There is a good reason that iPads remain king when it comes to tablets. They continuously receive software and security updates globally on the same day, whereas Google places hardware limitations for Android. This puts Android tablets at a disadvantage as there is no guarantee when and if you will receive an Android update. With four iPads on offer, how do you decide which is right for you? Here’s a quick guide.
iPad Pro
The 12.9-inch iPad Pro features Apple’s M1 chip and is a productivity powerhouse. It has been designed for working on the go and is more powerful than most laptops, plus it has 5G support. It features a 120Hz display, FaceID, Thunderbolt, and a LiDAR sensor on the rear camera. It is suitable for gaming, editing high-res photos and videos, and taking video meetings with the 12MP ultra-wide selfie cam. A proper laptop replacement once you pair it with a Bluetooth keyboard. It supports USB-C charging. A must if you want the latest and greatest. It also comes in an 11-inch variant.
iPad Air
The 10.9-inch iPad Air focuses on a slim modern design, hence its name, but packs in the power of Apple’s M1 chip. The power button also has a fingerprint sensor for TouchID; it does not support FaceID. It is suited for working, gaming, and entertainment, however, its smaller size means you can easily pop it into your bag. While it lacks pro features like FaceID and Thunderbolt, it offers good value and performance due to the M1 chip, 5G connectivity, and USB-C charging. It has support for the Apple Pencil second-generation and comes in five trendy colours.
iPad 9th-gen
The 9th-generation 10.2-inch iPad is aimed at those who want a large tablet but without the latest and greatest features. The bezels are thicker, it has 4G, a Lightning connector, and supports a physical button for TouchID. It runs on Apple’s A13 Bionic chip, which is still a good chip and has a wide-angle front camera. Storage starts at 64GB, and it supports the first-generation Apple Pencil on this model. It promises an all-day battery life and comes in silver or space grey.
iPad mini 6th-gen
The 8.3-inch iPad mini is the best option to go for if you want something small, yet capable. It has a modern design, runs on the A15 Bionic chip, has the same ultra-wide 12MP selfie camera as all iPads, and has a USB-C charging port. It supports TouchID through the power button, shoots in 4K, and supports the second-generation Apple Pencil. It also supports 5G connectivity, and powers other USB-C accessories. It is available in four colours. A modern yet compact tablet that can easily go anywhere.
Check out Vodacom's latest device deals here.
