I love the iPad, and I can’t wait to upgrade my 2019 iPad for something newer. Only, there’s a very big problem holding me back: Apple doesn’t want me to.
Want an iPad? Apple wants you to be paying attention to the new iPad Pro — and for good reason. It’s the thinnest product Apple has ever created, which is impressive considering it packs in a laptop-level M4 processor, a gorgeous display, and a number of new software tricks. But the announcement concealed something far more important: the dustbinning of the 9th-gen iPad. The last of the “retro” iPad designs, the 9th-gen is now finally retired from the stage, and for me, it means this is my last chance to grab a quick and reasonable upgrade for my 7th-gen iPad.
I figured I could grab the 9th-gen for a decent discount now that it’s on the way out — and to Apple’s credit, I absolutely could. But a realization began to sink in as I shopped, and I came away without making that final purchase.
There’s one thing holding me back from buying a new iPad, and it’s the feeling Apple wants me to buy something else.The basic iPad is all most people need
The Apple iPad is my go-to recommendation for anyone looking for a tablet, and that applies doubly so if they’re looking for a cheap one, too. Frankly, Apple has perfected the tablet, and the entry-level iPad represents everything great about Apple’s design. It’s a phenomenal device, with enough power to keep games chugging and apps singing, battery life that’s strong enough to forget about charging it every day, and strong accessory support.
All of this means I have a strong option where the iPad is concerned; the basic $329 iPad is all most people need.
Apple doesn’t want to admit this, of course. It would much rather you bought an iPad Pro or the iPad Air. They have more powerful specs, an even broader range of accessories, and feature upgraded cameras.
But really, how many people actually need that? There’s a case the iPad Pro and Air are great for video editors and people who actually need that level of power, but if you’re just browsing the internet or playing a game every now and again, the basic iPad’s A-series processor is just fine. Support for the 2nd-gen Apple Pencil comes in handy for drawers and sketchers, but the 1st-gen Apple Pencil works well for everyone else.
