How to distinguish iPad generations. How to choose an iPad? A Practical Guide to Apple Tablets
One of the main difficulties facing those who want to buy an iPad for the first time is choosing a specific model. Some choose between different lines. Others - based on the built-in memory criterion. After all, for some, 16 GB will be a lot, but for others, this is a ridiculous figure.
Today, the choice of tablets is so large that it is easy to get lost among this variety. You can find almost any version on sale, except for the very first device. It has already become a rarity, and if someone keeps it, it is solely for the sake of history.
In this review, we will try to consider the characteristics of the most popular models of Apple tablets. Of course, it is not possible to describe all the gadgets that have come out since the beginning of iPad production in one article. But which iPad is the best, we will try to answer objectively.
As you understand, it’s not worth purchasing this model, whether new or used. The only exception is if you are very limited in funds, or the seller gives away the product very cheaply. Although, in the first case, it is wiser to buy a new smartphone from a less well-known company.
- Devices of the first line are practically not supported by Apple today in terms of software. This, of course, does not bode well for the owner of such a gadget. The maximum OS version that is suitable for it is 5.1.1. Updating to the 6th, and even more so subsequent versions, is not possible.
- The first tablet slows down significantly during operation. This was not noticeable when the world only knew this iPad model. But in comparison even with the second product, the slow operation of the iPad 1 is strongly felt. The reason for this negative phenomenon is most likely due to the small amount of RAM.
- A huge amount of software will never run on this device. So users won’t get any brilliant quest. To allow access to the installation of more powerful software, even jailbreaking will not help.
iPad 2
To this day, this version of the tablet retains a good reputation. Even the fact that it was produced for 3 years indicates the positive characteristics of the second iPad.
But today it is recommended to purchase it only in very extreme situations. For example, as a gift for relatives or children for their first acquaintance with a laptop computer. Below are the arguments for and against buying a second tablet.
Advantages:
- The device takes into account and corrects the errors of the first generation iPad. A camera has been added, although of poor quality. There is more memory, the processor has been improved, and the device has lost a little weight. Freezes have practically disappeared. Thanks to the camera, it became possible to communicate via Skype. However, taking photographs with it is not a good idea. If only in extreme cases.
- Low cost. This factor is extremely important especially for our country.
- Almost all software is as it should be. The display, of course, is worse than in new generations of tablets. However, the icons look fine.
- The device supports modern OS 8. There are rumors that in the future it will be possible to install iOS 9 on this gadget.
- The pixels on the display are visible, and there's no denying that. And if before the release of the next line - the third - this was not noticeable, then with the release of Retina the screen of the two looks imperfect. Of course, if you are buying an iPad for the first time and have nothing to compare with, then another question...
- When purchasing a model, you should be clearly aware that it is ending its existence on the market. And you are unlikely to be able to resell it later. After all, Air, mini and other versions have already been released. Guess how much longer the developers will support the “two”? That's right, not for long, because there are competitors such as the iPad Air.
- According to the experience of many users, “two” slows down significantly on modern operating systems – the seventh and eighth. This is also a warning sign.
iPad 3 (or New iPad)
Despite the two names, this line quickly ended its existence - in less than a year. And if you find it on sale, it is better to refrain from purchasing it. When the iPad 4 came out, the “three” immediately turned out to be second-rate. Sellers are interested in selling the phone, and buyers can buy something much better. A common conflict of interest for the modern market...
But if they offer you a used model at a very cheap price, then why not? The device cannot be called outdated. The Retina display doesn't need any advertising, the camera is relatively good, and the processor is decent. But as users noticed, the device gets very hot. But the heating power is not so great that you will get burned. And in cold seasons, it’s great to warm your hands on a gadget.
In terms of “appearance” the three are very similar to the four. In addition, the Apple company will not stop supporting the iPad 3 operating system in the near future.
iPad 4 with Retina display
The screen diagonal of tablets in this line is the usual - 9.7 inches. The purchase of this product is recommended only against the backdrop of comparison with previous ones. Of course he wins. But if we compare it with later models - Air and mini, of course the choice will be in their favor.
The purchase will be justified if it is made at a price significantly lower than the Air tablet costs. On the secondary market today you can buy a “four” for only 14,000 – 15,000 rubles.
