The best iPads for college in 2026: Expert tested and reviewed

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As newer iPads hit the market, the quality you get for the price has greatly improved, making this a great time to buy one -- especially if you're looking for the best iPads for college students. If you have a student in your life, you may know they need a perfect blend of processing power, portability, and battery life. Many of our selections are lightweight yet offer ample storage and are compatible with stylus and keyboard attachments, making it easy to type, take notes, or draw. 

Also: The best iPads you can buy

Whether you're looking for a powerful option to run programs like the iPad Pro or a portable device to upload books like the iPad Mini, an iPad can help any student succeed in their college career. In our Feb. 2026 update, we added newer iPad models to this list, including our top pick.

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What's the best iPad for college students right now? 

After conducting ZDNET's hands-on testing and comparisons for functionality, performance, and battery life, the 7th-generation iPad Air wins our pick for the best iPad for college students thanks to its powerful M3 chip, gorgeous display, and price. However, keep reading for our reviews on other models and generations worth considering.  

The best iPads for college students in 2026

This lightweight tablet is compatible with most Apple high-end accessories, including the Apple Pencil Pro and Magic Keyboard, making it easy to take notes in class and watch virtual seminars. Apple's products are largely customizable, and this is no exception: you can choose from five colors and get more or less storage depending on what you need. 

You can also equip your iPad to use cellular data if Wi-Fi doesn't feel sufficient for classes. For students who often use their tablets on the go, a cellular data plan ensures they always have internet access. 

Review: iPad Air

I tested the iPad Air for months after it came out, including writing a full novel with the Magic Keyboard for iPad Air, designing a cover, and editing multiple videos. While the high-end iPad Pro is top-of-the-line for professionals, the iPad Air is the single best tablet option you can get for under $600, and that includes every Android tablet I've tested.

iPad Air (7th generation) tech specs: Display: 11-inch and 13-inch Retina display | Processor: Apple silicon M3 | Storage: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB | Biometrics: Touch ID | Colors: Space Gray, Starlight, Purple, Blue | Cameras: 12MP rear, 4K video. 12MP Ultra Wide camera | Weight: 1.02 pounds | Dimensions: 9.74 x 7.02 x 0.24 inches | Connections: USB-C port | Battery life: 10 hours

• Apple M3 Chip
• Affordable option for amazing quality
• Fast USB-C connectivity

• Can get expensive with add-ons

This lightweight tablet is compatible with most Apple high-end accessories, including the Apple Pencil Pro and Magic Keyboard, making it easy to take notes in class and watch virtual seminars. Apple's products are largely customizable, and this is no exception: you can choose from five colors and get more or less storage depending on what you need. 

You can also equip your iPad to use cellular data if Wi-Fi doesn't feel sufficient for classes. For students who often use their tablets on the go, a cellular data plan ensures they always have internet access. 

Review: iPad Air

I tested the iPad Air for months after it came out, including writing a full novel with the Magic Keyboard for iPad Air, designing a cover, and editing multiple videos. While the high-end iPad Pro is top-of-the-line for professionals, the iPad Air is the single best tablet option you can get for under $600, and that includes every Android tablet I've tested.

iPad Air (7th generation) tech specs: Display: 11-inch and 13-inch Retina display | Processor: Apple silicon M3 | Storage: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB | Biometrics: Touch ID | Colors: Space Gray, Starlight, Purple, Blue | Cameras: 12MP rear, 4K video. 12MP Ultra Wide camera | Weight: 1.02 pounds | Dimensions: 9.74 x 7.02 x 0.24 inches | Connections: USB-C port | Battery life: 10 hours

Apple's tried-and-true tablet, the base model iPad, is arguably the best design out of Apple's tablet lineup -- especially thanks to its versatility and compatibility. While you don't get the same suite of features as the more expensive iPad Pro and iPad Air models, the 11-inch iPad still outperforms even more expensive tablets on the market in processing power. This is especially true at the very affordable price of $349.

