β‘οΈ Quick Verdict - APPLE iPad (2022)
- Best For: Everyday tasks, video calls, light productivity, and media consumption.
- Strengths: Modern design, landscape front camera, USB-C connectivity, and vibrant display.
- Drawbacks: Apple Pencil 1st Gen adapter requirement, higher price than predecessor, and A14 Bionic chip is not a significant performance leap.
- Verdict: A refreshed and capable everyday iPad with modern amenities.
βοΈ Pros & Cons Explained
| Aspect | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Design & Display | Users appreciate the modern, all-screen design with thinner bezels and the transition to a larger, vibrant Liquid Retina display, which offers a more immersive viewing experience compared to older models. | Some users note that while the display is good, it lacks the laminated screen and anti-reflective coating found on more premium iPad models, which can result in reflections and a less premium feel when drawing or writing. |
| Performance | For daily tasks like web browsing, streaming, and light gaming, users find the A14 Bionic chip to provide smooth and responsive performance, easily handling typical applications and multitasking. | Users engaging in more demanding tasks like video editing or graphic design might find the A14 Bionic to be a modest upgrade over the previous generation's A13, feeling less future-proof compared to iPads with M-series chips. |
| Camera & Audio | The landscape ultra-wide front camera with Center Stage is highly praised by users for video calls, as it naturally positions the camera for better group calls and keeps subjects in frame. The stereo speakers are also noted for clear and robust sound quality. | While the cameras are functional, some users feel the rear camera improvements are minimal and that overall camera quality is adequate but not exceptional for a device of its price. |
| Accessories & Connectivity | The switch to USB-C connectivity is a major plus for users, allowing for easier charging and broader accessory compatibility. The new Magic Keyboard Folio is also seen as a significant improvement for typing and protection. | The requirement for a USB-C to Apple Pencil Adapter to use the 1st Gen Apple Pencil is a notable inconvenience and additional cost for users who already own the pencil, creating a cumbersome workflow. |
π§ Whatβs Included? & Why It Matters
| Component/Technology | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Apple iPad (10th Generation) | The core device, featuring a refreshed design, larger display, and updated internals for enhanced user experience. |
| USB-C Charge Cable | This universal cable enables faster charging and broader compatibility with modern devices and power adapters, replacing Apple's proprietary Lightning port. |
| 20W USB-C Power Adapter | Provides efficient charging directly out of the box, ensuring users can power their device without needing a separate purchase. |
π° Is It Worth It? β Value & Cost Efficiency
| Aspect | Positive | Negative |
|---|---|---|
| Long-term Value | The A14 Bionic chip and Apple's long-term software support ensure the iPad (2022) will receive updates and remain capable for years, maintaining its utility and resale value better than many competitors. | While durable, the cost increment over its predecessor places it closer to the iPad Air, potentially leading users to question if the incremental features justify the price, especially if they value future-proofing with a more powerful chip. |
| Ecosystem Integration | Seamless integration with Apple's ecosystem (iCloud, AirDrop, Handoff, etc.) adds significant value for users already invested in Apple devices, enhancing productivity and convenience across devices. | Accessory costs, particularly for the Magic Keyboard Folio and the Apple Pencil adapter, can add substantially to the total investment, making it less cost-efficient for users on a strict budget who need these peripherals. |
| Performance for Price | Offers a good balance of performance for everyday tasks, media consumption, and light creative work, providing a smooth user experience that feels premium despite being the 'entry-level' design. | For users seeking peak performance for demanding professional applications, the A14 Bionic might not offer the same performance-per-dollar as M-series chip iPads, which are a step up in price but a significant leap in power. |
π Apple Comparison β How This Version Improves Over Previous Models
| Aspect | iPad (2021) (9th Generation) | iPad (2022) (10th Generation) |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Traditional design with prominent bezels and Home button. | Modern, all-screen design with thinner bezels and Touch ID in the power button. |
| Display | 10.2-inch Liquid Retina display (2160x1620). | 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display (2360x1640) with True Tone. |
| Processor | A13 Bionic chip. | A14 Bionic chip. |
| Front Camera | 12MP Ultra Wide (portrait orientation). | 12MP Ultra Wide (landscape orientation) with Center Stage. |
| Charging Port | Lightning port. | USB-C port. |
| Apple Pencil Support | Apple Pencil (1st Generation). | Apple Pencil (1st Generation) requiring USB-C to Apple Pencil Adapter. |
| Keyboard Support | Smart Keyboard. | Magic Keyboard Folio. |
βοΈ Alternatives vs APPLE iPad (2022)
| Aspect | iPad (2021) (9th Generation) | iPad Air (5th Generation) | APPLE iPad (2022) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Performance | A13 Bionic chip (sufficient for basic tasks). | M1 chip (exceptional for demanding tasks). | A14 Bionic chip (good for everyday use). |
| Design & Display | Traditional design, 10.2-inch Liquid Retina, non-laminated. | Modern design, 10.9-inch Liquid Retina, fully laminated, anti-reflective coating. | Modern design, 10.9-inch Liquid Retina, non-laminated. |
| Apple Pencil Support | Apple Pencil (1st Generation). | Apple Pencil (2nd Generation). | Apple Pencil (1st Generation) (requires adapter). |
| Portability | Slightly thicker and heavier. | Thinner and lighter than 10th Gen. | Middle ground in thickness and weight. |
| Value Proposition | Most budget-friendly Apple iPad. | Premium features and performance at a higher price point. | Mid-range option with modern design but higher cost than 9th Gen. |
π‘ FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
- Does the iPad (2022) support the Apple Pencil 2nd Gen?No, the iPad (2022) supports only the Apple Pencil (1st generation). To connect the 1st generation Apple Pencil, you need a USB-C to Apple Pencil Adapter.
