Is the iPad Worth Your Money? (2024)

The iPad is the most popular tablet in the world, and for good reason.Its introduction in 2010 defined the tablet market.It wasn't the first one ever, but it was the first one people wanted to buy.Since then, it's been the flagship of tablets, but it's not perfect. Here are the pros and cons.

Is the iPad Worth Your Money? (1)

Pros of Buying an iPad

The iPad has a number of benefits, including:

Leading Edge Technology

The iPad doesn't just lead in sales, it leads in technology.It was the first tablet with a high-resolution display and the first to use a 64-bit processor.Each year, when the new iPad is released, it becomes one of the fastest tablets in the world, and the iPad Pro has surpassed many laptops in terms of pure processing power.

The App Store

The App Store now contains well over a million apps, and over half of these are designed with the iPad in mind.One big advantage the iPad has over the PC is the price of software.Most apps are under $5, and many are free.This can be really nice coming from the PC world, where anything under $30 probably isn't worth the price of the packaging.Each app in the App Store is reviewed by actual people at Apple to make sure it's up to a minimal standard. This is a great guard against malware, an issue that plagues the Google Play Store.

Plays Nice With iPhone and Apple TV

If you already own an iPhone orApple TV, one big advantage of owning an iPad is how well they play together. Not only can you share apps between the iPhone and iPad, which is great foruniversal appsthat support both within the same app, features such an iCloud Photo Libraryblend together well. Apple TV owners will also enjoy AirPlay, which lets you connect your iPad to your HDTV wirelessly.

Ease of Use

While Android has made great strides in this area, Apple still leads in providing an interface that's easy to learn and simple to use. While Android tablets allow for more customization, Apple's simple approach makes the iPad less overwhelming. This doesn't mean you can pick up an iPad and become a pro with it overnight, but it doesn't take long for most people to become comfortable using it.

Accessories

One advantage of being the market leader is that everyone wants a piece of the action. This has resulted in a vibrant ecosystem of iPad accessories that go beyond just tablet cases, wireless keyboards, and external speakers. For example, the iRig allows you to hook your guitar to the iPad and use it as a multi-effects package, and the iCade converts your iPad into a classic coin-operated arcade system (minus the need for quarters).

Stability

The iPad is often referred to as a closed system, with Apple controlling both the hardware and the software. There are some disadvantages to a closed system, but one advantage is the stability it provides. While Android app developers must support dozens, even hundreds, of tablets and smartphones, Apple and iPad app developers are supporting a very limited number of tablets all based on the same basic hardware. Apple's app approval process also helps stability by getting rid of the most egregious bugs before they're approved.

Cons of Buying an iPad

While the iPad has many perks, it has a few downsides as well, including:

Cost

The price of entry into Apple's ecosystem is a little steep, especially when many Android tablets now offer a good experience for less money. The 7-inch tablet market is making this even more clear, with current-generation Android tablets going as low as $199. You can even get an Android tablet for as cheap as $50 to $60, although you can't do much more on it than browsing the web.However, that's OK for many people.In comparison, a current-gen iPad starts at $329 and an iPad Pro starts at $800.

Limited Customization

Both an advantage and a disadvantage, the downside of limited customization is that the tablet experience cannot be altered on the iPad. This means no widgets on the home screen, but it also means some apps simply aren't available for the iPad. Apple's approval process does keep some apps from appearing in the App Store that could actually help the experience, such as one that simply switches Bluetooth on and off so you can hook in your wireless keyboard without digging through menus.

Less Expandability

If you run out of storage space on the iPad, you may be left clearing out music, movies, and apps. The iPad doesn't support flash drives to expand storage, and external hard drives and/or cloud storage can't be used to store apps. While all tablets are inherently less expandable than laptops, which in turn are less expandable than desktop PCs, the iPad tends to be more limited than some Android tablets.

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Is the iPad Worth Your Money? (2024)

FAQs

Is it useful to buy an iPad? ›

iPad is so versatile, it's more than up to any task. Whether you're working on a project, expressing your creativity or playing an immersive game, iPad is a fun and powerful way to get it done. Here are just a few of the countless things you can do with iPad.

Would I benefit from an iPad? ›

IPad advantages

IPads are lightweight and compact, making them highly portable and easy to carry. Versatility. IPads offer a range of functionalities, letting users browse the internet, read e-books, watch videos, play games, and create and edit documents. User-friendly interface.

How much is an iPad worth? ›

Get $40–$580 when you trade in an iPad. footnote ¹
Your deviceEstimated trade-in value footnote ¹
iPad ProUp to $580
iPad AirUp to $310
iPadUp to $250
iPad miniUp to $250

Do iPads hold their value? ›

In general, Apple Products hold their value extremely well. And iPads specifically hold their value even better than most other Apple products. With that said, all electronics lose value over time. So no matter which iPad you own, the best time to sell your used iPad is now.

Is an iPad worth more than an iPhone? ›

There's a much higher demand for a phone rather than a tablet. Not everyone wants or needs a tablet but do they need phones. iPhones have much better cameras, better display tech more or less, cellular capabilities included in the price, different materials used etc.