Review: iPad 11

Based on my hands-on testing, I'm convinced that if you're shopping on a budget (as most students are), this iPad makes the most sense, especially given its A14 Bionic processor, USB-C support, 5G support for on-the-go tasks, and new 12MP ultra-wide camera. There's also a Magic Keyboard Folio made specifically for this iPad, so it's perfect for turning your tablet into a laptop in your dorm, library, or campus center. Plus, it includes an adjustable kickstand with a 14-key function row for shortcuts. 

However, some verified customers noted that this iPad doesn't support the 2nd-gen Apple Pencil, so you'll need a dongle to use it.

Apple iPad specs: Display: 11-inch Liquid Retina display with True Tone | Processor: A16 Bionic chip | Storage: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB | Biometrics: Touch ID | Colors: Silver, Pink, Blue, Yellow  | Cameras: 12MP f/1.8 wide, 12MP Landscape f/2.4 front | Weight: 1.05 pounds | Dimensions: 9.79 x 7.07 x .28 inches | Connections: USB-C | Battery life: Up to 10 hours of video playback with USB-C charging

• Affordable
• USB-C replaces lightning port
• Lots of colors to choose from

• Isn't compatible with Magic Keyboard
• Doesn't work with 2nd generation Apple Pencil or Pro

Apple's tried-and-true tablet, the base model iPad, is arguably the best design out of Apple's tablet lineup -- especially thanks to its versatility and compatibility. While you don't get the same suite of features as the more expensive iPad Pro and iPad Air models, the 11-inch iPad still outperforms even more expensive tablets on the market in processing power. This is especially true at the very affordable price of $349.

Review: iPad 11

Based on my hands-on testing, I'm convinced that if you're shopping on a budget (as most students are), this iPad makes the most sense, especially given its A14 Bionic processor, USB-C support, 5G support for on-the-go tasks, and new 12MP ultra-wide camera. There's also a Magic Keyboard Folio made specifically for this iPad, so it's perfect for turning your tablet into a laptop in your dorm, library, or campus center. Plus, it includes an adjustable kickstand with a 14-key function row for shortcuts. 

However, some verified customers noted that this iPad doesn't support the 2nd-gen Apple Pencil, so you'll need a dongle to use it.

Apple iPad specs: Display: 11-inch Liquid Retina display with True Tone | Processor: A16 Bionic chip | Storage: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB | Biometrics: Touch ID | Colors: Silver, Pink, Blue, Yellow  | Cameras: 12MP f/1.8 wide, 12MP Landscape f/2.4 front | Weight: 1.05 pounds | Dimensions: 9.79 x 7.07 x .28 inches | Connections: USB-C | Battery life: Up to 10 hours of video playback with USB-C charging

Apple's iPad Mini has an A17 Pro chip, making it a powerful tablet in a small package. The iPad Mini was last updated in the fall of 2024 and now supports all Apple Pencil models, including the Apple Pencil Pro. It's a super portable tablet, and there's a charging port on the right side for the Apple Pencil, making note-taking easy. 

Review: Apple iPad Mini

The portable form factor was my favorite thing about the iPad Mini, since I can easily take it with me in my purse, without having to grab a laptop bag. It's so small and lightweight, and it became my go-to entertainment tablet. 

Former ZDNET editor-in-chief Jason Hiner also noted that, "Compared to a phone, [the iPad Mini is] better for reading ebooks, PDFs, documents, news apps, and other digital content," meaning you won't have to lug around heavy textbooks from class to class -- you can just slip your iPad Mini into your backpack. 

iPad Mini tech specs: Display: 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display | Processor: A17 Pro chip | Storage: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB | Colors: Space gray, Blue, Purple, Starlight | Cameras: 12MP rear, 4K video. 12MP FaceTime camera with Center Stage | Weight: 0.65 pounds | Dimensions: 7.69 x 5.3 x 0.25 inches | Connections: USB-C | Battery life: 10 hours

• Battery life is impressive
• Sleek design
• Small size makes it easy to fit in a backpack

• Not compatible with Magic Keyboard

Apple's iPad Mini has an A17 Pro chip, making it a powerful tablet in a small package. The iPad Mini was last updated in the fall of 2024 and now supports all Apple Pencil models, including the Apple Pencil Pro. It's a super portable tablet, and there's a charging port on the right side for the Apple Pencil, making note-taking easy. 

