iPad 10th Gen Review: Enhanced Camera, But 64GB Storage Falls Short
Apple used to have just one iPad model, making it easy to choose. Now, things are more complicated. With the ninth-generation iPad still around and the new 2022 iPad options, picking the right one can feel overwhelming.
The ideal iPad is somewhere among Apple's numerous models, but it's not consolidated into a single product yet.
As your reviewer, I struggle with evaluating Apple's newly redesigned 10th-gen iPad, priced at $449 (£499, AU$749). It aims to be the go-to iPad for everyone, but based on what I've seen so far… it isn't, despite its improvements over the previous version.
Apple's iPad selection might leave you scratching your head. They offer a whopping six choices: the newest base model (2022), the older ninth-generation iPad, the mini-sized iPad Mini, the mid-tier iPad Air, and the top-of-the-line iPad Pro in two different screen sizes.
You might wonder, “Which one should I get, Scott?” Let's cut through the confusion. This newly redesigned iPad checks almost all the boxes: it now boasts USB-C connectivity, a larger screen akin to the iPad Air, and enhanced speakers.
Notably, it's the first iPad to position its camera on the horizontal edge, promising improved FaceTime and Zoom calls.

However, there are drawbacks to consider with the new iPad. If you intend to use an Apple Pencil, you're limited to the first-generation model and will need a USB-C dongle, which adds inconvenience.
Additionally, accessories designed for other iPad models won't fit, necessitating new purchases. The starting price has also risen to $449 for the base 64GB model, but most users will likely opt for the higher-storage 256GB version priced at $599.
Adding a case or AppleCare easily pushes the total cost over $700 without factoring in accessories like the $250 Magic Keyboard Folio Case.
Given these considerations, the ninth-generation iPad from 2021, starting at $329 and going up to $479 for higher storage options, might be a more economical choice in today's market.
Apple has taken a similar approach with its latest MacBook Air, raising prices while adding features but keeping older models available.
It's disappointing because this iPad offers a larger screen, improved camera, and better processor—features that make it my preferred model, except for its peculiar Pencil accessory situation.
I don't use the Apple Pencil extensively, even though it's great for drawing, so I could manage with the first-generation Pencil and its USB-C dongle. However, many others will find this compromise challenging.
It's truly perplexing why Apple opted not to make this iPad compatible with the more versatile Pencil 2, especially considering all its other advancements. (You can even access 5G with the modem-enabled version.)
Now, I'll disconnect my Pencil 1 from its dongle and place it securely before continuing with this iPad review.
Specification of iPad 10th Gen
NETWORK | Technology: GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G |
LAUNCH |
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BODY |
Stylus support (1st gen only) |
DISPLAY |
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PLATFORM |
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MEMORY |
|
MAIN CAMERA |
|
SELFIE CAMERA |
|
SOUND |
|
COMMS |
|
FEATURES |
|
BATTERY |
|
MISC |
|
Camera: Yes, at last, it's flawless.
The one major improvement I've been longing for has finally arrived with the iPad: the front camera is now positioned on the landscape edge, fulfilling a wish like magic.
This change is particularly significant because I typically use iPads in landscape mode, often with cases, stands, and keyboard docks.
Previously, during Zoom or FaceTime calls on other iPads, my face would appear oddly angled, and my eyes did not align properly. This issue is now resolved. Coupled with the auto-zooming Center Stage technology, the video chat camera on this iPad is now absolutely flawless.
This single enhancement alone makes me inclined to use this iPad more than any other. However, curiously, Apple has chosen to implement this camera position change only on this specific iPad model.

It does not even have the latest iPad Pros feature. It begs the question: why not? This forward-thinking camera placement should be the standard, making this model a step ahead of the rest.
Design: Mostly improved, though not consistently
The new iPad borrows the design of its older siblings, ditching the Lightning port for USB-C and sporting a slim, flat-edged body. The 10.9-inch display with gentle curves feels bigger than before, and the speakers pack a punch.
However, it skips on the fancy anti-glare coating and wider range of colors found in the iPad Air.
While it doesn't offer the smooth 120Hz ProMotion display of the iPad Pro models, its performance is more than adequate for most tasks. In daily use, I often found distinguishing between the iPad Air and this model challenging.
Effectively, this iPad mirrors the 2020 iPad Air with a few omissions. It shares the same A14 processor but lacks support for the Pencil 2 and the rear Smart Connector for the Magic Keyboard case.
The absence of a home button is notable, with Touch ID now integrated into the side-mounted power button—a feature also seen on the iPad Mini and iPad Air, which I find convenient and wish were implemented on iPhones.
The lack of a Face ID camera isn't a concern for me, especially as wearing a mask frequently makes Touch ID more practical recently.
There are a couple of downsides to the new iPad's design. First, it's a tad thicker than the latest 11-inch iPad Pro and iPad Air, so their existing cases will need to be fixed.
This means you'll need to buy all new accessories. Second, Apple stuck the Smart Connector in a new spot on the side, and it only works with their special iPad Keyboard Folio Case. We'll cover more about that case later.
When I asked my 14-year-old son, who uses an iPad extensively, for his opinion, he simply remarked, “I don't care, it looks the same.”
However, I find one aspect of this iPad's design particularly bothersome.
Pencil: Seriously?
The most positive aspect of this iPad is its compatibility with the Apple Pencil, though it feels almost like a technicality. Unfortunately, Apple chose not to support the more convenient, magnetically charging Pencil 2 with this model.
Instead, users are stuck with the Pencil 1, which has drawbacks like rolling easily, lacking additional side-tap controls, and charging via Lightning.
What's more frustrating is the charging process: rather than simply attaching the Pencil to the iPad, you need a separate USB-C dongle and cable. This setup is inconvenient and increases the likelihood of forgetting essential accessories.
This decision might be enough to steer clear of this model for anyone serious about using the Apple Pencil for creative work on an iPad. (Even the iPad Mini supports the Pencil 2 — why not this one?)

