Review
Introduction
The Apple iPad (10th Generation) represents a significant refresh of Apple’s entry-level tablet lineup. With a modernized design, a larger 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display, the powerful A14 Bionic chip, and USB-C connectivity, it brings many features previously reserved for the iPad Air. However, some compromises—like the lack of a laminated display and first-generation Apple Pencil support—make it a mix of innovation and lingering limitations.
Design & Build Quality
One of the biggest changes with the 10th-generation iPad is its design. Apple has ditched the older home-button look and adopted the flat-edged design seen in the iPad Air and iPad Pro. This makes it feel much more modern and premium, despite still being positioned as the budget iPad.
- Aluminum Unibody: Solid, lightweight, and well-built
- Color Options: Blue, Pink, Yellow, and Silver (a fun addition compared to the previous, more muted options)
- USB-C Port: A welcome change, replacing the outdated Lightning port
- Touch ID on Power Button: Convenient placement, similar to the iPad Air
Despite these improvements, Apple removed the 3.5mm headphone jack, meaning users will need wireless headphones or a USB-C adapter.
Display
The iPad 10th Gen features a 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display with a resolution of 2360 x 1640 pixels. While the display is sharp and bright (500 nits), it does lack a laminated screen, which means there’s an air gap between the glass and the display panel. This can create a slightly less immersive experience, especially for those upgrading from higher-end iPads.
- Pros:
✅ Large 10.9-inch display
✅ Good color accuracy and brightness
✅ Thin bezels, offering a modern look - Cons:
❌ No full lamination (less premium feel)
❌ No ProMotion (stuck at 60Hz refresh rate)
For most users, the display is still excellent for browsing, streaming, and general use, but artists may notice the subtle gap when using an Apple Pencil.
Performance & Hardware
Powered by the A14 Bionic chip, the iPad (10th Gen) offers significant improvements in performance over the 9th-generation model. The A14 chip is the same one found in the iPhone 12, making it more than capable for everyday tasks, multitasking, and even light gaming.
- Geekbench Scores: Around 1600 (single-core) and 4200 (multi-core)
- RAM: 4GB (enough for most tasks)
- Storage Options: 64GB or 256GB (no expandable storage)
The A14 Bionic ensures smooth performance, whether you’re editing documents, streaming 4K videos, or even running graphics-intensive apps like Affinity Photo. However, power users may still prefer the M1 or M2 iPads for more intensive workflows.
Software & iPadOS
Running iPadOS 16, the 10th-gen iPad benefits from Stage Manager, improved multitasking, and enhanced collaboration tools.
✅ Multitasking: Slide Over, Split View, and Stage Manager (though limited compared to M1/M2 iPads)
✅ Apple Pencil Support: Limited to Apple Pencil (1st Gen), requiring a USB-C adapter
✅ Keyboard Compatibility: Works with the new Magic Keyboard Folio (includes a trackpad)
The software experience is polished and fluid, but it’s a bit disappointing that Apple didn’t enable Apple Pencil 2 support, especially given the design refresh.
Camera & Audio
Apple has made a notable improvement in the front-facing camera placement, which is now landscape-oriented—a much-needed change for video calls.
- Front Camera: 12MP Ultra Wide (landscape position) with Center Stage
- Rear Camera: 12MP Wide (4K video support)
- Speakers: Stereo (landscape orientation for better audio balance)
The cameras are good for video calls and casual photography, but they won’t replace your iPhone. The landscape front camera is particularly useful for FaceTime and Zoom meetings.
Battery Life & Charging
Apple promises “all-day battery life”, which translates to about 10 hours of web browsing or video playback. In real-world use, battery life remains strong, and the switch to USB-C charging makes it more convenient to charge alongside other Apple devices.
✅ USB-C Charging (faster and more universal)
✅ Good battery longevity (~10 hours of usage)
❌ No MagSafe or fast charging like the iPad Pro
Accessories & Limitations
While Apple has made this iPad more premium, there are a few odd limitations:
- Apple Pencil (1st Gen) Only: Requires a USB-C adapter, making it less elegant
- Magic Keyboard Folio: Expensive, but adds a laptop-like experience
- No Face ID: Still relies on Touch ID
Despite these quirks, the accessories are well-designed, and the Magic Keyboard Folio is a great option for those who want to turn their iPad into a light productivity device.
Pros & Cons
✅ Pros:
✔ Modernized design (thin bezels, flat edges)
✔ Powerful A14 Bionic processor
✔ USB-C charging
✔ 12MP front camera with landscape orientation
✔ Magic Keyboard Folio support
❌ Cons:
❌ Non-laminated display (feels less premium)
❌ Apple Pencil (1st Gen) only, with a clunky USB-C adapter
❌ No Face ID (Touch ID only)
❌ No ProMotion (stuck at 60Hz refresh rate)
❌ No headphone jack
Verdict: Should You Buy It?
The Apple iPad (10th Gen) is a fantastic tablet for casual users, students, and those looking for an all-around device. It brings a fresh design, a faster chip, and USB-C while retaining excellent battery life and iPadOS perks.
However, the lack of a laminated display and Apple Pencil (1st Gen) limitations may frustrate artists and more advanced users. If you need Apple Pencil 2 support or a better display, the iPad Air (M1) might be a better choice for a bit more money.
Who Should Buy It?
✅ Students & casual users needing a great tablet
✅ People who want a modern-looking iPad at a lower price
✅ Those who don’t need the power of the iPad Air or iPad Pro
Who Should Skip It?
❌ Artists who need a better display and Apple Pencil 2 support
❌ Power users who need M1/M2 performance
❌ Those who want a high refresh rate screen (ProMotion)
Final Score: 8/10
A great upgrade for the entry-level iPad, but with some puzzling compromises.