Review: Apple iPad Mini

The portable form factor was my favorite thing about the iPad Mini, since I can easily take it with me in my purse, without having to grab a laptop bag. It's so small and lightweight, and it became my go-to entertainment tablet. 

Former ZDNET editor-in-chief Jason Hiner also noted that, "Compared to a phone, [the iPad Mini is] better for reading ebooks, PDFs, documents, news apps, and other digital content," meaning you won't have to lug around heavy textbooks from class to class -- you can just slip your iPad Mini into your backpack. 

iPad Mini tech specs: Display: 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display | Processor: A17 Pro chip | Storage: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB | Colors: Space gray, Blue, Purple, Starlight | Cameras: 12MP rear, 4K video. 12MP FaceTime camera with Center Stage | Weight: 0.65 pounds | Dimensions: 7.69 x 5.3 x 0.25 inches | Connections: USB-C | Battery life: 10 hours

The 8th-generation iPad Pro's M5 chip makes it undeniably powerful. This upgrade comes with next-generation machine learning accelerators to handle a diverse range of tasks, and ProMotion technology, enabling variable screen refresh rates ranging from 10 to 120Hz.

After spending some time testing the 13-inch iPad Pro, I was especially impressed by the chip's performance. It's extremely efficient and can breeze through demanding tasks, such as video rendering and graphics work. 

Review: iPad Pro

The Pro also supports the new , which has a range of note-taking features, including a squeeze gesture for quick tool and custom haptic feedback that you can feel via a pulse. It also pairs with the newly revamped Magic Keyboard, which is thinner and lighter, has a larger trackpad, and a new row of function keys to make your iPad experience feel more like a MacBook experience -- especially if you want to entirely replace your laptop with an iPad for schoolwork. 

Apple iPad Pro tech specs: Display: 11-inch Ultra Retina XDR OLED display with ProMotion | Processor: Apple Silicon M5 | Storage: 256GB, 512GB, 1TB or 2TB | Biometrics: Face ID | Colors: Silver, space black | Cameras: 12MP wide (4K, ProRes), Landscape 12MP ultra-wide | Weight: 1.23 pounds | Dimensions: 11.09 x 8.48 x 0.24 inches | Connections: USB-C connector with support for Thunderbolt / USB 4 | Battery life: Up to 10 hours of surfing the web

• Tandem OLED display gets plenty bright
• M4 processor is fast, reliable, and for everyone
• Strongest accessory ecosystem yet

• Expensive choice for students
• Accessories that optimize workflow are sold separately

The 8th-generation iPad Pro's M5 chip makes it undeniably powerful. This upgrade comes with next-generation machine learning accelerators to handle a diverse range of tasks, and ProMotion technology, enabling variable screen refresh rates ranging from 10 to 120Hz.

After spending some time testing the 13-inch iPad Pro, I was especially impressed by the chip's performance. It's extremely efficient and can breeze through demanding tasks, such as video rendering and graphics work. 

Review: iPad Pro

The Pro also supports the new , which has a range of note-taking features, including a squeeze gesture for quick tool and custom haptic feedback that you can feel via a pulse. It also pairs with the newly revamped Magic Keyboard, which is thinner and lighter, has a larger trackpad, and a new row of function keys to make your iPad experience feel more like a MacBook experience -- especially if you want to entirely replace your laptop with an iPad for schoolwork. 

