iPad Mini’s, iPad Airs, iPad Pros, there are just so many iPad models nowadays! If you’re thinking of getting a new tablet then the chances are you’ve looked at Apple’s iPads. Currently there are 3 different iPad models ranging from the Pro, to Mini to Air. With all these choices you might be asking yourself which is the best? And which one should you get?
Well the bad news if you’re looking for a simple answer then there isn’t a tablet that's best for everyone. The good news is we can help match you to the perfect tablet for all of your needs.
Before we go looking at all the iPad models Apple has to offer there are a few important factors to consider first. Pay attention, these will have a big impact on which tablet is the best for you.
Size
The standard size for a tablet is around 9.7 inches and many manufacturers produce tablets around this size. Although in recent years many manufacturers have started to introduced smaller “mini” versions for people who prefer their tablets more hand sized.
The smallest tablet Apple produce is the iPad Mini and has a 7.9 inch diagonal screen putting it just below the standard size of 9.7 inches. Despite the smaller screen the iPad Mini still offers a vivid and high definition display which puts it up there with the best.
The normal rule of thumb when it comes to size is the smaller the tablet the less power and components it will have inside. Take the iPad Mini 4, at 7.9 inches diagonal it comes with Apple's A8 second generation chip and weighs 304 grams. Compare this to Apple's much larger tablet the iPad Pro with a 12.9 inch screen the Pro weighs more than double coming in at 723 grams.
This is important to note as larger tablets are normally faster and come with higher storage (which we will cover later). The trade-off is they are much heavier and not everyone wants to be carrying around a heavy tablet.
Storage
If you plan on using your tablet to store a lot of photos, movies and music then storage will be an important factor for you. Every tablet has a minimum storage space of 32GB but expect it to be slightly less once iOS has been installed on it.
If you think 32GB is not going to be enough then you should look at getting a larger model instead. Unfortunately unlike other tablets Apple don't allow you to insert your own SD storage cards which is a real shame.
If you’re looking for more than 32GB then next size up is 128GB followed by 256GB. Currently the only iPad Mini which is capable of more 32GB is the iPad Mini 4 which comes in 128GB sizes.
The rule of thumb is that the larger tablets normally have much larger storage compared to the smaller ones. So if you really do need 256GB of storage then you’ll have to settle for the larger 9.7 inch tablets instead. The only other alternative would be to find an Android tablet that accepts micro SD cards for extra storage.
Weight
Weight is one of the most important factors when choosing an iPad model as people use tablets for different reasons. If you’re planning on using your iPad for business and carrying it around everywhere then the chances are you don’t want to be carrying a heavy tablet.
The good news is Apple make a range of iPads weighing between 300 and 700 grams. If you’re looking for something small and portable then it would be best to choose the iPad Mini.
The only downside to lighter iPads is as previously mentioned they normally aren’t as fast or have as much storage. If you think you can survive with less storage and slightly less features then going for the smaller tablets would be your best choice.
On the other hand if you want the full whammy then you’ll probably want to go for the iPad Pro. The iPad Pro has all the latest features including up to 256GB storage, a 12 megapixel camera and Apple's latest and fastest A9X processing chip.
Now you know what to think about before choosing your iPad let’s have a look at the 3 iPads currently available.
iPad Mini (From £379)
Apple currently produce 2 different iPad minis. The first is the older version, the Mini 2 which is still available on the Apple store for a cheaper price of £239. Although it’s older than the newer iPad Mini 4 it still has lots of create features but more importantly is the same size.
If you’re looking for a smaller lightweight tablet to carry around with you then the iPad mini is by far the smallest and lightest of Apple’s range. Weighing only 304 grams the iPad Mini 4 is over 50% lighter than the iPad Pro yet still has all the essential features you would expect from a tablet.
The iPad Mini is so small that it can easily be placed into your back pocket for carrying around. No more lugging giant tablets around under your arm or having to stuff them in your bag. With the iPad Mini travelling becomes a breeze.
iPad Air (From £379)
If a 7.9 inch screen sounds too small and you prefer something a bit bigger with more features then you should consider the iPad Air. Currently available for £379 the iPad Air costs the same as the newest iPad Mini 4.
Available in 2 sizes of 32GB and 128GB the iPad has enough storage for all of your needs. With its A8X processor the iPad Air packs more of a punch compared to the iPad Mini. So if you’re looking for a fast and more responsive tablet then you should consider the iPad Air.
iPad Pro (From £549)
Available in 2 sizes of 9.7 and 12.9 inches the iPad Pro is the daddy of iPads. If you want maximum performance and storage then the iPad Pro is for you. With its A9X processor chip it's considerably faster than both the Mini and Air tablets.
They are also the only 2 tablets that are available with 256GB storage options. The only downside about the iPad Pro is the weight. The 9.7 inch iPad weighs the same as the iPad Air 2 and there really isn't any difference between them.
But if you go for the 12.9 inch version of the iPad Pro then be warned:
This thing is a monster!
Weighing in at 723 grams it's nearly double the weight of the 9.7 inch version which might be a big problem for some people. Carrying around a 723 gram tablet is sure to put strain on your arms and wrists which is definitely a bad thing.
The Ultimate Tablet Stand
No matter the size or weight of a tablet, all tablets come with a risk of injury that you may not be aware of. Holding tablets for extended periods of time can cause numerous injuries, to read more about the possible injuries be sure to read our post on the dangers of iPads related injuries.
The only way to avoid common tablet related injuries is to use a tablet stand to take the weight and strain off your arms.
The good news is no matter which iPad you choose the iBeani can hold any tablet including Android ones. Thanks to its unique design the iBeani can securely hold your tablet anywhere including on your lap whilst in bed. Take the strain off your arms and let the iBeani do all the hard work for you. Available in a range of different colours and patterns be sure to visit our store to view our range.