- Can I use the Magic Keyboard Folio with older iPad models?No, the Magic Keyboard Folio is designed specifically for the iPad (2022) and is not compatible with older iPad models due to design and connector differences.
- Is the display on the iPad (2022) laminated?No, the Liquid Retina display on the iPad (2022) is not fully laminated. This means there's a slight air gap between the display glass and the LCD panel.
- What are the main advantages of the landscape front camera?The landscape front camera is ideal for video calls as it's positioned for a more natural view when the iPad is used horizontally, which is common with a keyboard. Center Stage automatically keeps you in frame during calls.
- Does the iPad (2022) have a headphone jack?No, the iPad (2022) does not feature a traditional 3.5mm headphone jack. Audio connectivity is primarily through USB-C, Bluetooth, or compatible accessories.
π Positive Reviews - What Users Love
- The new design with flat edges and uniform bezels makes it feel much more modern and premium than previous base models.
- The landscape front camera is a game-changer for video calls; it's so much more natural when docked with a keyboard.
- Switching to USB-C is fantastic; I can now use one charger for my iPad, phone, and laptop.
- The display is bright and clear, making movies and browsing an enjoyable experience.
- Performance is perfectly adequate for my daily needs, from casual gaming to media consumption and light productivity.
π Negative Reviews - What Could Be Better
- Having to buy a separate adapter for my first-generation Apple Pencil is inconvenient and an unnecessary extra expense.
- The price increase makes it hard to justify over the iPad 9th Gen, especially since the performance jump isn't huge.
- I wish the screen was laminated like the Air; reflections are noticeable sometimes, especially when drawing.
- The A14 chip is fine, but for the price, I was hoping for something closer to the M-series performance for future-proofing.
- No headphone jack is a real drawback for me, as I prefer wired headphones for certain uses.
π Key Details & Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Display | 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display with IPS technology, 2360-by-1640-pixel resolution at 264 ppi, True Tone, 500 nits brightness. |
| Processor | A14 Bionic chip with 6-core CPU, 4-core GPU, 16-core Neural Engine. |
| Storage Options | 64GB, 256GB. |
| Cameras | Rear: 12MP Wide camera (Ζ/1.8 aperture). Front: 12MP Ultra Wide (Ζ/2.4 aperture) in landscape orientation with Center Stage. |
| Video Recording | 4K video recording at 24 fps, 25 fps, 30 fps, or 60 fps (Wide); 1080p HD video recording at 25 fps, 30 fps, or 60 fps (Front). |
| Biometrics | Touch ID (integrated into the top button). |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) with 2x2 MIMO, Bluetooth 5.2. Optional 5G (subβ6 GHz) cellular. |
| Ports | USB-C port (supports charging, DisplayPort, USB 2.0). |
| Audio | Stereo speakers (landscape mode), Dual microphones. |
| Battery Life | Up to 10 hours of surfing the web on WiβFi or watching video. |
| Dimensions (H x W x D) | 9.79 inches (248.6 mm) x 7.07 inches (179.5 mm) x 0.28 inch (7.0 mm). |
| Weight | 1.05 pounds (477 grams) Wi-Fi model; 1.06 pounds (481 grams) Wi-Fi + Cellular model. |
| Operating System | iPadOS. |
π Summary β Is This the Right Choice for You?
- The APPLE iPad (2022) represents a significant design refresh for the entry-level iPad, bringing it in line with the aesthetic of the iPad Air and Pro models.
- Its larger 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display, USB-C port, and repositioned landscape front camera are welcome modern upgrades that enhance daily usability.
- Performance from the A14 Bionic chip is robust for everyday tasks, media consumption, and light productivity, ensuring a smooth experience for most users.
- However, the increased price point compared to its predecessor, coupled with the inconvenient Apple Pencil 1st Gen adapter requirement, might be points of consideration for budget-conscious consumers or those already invested in Apple Pencil accessories.
- If you're looking for a capable, modern iPad for general use, video calls, and light work, and the price and accessory quirks aren't deterrents, the iPad (2022) is a solid choice. If performance or advanced display features are paramount, or if budget is extremely tight, considering the iPad Air or even the still-available iPad 9th Gen might be more suitable.