Many consider the Pad 4 to be an improved version of the “three”. The team worked seriously on the mistakes and achieved good results. For example, a new thin Lightning charger has appeared. For now, the device is supported by the manufacturer. The eighth version of the operating system allows gamers to take full advantage of the gaming capabilities. Complaints about the operation of this gadget on forums are extremely rare.
iPad Air
Needless to say, if you have unlimited finances, you should purchase the latest iPad model. Three years ago it was a line of “air” tablets, two years ago – the second generation Air. These devices turned out to be so good that it’s almost a shame to compare them with the previous model...
The “filling” of the Air is much more powerful. There is even an opinion that today there is no software that would allow 100% use of the capabilities of this gadget. In the future, such programs will probably appear. But the main thing is that the device has become super light and 30% smaller in size than its predecessor.
iPad Air 2
iPad Air 2 in mid-2015 was one of the most powerful among Apple tablets. We can safely say that the iPad Air 2 will not lose its relevance for another couple of years.
The most powerful toys from the Apple store will work on it without freezing. And the new software, which will appear in the next 2-3 years, will also probably work perfectly on the iPad Air 2. Even after a long period after its release, its power is one of the most significant.
Since the second model came out later than the first, its price will be higher.
First iPad mini
This product came with an unusual display diagonal size of 7.9 inches. Here the recommendations are simple - the gadget is suitable for those who value miniature size and light weight.
The most significant drawback of this tablet is the lack of Retina technology. And in terms of technical parameters, it is very similar to the second iPad.
iPad mini 2
The device, like all new products from Apple, was popular among buyers. However, many were in no hurry to purchase it, because they anticipated the appearance of a small version with a Retina screen. With the first mini model, the company most likely simply conducted an experiment. The developer wanted to find out how popular such a product would be.
The device turned out to be useful for many. In technical terms, it is just as good as the “two”, but only in small dimensions. And its price is very attractive - on average around 20,000 rubles.
Due to high demand, the company did not hesitate to release versions 2 and 3.
The very first option on the secondary market today can be purchased for 1000 rubles. Again, good for a child. But you shouldn’t expect miracles from the device – the power is not very high. When using heavy software, there may be freezes. Overall performance indicators leave much to be desired.
iPad 2 with Retina display
This is just a fantastic gadget! was released four years ago and already at that time was a worthy competitor to the “air” tablet. But at the same time, the device is small in weight and size.
This is one of the best small screen tablets available today. However, the picture quality is excellent. But it’s not just about it – the “filling” is also very powerful.
iPad Mini 3
Here I would like to add some negativity... The three mini differs from its predecessor only in the presence of Touch ID. And in terms of performance, the model is inferior to Air 2. Therefore, if we talk about performance, the second “air” tablet wins compared to its younger “brother”. It is unknown whether such a gap will remain between the Air 3 and the mini 4 model.
If you are hesitating between the three and four minis, it’s just a matter of money. The only question is whether you are ready to pay an extra 6000-7000 rubles just for Touch ID.
Keep in mind that the mini family of tablets is one of the best, whichever version you choose.
New Apple iPad 2017
Let’s say right away that with regards to this model, new does not mean better. But in terms of price-quality ratio, this device is relatively good. The product replaced the second Air, demoting the position of Pro 9.7.
The tablet does not support the keyboard element and pencil. Its performance is lower than that of Pro. But the A9 chipset is still quite fast. The display has increased sharpness, is very bright and of high quality.
This year's product design is excellent. We see the same solid metal body as other tablets. However, the new iPad is slightly thicker than the iPad Air 2 and Pro. Its thickness is about 7.5 cm.
Note also that it is relatively cheap. At the start it was sold for about 25,000 rubles.
So, in this review we looked at all the iPads in order. One way or another, each line and its functions were discussed quite well. Which iPad is better is up to you to decide. It is clear that the best product is the more “fresh” one, but what to do when finances are limited... Perhaps, with a severely reduced budget, it is better to buy an Android phone? Actually answer for yourself the question of what is best for you, taking into account the capabilities of a particular iPad model. How to choose correctly between two or more versions? You need to consider your goals and financial capabilities. When choosing a device, clearly understand the purpose of using the iPad - whether you need it for work or for entertainment. For a double purpose, when the functions of the tablet are supposed to be used 100%, it is better to purchase the most powerful and expensive gadget. today these are models of the Pro line.
