in basic computing activities, such as email correspondence, web surfing, and social media utilization. Conversely, laptops are more aptly adapted for applications necessitating heightened computational capabilities, such as video editing or 3D rendering.
Overview of the Best iPad for Students
There is no better investment you can make as a student than in an iPad. With one of Apple’s tablets in your back pocket, you’ll have access to the best features from across the computer industry. Today’s iPads are as powerful as computers, thinner than nearly everything else, and more convenient than pen and paper, making them the ideal productivity tool for students. Put on the keyboard case, and your MacBook becomes a touchscreen device.
While it’s true that there’s an iPad out there for every student, finding the one that’s ideal for your needs might be a bit of a challenge. Here are the best iPads for students if you are considering having one.
#1. IPad Air (5th Generation)
If you’re a student in the market for a tablet, you’ll find many options, but few with the specifications of this iPad Air. Thanks to its Apple M1 chip, the iPad’s performance is 60% better than that of the previous model. The M1 CPU not only makes multitasking easier but also faster, approaching MacBook levels.
ZDNET’s Jason Cipriani summed up his evaluation by saying, “If you’re in the market for an iPad, and the base model and iPad Mini aren’t enough, the iPad Air is where your search should begin, and most likely end.”
Having a fast computer with a good camera is crucial, as schoolwork has changed dramatically over the last few years due in part to the epidemic. To ensure that you are always at the focal point of your videos and Zoom conferences, this iPad Air features a 12MP ultrawide front camera with Center Stage. The 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display ensures that everything on the screen displays stunning detail and vivid color.
Specs:
Screen size: 10.9-inch
Chip: M1 Chip
Weight: 1.02 pounds
Front camera: 12MP Ultrawide
Wi-Fi version: WiFi 6
#2. iPad mini 6
The iPad Mini 6 is a great option if the larger iPads are too bulky for you. It has a number of the same specs and design cues as the new iPad (10th generation), and it looks suspiciously like a scaled-down iPad Air. This iPad is perfect if you need an iPad that won’t take up too much room in your backpack.
The iPad Mini has a smaller body than the iPad Air or the iPad 10th generation, but the same 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display. There is no physical “home” button; instead, users must tap anywhere on the screen to return there. Not to fear, though, as Apple has simply relocated the Touch ID fingerprint sensor to the top edge of the power/lock button. If you use a MacBook or a phone that charges through USB-C, you can rest easy knowing that the bottom of the case features a charging connector. Although the data transfer rates it provides are slower than those of the iPad Air, most users should find them to be more than enough.
The iPad Mini 6’s A15 Bionic is an extremely potent and competent tiny chip. Apple’s boasts of “40% faster than the last model” and “80% more graphics performance” are impressive, but before buying one, students should consider how much of a difference these numbers could make to their workloads. Whatever occurs, the iPad Mini will easily handle paper writing, movie watching, and even modest photo editing, with the exception of the toughest demands.
Specs:
Display: 8.3-inch Liquid Retina, 1488 x 2266
Processor: A15 Bionic
Storage: 64GB, 256GB
RAM: 6GBRear
Camera: 12MP Wide
Front Camera: 12MP
Ultrawide Dimensions: 195.4 x 134.8 x 6.3mm
Weight: 293g (WiFi), 297g (WiFi + Cellular)
#3. iPad (10th Generation)
The tablet’s aesthetics can be equally as significant as its functionality in some situations. Thankfully, the capabilities of the Apple iPad’s 10th generation match its stunning design. Students everywhere have access to a stylish iPad in one of four available colors, allowing them to take their studies with them no matter where they go. In addition to its beautiful exterior, this iPad’s internal display and hardware are up to any task.
This iPad is packed with features, including support for the original Apple Pencil and the Magic Keyboard Folio. Work comfortably at your dorm, the library, or the campus center with the Magic Keyboard Folio.
All the footage and photos you shoot with the integrated 12 MP camera can be edited with ease on the 10.9″ Liquid Retina display. This iPad is great for editing material, but it also has a smooth frame rate for playing graphics-intensive games, thanks to the A14 Bionic Chip and True Tone technology.
