Apple’s iPads have long been the benchmark for tablets, offering a blend of portability, performance, and productivity. The latest version, which is the 10th generation iPad, didn’t fall below expectations; it continues the standard set by Apple with a handful of improvements and refinements compared to its predecessor, which make it a compelling option for both new and existing iPad users.
Unveiled in October 2022, the iPad 10th generation boasts a sleeker, more modern design, a larger display, and a faster processor compared to its predecessors. While it may not be very different from its predecessor, the 9th generation model, the 10th generation iPad brings enough enhancements to make it a worthwhile upgrade for those looking to get the most out of their tablet experience.
Whether you’re a longtime iPad enthusiast or considering your first dive into the Apple tablet world, the 10th generation iPad is definitely among the best options to consider. From its design and display to performance, camera capabilities, software features, and accessories, we’ll dive deep to help you determine if this latest iPad is the right choice for your needs and budget.
10th Generation iPad price and specifications
Price
$317
Design
- Sleek, flat-edged design similar to iPad Air and Pro
- Available in silver, blue, pink, and yellow color finishes
- 10.9-inch display with slimmer bezels
- USB-C charging replaces Lightning port
- Touch ID power button
- Reposition front camera for better landscape video calls
Display
- 10.9-inch (diagonal) Liquid Retina LED backlit multi-touch display with IPS technology
- 2360-by-1640-pixel resolution at 264 pixels per inch (ppi)
- True-tone display
- 500 nits max brightness
- Supports Apple Pencil (1st generation) with USB-C adapter
Performance
- A14 Bionic chip with 6-core CPU and 4-core GPU
- 16-core Neural Engine
- 4GB RAM
- 64GB or 256GB storage
Camera
- 12MP Wide rear camera with ƒ/1.8 aperture
- 12MP ultra-wide front camera with 122° field of view and ƒ/2.4 aperture
- 4K video recording at 24/25/30/60 fps
- 1080p HD video at 25/30/60fps
- Smart HDR 3
Connectivity
- Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax)
- Bluetooth 5.2
- USB-C 2.0 port
- 5G cellular option (sub-6 GHz)
Battery
- 28.6-watt-hour rechargeable lithium-polymer battery
- Up to 10 hours of web surfing on Wi-Fi
- Up to 9 hours on cellular
- 20W USB-C charging
Other
- Stereo speakers in landscape mode
- Supports iPadOS 16 and later
- Dimensions: 248.6 x 179.5 x 7 mm
- Weight: 477g (Wi-Fi), 481g (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
Insight into the apple iPad 10th generation
Design and Hardware
The iPad 10th generation marks a notable departure from its predecessor in terms of design, aligning more closely with the aesthetic of the iPad Air and Pro models. This shift brings a refreshed look and feel to Apple’s entry-level tablet.
Physical Design
Gone are the rounded edges, replaced by a sleeker, flatter frame that exudes a modern and premium feel. The device is remarkably thin and light, making it easy to hold and carry for extended periods. It’s available in a variety of vibrant colors, including Silver, Blue, Pink, and Yellow, allowing users to express their personal style.
Display
The iPad 10th generation boasts a larger 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display, a significant upgrade from the 10.2-inch screen of its predecessor. This expansion provides a more immersive experience for watching videos, playing games, and working on documents. The display offers stunning visuals with vibrant colors, deep blacks, and sharp details, making it a joy to use for any task.
Processor and Performance
The iPad 10th generation comes with the A14 Bionic chip, the same processor found in the iPhone 12 series. This chip delivers impressive performance, ensuring smooth multitasking, fast app launches, and seamless gaming. Whether you’re editing photos, creating presentations, or simply browsing the web, the iPad 10th generation handles everything with ease.
Storage Options
Apple offers two storage configurations for the iPad 10th generation: 64GB and 256GB. While 64GB might be sufficient for casual users, those who plan to store a lot of photos, videos, or apps may find the 256GB option more suitable.
Camera
The iPad 10th gen features a 12MP rear camera capable of capturing detailed photos and 4K videos. The front-facing camera has also been upgraded to a 12MP ultra-wide lens with Center Stage, a feature that keeps you in frame during video calls even as you move around.
Audio
The iPad 10th generation delivers impressive audio quality thanks to its landscape stereo speaker setup. Whether you’re watching movies, listening to music, or participating in virtual meetings, the audio is clear, crisp, and immersive.
Connectivity
The iPad 10th generation supports Wi-Fi 6 for fast and reliable wireless connections. There’s also a cellular model available for those who need to stay connected on the go. Bluetooth 5.0 is included for connecting wireless accessories like keyboards, mice, and headphones.