A revolutionary device bordering on science fiction at an incredible price. - Apple
We had to wait seven months for the official appearance of the new product from Apple. That did not stop those interested (including Dmitry Anatolyevich) from acquiring an iPad before the start of sales in Russia. The tablet was only available in black and did not have a front or rear camera.
By the way, in our country, users first saw the iPhone 4 with its Retina display and only then the iPad with its 1024x780 pixels. You get used to good things instantly, which is why many missed the ultra-clear screen on the tablet. I had to wait a couple of years.
iPad 2
Thinner. Easier. Faster. - Apple
The updated tablet received a dual-core A5 processor, 512 MB of RAM, simple rear and front cameras, and a different body shape that lasted two more generations of iPad. It was 4.4 mm thinner than its predecessor and approximately 70 grams lighter. The display remained absolutely the same, but a white model appeared. It took two and a half months to get to Russia - a relatively short time.
This “old man” is still standing, you can download the latest version of iOS to it, no need! . True, he works on it “with a creak.”
iPad 3
Revolution. This is very clear. - Apple
The traditional two-plus months of waiting, and it appeared in Russia. It had a bunch of changes: an improved A5x processor, an upgraded rear camera, 1 GB of RAM, Siri and, of course, a Retina display. But almost immediately it became noticeable that in order to maintain the speed of the tablet at an acceptable level.
There is an opinion that Apple rushed the release of the third iPad, trying to keep up with competitors and satisfy user needs. The company hastened to correct itself within six months with the next generation of the tablet.
iPad 4
Just as gorgeous. But twice as fast. - Apple
This is exactly what the iPad 3 should have been, because it is no coincidence that Apple called the fourth generation of the device “”. Although a similar screen was in the previous tablet. The new product received an improved A6x processor, higher frequency RAM, a Lightning connector, a front camera with adequate matrix resolution and 4G operating in Russia. The tablet just “flyed”.
Its release was unexpected and significantly spoiled the mood of those who bought the third generation of the tablet in the summer. At the moment, this is the last iPad in the “classic” case.
iPad mini
iPad down to the last inch. - Apple
Another new product of the same year. In the fall, Apple introduced two iPads at once for the first time. At one time, Jobs was categorically against a smaller tablet, but consumers thought differently.
A low-resolution display and other internals of the iPad 2 were “stuffed” into the 7.9-inch device. This in no way detracts from the capabilities of the old hardware, but, on the contrary, speaks of its large power reserves. Many people didn’t like this move, but even with this filling it “pulled” and worked faster than its competitors.
The design of the case has changed, the main elements of which still migrate from one new product to another; this can be seen even in the huge iPad Pro.
iPad Air
Power is lighter than light. - Apple
And again, Apple showed two tablets at once - Air and mini. Their design was brought to the same denominator, and the technical characteristics are generally identical, with the exception of the size and color rendition of the display.
The small tablet from Apple had the same processor as the Air, but its frequency was software lowered to prevent the device from overheating. Bullshit, it warmed up like a third iPad.
The gap between the start of sales in the first wave and in Russia was inexorably narrowing, which could not please all gadget lovers in our country.
iPad Air 2
Change is in your hands. - Apple
Sales of new tablets from Apple started in Russia simultaneously with the United States. received a new A8x processor (which was created specifically for it), an 8-core video chip and 2 GB of RAM. What it did to everyone else, it is still at the top of the performance rankings and is second only to the recent Pro.
Plus, the Air 2 received many other nice features: Touch ID, upgraded LTE, a gold-colored body, additional shooting modes, anti-glare screen coating, support for Apple Pay and a barometer.
iPad mini 3
With Touch ID - Apple
I got Touch ID, a gold-colored case and... that's it.
Perhaps the most useless update.
iPad Pro
Thin. Easy. Grandiose. - Apple
You can argue for a long time about why and how to use it, but the fact remains a fact.
Comparing iPads from different series allows you to make the right choice when purchasing. If you understand what features you need, then the comparison table will help you save money and buy the line of tablets that meets your requirements.
What are the iPad series?
Globally, new tablets from Apple can be divided into three categories:
- iPad.
- iPad mini.
- iPad Pro.
Each category has a generation - 2, 3, 4 - and a specification. For example, the iPad Pro is available with a 12.9- and 10.5-inch screen. The Air series is no longer produced, so there are no specifications on the official Apple website, but you can buy an old iPad Air - we have already told you how to distinguish the different models. You can identify the Mini right away, but with other models you have to look for detailed comparisons to figure out what kind of device you are looking at.
