Great Deals and Reliable Performance
When shopping for an iPad in 2024, you don’t always have to go for the latest model. Older iPads can still provide excellent performance for daily tasks, entertainment, and productivity, all while saving you money. Whether you’re a student, professional, or simply looking for a device for media consumption, an older iPad might be a perfect fit. In this guide, we’ll explore the top 5 older iPads you can still use effectively in 2024, comparing their performance, price, and key features.
The Best iPad For You
When looking for an older iPad, you should consider performance, battery life, screen size, and app compatibility. Prices for older models can range from under £200 for budget-friendly options to around £400 for devices with more powerful specs. Read on to find out which models are still worth buying in 2024.
1. iPad Air 4 (2020) – £369
Best for: Balanced performance and design
The iPad Air 4 strikes a great balance between performance, design, and price. With its A14 Bionic chip, it offers plenty of power for most tasks, from browsing the web to multitasking and even light photo editing. The 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display is vibrant, and the slim design makes it easy to carry around.
- Display: 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display
- Processor: A14 Bionic chip
- Storage: 64GB or 256GB
- Battery Life: Up to 10 hours
- Price Range: Mid-range (~£369)
Its sleek design and solid performance make the iPad Air 4 a great option for those who want a reliable, affordable iPad without going for the latest model.
2. iPad 8th Gen (2020) – £299
Best for: Budget-friendly everyday use
For those looking for an affordable iPad, the iPad 8th Gen offers excellent value. Powered by the A12 Bionic chip, it can handle everyday tasks like browsing, video streaming, and light gaming. The 10.2-inch Retina display and Touch ID also make it a solid choice for those who want a straightforward, no-fuss tablet.
- Display: 10.2-inch Retina display
- Processor: A12 Bionic chip
- Storage: 32GB or 128GB
- Battery Life: Up to 10 hours
- Price Range: Budget (~£299)
It’s a great option if you’re on a tight budget but still want a reliable iPad for basic tasks.
3. iPad Pro 11-inch (2018) – £399
Best for: Power users and creatives on a budget
The iPad Pro 11-inch (2018) is still a beast of a device in 2024. Featuring the A12X Bionic chip, it’s fast enough to handle demanding tasks like video editing, multitasking with multiple apps, and graphic design. The 11-inch Liquid Retina display with ProMotion is perfect for creatives who need smooth performance and accurate color.
- Display: 11-inch Liquid Retina display with ProMotion
- Processor: A12X Bionic chip
- Storage: 64GB, 256GB, or 512GB
- Battery Life: Up to 10 hours
- Price Range: Mid-range (~£399)
With its powerful specs, this iPad Pro is perfect for creative professionals looking for a portable, high-performance tablet without paying full price for the newest model.
4. iPad Mini 5 (2019) – £329
Best for: Portability and casual use
If you’re looking for a compact iPad, the iPad Mini 5 is a fantastic choice. With its 7.9-inch Retina display, it’s small enough to slip into your bag but still powerful enough to handle web browsing, media consumption, and light gaming. The A12 Bionic chip ensures smooth performance for most tasks, and it supports Apple Pencil for those who want to take notes or draw.
- Display: 7.9-inch Retina display
- Processor: A12 Bionic chip
- Storage: 64GB or 256GB
- Battery Life: Up to 10 hours
- Price Range: Affordable (~£329)
The iPad Mini 5 is ideal for anyone who values portability but still wants solid performance for everyday tasks.
5. iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2017) – £399
Best for: Large display and productivity
The iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2017) is a great option for those who need a large screen for productivity, media creation, or multitasking. With a 12.9-inch Retina display and A10X Fusion chip, it can handle most apps and tasks with ease. While it’s a few years old, its size and power make it a great deal if you’re looking for a big-screen tablet at a more affordable price.
- Display: 12.9-inch Retina display
- Processor: A10X Fusion chip
- Storage: 64GB, 256GB, or 512GB
- Battery Life: Up to 10 hours
- Price Range: Mid-range (~£399)
This iPad Pro is perfect for those who need a large display for note-taking, graphic design, or watching movies in stunning quality.
