Other good iPads
Photography: Apple
Apple no longer sells these iPads, but these slightly older models are still good options, provided you can find them at the right discount. I recommend checking with third-party retailers (like Amazon, Best buyAnd B&H). I also suggest checking the price with the latest models to make sure you are spending much less on the older tablet. Older models not mentioned here are increasingly difficult to find and may not be worth it.
iPad Pro (2022, 6th generation): These iPad Pro tablets (7/10, WIRED Review) use the same M2 chip that is inside the MacBook Air (2022), Mac-Miniand iPad Air (2024). It also has an excellent mini-LED screen (with a 120Hz screen refresh rate) as well as a dual camera system (with a lidar sensor), a front camera with Center Stage support, as well as excellent speakers and microphones. It is compatible with the original Magic Keyboard Case, Second generation Apple PencilAnd Apple Pencil with USB-C. I only recommend it if you can find the 11-inch for $749 or less and the 12.9-inch for $900 or less.
iPad Air (2022, 5th generation): This iPad Air has an M1 processor (also found in the 2020 MacBook Air), a 10.9-inch LCD screen, a USB-C port, Touch ID integrated into the button superior power and 5G support. It’s a great lightweight and very powerful tablet for most tasks. It supports the Second generation Apple Pencil, Apple Pencil with USB-Cand the Magic Keyboard Case. I only recommend it for $450 or less.
Great iPad Accessories
iPad accessories are endless. Below we’ve highlighted some of our favorites to complement your tablet experience, and you can find more in our Guide to the best iPad accessories.
Zugu case for $50: This is our favorite iPad folio case for several reasons. It’s not only durable (with a hard bumper), it also has a magnetic cover that stays closed and a flip that lets you position the screen at eight different angles. The case is magnetic, allowing you to stick it securely to the refrigerator. It’s also reasonably priced, comes in a range of colors, and has a slot for your Apple Pencil.
Satechi M1 Wireless Mouse for $30: We’re already big fans of Satechi accessories at WIRED, and this mouse did not disappoint. It features a comfortable ergonomic design, sleek aluminum finish, and smooth scrolling. It also has excellent battery life: with a built-in lithium-ion battery, I’ve been using it for four months and haven’t charged it yet.
Mageasy CoverBuddy Case (iPad Pro) for $65: This case allows you to connect it magnetically to Apple’s Magic Keyboard case without having to remove the case every time. It’s durable and doesn’t add too much bulk to the iPad. There is also a slot for the Apple Pencil Pro or the USB-C version. The company also offers the CoverBuddy Lite for iPad Air (M2).
Photography: Brenda Stolyar
Logitech Combo Touch (10th Gen) for $160: The Combo Touch (8/10, WIRED recommends) comes with a built-in keyboard, trackpad, and kickstand, making it ideal for working on your iPad. It’s also removable, allowing you to easily remove the keyboard when you don’t need it. It connects via Apple’s Smart Connector, meaning you never need to fiddle with Bluetooth or charge it. It is also available for iPad Pro (M4) (even if it adds a bit of weight to such a thin tablet) and the iPad Air (M2).
Casetify Impact Screen Protector for $56: If you’re worried about damaging your iPad screen, I recommend this protector from Casetify. It is ultra thin, has excellent tactile sensitivity and is Above all fingerprint resistant (I wiped off a few smudges here and there). Its application is painless: the company provides a microfiber cloth, a dust removal sticker, and wet and dry wipes.
Charcoal Paper-Like Folio Case for $70: Paperlike is known for its screen protector, but the company also offers a great case. It’s designed to look like a sketchbook, with a high-quality, lightweight polyester fabric cover. You can also support your iPad at two different levels. It doesn’t come with an Apple Pencil slot, but there is a large flap closure that prevents it from falling out. I tested it with the iPad Airbut it is also available for iPad Pro (both sizes).
Twelve StayGo South mini USB-C hubs for $60: Ports are limited regardless of the iPad model. This hub from Twelve South features an 85-watt USB-C port with passthrough charging, a USB-A port, HDMI, and a headphone jack. If you’re having trouble installing it on an iPad with a case, the included socket-USB-C-to-plug-USB-C cable will solve that problem.
Apple Magic Trackpad 2 for $128: For a spacious trackpad, the Magic Trackpad 2 is a great choice. Instead of physical buttons, it has Force Touch sensors where you can feel different levels of pressure on the cushion. With support for various iPadOS gestures, you won’t have to touch the screen as much. It automatically pairs with your iPad via Bluetooth and charges with the Lightning port.
Logitech K380 Bluetooth Keyboard for $40: If you prefer an external keyboard, it’s hard to go wrong with the Logitech K380. It’s lightweight and portable and can be connected to up to three devices via Bluetooth (with dedicated buttons for switching between them). The keyboard is powered by AAA batteries, which lasted about four months, so you don’t have to worry about carrying a charger.
Twelve South HoverBar Duo 2.0 for $80: The HoverBar serves two purposes. You can mount it on the side of your bed, kitchen counter or shelf (to view content comfortably and hands-free) or you can use the included stand at your desk. With the 2nd generation version, you can now remove the clamp arm and attach it directly to the mount, making it easier to switch between the two modes.