In the same material, we will try to compare the current series so that you understand which line to look for a tablet in. The issue of choosing a specific model and specification is relegated to the background for now.
Appearance and dimensions
All three series come in the same color schemes: Silver, Space Gray and Gold. The iPad Pro 10.5” stands out, which has another option – “Rose Gold”. There are much more variations in size.
The choice here is quite simple: if you need a small tablet, then there is nothing better than the Mini series. The iPad Pro 12.9" is convenient to use for work, especially if you connect an external keyboard.
Display
All latest iPad models feature an LED-backlit Multi-Touch display covered with an oleophobic coating that is resistant to fingerprints. On iPad mini and Pro, the display is additionally laminated and equipped with an anti-glare coating.
The Pro series has the coolest display. In addition to the listed features, it has:
- Smoother operation, faster response speed and natural graphics reproduction thanks to ProMotion technology;
- expanded color gamut;
- support for True Tone technology, thanks to which the display adapts to ambient lighting.
The iPad and Mini series don't have these advantages, but their displays still outperform most competitors.
CPU
A comparison of iPad series cannot be left without assessing the processor power. The Mini series has the weakest processor - the second generation A8 with a built-in M8 coprocessor. The iPad series has a chip 1.6 times more powerful - the third generation A9 with a built-in M9 coprocessor.
The Pro power line confirms that it is designed to solve complex professional problems. The fourth generation A10X Fusion has 2.5x faster CPU speed than the A8 and 4.3x faster graphics.
When choosing a tablet, think about what power you'll need. If you buy a device to work with graphic applications, video editors and other heavy programs, you need to take one of the Pro models. For entertainment, the Mini is quite suitable.
Media opportunities
The iPad Pro's camera is slightly better, although basic functions like autofocus, face detection, and burst shooting are available on all tablet models. The Pro series adds some features, like optical image stabilization or an expanded color range, but overall there are not many differences: except that the iPad and Mini have a lower resolution of 8 megapixels versus 12 megapixels.
The Pro has more options for shooting video - 4K instead of 1080p HD on the iPad and Mini, increased frame rate for slow motion - 240 in 720 HD. The Pro's FaceTime HD camera is noticeably more powerful – 7 megapixels versus 1.2 megapixels for the iPad and Mini.
The increased number of speakers will also be noticeable. If the iPad and Mini have only 2 audio speakers, then the Pro has sound from four modules.
Connection
All tablet models are equipped with a Wi-Fi module (802.11a/b/g/n/ac), which operates in the 2.4 and 5 GHz range, with support for MIMO wireless signal amplification technology. In addition to Wi-Fi, all series have a Bluetooth 4.2 module. If you buy a model with a SIM card (Wi-Fi + Cellular), you get much wider communication capabilities, including mobile Internet via 4G, GPS and GLONASS.
Sensors and connectors
All modern tablets are equipped with a fingerprint identification sensor. In the Pro series it is the second generation, in the iPad and Mini it is the first generation. Additionally, the Pro series has a built-in Apple SIM. The following sensors are available in all iPad series:
- Three-axis gyroscope.
- Accelerometer.
- Ambient light sensor.
- Barometer.
Because iPad Pro is built for work, it supports Apple Pencil and Smart Keyboard. To connect a keyboard, the tablet has a special port called Smart Connector.
Battery life
The nutritional situation is equally good for all models. Tablets can be charged from the mains or from a computer's USB port. The charge lasts for 10 hours of video or audio playback and surfing the Internet when connected via Wi-Fi. If you use mobile Internet, battery life is reduced to 9 hours.
Having released a huge number of iPad models for quite some time, Apple has received a lot of well-deserved praise and criticism, including the lack of a distinct difference between all the tablets. There were only a few versions of the Air and Mini before the company introduced the 9.7-inch and 12.9-inch Pro models.
Fortunately, the iPad hierarchy has become much simpler. The 12.9-inch Pro is the most expensive tablet with a price starting at RUB 59,000. and above, and its smaller cousin, the 9.7-inch Pro, costs from 45,000 rubles. The new 9.7-inch iPad sells for RUB 25,000, with the best budget option costing RUB 30,000. - good price for the only small 7.9-inch iPad Mini 4.
