With some boast-worthy enhancements, this latest version takes its place as the most powerful iPad yet. But if you were waiting for an iPad with Apple Intelligence on a non-Pro model, you’re out of luck. But does that make it a deal breaker? Let’s explore the latest iPad, including the display, processor, camera, battery, storage, and beyond.
Powered by Apple’s A16 Chip
The 11th generation iPad (A16) is powered by the superfast (but not Apple’s fastest) A16 chip. This chip allows you to run multiple apps, edit video, take notes, work on-the-go, play graphic-intensive games, and more without a hitch. Whether you're multitasking or performing resource-heavy tasks, this iPad is up for the challenge. While the chip is impressive, it’s not quite powerful enough for Apple Intelligence, which means no support for popular features like AI writing tools, language capabilities, priority notifications, upgraded Siri experiences, or creative tools like Genmoji, Image Playground, and the like.
Abundant Storage
With 128GB of storage included and the option of upgrading to 256GB or 512GB, this latest-gen iPad has more storage out to the box than ever before. This gives you plenty of options to store all your important documents, photos, and other data without running out space.
Immersive 11-Inch Display
Apple’s new iPad (A16) features an 11-inch Liquid Retina display, delivering brightness, contrast, and color accuracy. With a maximum SDR brightness of 500 nits, it’s perfect for everything from watching your favorite content to working on detailed creative projects. The sRGB color and True Tone technology ensures a smooth and vibrant viewing experience, whether you're scrolling, watching movies, or sketching your next masterpiece.
Camera System
This iPad’s camera system includes a 12MP Ultra Wide and 12MP Center Stage camera with Smart HDR. Whether you’re on a video call, recording content, or capturing moments, you’ll enjoy sharper, more vibrant photos and videos. The Center Stage feature automatically adjusts the frame to keep you centered, even as you move around, making it perfect for video conferencing and content creators.
Support for Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard Folio
If you’re an artist, designer, or anyone who loves to jot down notes, this iPad continues its Apple Pencil (1st generation) compatibility, giving you low latency and precision, ensuring that your sketches, annotations, and ideas feel as natural as writing on paper. The two-piece Magic Keyboard Folio makes it easy to type, access shortcuts, and click on the trackpad.
5G Connectivity
Stay connected no matter where you go with 5G support for fast downloads, smooth streaming, and responsive online experiences. Whether you’re working, playing, traveling, or just scrolling through social media, you’ll enjoy fast speeds and low latency.
Quick Snapshot of iPad (A16) Features
Display
- 11-inch Liquid Retina display
- 2360 x 1640 resolution
- SDR brightness: 500 nits max
- True Tone and sRGB color
Chip
- Apple A16 chip with 5-core CPU and 4-core GPU
- Up to 30% faster performance than the previous generation
Camera System
- 12MP Ultra Wide front camera
- 12MP Landscape Center Stage camera
- Smart HDR 4
- 4K video recording at 60fps
Storage Options
- 128GB (standard) + 256GB or 512GB options
Battery Life
- Up to 10 hours of surfing the web or watching videos
Connectivity
- 5G cellular support
- Wi-Fi 6
Apple Pencil & Magic Keyboard
- Apple Pencil (1st generation) support
- Magic Keyboard Folio compatibility
Color Options
- Silver, Blue, Pink, and Yellow
Biggest Changes
- The Processor. While the latest iPad is lacking the A17 processor needed to support Apple Intelligence, the A16 chip is still an upgrade over the previous 10th-generation’s A14, bringing solid performance in iPadOS, plus all-day battery life, making it perfect for photo editing, video production, and beyond. Whether you’re a photographer editing images or a filmmaker working with 4K video, the new iPad can handle it beautifully.
- The Storage. The new iPad (A16) offers 128GB of standard storage with an option to upgrade to 256GB or 512GB. It’s a big leap from the previous generation’s standard 64GB with an option for 256GB.
Should You Upgrade?
If you’re looking for a powerful, versatile tablet with more storage than the previous generation, a more powerful chip, and a slightly larger display, iPad (A16) is definitely worth considering. With its powerful A16 processor, stunning display, and professional features, it’s a game changer if you’re coming from an older iPad. If you have a recent iPad (10th generation), you might not notice as big of a leap, but the performance gains and storage options may still make it a worthy option. If you’ve been holding out for Apple Intelligence, you might want to consider a newer iPad Pro or iPad mini.
Still can’t decide?
You might also be interested in:
The New iPad Air vs. the New iPad: Finding the Right Match
A Guide to Choosing the Best iPad Case
*Please note that product availability may vary, and some items mentioned may no longer be in stock or available at the time of reading. Browse all of our latest phones, devices and accessories here.
Sources:
https://www.apple.com/ipad/compare/?modelList=ipad-11th-a16,ipad-10th-gen,ipad-pro-11-m4