Specs:
Screen Size: 10.9-inch
Chip: A14 Bionic Chip
Weight: 1.05 pounds
Front Camera: 12MP ultrawide
Wi-Fi Version: Wi-Fi 6
#4. IPad (9th Generation)
Having recently completed schooling, You can attest to the value of a student budget. Those on a tighter budget than $500 will find this iPad (9th generation) to be an excellent option.
With a 10.2-inch display, you’ll have enough area to draw or write with your Apple Pencil and attach the Smart Keyboard to completely transform your iPad experience, even though it doesn’t have the near-borderless design of some of the newest models on this list.
Finally, don’t worry if you need to bring this iPad with you wherever you go. This iPad can be synced with your mobile network provider, allowing you to get Gigabit-class LTE speeds regardless of where you happen to be.
Specs:
Screen size: 10.2-inch
Chip: A13 Bionic Chip
Weight: 1.07 pounds
Front camera: 12MP ultrawide
Wi-Fi Version: Wi-Fi 5
#5. iPad Pro 12.9in M2
Apple’s 12.9-inch iPad Pro is the best tablet money can buy, and it’s a lot like a laptop that lost its keyboard. Since this model shares the same M2 CPU as the MacBook, it has more than enough processing power for any multimedia editing, gaming, or other task you can throw at it.
With the iPad Pro, you can connect an external monitor and use it as if it were a regular computer screen by extending your desktop onto it using iPadOS. You can use it like a laptop by connecting an external keyboard and mouse, and then you can just slip the tablet into your bag and go. The Pro has a Thunderbolt port instead of a standard USB port on the bottom of the tablet, allowing it to be connected to almost any device with the right adapter.
The battery life is phenomenal, and despite the high-powered internals, the device makes almost no noise while running. It’s pricey, especially if you go for the models with the biggest capacity, but it virtually pays for itself because of the number of devices it replaces.
Specs:
CPU: M2
RAM: 8GB up to 128GB storage, 16GB on 1TB and 2TB models
Storage: 128, 256, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB
Screen: 12.9-inch mini-LED backlit IPS touchscreen, 2732 x 2048 px
Size: 280.6 x width: 214.9 x 6.4 mm
Weight: 682 grams (Wi-Fi) or 684 grams (Wi-Fi + cellular)
#6. iPad Pro 11in M2
The 11-inch iPad Pro, albeit somewhat smaller in screen size compared to its larger counterpart, does not possess the mini-LED illumination feature that enhances the visual appeal of the 12.9-inch iPad Pro’s screen. Nevertheless, the 11-inch iPad Pro remains an exceptional tablet for productivity purposes.
In the past, Apple offered MacBooks equipped with 11-inch screens. When combined with a Bluetooth keyboard and mouse, or one of the top iPad docks, these devices constituted an exceptionally portable workstation.
Specs:
CPU: M2
RAM: 8GB up to 128GB storage, 16GB on 1TB and 2TB models
Storage: 128, 256, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB
Screen: 11-inch LED-backlit IPS, 2388 x 1668 px
Size: 247.6 x 178.5 x 5.9mm
Weight: 466g (Wi-Fi only), 468g (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
Are iPads Good for College Students?
Yes. The iPad exhibits compatibility with prominent applications and prevalent software commonly utilized in higher education, such as Microsoft 365, Adobe Creative Cloud, Canvas LMS, Notability, MATLAB, Google Workspace for Education, and an extensive array of over two million applications accessible through the App Store.
Best iPad for Students Note Taking
The selection of the most suitable iPad for note-taking has emerged as a crucial subject matter for students, professionals, and those seeking to enhance their note-taking proficiency.
Another crucial factor to take into consideration is whether you intend to use an Apple Pencil or a more affordable third-party stylus. Here are the best iPads for note taking for students.
#1. iPad Air
If you’re looking for an iPad that doesn’t break the bank but delivers on performance, the iPad Air is a great option. The iPad Air, according to its A14 Bionic chip, is capable of handling even the most taxing of jobs with ease, thanks to its great performance, fluid operation, and quick multitasking capabilities.
