We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Apple Ipad For Students 2025 in the United States

How do we rank products for you?

Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

headphones-stars

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Apple iPad 11-inch: A16 chip, 11-inch Model, Liquid Retina Display, 128GB, Wi-Fi 6, 12MP Front/12MP Back Camera, Touch ID, All-Day Battery Life — Blue

Rating
9.7
Chosen by1,481
Screen Size
Battery Life
Apple Pencil Compatibility

Most important from
2016 reviews

Screen Size
The new iPad A16 is a major upgrade with a brighter, noticeably bigger display and superb Apple quality.
Battery Life
Battery life lasts as advertised, and the device is lightweight, making it convenient for everyday use.
Apple Pencil Compatibility
The A16 iPad works well with accessories like the L-tech crayon, transforming it into a versatile tool for drawing and note-taking.

The new Apple iPad 11-inch, equipped with the powerful A16 chip, is a robust choice for students requiring a versatile device. The 11-inch Liquid Retina display offers vibrant visuals, ideal for reading, watching videos, or creative tasks like drawing. With 128GB of storage, students can store a significant amount of data, although those handling large files might require the higher capacity option.

Battery life is another strong point, with all-day usage allowing students to engage in various activities without frequent recharges. The inclusion of the A16 chip ensures smooth performance for multitasking and running demanding apps, which is beneficial for study and leisure activities alike. Apple Pencil compatibility is a plus for students who prefer taking handwritten notes or engaging in artistic projects. However, it's worth noting that only the first-generation Apple Pencil is supported, potentially limiting some functionality compared to the newer models.

Connectivity options are robust, featuring Wi-Fi 6 for faster internet speeds and USB-C for versatile connectivity, which makes transferring files and charging more convenient. The iPadOS enhances productivity with features like multitasking, making it easier to manage schoolwork and apps specifically designed for students. The dual 12MP cameras, both front and back, provide excellent quality for video calls and photography, which can be useful for online classes or capturing moments on the go. Touch ID adds a layer of security for unlocking the device and making secure payments.

Despite these strengths, the iPad's price and the additional cost of accessories like the Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard Folio might be a concern for students on a budget. Additionally, while the iPad is highly capable, it may not replace a full-fledged laptop for more complex computing tasks. Nonetheless, it's a compelling choice for students prioritizing mobility, functionality, and a seamless Apple ecosystem experience.

Rating
9.7
Chosen by1,481
Screen Size
Battery Life
Apple Pencil Compatibility

Most important from
2016 reviews

Screen Size
The new iPad A16 is a major upgrade with a brighter, noticeably bigger display and superb Apple quality.
Battery Life
Battery life lasts as advertised, and the device is lightweight, making it convenient for everyday use.
Apple Pencil Compatibility
The A16 iPad works well with accessories like the L-tech crayon, transforming it into a versatile tool for drawing and note-taking.
#2

Apple iPad (9th Generation): with A13 Bionic chip, 10.2-inch Retina Display, 64GB, Wi-Fi, 12MP front/8MP Back Camera, Touch ID, All-Day Battery Life – Space Gray

Rating
9.4
Screen Size
Battery Life
Processor Performance

Most important from
75490 reviews

Screen Size
The 10.2-inch Retina display delivers crisp and vibrant visuals, perfect for media consumption and creative projects.
Battery Life
Long battery life allows for extended use without the need for constant recharging.
Processor Performance
The A13 Bionic chip ensures snappy performance for everyday tasks like browsing, streaming, and casual gaming.
Apple Pencil Compatibility
Compatibility with the first-generation Apple Pencil is a plus for those who already own one.
Connectivity Options
The iPad 9 charges with a Lightning connector, which is convenient for users with other Apple devices using the same charger.

The Apple iPad (9th Generation) is a compelling option for students due to its blend of affordability and performance. The 10.2-inch Retina display offers clear and vibrant visuals, making it ideal for reading, streaming, or drawing. It comes with the A13 Bionic chip, which ensures smooth performance for everyday tasks and even some more demanding applications, which is great for multitasking and running educational apps smoothly.

Additionally, the device has a commendable battery life that lasts all day, ensuring that it can keep up with a full day of classes and study sessions without needing a recharge. The 64GB storage capacity might be limiting for students who plan to store a lot of media or files, but higher storage options are available if needed. The support for the first-generation Apple Pencil is a significant perk for those who like to take handwritten notes or draw, though it's worth noting that the pencil is sold separately.

The Smart Keyboard compatibility also adds to its versatility, turning the iPad into a more functional workstation, again with the accessory sold separately. Fast Wi-Fi connectivity ensures that students can stay connected to the internet for research, online classes, and collaboration without interruptions. The inclusion of both a 12MP Ultra Wide front camera and an 8MP back camera enhances the iPad’s utility for video calls, selfies, and document scanning, which can be very useful in a student setting. However, some drawbacks include the relatively low base storage and the additional cost of essential accessories like the Apple Pencil and Smart Keyboard. Despite these, the 9th Gen iPad remains a strong choice for students seeking a versatile and reliable tablet for their educational needs.

