π Best iPads For Students
Here are the top iPad models for student use in 2025:
iPad Model | Best For | Price Range |
---|---|---|
iPad Air (M3) | Best all-round student iPad | $$ |
iPad (11th Gen) | Budget-friendly and reliable | $ |
iPad Pro (M4) | For power users and creatives | $$$$ |
iPad Mini (7th Gen) | Ultra-portable for reading/note-taking | $$ |
π‘ Tip: If you’re just typing, watching videos, or browsing the web β go with the 11th Gen iPad. If you’re into design or multitasking, iPad Air or Pro is the better choice.
Apple iPad (11th gen)
Apple iPad Air M3 11-inch
Apple iPad Air M3 13-inch
Apple iPad Mini (7th gen)
Apple iPad Pro M4 11-inches (5th gen)
Apple iPad Pro M4 13-inches (7th gen)
π What Makes iPad Good for Students?
- Apple Pencil support for handwritten notes
- Long battery life β around 10β12 hours
- Fast performance for multitasking
- Lightweight & portable β fits in any bag
- Split-screen multitasking for notes + videos
- Top-notch apps for learning, organization, and creativity
π How Can Students Benefit from Using iPads?
Students use iPads for way more than just browsing:
- Take notes in class using Apple Pencil
- Read and annotate eBooks and PDFs
- Join Zoom or Google Meet classes
- Record lectures with audio + notes
- Use flashcard or quiz apps for test prep
- Organize calendars, tasks, and reminders
π» Are iPads Better Than Laptops For School?
β When iPads are better:
- Super light and easy to carry
- Great battery life
- Use stylus + keyboard
- Touchscreen = more flexible input
- Instant on, no boot-up time
β When laptops win:
- Better for coding, design software
- Easier file management for complex projects
- More full-featured desktop apps
Verdict: For everyday school tasks β yes, iPads are often better. But for tech-heavy work (like programming or AutoCAD), stick to a laptop.
βοΈ The Benefits and Drawbacks of Using iPads in Education
Pros:
- Versatile β replaces books, notepads, planners
- All-in-one device (notes, eBooks, videos, presentations)
- Encourages creativity and organization
- Syncs across devices via iCloud
- Great battery and build quality
Cons:
- Expensive accessories (Pencil, Keyboard)
- Not ideal for deep file/folder management
- Some apps are iOS-only or paid
- Can be distracting without screen limits
π§ How To Choose The Right iPad As A Student
Ask yourself:
- Whatβs your budget?
- Do you need Apple Pencil support?
- Will you type a lot or mostly write?
- Will you need Pro-level performance for editing or design?
If in doubt, the iPad Air (M3) is the best balance of power, features, and price.
π‘ Not sure if an iPad is right for you? We also cover the best tablets for students, including top Android and Windows options for every budget and use case.
π― iPad Accessories Students Need
- Apple Pencil (1st, 2nd, or Pro) β essential for note-taking and sketching
- Keyboard case β turns iPad into a mini-laptop
- Screen protector β especially matte ones that mimic paper
- Sturdy case or sleeve β for backpack protection
- Portable charger β for long study sessions
- Bluetooth mouse (optional) β for laptop-like setup
π± Must-Have iPad Apps For Students
Category | Top Apps |
---|---|
Notes | GoodNotes, Notability, Apple Notes |
Reading | Kindle, Apple Books, PDF Expert |
Studying | Quizlet, Anki, StudySmarter |
Writing | Microsoft Word, Google Docs |
Organization | Notion, Things 3, Google Calendar |
Video Calls | Zoom, Google Meet, Microsoft Teams |
Cloud Storage | iCloud, Google Drive, OneDrive |
π iPad vs iPad Air vs iPad Pro β Quick Recap
Feature | iPad (11th Gen) | iPad Air (M3) | iPad Pro (M4) |
---|---|---|---|
Apple Pencil | 1st Gen | 2nd Gen | Pencil Pro |
Best For | Basics + notes | All-rounder | Power users |
Screen Size | 10.9″ | 11″ | 11″/13″ |
Price Range | $ | $$ | $$$$ |
βFAQs β iPads for Students
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Can an iPad replace a laptop for school?
Yes β especially if you get a keyboard case. Itβs great for note-taking, writing, browsing, and video calls.
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Do all iPads support Apple Pencil?
Most modern iPads do. Just check which version:
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iPad: Apple Pencil (1st Gen)
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iPad Air/Pro: Apple Pencil (2nd Gen or Pencil Pro)
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iPad Mini: 2nd Gen Pencil
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Is iPad Mini too small for schoolwork?
For note-taking or reading β no, itβs great. But typing or multitasking is harder on the small screen.
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Can students get a discount on iPads?
Yes! Appleβs Education Store offers student discounts on iPads and accessories.
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Whatβs the best iPad for high school or college?
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High school: iPad 11th Gen or iPad Air
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College: iPad Air or iPad Pro, depending on your major
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Does iPad work with Microsoft Office and Google apps?
Yes β Word, Excel, Docs, Sheets, and more all work smoothly on iPads.
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Do iPads come with a stylus included?
No. Apple Pencil is sold separately for all models.
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Can I print from an iPad?
Yes. iPads support AirPrint and many wireless printers.