The 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display with True Tone technology on the iPad Air ensures sharp images and true color reproduction (it’s a nice size for taking notes, too). Its small and light build further increases its portability, making it ideal for the always-on-the-go.
Also, the iPad Air allows users to take detailed notes in a variety of ways, including handwriting, typing, and even voice recording, thanks to its compatibility with the 2nd generation Apple Pencil and a wide selection of note-taking apps like GoodNotes and Notability.
#2. iPad (Standard model)
If you’re a student or working professional on a budget and still need a dependable tablet, consider the iPad Standard. The A13 Bionic chip guarantees smooth and efficient functioning despite the device’s more affordable price.
The 10.2″ Retina display of the Standard iPad provides a large viewing area while yet allowing the tablet to be easily carried about, making it perfect for taking notes on the move. The fact that it only supports the Apple Pencil 1st generation, which misses some of the improvements of the 2nd generation, is a minor drawback. Nonetheless, it provides an outstanding and accurate method of taking notes.
As a footnote, Paperlike is a screen protector for the iPad that improves the experience of using the Apple Pencil for drawing and note-taking.
In sum, the Standard iPad is a great option for students on a tight budget because it has all the features necessary for taking notes and doesn’t skimp on performance.
#3. iPad Mini
The iPad Mini’s 8.3-inch screen and robust A15 Bionic CPU make it a viable note-taking gadget despite its small size. Because of its small size and lightweight nature, this gadget is great for people who are often on the go, such as those who are in class or at a conference.
One advantage that researchers have found is how easily it fits into a purse or briefcase, but some users might find it challenging to write elaborately on the smaller screen compared to typical 10- to 12-inch tablets.
Also, the second-generation Apple Pencil, which is compatible with the iPad Mini, enables precise and responsive handwriting. The Apple Pencil can be charged wirelessly, so you never have to pause your writing to plug in a cord. The iPad Mini’s versatility allows it to meet a variety of demands and preferences thanks to the availability of numerous note-taking apps.
While the iPad Mini’s capabilities are impressive, not everyone will enjoy using its tiny display. Larger iPads may be preferable for those who learn best visually, such as architects or designers who rely on intricate blueprints.
Best iPad for Drawing
It can feel like a difficult undertaking to find the best iPad for drawing among the many models now available. There is a wide range of iPads available for creatives, from the little iPad Mini to the massive iPad Pro 12.9.
The iPad is a superb professional alternative to bulkier drawing tablets, which is why it is quickly becoming the preferred Apple product among artists working in digital media. Many artists and designers today opt for the portability and convenience of an iPad Pro with Apple Pencil instead of a traditional drawing tablet.
Finding the best iPad for drawing has gone from being a niche interest to a real alternative to specialist drawing tablets as iPads have become increasingly well-suited for sketching in recent years, appealing to both amateur and professional graphic artists. Here is the best iPad for drawing if you are considering getting one.
#1. iPad Pro 12.9-inch (M2, 2022)
If you’re looking for the best iPad for drawing, look no further than the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (M2, 2022). It can keep up with the most powerful MacBooks thanks to Apple’s lightning-fast M2 CPU. The 12.9-inch model of the iPad Pro with the best version of the Liquid Retina XDR display, including ProMotion, True Tone, P3 broad color, and a mini-LED backlight, offers superior fidelity than the 11-inch model. There isn’t much else on tablets that can compete with it.
In a comprehensive evaluation of the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (M2, 2022), researchers gushed over how well it handled drawing tasks. The display’s 120 Hz refresh rate guarantees superb responsiveness, and compatibility with the Apple Pencil 2 means you get one of the best styluses on the market right now. Having access to 2 terabytes of storage space is also helpful. The 12.9-inch iPad Pro is the largest model available and, if you’re not used to it, may feel very cumbersome. The 11-inch iPad Pro is available for those who prefer a more compact tablet.
It goes without saying that this is not a budget tablet. A cheaper tablet on our list is definitely the better option unless you plan on performing a lot of professional sketching work, as it has more computer and display capability than you need. Unfortunately, we could only choose one tablet as our top pick for the best iPad to use for art, and this one is without a doubt the winner.