Rating
9.4
Screen Size
Battery Life
Processor Performance

Most important from
75490 reviews

Screen Size
The 10.2-inch Retina display delivers crisp and vibrant visuals, perfect for media consumption and creative projects.
Battery Life
Long battery life allows for extended use without the need for constant recharging.
Processor Performance
The A13 Bionic chip ensures snappy performance for everyday tasks like browsing, streaming, and casual gaming.
Apple Pencil Compatibility
Compatibility with the first-generation Apple Pencil is a plus for those who already own one.
Connectivity Options
The iPad 9 charges with a Lightning connector, which is convenient for users with other Apple devices using the same charger.
#3

Apple iPad (10th Generation): with A14 Bionic chip, 10.9-inch Liquid Retina Display, 64GB, Wi-Fi 6, 12MP front/12MP Back Camera, Touch ID, All-Day Battery Life – Pink

Rating
9.1
Screen Size
Battery Life

Most important from
30596 reviews

Screen Size
It offers nice quality screen and is loved by younger users.
Battery Life
Excellent battery life with no glitches reported.

The Apple iPad (10th Generation) is a solid choice for students, offering a blend of performance, usability, and design. With a 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display, it provides a vibrant viewing experience that is great for reading, watching videos, or drawing with the Apple Pencil (1st generation). The A14 Bionic chip ensures smooth performance for multitasking, making it capable of handling educational apps, video conferencing, and creative projects seamlessly. Additionally, the all-day battery life is a significant advantage for students who need to use their device throughout the day without worrying about recharging.

Another plus is the iPad's compatibility with iPadOS, which allows for a more intuitive and productive experience with features like split-screen multitasking and Scribble. The options for storage (64GB or 256GB) also cater to different needs, though the base storage may feel limited for users with large files.

On the downside, the lack of a bundled Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard might be a drawback for some students, as these accessories are sold separately and can add to the overall cost. Additionally, while the iPad is lightweight and portable, it may not have all the functionality of a full laptop for more extensive tasks. The iPad's usability could be hindered in areas with limited Wi-Fi access, and the need for additional adapters to use accessories may pose a slight inconvenience. The iPad (10th Generation) is a versatile and functional device ideal for students, particularly those who value portability and an engaging display, though they should consider the potential extra costs for accessories and storage needs.

Rating
9.1
Screen Size
Battery Life

Most important from
30596 reviews

Screen Size
It offers nice quality screen and is loved by younger users.
Battery Life
Excellent battery life with no glitches reported.

Buying Guide for the Best Apple Ipad For Students

Choosing the right iPad for students involves considering several key specifications that will ensure the device meets their academic and personal needs. It's important to balance performance, portability, and functionality to support various tasks such as note-taking, research, multimedia consumption, and more. Here are the key specs to consider and how to navigate them to find the best fit for a student.
Screen SizeScreen size is the diagonal measurement of the display. It is important because it affects both the portability and usability of the iPad. Smaller screens (around 8-10 inches) are more portable and easier to carry around, making them ideal for students who need to take their iPad to classes. Larger screens (10-13 inches) provide more space for multitasking and are better for reading textbooks, watching videos, and using split-screen features. Students should consider how they plan to use the iPad and whether they prioritize portability or a larger display for better visibility and multitasking.
Storage CapacityStorage capacity refers to the amount of internal space available for apps, documents, photos, videos, and other files. This is important because it determines how much content you can store on the device. iPads typically come with storage options ranging from 32GB to 1TB. For students, 64GB or 128GB is usually sufficient for storing school-related files and some media. However, if the student plans to store a lot of videos, large apps, or extensive photo libraries, opting for 256GB or more might be necessary. Consider the student's storage needs and whether they will use cloud services to supplement local storage.
Battery LifeBattery life indicates how long the iPad can be used on a single charge. This is crucial for students who need their device to last through a full day of classes, study sessions, and extracurricular activities. Most iPads offer around 10 hours of battery life, which is generally sufficient for a day's use. If the student has a particularly long day or uses power-intensive apps, they might need a model with longer battery life or consider carrying a portable charger. Assess the typical daily usage and ensure the iPad can meet those demands without frequent recharging.
ProcessorThe processor, or CPU, determines the iPad's performance and ability to handle various tasks. A more powerful processor allows for smoother multitasking, faster app loading, and better performance in demanding applications like video editing or gaming. iPads come with different processors, ranging from the A-series chips to the more advanced M-series chips. For basic tasks like note-taking, browsing, and streaming, an A-series chip is sufficient. For more intensive tasks or future-proofing, an M-series chip might be a better choice. Consider the types of applications the student will use and choose a processor that can handle those tasks efficiently.
Apple Pencil CompatibilityApple Pencil compatibility is important for students who plan to take handwritten notes, draw, or annotate documents. The Apple Pencil provides a precise and natural writing experience, making it a valuable tool for many students. Not all iPads support the Apple Pencil, and there are two versions of the Pencil (1st and 2nd generation) with different compatibility. Ensure the chosen iPad model supports the desired version of the Apple Pencil. If the student values digital note-taking or creative work, Apple Pencil compatibility should be a key consideration.
ConnectivityConnectivity options include Wi-Fi and cellular capabilities. Wi-Fi-only models are generally sufficient for students who will primarily use their iPad in environments with reliable Wi-Fi access, such as home or school. Cellular models, which support mobile data, are useful for students who need internet access on the go, such as during commutes or in locations without Wi-Fi. Consider the student's mobility and whether they need constant internet access when choosing between Wi-Fi-only and cellular models.
Operating System and SoftwareThe operating system (iPadOS) and available software are crucial for ensuring the iPad can run the necessary educational apps and tools. iPadOS offers a range of features designed for productivity, such as multitasking, file management, and compatibility with educational apps. Ensure the iPad can run the latest version of iPadOS to access the newest features and security updates. Additionally, check that the required educational apps and tools are compatible with the iPad model. This ensures the student can use the device effectively for their studies.

FAQ

Most Popular Categories Right Now