Apple iPad Pro tech specs: Display: 11-inch Ultra Retina XDR OLED display with ProMotion | Processor: Apple Silicon M5 | Storage: 256GB, 512GB, 1TB or 2TB | Biometrics: Face ID | Colors: Silver, space black | Cameras: 12MP wide (4K, ProRes), Landscape 12MP ultra-wide | Weight: 1.23 pounds | Dimensions: 11.09 x 8.48 x 0.24 inches | Connections: USB-C connector with support for Thunderbolt / USB 4 | Battery life: Up to 10 hours of surfing the web

College students know the importance of budgeting, and a refurbished or renewed iPad is a powerful Apple product for under $300. An iPad base model will offer many of the same features you'd expect from Apple's other tablets, like iPadOS updates for years and access to the App Store, without the top-shelf price tag.

Review:iPad from BackMarket

While the 10th-generation iPad was released in 2022, it's been replaced by the 11th-generation model above. However, you can still buy a reliable refurbished or renewed 10th- or 9th-generation iPad on sites like BackMarket and even Amazon. 

Even if it is refurbished, an older base model iPad is still a fantastic purchase for personal and everyday use, including video streaming, note-taking, word processing, and games. The biggest compromise you'll make is that this iPad doesn't feature the near-borderless design of some of the newer models on this list. 

I've tested a BackMarket 10th-generation iPad and loved every minute of it. It performed exactly like my existing iPad 10, and it still gets daily use. I ended up giving it to my daughter, who uses it for schoolwork and entertainment.

Apple iPad (10th generation) tech specs: Display: 10.2-inch with True Tone | Processor: A14 Bionic chip | Storage: 64GB or 256GB | Biometrics: Touch ID | Colors: Silver and space grey  | Cameras: 8MP f/2.4 back, 12MP Ultra Wide f/2.4 front | Weight: 1.08 pounds | Dimensions: 9.8 x 6.8 x .29 inches | Connections: USB-C, Smart Connector | Battery life: Up to 10 hours

• Front camera features Center Stage technology
• Can use multiple apps at once
• Affordable price for a lot of storage

• Back camera could use some work
• Slightly heavier than the other options

College students know the importance of budgeting, and a refurbished or renewed iPad is a powerful Apple product for under $300. An iPad base model will offer many of the same features you'd expect from Apple's other tablets, like iPadOS updates for years and access to the App Store, without the top-shelf price tag.

Review:iPad from BackMarket

While the 10th-generation iPad was released in 2022, it's been replaced by the 11th-generation model above. However, you can still buy a reliable refurbished or renewed 10th- or 9th-generation iPad on sites like BackMarket and even Amazon. 

Even if it is refurbished, an older base model iPad is still a fantastic purchase for personal and everyday use, including video streaming, note-taking, word processing, and games. The biggest compromise you'll make is that this iPad doesn't feature the near-borderless design of some of the newer models on this list. 

I've tested a BackMarket 10th-generation iPad and loved every minute of it. It performed exactly like my existing iPad 10, and it still gets daily use. I ended up giving it to my daughter, who uses it for schoolwork and entertainment.

Apple iPad (10th generation) tech specs: Display: 10.2-inch with True Tone | Processor: A14 Bionic chip | Storage: 64GB or 256GB | Biometrics: Touch ID | Colors: Silver and space grey  | Cameras: 8MP f/2.4 back, 12MP Ultra Wide f/2.4 front | Weight: 1.08 pounds | Dimensions: 9.8 x 6.8 x .29 inches | Connections: USB-C, Smart Connector | Battery life: Up to 10 hours

What is the best iPad for students?

Powered by the Apple M3 chip and a Liquid Retina display with True Tone, it's hard to argue that there is a better iPad for students than the 7th-generation iPad Air. From its slim, sleek design, available in an array of colors, to its powerful internal capabilities, this iPad delivers the wow factor at a price that's hard to beat.

Though the iPad Air is our top pick, there are still plenty of good options in Apple's tablet lineup. The table below compares five iPads on a few key features.

*MSRP at the time of writing. Please note that actual prices may vary depending on available sales, deals, discounts, and coupons.