The Magic Keyboard folio case: A flawed solution
Apple has introduced a redesigned keyboard-connected case for this new iPad, diverging significantly from its established Magic Keyboard case used with the iPad Air and Pro.
While the latter is known for its high cost ($300 and up), weight, and limited flexibility for everyday use, it excels on small work surfaces or laps.
In contrast, the folio case remains pricey at $250. It consists of a side-snapping keyboard and a kickstand back cover that attaches to the iPad.
It doubles as an everyday case and includes a row of function keys at the top, but lacks lap-friendly usability and keyboard backlighting. Despite writing this entire review on it, I edited and posted it using a MacBook Air.
I've tried keyboard cases from Logitech and others, noting a similar design on the Surface Pro. Logitech's cases are more affordable and offer better protection; Apple's case neglects to shield the iPad's sides and appears prone to detachment if dropped.
The keyboard keys feel slightly different from other Magic Keyboards or my MacBook Air, which I find less preferable.
Additionally, there needs to be a designated spot to secure the Apple Pencil, which, as far as I know, is still rolling around somewhere.
Performance: Exceedingly Satisfactory
The A14 processor, familiar from the iPhone 12, is paired here with 4GB of RAM, akin to the setup in the iPhone 12 and the 2020 iPad Air. Performance results are commendable: It's swift and capable, though not as fast as the M1 in the iPad Air or the M2 in the latest Pro models.

Do you require cutting-edge iPad performance? Probably not. The improvements over last year's ninth-gen iPad are notable, yet on par with the 2020 iPad Air. Apple's mobile processors have become so robust that the iPad's software must keep pace with their potential.
Reflections, following extended use
After using this iPad extensively since my initial review, here are my ongoing observations: For everyday tasks, it performs adequately. The improved camera has been handy for Zoom calls and FaceTime.
However, I find Apple's new keyboard case unsuitable for my needs, prompting me to explore alternative options. As someone who doesn't use the Pencil much, I've left it and its dongle aside.
Overall, I find the iPad satisfactory, though I'm not fond of aspects, such as its lack of compatibility with iPad Air and Pro cases and the steep price increase for higher storage capacities.
These factors lead me to question whether upgrading to an iPad Air might be a better choice. Yet, I'm reminded that opting for this model means benefiting from the new camera placement, which is a significant consideration.
Consider waiting before making a decision.
Apple's iPad lineup has been somewhat staggered recently: Base and Pro models typically arrive in the fall, while the Air model tends to come in the spring.
Last year's iPad Air improved the current model, featuring an M1 chip, a slightly enhanced display, and support for the Pencil 2.

However, it lacked the newly positioned front camera found on the current iPad. This situation mirrored last year when the entry-level iPad gained Center Stage zoom while the iPad Air did not.
The iPad Air comes with a $150 higher price tag and may be alluring. Apple strategically sets its upgrade increments within close reach, akin to choosing popcorn sizes at a movie theater. Before diving into iPad Pro territory and a package costing $1,000 or more, consider: Might this model go on sale soon?
Would last year's iPad suffice? Or should you wait to see if a better option for the Air arrives next spring?
Looking ahead, Apple's reliance on its M1 chips for more advanced software features raises concerns, especially with Stage Manager's delayed release due to bugs. However, for now, the A14 chip performs adequately.
While using an older Pencil and a sub-M1 chip might not future-proof this iPad, it could save you money. This year, Apple's iPad lineup offers a challenging choice, reflecting ongoing transformation. The ideal iPad model still needs to be discovered, suggesting perfection is still a work in progress.

Jim's passion for Apple products ignited in 2007 when Steve Jobs introduced the first iPhone. This was a canon event in his life. Noticing a lack of iPad-focused content that is easy to understand even for “tech-noob”, he decided to create Tabletmonkeys in 2011.
Jim continues to share his expertise and passion for tablets, helping his audience as much as he can with his motto “One Swipe at a Time!”