Battery
The iPad 10th generation boasts a long-lasting battery that easily gets you through a full day of use on a single charge. It also supports fast charging via USB-C, allowing you to quickly top up the battery when needed.
Essential Accessories
While the iPad 10th generation is a powerful device on its own, certain accessories can significantly elevate its functionality and versatility. Here are some must-have additions:
- Apple Pencil (1st generation)
- The Apple Pencil remains a valuable tool for the iPad 10th generation, despite the tablet’s compatibility being limited to the first-generation model.
- It opens up a world of creative possibilities, allowing users to draw, sketch, paint, and take handwritten notes with precision and fluidity.
- For students, artists, and note-takers, the Apple Pencil is a game-changer, transforming the iPad into a digital canvas or notebook.
how to connect an Apple Pencil to iPad 10th generation
Note: The iPad 10th generation is compatible with the 1st generation Apple Pencil, but not the 2nd generation
- Remove the cap from the Apple Pencil 1st gen
- Plug the Apple Pencil into the USB-C to Apple Pencil Adapter that came with the iPad 10
- Plug the other end of the adapter into the USB-C port on the iPad
- A “Pair” button will appear on the iPad screen, Tap it to connect the Apple Pencil
2. Magic Keyboard Folio
- The Magic Keyboard Folio is Apple’s official keyboard case designed specifically for the iPad 10th generation.
- It offers a comfortable typing experience with well-spaced keys and a trackpad for precise cursor control.
- The folio design protects the iPad and doubles as a stand, making it ideal for productivity tasks like writing emails, creating documents, or editing spreadsheets.
3. Smart Folio
- If you’re looking for a simpler and more affordable option, the Smart Folio is a great choice.
- It’s a slim, lightweight case that protects the iPad’s front and back while also serving as a stand for viewing videos or FaceTime calls.
- The Smart Folio comes in a variety of colors to match your iPad and personal style.
Apple iPad 10th Generation vs Apple iPad 9th Generation
| Feature | iPad 10th Generation | iPad 9th Generation |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Flat edges, thinner, lighter | Rounded edges |
| Display | 10.9-inch Liquid Retina | 10.2-inch Retina |
| Processor | A14 Bionic | A13 Bionic |
| Storage | 64GB, 256GB | 64GB, 256GB |
| Cameras | 12MP Wide (Rear), 12MP Ultra Wide (Front) | 8MP (Rear), 12MP Ultra Wide (Front) |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0, Optional 5G | Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 4.2, and Optional 4G LTE |
| Charging Port | USB-C | Lightning |
| Apple Pencil | 1st generation (requires adapter) | 1st gen |
| Colors | Silver, Blue, Pink, and Yellow | Silver, Space Gray |
| Dimensions | 9.79 x 7.07 x 0.28 inches | 9.8 x 6.8 x 0.29 inches |
| Weight | 1.05 pounds (Wi-Fi), 1.06 pounds (Cellular) | 1.07 pounds (Wi-Fi), 1.09 pounds (Cellular) |
FAQs
What is the battery life of the iPad 10th generation?
- Up to 10 hours of web browsing or video playback on Wi-Fi.
- Up to 9 hours of web browsing on cellular.
How long does it take to charge the iPad 10th generation?
- It varies depending on the charger and usage, but a full charge typically takes 2–3 hours.
Does the iPad 10th generation support fast charging?
- Yes, it supports fast charging with a 20W or higher USB-C power adapter.
Can I use my old iPad charger with the iPad 10th generation?
- No, the iPad 10th generation uses a USB-C port, while older iPads use Lightning.
Which iPad has better battery life, the 9th or 10th generation?
- Both models have similar battery life ratings, with minimal differences in real-world usage.
How can I improve the battery life of my iPad 10th generation?
- Lower screen brightness, disable Background App Refresh, use Low Power Mode, and turn off location services for unused apps.
Does the iPad 10th generation get hot while charging?
- It’s normal for the device to get slightly warm during charging, but excessive heat could indicate a problem.
Can I replace the battery in my iPad 10th generation myself?
- It’s not recommended, as the battery is glued in and requires special tools. It’s best to have it done by a professional.
Does using cellular data drain the battery faster than using Wi-Fi?
- Yes, using cellular data generally consumes more power than Wi-Fi.
Will using the Apple Pencil drain the battery quickly?
- The Apple Pencil has its own battery, so it won’t directly drain the iPad’s battery.
Does the Magic Keyboard Folio affect the iPad 10th generation’s battery life?
- The Magic Keyboard Folio does draw some power from the iPad, but the impact on overall battery life is minimal.
Should I leave my iPad 10th generation plugged in overnight?
- It’s generally safe to do so, as modern devices have safeguards to prevent overcharging. However, it’s still best to unplug it once it’s fully charged.
