If you’re searching for the best Apple tablets in 2026, you’re likely balancing performance, price, and versatility. The Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020, Wi-Fi, 1TB) stands out for its powerhouse specs, ideal for professional use, while the Apple iPad 11-inch with A16 Chip offers a more affordable, portable experience with impressive speed. The main tradeoffs revolve around size, power, and price — premium models deliver top-tier performance but come at a higher cost, whereas more budget-friendly options sacrifice some features. Keep reading for a detailed comparison to find the best fit for your needs.
Key Takeaways
- The 12.9-inch iPad Pro offers unmatched power and display quality, making it perfect for creative professionals.
- The A16 Chip in the 11-inch models delivers excellent performance at a more accessible price point.
- Battery life varies significantly, with some models designed for all-day use, important for users on the go.
- Storage options influence value, with higher capacities justifying premium prices for many users.
- Size and weight differences impact portability: smaller tablets are easier to carry but may have fewer features.
More Details on Our Top Picks
Apple 2020 12.9-inch iPad Pro (Wi-Fi, 1TB) – Silver (Renewed)
This 12.9-inch iPad Pro stands out for its immense display and professional-grade features, making it the top pick for creative professionals and power users. Its A12Z Bionic chip delivers robust performance, outperforming the A16 in the latest models when it comes to multi-tasking and demanding workflows. The inclusion of a LiDAR Scanner enhances AR experiences, giving it an edge over the newer 11-inch models for immersive applications. However, as a renewed product, it carries some uncertainty around warranty and longevity, plus its large size limits portability for on-the-go use. Compared to the latest iPad Air, this model offers more storage and a more advanced camera system, but at a significantly higher price and size. If you need a high-capacity, capable device for professional work or creative projects, this iPad Pro remains a compelling choice despite its weight and cost.
Pros:- Large 12.9-inch Liquid Retina display for detailed work
- Powerful A12Z Bionic chip for demanding tasks
- Advanced camera system including LiDAR Scanner for AR
Cons:- Renewed product may have limited warranty and unknown longevity
- Large size impacts portability and ease of handling
Best for: Creative professionals, digital artists, and power users who require maximum screen real estate and processing power
Not ideal for: Casual users or students who prioritize portability and lower cost over professional features
- Display:12.9-inch Liquid Retina
- Processor:A12Z Bionic chip
- Storage:1TB
- Camera:12MP Wide, 10MP Ultra Wide, LiDAR Scanner, 7MP TrueDepth front
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi
- Model Year:2020
Bottom line: This iPad Pro is best suited for those who need a high-performance, large-screen device for creative or professional tasks, accepting the tradeoff of size and cost.
Apple iPad 11-inch with A16 Chip, 128GB, Liquid Retina Display, Wi-Fi 6, 12MP Front/Back Camera, Touch ID – Pink
This 11-inch iPad with the A16 chip offers a powerful yet portable experience, making it ideal for students and mobile professionals. Its lightweight design at just over a pound rivals the newer models, and the Liquid Retina display ensures sharp visuals for media and work tasks. Compared to the 12.9-inch iPad Pro, it sacrifices screen real estate but gains significantly in portability. The A16 chip provides fast performance, but the model’s storage is limited to 128GB, which might be insufficient for users with large media libraries. It supports Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard Folio, but first-generation Pencil compatibility limits accessory options. If you prioritize a compact, high-performance tablet for everyday tasks, this model is a smart choice, though storage may require careful management.
Pros:- Lightweight and highly portable design
- Powerful A16 chip delivers fast performance
- Beautiful Liquid Retina display for media consumption
Cons:- Limited to 128GB storage, which may be restrictive
- First-generation Apple Pencil compatibility limits accessory options
Best for: Students, commuters, and users needing a powerful yet portable tablet for daily productivity and entertainment
Not ideal for: Content creators or professionals needing extensive storage or 4K editing capabilities
- Display:11-inch Liquid Retina
- Processor:A16 chip
- Storage:128GB
- Camera (Front):12MP Center Stage
- Camera (Back):12MP Wide with True Tone flash
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi 6, USB-C
Bottom line: This iPad strikes a balance between power and portability, making it well-suited for users on the go who don’t need massive storage.
Apple iPad 11-inch with A16 Chip, 128GB, Liquid Retina Display, Wi-Fi 6, 12MP Front/Back Camera, Touch ID, All-Day Battery – Silver
Compared with the Pink model, this Silver variant offers the same core specs—powerful A16 chip, stunning Liquid Retina display, and fast Wi-Fi 6—making it a versatile choice for daily activities. Its support for Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard Folio expands creative and productivity potential, but the base 128GB storage might be limiting for heavy users. The addition of Touch ID ensures secure unlocking, and the all-day battery life supports long work or entertainment sessions. Unlike the more premium 12.9-inch iPad Pro, this model emphasizes portability and affordability for general users. It doesn’t include cellular options, which could be a drawback for those needing connectivity on the go without Wi-Fi. Overall, if you want a balanced, high-performance tablet for browsing, creating, and media, this iPad offers excellent value.
Pros:- Strong A16 chip for fast multitasking
- Beautiful Liquid Retina display
- Supports accessories like Apple Pencil and keyboard
Cons:- 128GB storage may be insufficient for large media files
- No cellular connectivity option
Best for: Students and casual users seeking a reliable, versatile tablet for everyday tasks
Not ideal for: Power users needing extensive storage or professional-grade features
- Display:11-inch Liquid Retina
- Processor:A16 chip
- Storage:128GB
- Camera (Front):12MP Center Stage
- Camera (Back):12MP Wide with True Tone flash
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi 6, USB-C
Bottom line: This iPad provides a balanced mix of performance and portability, ideal for everyday use but less suited for heavy storage needs.
Apple iPad 11-inch with A16 Chip, 128GB, Liquid Retina Display, Wi-Fi 6, 12MP Cameras, Touch ID, Blue
This Blue 11-inch iPad offers the same core features as its silver counterpart, including the A16 chip and Liquid Retina display, making it well-rounded for creative, browsing, and media tasks. Its colorful design appeals to users who want a more personalized look, while its performance and accessory support mirror the other 11-inch models. The primary tradeoff remains its 128GB storage limit, and it lacks cellular connectivity options, just like the other variants. For users who prefer a stylish and capable tablet that handles daily activities effortlessly, this color choice adds a touch of personality without sacrificing performance. However, if storage or connectivity is a priority, options are limited in this price range.
Pros:- Vivid color options for personalization
- Fast A16 chip for smooth performance
- Excellent display quality for media and creative tasks
Cons:- Limited to 128GB storage, which might be restrictive
- No cellular option available
Best for: Young professionals, students, or casual users who want a vibrant, stylish device for everyday tasks
Not ideal for: Power users or those needing large storage and cellular connectivity
- Display:11-inch Liquid Retina
- Processor:A16 chip
- Storage:128GB
- Camera (Front):12MP Center Stage
- Camera (Back):12MP Wide with True Tone flash
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi 6, USB-C
Bottom line: This colorful iPad combines style and performance, perfect for users who want a vibrant device for daily use without high storage demands.
Apple 2022 iPad 12.9-inch (Wi-Fi, 512GB) – Space Gray (Renewed)
The Apple 2022 iPad 12.9-inch stands out for its stunning Liquid Retina XDR display with ProMotion, making it ideal for creative professionals and media enthusiasts. Compared to the 2020 12.9-inch iPad Pro, this model offers a significant upgrade with the powerful M2 chip that delivers fast, responsive performance for demanding tasks. While its large size and premium price make it less portable and accessible to casual users, it excels in scenarios requiring high-quality visuals and processing power. The renewed condition may also mean some uncertainty around warranty coverage, but it offers excellent value for those seeking top-tier specs.
Pros:- Stunning 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR display with ProMotion
- Powerful M2 chip ensures smooth multitasking and heavy workloads
- Supports Apple Pencil (2nd gen) and Magic Keyboard for versatility
- Excellent front and back cameras with AR capabilities
Cons:- Renewed product may have limited warranty or uncertain longevity
- Premium price point may be prohibitive for some
- Large size reduces portability for on-the-go use
Best for: Creative professionals, digital artists, and power users who want a large, high-quality display and top performance
Not ideal for: Travelers and casual users who prioritize portability or budget-friendly options
Bottom line: This tablet is best suited for users who need a large, high-quality display and robust processing power, and are willing to accept its premium price and size.
How We Picked
The products included in this roundup were selected based on a combination of performance, usability, build quality, and value. We prioritized recent models with the latest chips and features that align with a variety of user needs, from casual browsing to professional work. Devices were ranked considering their hardware capabilities, display quality, battery life, and overall user experience. We also considered price points to ensure options are accessible across different budgets, highlighting where each tablet excels or falls short to guide informed choices.Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Apple Tablets
Choosing the best Apple tablet involves weighing several key factors beyond just specs. Size and weight influence portability, while processor and RAM determine performance. Storage capacity impacts how much content you can keep locally, and display quality affects your viewing experience. Additionally, features like battery life, camera quality, and accessories compatibility can sway your decision. Understanding these broader considerations helps avoid common pitfalls, such as overpaying for features you don’t need or selecting a device that’s too large for your daily use.Performance and Processor Power
The choice of processor directly impacts your tablet’s speed and multitasking ability. Recent models with A15 or A16 chips handle demanding apps and multitasking smoothly, making them suitable for creative work or productivity. However, if your use is limited to casual browsing, a less powerful chip may suffice and save you money. Investing in a faster processor is worth it if you plan to use intensive apps or want a device that remains current for years.