Specs:
Stylus support: Apple Pencil 2
Screen size: 12.9-inch
Resolution: 2048 x 2732 pixels
Weight: 682g
Dimensions: 280.6 x 214.9 x 6.4mm
OS: iPad 16.1
CPU: Apple M2 chip
Storage: 128GB/256GB/512GB/1TB/2TB
Rear cameras: 12MP, 10 MP, TOF 3D LiDAR
Front camera: 12MP
#2. iPad Air (5th gen)
The 2022 iPad Air, the newest member of Apple’s popular Air range, offers several capabilities similar to those found on the iPad Pro, making it a formidable competitor for the title of the best iPad for drawing. The iPad Air has bridged the performance and display quality gap with the Pro versions by using the same M1 chip found in the Pros, making it a potent and more inexpensive option for digital artists.
In the comprehensive evaluation of the iPad Air (5th Gen, 2022), researchers found that its screen resolution was on par with the Pro models and that its backlighting was uniform and color-accurate, making it an excellent option for visual creative work like drawing. Its 60 Hz refresh rate (as opposed to the Pro’s 120 Hz) may cause some delay in the display of your strokes, and its brightness levels fall slightly short of those of the Pro 12.9.
Despite these shortcomings, the iPad Air is worth considering as the best iPad for drawing if you’re searching for a tablet with a larger screen than the iPad mini but without the high price tag of the iPad Pro.
Specs:
Stylus support: Apple Pencil 2
Screen size: 10.9-inch
Resolution: 2350 x 1640 pixels
Weight: 461g
Dimensions: 247.6 x 178.5 x 6.1mm
OS: iPad 16.1
CPU: Apple M1 chip
Storage: 64GB/256GB
Rear cameras: 12MP, dual pixel PDAF
Front camera: 12MP
#3. iPad Mini (2021)
Since the larger iPad Pros aren’t the most convenient option if you want to work on the go (such as on public transportation), the iPad Mini (2021) is a terrific choice for artists who travel frequently. Some artists claim that drawing on anything save the larger, more expensive iPad Pros is an entirely new and improved experience.
Even though it’s smaller than the original iPad, the newest iPad mini still has more than enough processing power for drawing, making it ideal for artists on the go.
This model features a tiny but wonderfully designed 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display with a stunning 1488 x 2266 pixel resolution. You can draw for hours without worrying about finding a power outlet because it’s compatible with the Apple Pencil 2, and researchers found that Apple’s promises of 10 hours of battery life were accurate in the review. The A15 Bionic processor ensures zippy performance, and native storage options go as high as 256GB, which should be more than enough for the vast majority of users. In a nutshell, you won’t find a better alternative if you’re seeking a high-quality, portable tablet for digital drawing.
Specs:
Stylus support: Apple Pencil 2
Screen size: 8.3 inch
Resolution: 1488 x 2266 pixels
Weight: 293-297g
Dimensions: 195.4 x 134.8 x 6.3 mm
OS: iPadOS 15CPU: A15 Bionic
Storage: 64/256GB
Rear camera: 12MP
Front camera: 12MP
#4. iPad 2022 (10th Gen)
In 2022, Apple updated the chipset of the iPad, making it faster and more powerful, and also enhancing the device with a better rear camera. The end result is an iPad that feels premium for its price and comes in a wide variety of attractive colors. The screen is crisp and precise, and the colors are vivid enough to let your work stand out.
True Tone, Apple’s technology that modifies color balance depending on the quality of light in the room, is supported on this tablet just as it is on the more expensive iPad models. The new A14 chip improves performance slightly but noticeably, and the battery life is generally satisfactory.
While all of these improvements are appreciated and help the iPad 2022 feel less like a poor relation to more advanced iPads, people are disappointed that Apple could not find a way to incorporate compatibility for the Pencil 2. While the original generation Apple Pencil is a capable stylus overall, it suffers from a lack of in-line controls and now requires a separate adaptor to be charged due to the widespread adoption of USB-C charging ports. Overall, the lack of support for the Apple Pencil 2 is disappointing, but the original Apple Pencil is still a powerful tool for artistic expression.