Just because the new iPad lineup is smaller doesn't mean choosing the right model is any less of a challenge. What good is a 12-inch screen if you value portability above all else? Why pay more for a top-end graphics chip if you only play heavy games occasionally?
In an attempt to answer these and other questions, we've assessed each iPad from a pragmatic perspective, in an attempt to determine the most suitable for any use. This buying guide is, literally, showing all the pros and cons of each iPad, in easy-to-understand terms. To say that this will lead to your definite purchase is a joke - we have no such goal, but this guide should at least help you decide which Apple iPads are worth considering and what to avoid.
Budget iPad - iPad 9.7 (from RUB 25,000)
The latest 9.7-inch iPad arrived in March, and the tablet is one of the most affordable Apple products the company has ever offered. It's the cheapest option in the current iPad lineup, after the iPad Mini 2 was discontinued.
This is a great tablet for watching movies, thanks to its 9.7-inch Retina display with a resolution of 2048 x 1536 pixels. The device has a fast A9 processor and a large battery that can keep the tablet running for up to 10 hours on a single charge. You'll also find an 8MP rear camera, a 1.2MP front camera, dual speakers, a fingerprint sensor with Touch ID, Apple Pay support, and a 3.5mm headphone jack.
With the announcement of the new iPad, Apple also announced that the iPad Air 2 will be discontinued. In fact, the difference between the two tablets is small. The new iPad is 7.5mm thicker than the slim, 6.1mm Air 2. The new model has a faster processor than its sibling and is slightly heavier, but has a larger battery. The iPad 9.7 lacks the processing power for the 12-megapixel camera found on the 9.7-inch Pro versions.
What does this mean in practical terms? If you don't need superior power, play the latest games or run extremely demanding applications, the new Apple iPad will do just fine. It fits comfortably in your hand and is ideal for everyday content consumption - reading, watching movies, casual games, etc. But for serious work, it's worth looking at the Pro line.
It's hard to find a better iPad for the money. If budget is a major factor, this tablet is an obvious choice.
Powerful and compact iPad - iPad Mini 4 (from RUB 30,000)
If you're looking for power in a small form factor, the iPad Mini 4 has it for you. Evolving from the iPad Mini 3, it took into account all the shortcomings of its predecessor and even more: it has the same A8 processor as in the iPhone 6, an 8-megapixel rear camera, fast Wi-Fi (802.11ac), an ID scanner, thinner (6.1 mm) and lightweight (299 g) aluminum body.
The tablet takes the design from the iPad Mini 3, has the same battery life (10 hours), and the same screen resolution (2,048 x 1536 pixels).
The iPad Mini 4 supports all the multitasking features of iOS 9, and is by far the most compelling device to date, allowing you to organize and interact with two apps at once. You'll be able to copy and paste text from the adjacent Wikipedia window into a Word document, or watch a video while replying to email. (Multiple windows on a small screen can be difficult to maneuver, which is a given).
The iPad Mini 4 has an 8-megapixel camera with autofocus and an improved aperture over the iPad Mini 3, and the A8 chip - which also powers the Apple TV - is capable of handling almost any graphics-intensive game.
All in all, the iPad Mini 4 can multitask like a pro, take great pictures, and play the latest games. If these prospects excite you, go for it - buy it. But if they don't, and you want the same features in a larger package, consider buying a top-shelf iPad.
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The elephant in the room - iPad Pro 12.9 (from RUB 59,000)
The iPad Pro is Apple's largest tablet, measuring 12.9 inches. It's thick and hefty, measuring around 6.9mm in thickness and weighing around 700g.
The device lives up to its performance and functionality, and our impressions support these claims. The iPad Pro 12.9's display measures a whopping 2,732 x 2,048 pixels, larger than any iPad, and is powered by the A9X processor, a beefed-up version of the A9, paired with 4GB of RAM.
The tablet is well equipped externally: massive four speakers, an ID touch sensor, an 8-megapixel camera, as well as 802.11ac Wi-Fi with LTE network connection. This is a multitasking monster.
Powerful hardware is just part of what's best in Pro. The real value is in the supposed accessories offered. There's a Smart Keyboard with attached QWERTY keys, and a much more interesting Apple iPad stylus.
This is Apple's first attempt at a stylus, and the company has touted its superiority over rival models in the area of pressure sensitivity (it can differentiate between hard and light pressure) and a battery life of up to 12 hours.
