Let's start by going over the common features on all iPad models, then we’ll talk about each individual model with its use cases. After that, we’ll go through the pricing, tackle a few misconceptions, and finally, sum it all up.

Common Features

All iPad models come with a front camera that uses Center Stage technology, which automatically frames you during FaceTime or video calls. Except for the iPad 9Th gen they all come with a USB type-C, making it easier to connect accessories, quick charge and transfer speeds.They all support Apple Pencils and except for the non-Apple silicon models which only support screen mirroring the rest offer full external monitor support.

iPad 9th Gen

The iPad 9th Gen is powered by the A13 Bionic chip and comes with a 10.2-inch Retina display. It’s the only iPad that still features a 3.5mm headphone jack and supports the 1st-gen Apple Pencil. This is the most affordable iPad, perfect for basic tasks like browsing, note-taking, and watching videos. If you’re looking for an iPad for casual use or a kid-friendly option, this is the one to go for.

iPad 10th Gen

The iPad 10th Gen comes with a 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display and is powered by the A14 Bionic chip. It supports the first-gen Apple Pencil (both lightning and USB-C versions) and works with the Apple Folio Keyboard for light productivity tasks. If you're a student, casual creator, or someone looking for a budget-friendly iPad that offers decent performance, this is your go-to device.

iPad Mini 6

The iPad Mini 6 features an 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display and is powered by the A15 Bionic chip (the same chip used in the iPhone 14 series). Its smaller size makes it ideal for anyone who needs portability without compromising on power. Whether you’re a professional on the go, a student, or someone who just wants a compact tablet for quick note-taking or reading, the Mini 6 is a versatile option.

iPad Air (5th and 6th Gen)

The iPad Air has always been the sweet spot between performance and price. The iPad Air 5(powered by the M1 chip) and the iPad Air 6(powered by the M2 chip) both offer the perfect balance for students, creatives, and even pros. I personally use the 256GB iPad Air 5 and it handles everything I need, from light productivity to more intensive creative work.

iPad Pro Models (M1, M2, and M4)

If you’re looking for the ultimate iPad experience, the M1, M2, and M4 iPad Pro models have you covered. The new M4 models come with Ultra Retina Tandem OLED displays that offer better brightness and contrast, and the option of Nano-textured glass for more advanced workflows. These iPads can be configured with up to 2TB of storage and are perfect for creative professionals doing video editing, 3D rendering, or any other resource-intensive tasks.

That said, even though these new Pro models pack impressive features, they perform essentially the same tasks as the iPad Air models, and for most users, the Air models will suffice for day-to-day use.

Pricing Ladder

Now, let’s talk about the tricky part—pricing. Apple’s iPad lineup has a confusing pricing ladder that can make it hard to decide which model offers the best value. You can start with a budget-friendly 9th Gen iPad, but once you begin upgrading storage or adding accessories, you can quickly get into the price range of the iPad Air or even the iPad Pro models.

For example, upgrading the iPad 9th Gen from 64GB to 256GB can push the price up to that of the 10th Gen, which in turn, can get you into Mini 6 or Air territory. So, it’s worth considering refurbished options or older models if you’re on a tighter budget.

Navigating the Confusion

Here’s the thing: despite the different specs, all iPads run the same version of iPadOS, meaning they all perform the same core tasks. Apple controls the App Store, so every iPad supports the same apps, and the user experience isn’t vastly different between models. Sure, the Pro models may have slightly better hardware or fancier displays, but for most users, those upgrades won’t translate to significantly different use cases.

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In Conclusion

At the end of the day, the iPad you choose should depend on your specific needs and budget. But, don’t feel pressured into buying the latest and greatest. The **older iPad models** are just as capable of handling the exact same apps and tasks, thanks to Apple's tight control over the ecosystem. If you’re a student, creator, or even a professional, there’s an iPad that fits your use case—and chances are, an older model will serve you just as well as the latest M4 Pro.

Happy shopping.