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iPad generations: the complete iPad model list

Well, the list of the iPad generations grows with each year, with Apple introducing lots of new models at a regular frequency. So, Apple’s list of iPad models contains 4 different families of iPad: the standard iPad 10.2, the iPad Pro (that comes in 2 sizes: 11 and 12.9), the iPad mini, and the iPad Air. All of them spawn a new variant every year – moreover, the only model that did not feature in the new iPad generations introduced in 2021 is the iPad Air, which last saw a new iteration in 2020.

All new iPad generations offer faster, more strong chips and come up with a number of stunning new features, although the update is more noticeable than others. This can be really challenging to decide which iPad to opt for & which is best for your requirements and preferences.

iPad generations: the complete iPad model list

Today’s guide aims to clear that up, offering a comprehensive, up-to-date iPad model list, involving the specs of all the available iPad generations in a single guide. The latest iPads are the 6th Gen iPad mini, & the 9th Gen iPad 10.2 which were realized in September 2021. The most popular as well as powerful iPads are the 5th Gen iPad Pro (11 and 12.9), which were introduced a few months earlier.

list-of-ipad-models-and-generations

So, without further ado, you can simply move towards the iPad model that you are interested in, or simply scroll down for the complete list of the most latest iPad generations. We have looked at the main features of all iPad generations to assist you to determine which one’s the best choice for you. And of course, it would be pretty easy and straightforward to conclude very succinctly that the iPad Pro (2021) is the ‘best iPad’ overall, & it’s in terms of specs, however, if do not need its power, you may have no require to pay that much money for a tablet, & one of the smaller or more budget-friendly iPads might meet your needs just fine. The top-notch iPad for most users in terms of needs & value for money is possibly still the ‘standard’ iPad (although there is no standard about the 2021 9th Generation of this 10.2 tablet). 

#1Apple iPad Pro (5th generation, 2021)

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Display size: 11in or 12.9in
  • Screen: Mini LED Liquid Retina XDR
  • Storage options: Up to 2TB
  • Processor: 8-core M1 processor
  • Apple Pencil compatibility: 2nd generation

REASONS TO BUY

  • Smooth & fast performance
  • Very powerful camera
  • Amazing 5G coverage
  • More storage

REASONS TO AVOID

-Pretty pricey, & accessories cost additionally

So, if you are searching for the ultimate in power & sophistication, you can go for the iPad Pro 5th generation. Introduced in May 2021, it is not the most latest device on the iPad model list, however, it’s the most advanced one.

The Apple iPad Pro comes up with an eight-core M1 processor, the same chip that powers the variants of the MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, & Mac Mini, which makes it super-efficient & fast. This variant also supports USB4, eSIM support, Thunderbolt 3, along with the global 5G coverage at speeds of 4Gbps.

It’s the best iPad camera you can get as well, with a LIDAR & ISP scanner for amazing low-light detail. The ultrawide 12MP sensor offers a 120-degree field of view, & Center Stage, a special feature that follows you automatically during video calls!

If you want a tablet for just watching movies & for your web use, one of the cheaper iPads on this list will possibly be all you need, & you may be better off saving the money. But, if you desire the best performance in an iPad Pro & can spare a sufficient amount of cash, the model is worth going to for sure!

#2.Apple iPad Pro (2020, 4th generation)

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Storage options : 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB
  • Processor: A12Z Bionic
  • Display size: 11in or 12.9in
  • Apple Pencil compatibility: 2nd generation

REASONS TO BUY

  • Big screen 
  • Over to 1TB of storage 

REASONS TO AVOID

  • Pretty expensive considering it’s been superseded
  • -Less portable than the other iPad variants

This is the iPad Pro 4th generation. It’s a great option for professional creatives who want a smooth and user-friendly tablet to work on.

Like the latest iPad Pro version, this device also has an 11in option, & a larger 12.9inversion, that allows additional space for design work when connected with the 2nd generation Apple Pencil. And it is not as fast as the 2021 iPad however, it is quite darn close. Therefore, until you are doing plenty of resource-intensive work like photo or video editing, it’s pretty tempting to opt for this more budget-friendly model.