Is an iPad better than a laptop? ›

Choosing between an iPad and a laptop depends on your specific needs and preferences. iPads are great for portability, browsing the internet, watching videos, and using apps. They're handy for tasks like reading, gaming, and light productivity work. On the other hand, laptops offer more power, storage, and versatility.

What is the disadvantage of an iPad? ›

The iPad doesn't support flash drives to expand storage, and external hard drives and/or cloud storage can't be used to store apps. While all tablets are inherently less expandable than laptops, which in turn are less expandable than desktop PCs, the iPad tends to be more limited than some Android tablets.

How long do iPads last? ›

While the answer truly depends on the particular model and its intended use, you can reasonably expect an iPad to last 4-7 years. Generally speaking, the iPad is a very dependable mobile computer, and the only notable wear item is the battery.

What is the point of an iPad? ›

An iPad offers better portability than a laptop, and their big screens make them better than a phone for streaming video, reading websites, and getting work done. The iPad is also a great e-book reader.

Is a 64 GB iPad enough? ›

The answer depends greatly on how you plan to use your iPad. For light users who simply browse the web, read books, stream music and occasional video, and have just a handful of apps, 64GB should suffice. But intense media creators, gamers, and professionals may need more room for all their files.

Do I need an iPad if I have a laptop? ›

Should you get an iPad if you have a Windows laptop? An iPad can still be useful if your other devices run on Windows, Linux or Android. However, if fully integrated functionality is a high priority for you, you may want to consider a corresponding Microsoft Surface or an Android tablet instead.

Is a 10 year old iPad obsolete? ›

Vintage iPads are not quite obsolete, but they don't receive full support from Apple. They may receive small updates, including bug fixes. Apple's official definition of "vintage" is that they've been unavailable for sale for five to seven years.

Is an old iPad worth anything? ›

The popularity of the iPad means it holds its value for far longer than most other tablets, so you can get a good price when selling your iPad for cash.

Is a 7 year old iPad worth fixing? ›

Older models of iPads, in particular, are challenging to repair as it's hard to find the parts in the market, or those available are expensive. If the cost of repair is close to the value of buying a new one, it's definitely a wise decision to invest in a new device.

What are the signs of an iPad wearing out? ›

Signs that your iPad may be ready for an upgrade:
  • Slow performance.
  • Poor battery life.
  • Inability to access secure websites (E.g. banking websites or financial institutions)
  • Emails not loading properly.
  • Inability to update your apps.
  • Running low on storage - have to remove pictures, applications and other data.
Feb 4, 2024

What are the benefits of owning an iPad? ›

8 Benefits of Owning An iPad
  • Battery Life.
  • Easy To Use For All Ages.
  • Allows For More Interaction.
  • Office Use Even On The Go.
  • Never Leave An App Again.
  • Picture Perfect.
  • Keep Your Arm And Leg.

How often should you buy a new iPad? ›

iPads generally have a lifespan of about 5 years. Keep your software as up-to-date as possible. Plan to replace your tablet every 3 years.

What is the difference between a tablet and an iPad? ›

iPad is Apple's version of a tablet. Most tablets use Google's Android operating system, while the iPad runs on Apple's iOS. Unlike iPads, tablets can use popular software for showing online videos, so you'll have no problem viewing Flash-based websites, Flash games or watching Flash videos.

Can an iPad make calls? ›

You can make and receive calls on your iPad by using Wi-Fi Calling to relay phone calls through your iPhone (iOS 9 or later required). Cellular charges might apply. Wi-Fi Calling isn't available from all carriers.

What does an iPad do that an iPhone doesn't? ›

The iPhone and iPad have overlapping but different app libraries. The iPad can run any app programmed for the iPad and the iPhone; however, the iPhone can only run apps specifically programmed for the iPhone -- it can't run apps designed for the iPad.

What are the limitations of an iPad? ›

  • Physical memory is limited. The iPad has only 256MB of physical memory, and the system processes take up 100+ MB. ...
  • Screen is smaller, especially when you're typing on the virtual keyboard.
  • Many applications are stripped-down mobile versions of the more feature-rich desktop applications.
Dec 15, 2010

Can you print from an iPad? ›

Use AirPrint to print wirelessly to an AirPrint-enabled printer from apps such as Mail, Photos, Safari, and Freeform.

Can I use Word on my iPad? ›

Download Microsoft Word now and get the best way to create, share and edit documents from your iPhone or iPad.

Why is it important to have an iPad? ›

iPad makes editing, enjoying, and sharing your photos and videos easy. Capture the perfect shot and make it your own with a suite of powerful built‑in or third‑party editing apps. And use Final Cut Pro for iPad to shoot, edit, finish, and deliver professional videos anywhere you are.

Why do I need an iPad if I have a laptop? ›

Improved productivity with an iPad can look as simple as having Siri dictate a message, scribbling down notes using the Apple Pencil or copying and pasting files from your iPad to another Apple device. Mastering Siri shortcuts can help you complete a task in less time than it takes to boot up your laptop.

How often should you buy an iPad? ›

We will support iPads that are still being supported by Apple and running iPadOS 15. iPads generally have a lifespan of about 5 years. Keep your software as up-to-date as possible. Plan to replace your tablet every 3 years.

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