We see if the subtle improvements to the iPad (2021) are worth it.
With the iPad (2021) having just been announced, what everyone wants to know is how it stacks up against the iPad (2020). Should you spend the extra cash on the iPad (2021), or will the older iPad (2020) do the job? That’s what you’re wondering, right? Both of these tablets are well-made devices for their prices, and more than capable for getting things done while you’re on the move, or at home. It’s safe to say the new iPad (2021) is rather more tempting, with some useful (if subtle) upgrades; then again, the iPad (2020) should prove cheaper to track down now that it’s been usurped by a newer model. If you’re struggling to decide which iPad is for you, we’re here to help out. We’ve looked at all the features and specs of both tablets, as well as their designs, to help you weigh up which slate is best for you before you hit that ‘buy’ button. The Wi-Fi only iPad (2021) starts at $329 / £319 / AU$499 for 64GB of storage. The price rises to $479 / £459 for 256GB – we’re still waiting on Australian pricing for this version, but that works out at around AU$650. Alternatively, if you want to go the cellular route, expect to pay a bit more for the benefit of 4G connectivity while on the move. It will go on sale on September 24, but you can pre-order it now from the Apple website if you want to get ahead of the curve. Buying the iPad (2020), which starts with just 32GB of storage and comes with Wi-Fi and cellular options, will be a trickier proposition now that Apple has discontinued the tablet and many retailers are already running low on stock. If you can find it on sale, it should be at a good discount compared to the latest iPad (2021) – we can’t see it being sold for its launch price of $329 / £329 / AU$499 for much longer. The iPad (2021) and iPad (2020) are virtually identical when it comes to their dimensions, with most of the changes being under the hood. According to Apple, the design has remained the same so that existing accessories will be compatible with the new tablet. Both tablets measure 250.6mm x 174.1mm x 7.5mm dimensions, while the Wi-Fi-only version of the new model weighs a smidgen less than the iPad (2020), at 487g compared to 490g. In regular use, you’ll never actually notice the difference here. Apple has also played it safe in terms of color; Space Gray or Silver are your only two options, whether you choose the iPad (2021) or the iPad (2020). Still, either will blend into your home and with other gear nicely. With both devices, the top bezel houses the selfie camera, while the home button on the bottom offers a built-in Touch ID sensor.
