Apple’s new iPad 10 is set to arrive to consumers on October 26. Ahead of its official launch, reviews of the device have been published. Most reviewers agree that the device may seem attractive but it’s a confusing addition to Apple’s iPad lineup. Furthermore, its $449 price point negates its title of an entry-level iPad.
Reviews for iPad 10 are out!
CNET’s Scott Stein highlights the redesign of the iPad 10. Stein says the device looks and feels incredibly similar to the iPad Air. He goes as far as to say that this iPad is essentially the 2020 iPad Air minus a few features. He also says he prefers the new power button Touch ID over Face ID on the iPad 10. The biggest difference here between the display of the iPad 10 and the iPad Pro here is that the cheaper iPad does not offer 120Hz ProMotion, which was to be expected.
This iPad has adopted the design style of all other iPads at last, with USB-C charging replacing Lightning and a flat-edged case with a larger, curved-corner 10.9-inch display. This iPad has better speakers than the ninth-gen model, and the display feels notably bigger. The display lacks the anti-reflective coating and extra color gamut of the iPad Air.
Moving onto the internals of the iPad 10, The Verge’s Dan Seifert says that he was struck by how similar the device is to every other modern iPad despite its cheaper price tag. Seifert also says that if users want 5G connectivity, which costs $150 extra, they might as well purchase an iPad Air.
While the A14 is not as fast as the M1 or M2 processors Apple’s putting into the more expensive iPads, I’d be shocked if most people can really tell. This iPad has no problem doing the exact same tasks I use my 11-inch iPad Pro M1 for, from running multiple apps side by side to jumping between tasks to playing games like Genshin Impact smoothly and without issue.
Apple now has four different processors (five if you count the still-available 9th gen iPad) in its lineup of iPads, but outside of the most demanding uses, all the iPads I’ve used perform effectively the same. If you’re coming to this iPad from a model that’s considerably older, you will certainly notice a faster experience using it. But you’ll also get a faster experience from the $329 A13-powered ninth-gen iPad and save $120.
Stuff’s Dan Grabham says that the upgrades cameras on the iPad 10 are a step in the right direction. Grabham says that images captured using the iPad 10 are clear and crisp and the ability to shoot videos in 4K is also a plus.
The Apple iPad (10th gen) cameras have been refreshed and both front and back units are now 12 megapixels which is a welcome step forward. Images are clear and crisp and everything is nice and quick – gone are the days when iPad photos were a poor relation to those from smartphones. The rear camera can also shoot video in 4K which is an upgrade from the 9th gen iPad and there’s stabilisation tech too.
Interestingly, the Full HD video-capable front camera is now a landscape one. This can be an issue if you hold the iPad in portrait, but obviously, the huge majority of us would do a video call with the iPad in landscape. It also boasts Apple’s Centre Stage so you’re kept in the frame as you move around.
WIRED’s Brenda Stoylar boldly says “What was once a basic and affordable entry-level tablet now feels anything but.” Stoylar’s review highlights the inconvenience of the device only supports the first-generation Apple Pencil. Not only does the iPad 10 not offer support for the second-generation Apple Pencil but it also forces users to buy a $9 USB-C to Apple Pencil charger.
Speaking of the Apple Pencil, you can only use the first-generation stylus. It feels obsolete compared to the features you get with the second-gen Pencil, like auto pairing, magnetic wireless charging plus storage, and touch controls to switch between digital tools in your favorite sketching app. Hilariously, you’ll have to use a Lightning-to-USB-C adapter to recharge the Apple Pencil, since Apple has ditched its proprietary port on the tablet. Like some kind of dongle monstrosity. If you already own the first-gen Pencil, you’ll have to purchase the adapter for an extra $9. But if you’re buying a brand-new one, it comes with it. Not only will you have to keep track of the annoying Pencil cap, but you’ll also need to keep an eye on the adapter as well. Yay?
To summarize, Gear Patrol’s Tucker Bowe says that the iPad 10 is a solid device, but it may not be the smartest purchase for most users given the bill they will rack up if they purchase the Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard Folio. So, interested consumers should think twice before committing to the purchase.
The 10th generation iPad is an excellent tablet, of course, but so too are all the other iPads that Apple sells (they’re years ahead of the best Android tablets). And if you’re looking to get the most out this iPad, you’re going to want to spend an extra $350 on the Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard Folio — and that’s nearly $800, which isn’t cheap. So before buying, you really have to know what you’re going to be using it for and if one of Apple’s other iPads better fits those needs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the iPad 10 might offer a bunch of shiny new features in a redesigned unit but, who is meant for? Not only does the device cost more than the 9th-generation iPad but it also lacks features like a headphone jack and support for the second-generation Apple Pencil. These things may be important for students who cannot afford an iPad Pro. In addition, if we take into account the price point of the Magic Keyboard Folio, the iPad 10 is a non-starter for most consumers.
However, if you are upgrading from an iPad mini and want a bigger display, the iPad 10 may be perfect for you. The design is fresh and it brings a host of new features such as USB-C, faster Wi-Fi, and more.
GadgetMatch’s review:
Brad Colbow’s review:
Brian Tong’s unboxing and first impressions:
