The Apple iPad 11th Generation offers consumers a refined entry-level tablet experience with sleek design upgrades, improved performance via the A16 Bionic chip running iPadOS 18, and doubled base storage. While missing premium features like Apple Intelligence and a high refresh rate, it remains compelling for casual users despite some dated specifications.

Design and Display

The iPad 11th Gen features slim bezels and aluminum construction at 477g, available in Blue, Pink, Silver, and Yellow. Its Liquid Retina display, marketed as 11-inch, delivers 2360 x 1640 pixels resolution with 500 nits of brightness. The screen of the 10th Generation iPad, marketed as 10.9-inch, has exactly the same diagonal measurement of 10.86 inches and the same resolution. Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 has the OLED technology and a 120Hz refresh rate.

Processor

The A16 Bionic chip with 6-core CPU and 5-core GPU provides 30% better performance than the previous generation’s A14, while still trailing the M-series processors in premium iPads.

RAM and Storage

The iPad 11th Gen is speculated to contain 6GB RAM; Apple does not disclose it. The base storage doubles to 128GB, with 256GB and 512GB options available, addressing previous limitations and matching competitors like the Lenovo Tab P12.

Software

Shipping with iPadOS 18 (upgradable to 18.1), it offers enhanced multitasking and camera processing. Apple promises support until 2030, though it lacks Apple Intelligence features.

Performance

The A16 chip delivers 30% faster CPU and 25% better GPU performance compared to the 10th Gen iPad, ensuring smooth browsing, streaming, and light gaming. Creative apps run well, and Split View handles routine multitasking efficiently.

The speculated 6GB RAM shows limitations during intensive tasks compared to the iPad Air’s 8GB. The Galaxy Tab S9 with Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 and 120Hz display offers superior performance for demanding workloads. Casual games run acceptably at medium settings, but 4K editing shows lag.

For students and casual users, the performance is OK, though creative professionals should consider higher-tier options.

Camera

The 12MP rear camera captures decent photos in good lighting and records 4K/30fps video, enhanced with Smart HDR 4 processing – an upgrade from the previous generation’s HDR 3. Low-light performance remains mediocre compared to the Tab S9’s dual-lens system.

The 12MP front camera with Center Stage technology intelligently tracks subjects during video calls, making it excellent for remote learning and meetings.

Sound

Dual stereo speakers deliver clear audio optimized for landscape orientation. Bass response is acceptable but doesn’t match the iPad Pro’s quad-speaker array. No headphone jack necessitates Bluetooth or USB-C audio solutions.

Battery

The 28.6Wh battery provides 10 hours of typical use, charging to 50% in about an hour with 20W USB-C (adapter sold separately). Heavy workloads reduce life to around 8 hours.

Accessories

Compatible with the USB-C Apple Pencil (₹8,900) and Magic Keyboard Folio (₹24,900), sold separately. Unlike iPad Air, it doesn’t support Apple Pencil Pro.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Improved A16 performance
• 128GB base storage
• Excellent front camera
• Five years of support
• Modern design with color options

Cons

• No 120Hz display
• Lacks Apple Intelligence
• Limited RAM for heavy tasks
• Accessories sold separately

Market Buzz

Online marketplaces feature positive feedback on display quality, A16 performance, storage, and colors, though some users note the absence of AI features and dated display technology.

Pricing

• 128GB Wi-Fi: ₹34,900
• 256GB Wi-Fi: ₹44,900
• 512GB Wi-Fi: ₹64,900

Cellular models add ₹15,000 to prices.

Final Verdict

The iPad 11th Gen strikes an effective balance between performance and value for casual Indian users and students, offering meaningful upgrades while maintaining an accessible price significantly below the iPad Air.