Which iPad for students is right for you?

There are a plethora of factors that go into decision-making when purchasing high-quality tech, especially. From surfing the web to editing high-quality videos and pictures, iPads can seemingly do it all, but some options might be a better fit for you than others. Consider this table when deciding which iPad to add to your backpack next.

Factors to consider when choosing an iPad for college:

Between the four different iPad model variations (iPad base model, the Pro, Air, and Mini), there are many capable features that make decision making, especially for students, even tougher. 

• Chip: Apple's signature processor comes in several forms. Its M2 chip is the latest and greatest, offering lightning-fast performance, but our team at ZDNET has also greatly appreciated the M1 chip in our testing. 

• Screen size: iPads are available in a variety of screen sizes, ranging from less than 8.5 inches to 13 inches. As a college student, you may prefer a larger screen, but a smaller size lends itself better to portability. 

• Storage: An iPad is more limited in its storage than a Mac, so be sure to consider the amount of storage that comes with your chosen iPad. College students generally deal with a lot of files, but if this is a device used in addition to your computer or laptop, storage is typically not a concern. 

• Cost: Apple products are not the cheapest, but you will find lower prices in the iPad line. The cost of the best iPads for college students ranges from about $350 to $729, depending on the model you choose. 

How we test tablets

The ZDNET team chose all of the tablets included in this list based on their performance when tested in the real world. When we test tablets, we typically follow the same routine for each one to see which performs best.

• Display: We measure the brightness level in different lighting conditions and assess color accuracy. We also compare the display's performance with what the manufacturer promised, test the screen's responsiveness to touch, and assess the performance of any extra features, like a manufacturer's stylus.

• Performance: For real-world performance metrics, our reviewers measure how quickly the tablet reacts to input, assess game performance and frame rates, test how the tablet handles having multiple apps running simultaneously, measure the time it takes to launch apps, and even assess the tablet's temperature during intensive tasks. 

• Battery life: We test different scenarios for battery life, including measuring how long the battery lasts while streaming, web browsing, using productivity apps, and playing games.

• Camera and audio: For cameras, we evaluate features like resolution, aperture, low-light performance, autofocus accuracy, dynamic range, color accuracy, image quality, sharpness, and video quality. For audio, we look at the sound quality and overall listening experience, including audio clarity at different volumes, stereo separation of left and right audio channels, maximum volume level in various environments, and if there is perceived distortion.

For a deeper look into our testing process, check out our comprehensive tablet testing methodology. 

Latest updates

• February 2026: We replaced the recommended iPad models with newer options and included a refurbished alternative for the first time. This is after successfully testing iPads from BackMarket and comparing their performance to a brand-new model.

FAQs on iPads

Should I get an iPad or a laptop for college?

Generally, tablets are cheaper than laptops since they have less processing capabilities and storage options. It really depends on your major and what classes you are taking if you can opt for a tablet over a laptop. For example, English majors could probably get by with an iPad instead of a laptop, while an engineering student will most likely need a laptop to work with specific programs. 

Do college students get discounts on iPads?

Apple offers several student discount options when you purchase an iPad with a verified college email address. Students can get anywhere from $50-$100 off popular iPad models. Apple and other retailers also offer deals on tablets to students closer to graduation or back-to-school season, so always keep an eye out for those deals.

Do iPad covers fit all iPads?

No. Much like phone cases, the size and layout of these iPads change with every model that is released. But you can find a ton of cases for any line of iPad at places like Best Buy, Amazon, and Target.

What is the best iPad stylus?

The best iPad stylus is the Apple Pencil, which is made for the iPad. Be sure to consider which generation of the Apple Pencil is compatible with whatever iPad you choose, especially since the Apple Pencil 2nd Gen and the Apple Pencil Pro are compatible with only certain iPad models. 

However, Adonit is also a brand that caters to iPads only, so if you want more unique features or stylus colors, you can consider that as well. 

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