Although it contains a less powerful chip than the most advanced iPad Air, it still has some benefits over that model, as it comes with a built-in Face ID. Moreover, it also has larger storage options than the iPad Air, & going right up to 1TB.

#3 Apple iPad Pro (3rd generation 2018)

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Processor: A12X Bionic
  • Storage options : 64GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB
  • Display size: 11in or 12.9in
  • Apple Pencil compatibility: 2nd generation

REASONS TO BUY

  • Big screen
  • Over 1TB of storage

REASONS TO AVOID

  • -Hard purchase to justify with 2 newer models available
  • -12.9-inch model is bulky

Well, it’s possibly the oldest generation of the iPad model that you may be able to find at the stores, although nowadays, it’s becoming more challenging to find. But it still offers decent specs, along with the A12Z Bionic chip. Therefore you do not lose much in performance. And like the 4th generation model, you can also get up to 1TB of storage along with a big screen option which is ideal for creative work. 

But, considering its age, if you need to pay the full price, it is not going to be a great deal for sure. But if you think that the 3rd generation Apple iPad Pro can fulfill your needs, then you can go for it for sure. Otherwise, opting for the newer iPad Pro generations is always a great deal!

#4.Apple iPad 10.2 (9th generation 2021)

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Processor: A13 Bionic
  • Display size: 10.2in
  • Apple Pencil compatibility: 1st generation
  • Storage options : 64GB, 256GB

SPECIFICATIONS

Display size: 10.2inProcessor: A13 BionicStorage options : 64GB, 256GBApple Pencil compatibility: 1st generation

REASONS TO BUY

  • Amazing value for money
  • Highly Compatible with 
  • Large storage

REASONS TO AVOID

Doesn’t come up with a new design

The latest edition of the iPad (2021) went on sale on 24 September 2021. The very first thing that sets it apart from the prior version is its storage capacity. Well, you get amazing space for all your games, media, photos & more.

Well, there are more differences between this & the most advanced model (the 8th generation device) inside. 

While it seems pretty identical to 2020’s iteration, the model boasts Apple’s TrueTone tech, enabling the screen image in order to balance out the ambient lighting. The camera is also updated, growing to 12MP with Center Stage features, first seen on the iPad Pro of 2020. 

In fact, the 2021 model comes up with the same 10.2in 1620 x 2160 LCD screen as the 8th generation. It also has a max 500 nits brightness, that will be simply fine for the majority of the users. And at this price, it is an amazing tablet for basic use!

#5. Apple iPad 10.2 (8th generation 2020)

SPECIFICATION

Processor: A12 Bionic

Display size: 10.2in

Apple Pencil compatibility: 1st generation

Storage options : 32GB, 128GB

REASONS TO BUY

  • Amazing value for money
  • +Includes all required iPad features

REASONS TO AVOID

  • Lacks advanced features
  • -Thick bezels

It’s the old iPad generation for those who are looking for a high-quality tablet without breaking the bank. But, it’s since been superseded by the 2021 model above,  people can still get everything they require for the core iPad experience here. It comes up with Apple Pencil support, a strong processor, and an outstanding Retina display. Therefore, if you get a discount that makes it pretty cheaper than the 2021 variant, & it’s still a tempting buy.

The 10.2in screen size adds this model in the Goldilocks zone between the large-scale 12.9in iPad Pro and the bite-sized iPad mini, making it a perfect choice for media consumption without it becoming unwieldy. It may look a little outdated, but there is no doubting its capabilities.

#6. Apple iPad 10.2 (2019, 7th generation)

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Processor: A10 Fusion 
  • Display size: 10.2in
  • Apple Pencil compatibility: 1st generation
  • Storage options : 32GB, 128GB

REASONS TO BUY

  • Pretty affordable 
  • Plenty of key iPad features 

REASONS TO AVOID

  • -Outdated design
  • -Slower A10 processor 

The iPad model was released in 2019 which is another great option to consider when you are on a tight budget. But, it is not so available right now, it is worth checking out in case you get a deal. The Apple iPad 10.2 (2019) has nearly the same package as the 8th generation version, including storage options, Apple Pencil support, Touch ID, camera, and more. 

