Apple has released no fewer than 10 models of its regular iPad since the first launch of the tablet in 2010. While the mini, air and pro models get the most attention, the standard model of Apple seems to remain strong as the most entry option in the iPad range.
Apple also seems to think so, which is why it has recently updated its basic IPad, which is equipped with the A16 Bionic Chip for improved performance and efficiency. But does the new generation introduce other changes?
Here everything is new about the new iPad at entry level.
When was the new iPad (11th gene) released?
Apple revealed the updated entry-level IPAD (and the new M3 iPad Air) March 4, 2025. After a week-long pre-order period, the official shopping shelves saved March 12, 2025.
You can buy it directly Apple UK or Apple Usas well as from external sellers, including Amazon, Currys” Argos And John Lewis In the UK or Walmart And best buy in the US.
How much does the new iPad (11th gene) cost?
The new iPad starts at £ 329/$ 349 for the Wi-Fi model and £ 479/$ 499 for the Wi-Fi + Cellular version. Educational savings offer further discounts, which results in the basic model £ 309/$ 329.
Storage options have also been improved, whereby the starting configuration now offers 128 GB, in addition to 256 GB and 512 GB variants.
This is how earlier generations of entry-level IPads were priced in their first launch:
What specifications and functions does the new iPad (11th gene) have?
This year’s version of the new iPad does not bring much that is new compared to its predecessor, but the performance improvements can find fans – especially given the lower price.
Design
The entry-level IPAD retains its well-known design, with a 10.9-inch display with a slender bezel, flat edges and a touch ID button integrated in the upper on / off button. It is available in blue, pink, yellow and silver.
Reproduction
The display remains a liquid retina panel and offers good brightness and color accuracy.
Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry
Although it misses the higher refresh speeds and advanced HDR possibilities of the iPad Pro, it still offers a solid visual experience for streaming, browsing and basic office.
Performance
The biggest change in this update is the transition to the A16 Bionic Chip. Apple claims that the A16 yields up to 30% faster performance compared to the previous A14-powered model, which improves the responsiveness of apps and multitasking.
Daily tasks such as web browsing, document processing and media consumption must feel more flexible, and the A16 also helps to stimulate game performance.
Cameras
The new iPad remains a 12MP camera on the front with an ultrawide lens, which guarantees clear video calls. The reversing camera also remains a 12MP shooter that can take high-quality and 4K video photos.
Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry
Although it is not an important focus for the iPad at entry level, these cameras are suitable for casual photography and scand documents.
Battery and charging
The battery life is comparable to the previous model and offers approximately 10 hours of use on one load.
The device charges via USB-C, making it compatible with a wide range of accessories, but it still does not support Magsafe.
Software
The iPad performs iPados 18 and brings software improvements, such as improved multitasking, an updated Notes app with manuscript recognition and new AI-driven tools.
Although Apple Intelligence functions are exclusive to M-series iPads, the A16 chip still supports some of the latest progress on iPados.
Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry
We link to our review as soon as we have the new model. In the meantime you can view our guides to the best iPads and the best tablets in general.
