Other good iPadsPhotograph: AppleApple does not sell these iPads anymore, but this slightly older model is still a good choice, as long as you can find someone for the right discount. I recommend checking third-party retailers (like Amazon, Best Buy, and B&H). I also recommend cross-checking the price with the latest model to make sure you’re spending less on an older tablet. Older models not listed here are getting harder to find and may not be worth much. iPad Pro (2022, 6th Gen): This iPad Pro tablet (7/10, WIRED Review) uses the same M2 chip in the MacBook Air (2022). ), Mac Mini, and iPad Air (2024). It also has an excellent mini-LED screen (with a screen refresh rate of 120-Hz) along with a dual camera system (with a lidar sensor), a front camera with support for Center Stage, as well as a good speaker and microphone. . Compatible with the original Magic Keyboard case, second-generation Apple Pencil, and Apple Pencil with USB-C. I just recommend that you can find the 11-inch for $749 or less and the 12.9-inch for $900 or less. iPad Air (2022, 5th Gen): This iPad Air has an M1 processor (which can also be found in the 2020 MacBook Air), screen 10.9-inch LCD, USB-C port, Touch ID built into the top power button, and support for 5G. It’s a nice, lightweight tablet that’s powerful enough for most tasks. It packs support for the second-generation Apple Pencil, Apple Pencil with USB-C, and a Magic Keyboard case. I only recommend it for $450 or less. Great iPad AccessoriesZugu Case Photograph: ZuguiPad accessories are endless. Below, we have highlighted some of our favorites for playing the tablet experience, and you can find more in the Best iPad Accessories guide. Zugu Case for $50: This is our favorite folio case for iPad for various reasons. It is not only durable (complete with a rigid bumper), it also has a magnetized cover that stays off and a cover that allows you to position the screen at eight different angles. The case is magnetic, allowing you to attach it to the fridge securely. It is also reasonably priced, comes in an array of colors, and has a point for the Apple Pencil. Satechi M1 Wireless Mouse for $30: We are big fans of Satechi accessories at WIRED, and this mouse does not disappoint. It has a comfortable ergonomic design, sleek aluminum finish, and smooth scrolling. It has a great battery life-with a built-in lithium-ion battery, I’ve been using it for the past four months and haven’t charged it yet. Mageasy CoverBuddy Case (iPad Pro) for $65: this case allows you to magnetically attach it to the Apple Magic Keyboard case without having to take the case off every time. It feels durable and doesn’t add too much weight to the iPad. There is also a slot for the Apple Pencil Pro or the USB-C version. The company also offers CoverBuddy Lite for iPad Air (M2). Photo: Brenda StolyarLogitech Combo Touch (10th-Gen) for $ 160: Combo Touch (8/10, WIRED Recommends) comes with a built-in keyboard, trackpad, and kickstand, so it’s nice to complete work on the iPad. It’s also detachable, so you can easily remove the keyboard when you don’t need it. Connect via Apple’s Smart Connector, meaning you don’t need to fiddle with Bluetooth or bother with charging. It is also available for iPad Pro (M4) (although it does not add a bit of weight to such a thin tablet) and iPad Air (M2). Caseify Impact Screen Protector for $56: If you’re worried about damaging your iPad screen. , I recommend this protector from Casetify. It’s super thin, has excellent touch sensitivity, and is mostly fingerprint resistant (I’ve wiped off a few smudges here and there). It’s painless to apply—the company provides microfiber cloths, de-dust stickers, and wet and dry wipes. Paperlike Charcoal Folio Case for $70: Paperlike is known for its screen protectors, but the company also offers great cases. Designed to look like a sketchbook, complete with a lightweight, high-quality polyester fabric cover. You can also prop your iPad up at two different levels. It does not come with an Apple Pencil slot, but there is a large cover that keeps it from falling out. I tested it with the iPad Air, but it is also available for the iPad Pro (both sizes). StayGo Mini Photograph: Twelve SouthTwelve South StayGo Mini USB-C Hub for $ 60: Ports are limited regardless of the iPad model. This hub from Twelve South has an 85-watt USB-C port with passthrough charging, a USB-A port, HDMI, and a headphone jack. If you have problems fitting your iPad with the case, the included USB-C-to-plug-USB-C cable will fix this. Apple Magic Trackpad 2 for $128: For a spacious trackpad, the Magic Trackpad 2 is a great choice. Instead of physical buttons, it has a Force Touch sensor where you can feel different pressure on the pad. With support for various iPadOS gestures, you don’t have to touch the screen. It automatically pairs with the iPad via Bluetooth and recharges 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 is light and portable and can be connected to up to three devices via Bluetooth (with a special button to switch between them). The keyboard is powered by AAA batteries, which can last around 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 stand provided on your desk. With the 2nd-gen version, you can now remove the arm from the clamp and attach it directly to the stand—making it easier to change between the two modes.