Size, Weight, and Portability
Size and weight are critical if you plan to carry your tablet daily. Larger screens, like the 12.9-inch models, offer better productivity and media viewing but are less portable. Conversely, 11-inch tablets strike a balance between usability and portability, ideal for commuting or travel. Consider how often you’ll need to hold or transport your device; heavier or bulkier models may be less convenient for on-the-go use.
Display Quality and Resolution
Apple’s Retina displays are known for their clarity and color accuracy. Higher resolution screens, like those on the iPad Pro, deliver sharper images and more vibrant visuals, which benefit creative professionals and media consumers. Cheaper models might have lower resolution displays that are still good for everyday tasks but lack the crispness of flagship devices. Think about how much visual fidelity matters for your activities—editing photos, watching videos, or reading for extended periods.
Battery Life and Usage Patterns
Battery longevity varies across models, with some designed for all-day use and others needing more frequent charging. If you’re often away from power sources, prioritize models with longer battery life, especially those with efficient chips and larger batteries. Keep in mind that intensive tasks like video editing or gaming can drain power faster, so check real-world reviews to understand how each device performs under typical workloads.
Price, Storage, and Accessories
Budget considerations are key—more storage and premium features come at a cost. Decide whether you need high capacity for media or prefer to save by choosing a lower storage option, possibly supplemented by cloud services. Compatibility with accessories like keyboards, Apple Pencil, and cases can add to the overall cost but greatly enhance the device’s versatility. Balancing these factors helps avoid overspending on features you might not use or missing out on valuable accessories.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it better to buy a new or refurbished iPad?
Refurbished iPads often provide significant savings and are tested to meet quality standards, making them a smart choice for budget-conscious buyers. Apple’s certified refurbished devices come with warranties, ensuring reliability comparable to new models. However, they may lack the latest features or have slight cosmetic imperfections. If you prioritize having the newest technology, buying new might be preferable, but for most users, certified refurbished options strike a good balance between cost and quality.
Which iPad size is best for portability?
The 11-inch iPads are generally the most portable, fitting comfortably in one hand and easily slipping into bags. They strike a balance between screen size and lightweight design, making them ideal for commuters and travelers. Larger models, like the 12.9-inch, offer more screen real estate but are heavier and bulkier, which can be less convenient for on-the-go use. Your choice should depend on how often you’ll need to carry the device and how much screen space you prefer.
Should I buy the latest iPad or a previous generation?
Latest models usually feature the newest processors, improved displays, and additional features, offering better longevity and performance. However, previous-generation iPads often come at a lower price and still perform well for everyday tasks. If you don’t need the absolute latest enhancements, opting for a slightly older model can save money while still providing excellent performance. Consider your usage needs and whether the incremental upgrades justify the extra cost.
How much storage do I realistically need?
Your storage needs depend on how much content you plan to keep locally. If you primarily stream media and use cloud services, 128GB may be sufficient. However, if you work with large files, edit videos, or store many apps offline, opting for 256GB or higher makes sense. Keep in mind that higher storage models are more expensive, but they can prevent the inconvenience of managing limited space over time.
Are accessories like the Apple Pencil or keyboard worth it?
Accessories can significantly expand your tablet’s capabilities, especially for productivity and creative work. The Apple Pencil, in particular, turns compatible iPads into drawing or note-taking devices, which many users find valuable. Keyboards transform the tablet into a portable laptop alternative. While these add-ons increase the overall expense, they can be worth it if you plan to use your iPad for tasks beyond basic browsing and media consumption, making your device more versatile and efficient.
Conclusion
For those seeking the best overall performance, the Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020, Wi-Fi, 1TB) remains the top choice, especially for creative professionals. Budget-conscious buyers or casual users will find the Apple iPad 11-inch with A16 Chip a compelling option, offering a great balance of features and price. If you prefer a premium experience with the latest technology, the 2022 12.9-inch iPad Pro is worth considering. Beginners or those needing a portable device should lean toward the smaller, lighter models, while power users should focus on models with higher storage and better displays. This selection aims to match different needs with the ideal Apple tablet.