Specs:
Stylus support: Apple Pencil 1
Screen size: 10.9-inch
Resolution: 1640 x 2360 pixels
Weight: 477 g (Wi-Fi only), 481 g (Wifi + Cellular)
Dimensions: 248.6 x 179.5 x 7 mm
OS: iPad 16.1
CPU: Apple A14 Bionic
Storage: 64/256GB
Rear camera: 12MP
Front camera: 12MP
What’s the Difference Between iPad Air and iPad Pro?
One notable distinction between the iPad Air and iPad Pro lies in their respective authentication technologies. The iPad Air is equipped with Touch ID, while the iPad Pro has Face ID technology. The iPad Air is equipped with a Touch ID fingerprint scanner that is integrated into the top button of the device.
The TrueDepth camera array found in the iPad Pro’s top bezel makes Face ID possible. In light of the frequency with which unlocking may be utilized, it is necessary to select your preferred form of authentication. Still, both Touch ID and Face ID have matured into solid authentication methods at this point, so you won’t make many people unhappy with either choice.
Latest iPad
It’s far more difficult to keep track of which iPads are latest and which are older because new iPad models are not given a consecutive number like the iPhone.
It’s crucial to recognize what’s new and what isn’t when purchasing an iPad because they all look the same these days. In addition, being able to tell the difference between the various iPad models will help you find accessories that work with your device.
Here is a rundown of Apple’s current iPad lineup, from latest to oldest:
- iPad Pro 12.9-inch: 6th Generation (2022)
- iPad Pro 11-inch: 4th Generation (2022)
- iPad: 10th generation (2022)
- iPad Air: 5th Generation (2022)
- iPad: 9th Generation (2021)
- iPad Mini: 6th Generation (2021)
If you’re looking for a new iPad, it’s important to get one that meets your needs without breaking your budget.
Why Choose an iPad Over a Laptop?
The iPad possesses a sleeker and more lightweight design, rendering it very portable and compact. The most recent iterations of iPads possess sophisticated functionalities that enable users to perform a wide range of tasks comparable to those typically executed on computers. Nevertheless, there are certain limitations in terms of storage capacity, computational powers, and multitasking functionalities.
Should Students Buy an iPad or a Laptop?
You should give some thought to whether or not the iPad is right for you before making the purchase as a student.
There are probably a few things you need to succeed as a student:
- Low Cost
- Fantastic tools for taking notes, recording lectures, and studying
- Easy to keep on your person all-day
- Facilitate input from both the keyboard and stylus
- Useful for domestic video chatting.
If you’re debating between an iPad and a laptop for schoolwork, we recommend checking out our rundown of the Best iPads for students.
However, an iPad is a fantastic option, in our opinion. It’s capable of running a wide variety of programs designed for laptops, including Microsoft Office and its equivalents on the iPad, as well as Apple’s own Keynote.
Another perk is that you can load up your iPad with all the textbooks you’ll need for the semester and take them with you to class. Using optical character recognition, you can even copy text from library books onto your iPad by photographing the pages.
Since an iPad is much lighter than even the lightest laptop, you won’t be burdening your back by carrying it to classes and the library.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, the recent update by Apple to its basic iPad has resulted in a convergence of design aesthetics across the latest iPad models. In order to ascertain the specific model of your iPad, there are two methods available. Firstly, you may navigate to the Settings application on your iPad and locate the model information within. Alternatively, you may identify the model number inscribed on the rear surface of the iPad.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there alternative iPads for students worth considering?
There are always choices to be made, but when it comes to smart gadgets like iPads, the options are limited.
Apple, nonetheless, sells a number of products that can aid in excelling in higher education. Think about adding one of these top Apple accessories to your iPad.
Are Ipads Cheaper for Students?
Apple’s high-end gadgets are rarely on sale, but the company occasionally posts discounts on its website. If you are a current college student or have recently been admitted to college, you qualify for special pricing on Apple products, including $100 off the price of the most recent MacBook Air.
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