The Pro version may come with improved performance, as well as additional services such as dual stereo speakers and a Touch ID scanner. But the device is not for everyone; Pro is the most expensive iPad with a base price of 59,000 rubles. Its huge screen is as inevitably awkward as it is bulky - it will be difficult to use on the subway or on a plane. The tools and performance really make it the best, but you'll have to shell out extra for Apple's smart keyboard and stylus.
The big Apple Pro is designed for a very specific market: enterprise and enterprise users who might otherwise be influenced by equivalent PCs like Microsoft's Surface. That's not to say its features don't appeal to the average consumer, but if you're not willing to put up with the very large 12.9-inch dimensions, it's worth considering a more portable option.
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The best of all - iPad Pro 9.7 (from 45,000 rubles)
Perhaps Apple has realized that giant tablets really aren't suitable for the vast majority of people. The smaller version of the 12.9-inch iPad Pro, the 9.7-inch iPad Pro, will blow your mind. It is largely identical, although smaller, to its predecessor. The 9.7-inch model received the same A9X processor as its big brother, along with the same array of multiple speakers and a Retina display with a resolution of 2048 x 1536 pixels.
The tablet is compatible with many, if not all, of the 12.9-inch versions' accessories, including the Apple Pen and Smart Keyboard.
The small iPad Pro uses only half the RAM - 2GB - of its counterpart, but features improved cameras in the form of a 12-megapixel rear shooter and a 5-megapixel sensor on the front. Overall, the differences are minor. From an empirical standpoint, you get the same technology from last year's iPad Pro in a lighter package.
For most people, there is no danger. The 9.7-inch iPad Pro not only has better portability but also better processing capabilities, plus it has the added benefit of being compatible with the 12.9-inch iPad Pro accessories. I'm glad that the tablet has risen slightly in price compared to the iPad 2 Air.
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Bottom line
There is no, as we said at the beginning, a perfect iPad. The new iPad 9.7 lacks a top processor; The iPad Mini 4 is the only compact choice; and the 12-inch iPad Pro is a little big. But, all iPad tablets are better suited for most users than others.
Want a cheap, relatively uncompromising iPad? The standard 9.7-inch iPad is a great option. Do you want a top line that can fit into your portfolio? Choose the 9.7-inch iPad Pro.
Ultimately, when it comes time to make a purchasing decision, we always reserve some hands-on time. Whether you buy an iPad at your local M. Video or Apple Store, you'll always get a device that's strong all around. Apple tablets aren't the cheapest investments, so weigh your options carefully.
Or buy your iPad and enjoy.
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- Sales of iPad Air and iPad mini will begin later.
- Apple Pencil (1st and 2nd generation), Smart Keyboard, and Smart Keyboard Folio sold separately.
- Device displays are rectangles with rounded corners. The display diagonal is measured without taking into account the curves and is 12.9 inches for the 12.9-inch iPad Pro and 11 inches for the 11-inch iPad Pro. The actual viewing area is smaller.
- The amount of available space is less than stated and depends on various factors. The standard configuration (including iOS and pre-installed apps) takes approximately 10 to 12 GB depending on the device model and settings. Pre-installed applications take up about 4 GB; they can be deleted and downloaded again. Cellular plan must be purchased separately.
- Size and weight vary depending on device configuration and manufacturing process.
- Battery life depends on device settings and usage. More details on the page.
- To communicate using FaceTime, both users must have FaceTime-enabled devices and be connected to a Wi-Fi network. Availability of FaceTime over cellular networks varies by carrier; Data charges may apply.
- Data plan required. Gigabit Class LTE, 4G LTE Advanced, 4G LTE, and Wi-Fi calling are not available in all regions or with all carriers. Speeds are based on theoretical throughput and may vary depending on local conditions. For more information about LTE network support, contact your carrier or visit.
- Cellular plan must be purchased separately. The model you purchase is configured to work with a specific cellular network technology. Contact your carrier for cellular plan availability and compatibility.
- Not all carriers support Apple SIM and eSIM cards. Check with your carrier for details. Not available in mainland China. eSIM is supported on the 11-inch iPad Pro, 12.9-inch iPad Pro (3rd generation), iPad Air (3rd generation), and iPad mini (5th generation). Apple SIM technology is supported on iPad Pro 9.7-inch, iPad Pro 10.5-inch, iPad (5th generation or later), iPad Air 2, iPad mini 3, and iPad mini 4.