Best iPad 2021 – CNET [CNET]

So, you’re in the market for a new iPad. Maybe you already have an iPhone or a MacBook and want to keep adding Apple products to your device arsenal. Or maybe you’re thinking of moving away from your Android tablet in favor of something that gives you access to the iPad app ecosystem. Regardless of your reasons, if you’re thinking of buying a new iPad, you’re in luck, because there’s a good selection to choose from.

Apple recently launched two new models, replacements for the iPad Mini and the entry-level 10.2-inch iPad, which means you’ll probably need to reevaluate which model in the iPad lineup you should buy if you’d already set your mind on one particular iPad model. The reviews are now in on the new iPad Mini and the ninth-gen entry-level iPad and overall they hold their positions in the which-is-best hierarchy.

The current 11- and 12.9-inch iPad Pro models are powered by the company’s M1 processor, the chip found in its latest MacBooks as well as the new 24-inch iMac. Along with the new processors, the iPad Pros have a Liquid Retina XDR display, at least on the 12.9-inch size, high-speed Thunderbolt USB-C port and optional 5G mobile wireless. The 11-inch version starts at $799 (£749, AU$1,199) while the 12.9-inch model price begins at $1,099 (£999, AU$1,649). 

However, the Pro sits at the top of Apple’s iPad lineup, which now includes the 2021 ninth-gen 10.2-inch iPad, fourth-gen 10.5-inch iPad Air and sixth-gen 2021 8.3-inch iPad Mini rounding out the rest of Apple’s tablet options. You’ll also still be able to get previous models from the iPad lineup at reduced prices.

Also see: Best Apple iPad deals: Save $100 or more on previous-gen iPad Pro models

Regardless of which iPad or screen size you go with, though, all the current iPad models support the latest version of iPadOS (a special version of iOS specifically for iPads) and either the first-generation or second-generation Apple Pencil; and all but the Mini work with Apple’s Smart Keyboard, though you can use any Bluetooth keyboard instead. That’s good news for anyone who’s looking to do more than stream videos and music, look at web sites and play Apple Arcade games. Plus, all of the current iPad models support mouse and trackpad use for a more MacBook-like experience. 

iPad Mini 2021 and 9th-gen iPad, compared

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Read more: The 30 best iPad games you need to play

The M1 iPad Pro: 11 and 12.9-inch compared

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