The real difference is the processor, which is the outdated A10 Fusion chip. You may notice the difference when you are doing some demanding tasks, but if you simply need a reasonable tablet, you won’t go far wrong with this iPad model. And it is worth considering if you stop at a great price. It might be more possible to spot refurbished or renewed options, but the price of those requires to be significantly cheaper than any other new variant to make it a good value

#7. Apple iPad Air (2022, 5th generation)

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Storage options : 64GB, 256GB
  • Display size: 10.9inProcessor: M1
  • Apple Pencil compatibility: 2nd generation

REASONS TO BUY

  • Comes up  with the same processor as the iPad Pro
  • Outstanding display 

REASONS TO AVOID

  • Pretty costly & not quite a Pro

This iPad variant is available to preorder from March 2022, the most advanced iPad is the new 5th generation iPad Air. People can opt for this since it comes up with a great processor along with some outstanding features at a more affordable price – just. 

#8. Apple iPad Air (2020, 4th generation)

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Processor: A14 Bionic
  • Display size: 10.9in
  • Apple Pencil compatibility: 2nd generation
  • Storage options : 64GB, 256GB

REASONS TO BUY

  • Stunning full-screen display 
  • Highly powerful 

REASONS TO AVOID

  • -Expensive and still not a Pro
  • -Do not have Face ID

It’s the only device on the iPad models list that did not come up with a new iteration in 2020, & there have been lots of doubts about the name. iPad Air 4th generation is still one of the most popular tablets around, & best of all, it usually comes in for discounts as the newer iPad Pros have been released. 

It comes up with the A14 Bionic, Apple’s most advanced tablet chip until the iPad Pro  5th generation which was launched in May 2021, & it works with the 2nd generation Apple Pencil, which charges magnetically by snapping to the edge of the device. This device also supports the Magic Keyboard case with the trackpad. 

The Home button was eradicated from this model, with Touch ID situated in the power button. It enabled the bezels to be slimmed down. And all in all, the iPad Air is the most powerful as well as a top-notch list of Apple tablets for those who are looking for outstanding performance & features.

#9. Apple iPad Air (2019, 3rd generation)

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Processor: A12 Bionic
  • Display size: 10.5in
  • Apple Pencil compatibility: 2nd generation
  • Storage options : 64GB, 256GB

REASONS TO BUY

  • Budget-friendly when compared to new iPad Air 
  • Comes up with 256GB storage option 

REASONS TO AVOID

  • -Pretty challenging to get hold of
  • -Chunky bezels

The 2020 iPad Air is an outstanding piece of kit, however, it is not going to be the most popular choice. The 2019 3rd generation iPad Air provides a cheaper option with a 256GB storage option. Now you can opt for the one that is best suited for you.

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#10. Apple iPad mini (2021, 6th generation)

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Processor: A15 Bionic
  • Display size: 8.3in
  • Apple Pencil compatibility: 1st generation
  • Storage options : 64GB, 256GB

REASONS TO BUY

  • Latest design, new tech
  • Highly portable 
  • Amazing price for tech 

REASONS TO AVOID

  • – Smart Keyboard does not support

This iPad variant got a pretty big upgrade in September 2021. It is absolutely portable, but it has been bumped up to 8.3in (from 7.9in). It also has a Liquid Retina display along with 2266×1488 resolution at 326 pixels per inch.

That’s not all! It has a USB-C port,  A15 Bionic chipset, along with the 5G connectivity. Now it supports the Apple Pencil 2, making it the best choice for creatives on the move. 

As with the latest iPad 2021, the rear camera got upgraded to a 12MP snapper, allowing recording in 4K, while the front camera also maxes at 12MP, however, has ultra-wide, & the Center Stage feature.

That’s all about iPad generations: the complete iPad model list. For further details, stay tuned with us or visit our official site where you will get all the latest details regarding “iPad model list and their iPad release year”.