There are currently four different types of iPads you can buy, each with its own versions. When it comes to deciding between the standard iPad versus the iPad Mini, iPad Air, and iPad Pro, it might be a difficult task to decide which one is right for you.
Let’s start with the basic specifications:
- Apple iPad
o Base price: $329
o 10.2” Retina display
o A12 Bionic chip
o Compatible with the Smart Keyboard and first-generation Apple Pencil
- iPad Mini
o Base price: $399
o 7.9” Retina display
o A12 Bionic chip
o Compatible with Bluetooth Keyboards and first-generation Apple Pencil
- iPad Air
o Base price: $599
o 10.9” Liquid Retina display
o A14 Bionic chip
o Compatible with Magic Keyboard and Smart Keyboard Folio and second-generation Apple Pencil
- iPad Pro
o Base price: $799
o Available in 12.9” and 11” Liquid Retina display with ProMotion
o A12Z Bionic chip
o Compatible with Magic Keyboard and Smart Keyboard Folio and second-generation Apple Pencil
So, what does all that mean? Let’s break it down.
First, one thing that all iPads have in common is the fact that the Apple operating system, iOS, was previously shared by both iPhones and iPads. iOS is now specifically geared for iPhones and the new iPadOS is dedicated to iPads. This move was predicated by the fact that iPads generally have larger screens than iPhones, and different options needed to be available for iPad users, such as split screen viewing.
Now for the differences. When it comes to shooting pictures or video, the Apple iPad comes equipped with a very nice 8-megapixel (MP) rear-racing camera, but only a 1.2MP front-facing camera. While 1.2MP isn’t horrible, it can make Zoom or FaceTime calls a little less than desirable. The iPad Mini and iPad Air both have 7MP front-facing cameras, making them a better option for video conferencing. The iPad Pro has one 7 MP front-facing camera and two rear-facing cameras: a 12MP wide angle lens and a 10MP ultra-wide lens. The Pro also features a new LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) feature and can record 4K video at up to 60 frames per second.
The iPad Mini weighs right around two-thirds of a pound and is thinner than a quarter-inch thick. So, unless you’re extremely drawn to the diminutive size and portability, or if the front-facing camera clarity is a problem for you, this is basically a more expensive version of the Apple iPad.
The iPad Air provides a good mid-range price option between the budget iPad and the pricey Pro. It has greater capabilities than the Apple iPad and iPad Mini, but it’s not quite as sophisticated as the iPad Pro.
The iPad Pro, as the name designates, is a tool for serious iPad users such as designers, artists, video editors and musicians. In addition to its professional-quality capabilities, you can also get a Pro with cellular connectivity and 1 TB of storage, but you’ll pay a price for both.
So, the decision is up to you. If you just need an everyday tool you can use to check email, take pictures, chat by text, and play basic games, the Apple iPad is a good entry-level product. If your needs go beyond that, you might want to take a look at the other iPad options.
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