Other iPads to consider
Photo: Apple
Apple no longer sells these iPads, but these older models are still good choices as long as you can find the right discount. I recommend checking third-party retailers (such as Amazon, Best Buy and B&H). I also recommend cross-checking prices with the latest models to make sure you spend less on your old tablet. Old models not mentioned here are becoming increasingly difficult to find and may not be worth it.
iPad Pro (2022, 6th Gen): These iPad Pro tablets (7/10, wired reviews) use the M2 chips from the MacBook Air (2022), Mac Mini, and iPad Air (2024). It also has an excellent mini-leading screen (with a 120 Hz screen refresh rate), as well as a dual-camera system (with a LIDAR sensor), a front-facing camera that supports the center stage, and excellent speakers and microphones. It is compatible with the original Magic Keyboard Box, the 2nd Generation Apple Pencil and the Apple Pencil with USB-C. I only recommend finding 11-inch 11-inch for $749 or less, while the 12.9-inch price is $900 or less.
iPad Air (2022, 5th Gen): The iPad Air has an M1 processor (also found in the 2020 MacBook Air), a 10.9-inch LCD screen, a USB-C port, a touch ID built into the top power button, and 5G support. This is an excellent, lightweight tablet that is powerful for most tasks. It packs support for the second generation Apple Pencil, Apple Pencil with USB-C and Magic Keyboard Box. I only recommend it for $450 or less.
iPad (2022, 10 gen): The 10th generation iPad comes with the A14 Bionic chip (same as in the iPhone 12), modern design (also in interesting colors), a 10.9-inch liquid retina (IPS LCD) display, a USB-C port, a integrated into the power button, touch ID, a 12-milli-like Selfie camera, a 12-milli-high Selfie camera, a 12-milli-camera camera and 5G camera and 5G. It is also compatible with the first generation Apple Pencil, Apple Pencil (USB-C), Magic Keyboard portfolio and Smart portfolio. It is worth noting, however, that the display is not fully laminated, so there is a gap between the screen and the glass that may make the apple pencil feel less precise. If you are looking for a basic, affordable iPad, this is a reliable option. However, it’s been three years now to see it, and I only recommend it for $260 or less.
iPad Air (2024, M2): This iPad Air (8/10, wired recommendation) is less than a year so it’s still a great option. You can choose between an 11-inch and 13-inch liquid retina display, but both are powered by an M2 chip (the same chip powers the 2022 13-inch MacBook Air and MacBook Pro). Other features include a USB-C port, a touch ID built into the power button, and a 12-megapixel sensor in landscape orientation (supporting the center stage). It is also compatible with Apple Pencil (USB-C), Apple Pencil Pro, the first-generation magic keyboard box and the smart folio box. I only recommend you find the 11-inch version for under $400, while the 13-inch price is $600 or less.
Great iPad accessories
iPad accessories are endless. Below, we highlight some of our favorites to fill your tablet experience, and you can find more in our Guide to the best iPad accessories.
$50 for Zugu case: This is our favorite case of iPad portfolio for a variety of reasons. Not only is it durable (with a rigid bumper), it also has a magnetized cover that keeps it closed and flaps, allowing you to position the screen at eight different angles. The box is magnetic, allowing you to firmly stick it to the refrigerator. It’s also reasonably priced, comes in a variety of colors, and has the position of apple pencils.
SATECHI M1 wireless mouse priced at $30: We already have a huge following for Wired’s Satechi accessories and this mouse isn’t disappointing. It features a comfortable ergonomic design, smooth aluminum finish and smooth rolling. It also has good battery life – with a built-in lithium-ion battery that I’ve been using for the past four months but haven’t charged yet.
Mageasy Coverbuddy Case (iPad Pro), priced at $65: This situation allows you to magnetically connect it to Apple’s magic keyboard case without taking off the case every time. It feels durable and doesn’t add much volume to the iPad. There is also a slot for the Apple Pencil Pro or USB-C version. The company also offers a lite version of the cover of the iPad Air (M2).
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Photo: Brenda stolyar
Logitech Combo Touch (10th Gen) at $220: Combined touch (8/10, wired recommendation) comes with a built-in keyboard, trackpad and stand, making it perfect for getting the job done on an iPad. It is also removable, so you can easily delete the keyboard when you don’t need it. It connects through Apple’s smart connector, which means you don’t have to use Bluetooth to patch or charge. It also works with the iPad Pro (M4) (although it does add a little weight to such a thin tablet) and the iPad Air (M2).
The casetify Impact screen protector costs $56: If you are worried about damaging your iPad screen, I recommend using this protector from casetify. It’s super thin, has excellent touch sensitivity, and is most Anti-fingerprint (I rubbed some smudges here and there). Applying is painless – the company offers a microfiber cloth, stickers for stickers, and wet wipes.
Charcoal on paper folio for this case, priced at $65: Paper-like screen protectors are well known, but the company also offers a great case. It is designed to feel like a sketchbook with a polyester fabric cover that feels lightweight and high quality. You can also support your iPad on two different levels. It doesn’t have an apple pencil slot, but there is a large lid that closes to prevent it from falling off. I tested it with the iPad Air, but it can also be used with the iPad Pro (two sizes).
Twelve Southgo Mini USB-C hubs for $60: Regardless of the iPad model, the ports are limited. The hub comes from Twelve South’s 85-watt USB-C port with toll, USB-A port, HDMI and headphone jack. If you have trouble with your iPad, the included socket-USB-CC-CO-to-usb-c cable will fix this.
Apple Magic Trackpad (USB-C) costs $129: For a spacious trackpad, Magic Trackpad 2 is a great choice. Instead of physical buttons, it has a force touch sensor where you can feel different levels of pressure on the mat. To support various iPados gestures, you don’t have to touch the screen too much. It will automatically pair with the iPad via Bluetooth and charge with the Lightning port.
Logitech K380 Bluetooth keyboard for $40: If you like external keyboards, it’s hard to go wrong with the Logitech K380. It is lightweight and portable and can be connected to up to three devices via Bluetooth (toggle dedicated buttons between them). The keyboard is powered by an AAA battery that lasts about four months, so you don’t have to worry about carrying a charger with you.
Twelve Souths (South Hoverbar Duo 2.0), priced at $80: There are two purposes for air cushion bottom. You can mount it to the sides of a bed, kitchen counter or shelf to view content comfortably and hands-free, or use the included stall on the table. With the second generation version, you can now remove the arm from the clamp and attach it directly to the bracket, making it easier to swap between the two modes.
