Other good iPads
Photograph: Apple
Apple no longer sells these iPads, but these slightly older models are still good options, as long as you can find them at the right discount. I recommend checking out third-party retailers (like Amazon, best BuyAnd B&HI also suggest double-checking the price with the latest models to make sure you're spending a reasonable amount less on an older tablet. Older models not mentioned here are becoming harder to find and may not even be worth it.
iPad Pro (2022, 6th generation), These iPad Pro tablets (7/10, Wired Review) use the same M2 chip that is inside macbook air (2022), mac miniand iPad Air (2024). It also has an excellent mini-LED screen (with one). 120-Hz screen refresh rate) A dual camera system (with a lidar sensor), a front-facing camera with support for Center Stage, as well as great speakers and mic. It is compatible with the original magic keyboard case, second generation apple pencilAnd Apple Pencil with USB-CI recommend it only if you can get 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 (which can also be found in the 2020 MacBook Air), a 10.9-inch LCD screen, a USB-C port, Touch ID built into the top power button, and support for 5G. It's a great, lightweight tablet that's powerful enough for most tasks. It packs support for second generation apple pencil, Apple Pencil with USB-Cand this magic keyboard caseI only recommend it for $450 or less.
cool ipad accessories
The iPad accessories are endless. Below, we've highlighted some of our favorites to improve your tablet experience, and you can find more at our Best iPad Accessories Guide,
Zugu Case for $50, This is our favorite folio case for iPad for several reasons. Not only is it durable (complete with a rigid bumper), it also has a magnetic cover that stays closed and a flap that allows you to position the screen at eight different angles. The case is magnetic, so you can stick it securely to the fridge. It's also reasonably priced, comes in several colors, and has space for your Apple Pencil.
Satechi M1 Wireless Mouse for $30: We're already big fans of Satechi's accessories at WIRED, and this mouse didn't disappoint. It has a comfortable ergonomic design, a sleek aluminum finish, and smooth scrolling. Its battery life is also very good—with a built-in lithium-ion battery, I've been using it for the past four months and haven't had to charge it yet.
Magesy CoverBuddy Case (iPad Pro) for $65: This case allows you to connect it magnetically Apple's Magic Keyboard Case Without removing the case every time. It feels durable and doesn't add too much bulk to the iPad. There's also a slot for the Apple Pencil Pro or USB-C version. The company also offers CoverBuddy Lite for this iPad Air (M2),
Photograph: Brenda Stolyar
Logitech Combo Touch (10th Gen) for $160, 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 detachable, so you can easily remove the keyboard when you don't need it. It connects via Apple's Smart Connector, meaning you'll never have to mess with Bluetooth or bother charging it. It is also available for iPad Pro (M4) (Although this slightly increases the weight of such a thin tablet) and 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 very thin, has excellent touch sensitivity, and is mostly Fingerprint-resistant (I've wiped off a few smudges here and there). Applying it is painless—the company supplies a microfiber cloth, a de-dusting sticker, and wet and dry wipes.
Paperlike Charcoal Folio Case for $70, PaperLike is known for its screen protectors, but the company also offers a great case. It's designed like a sketchbook, complete with a polyester fabric cover that feels lightweight and high-quality. You can also raise your iPad to two different levels. It doesn't come with an Apple Pencil slot, but it has a large flap closure that keeps it from falling out. I tested it with ipad airBut it is also available for ipad pro (both sizes).
Twelve South Stego Mini USB-C Hub for $60, Ports are limited regardless of iPad model. This hub from Twelve South has an 85-watt USB-C port with passthrough charging, a USB-A port, an HDMI, and a headphone jack. If you're having trouble fitting it on a cased iPad, the included socket-USB-C-to-plug-USB-C cable will fix that.
Apple Magic Trackpad 2 for $128, For a huge trackpad, the Magic Trackpad 2 is a great option. Instead of physical buttons, it has force touch sensors where you can feel different levels of pressure on the pad. With support for various iPadOS gestures, you won't need to touch the screen as much. It automatically pairs with your 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's lightweight and portable and can be connected to up to three devices via Bluetooth (with a dedicated button to switch between them). The keyboard is powered by a AAA battery, which lasts for 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 prop it on the edge of your bed, kitchen counter, or shelf (for convenient and hands-free viewing of content) or you can use the included stand on your desk. With the second generation version, you can now remove the arm from the clamp and attach it directly to the stand – making it easier to swap between the two modes.