We review products independently, but we may earn affiliate commissions from buying links on this page. Terms of use.

PCMag UK

Apple iPad (2018)

Our Expert
LOOK INSIDE PC LABS HOW WE TEST
65 EXPERTS
43 YEARS
41,500+ REVIEWS
The same price as last year's model but now with Apple Pencil support, the sixth-generation iPad is the best midrange tablet choice for most people. But it's still less practical than Chromebooks for most schools.

Apple iPad (2018)

The 2018 iPad costs $299 for schools and $329 for consumers.

Size

The 9.7-inch iPad comes in two storage capacities, 32GB and 128GB, and Wi-Fi and cellular models. That's an 8MP camera on the back.

Apple iPad for Students

Apple wants this to be the iPad for students, like this artsy middle schooler, but we're concerned that after adding the Pencil stylus and a keyboard, it's twice as expensive as Chromebooks.

Apple Pencil

The Pencil stylus is very accurate, but is costly at $99 ($89 for schools) and tends to roll off tables.

Pencil Charger

The Pencil charges by removing this cap and plugging the Lightning connector into an iPad.

Pencil Usage

The Pencil has terrific pressure and tilt sensitivity, but it's a little too long for smaller hands.

Bottom

Dual speakers and the Lightning port sit on the bottom of the iPad.

Top

You see the headphone jack on the top of the iPad.

In Hand

The iPad is exactly the same size and shape as the previous model, and weighs the same at just about a pound.

SIM slot

This is a SIM card slot, not a microSD slot. The cellular iPad model is compatible with all US carriers.

AR Application

The new A10 processor in the iPad is great for augmented reality applications. They run faster than on the previous model, with less tearing.

Drawing on the iPad

The iPad and Pencil make a great combination for drawing.