Best iPads for Teachers

As an experienced educator and a long-time edtech blogger, I’ve made it my mission to provide you with the most insightful recommendations to enhance your teaching experience. Today, I am excited to share my thoughts and advice on a topic that several of you has asked me about: the best iPads for teachers.

I must confess that I am a huge fan of Apple products. I’ve experimented with a wide array of gadgets from their extensive line-up over the years. The harmonious blend of functionality, design, and innovation in Apple’s ecosystem always manages to impress me and iPad is no exception.

The iPad, in its many iterations, has truly revolutionized the world of education. It provides a unique blend of accessibility, versatility, and power, making it an ideal tool for teachers of all grades and subjects. The iPad’s easy-to-use interface, combined with a vast array of educational apps and features, has the capacity to transform the way we teach, making our jobs more efficient and impactful.

So, whether you are a seasoned Apple enthusiast or an educator looking to dip your toes into the Apple ecosystem, this guide is meant to help you navigate the expansive world of iPads.

In the upcoming sections, I will share with you a collection of what I believe are some of the best iPad models to add to your teaching toolkit.

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Best iPads for Teachers

Here are our picks for the best iPads for teachers, scroll down to read the full review:

1. Apple iPad (9th Generation)

The Apple iPad (9th Generation) is a versatile, powerful device that effortlessly integrates into a teacher’s diverse needs. As an educator myself, I appreciate its high-performing features and intuitive user interface that effortlessly facilitate daily teaching tasks, multimedia presentations, and interactive learning. It comes packed with all the essentials, making it the most affordable iPad without compromising on performance or utility.

Why I selected it:
The 9th Gen iPad delivers everything you’d expect from Apple – an impressive 10.2-inch Retina display, the robust A13 Bionic chip, and an Ultra Wide front camera with Center Stage. Its IPadOS is designed to enhance productivity, allowing multiple apps to run simultaneously, and the compatibility with Apple Pencil takes note-taking to a whole new level. With the reliability of fast Wi-Fi connectivity and ample storage options, this iPad easily adapts to every teaching requirement.

Key Features:

• Powerful A13 Bionic chip
• 10.2-inch Retina display with True Tone technology
• IPadOS for multitasking and productivity
• Fast Wi-Fi connectivity
• Available in 64GB and 256GB storage options
• Compatibility with Apple Pencil (1st generation) and Smart Keyboard
• Unlock and secure payments with Touch ID
• 12MP Ultra Wide front camera with Center Stage and 8MP Wide back camera
• All-day battery life

2. Apple 9.7-inch iPad

The Apple 9.7-inch iPad, known for its solid design and high-performing features, stands as an excellent tool for educators. As a long-time teacher and EdTech blogger, I see this iPad as a beneficial instrument that transforms a typical classroom into an interactive learning space. With Apple Pencil support, it serves as a comprehensive platform for creativity, note-taking, and content presentation.

Why I selected it:
This 9.7-inch iPad offers a balance between affordability and performance. The A10 Fusion chip powers augmented reality applications, enhancing learning with immersive experiences. Its Retina display offers crisp visuals, perfect for multimedia educational content. Moreover, the device’s support for the Apple Pencil (sold separately) opens up possibilities for innovative teaching methods.

Key Features:

• 9.7-inch Retina display with 2048 x 1536 screen resolution
• Apple A10 Fusion SoC and M10 Coprocessor
• Apple Pencil Support
• Front 1.2MP FaceTime HD Camera and Rear 8MP Camera
• Touch ID Sensor for secure authentication
• Fast 802.11ac Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 4.4
• 32GB Storage capacity
• 8-hour average battery life

3. Apple iPad Air 10.5-inch (3rd Gen)

The Apple iPad Air 3rd Gen is a fantastic choice for teachers seeking a lightweight yet powerful device. With its 10.5-inch Retina display, A12 Bionic chip, and up to 10 hours of battery life, this iPad ticks all the boxes, ensuring you have the tools to deliver engaging lessons, anytime and anywhere.

Why I selected it:
The iPad Air’s lightweight design and robust performance make it ideal for teachers on the go. It comes with a 10.5-inch Retina display, providing ample space for multitasking and presenting visual content. The A12 Bionic chip offers speed and power comparable to many PCs, which is impressive for a tablet. Add to that the convenience of Touch ID and Apple Pay, and you have a versatile device perfect for the modern educator.

Key Features:

• 10.5-Inch Retina Display with True Tone and wide Color
• A12 Bionic chip
• Touch ID Fingerprint Sensor and Apple Pay
• 8MP back camera, 7MP FaceTime HD front camera
• Stereo speakers
• 802.11AC Wi-Fi
• Up to 10 hours of battery life
• 64 GB storage

4. Apple iPad Mini, 5th Gen

Teachers who need an ultra-portable tablet should consider the iPad Mini 5th Gen. As a fellow educator, I understand that smaller can sometimes be better, especially when it comes to carrying devices around all day. Despite its small size, this iPad Mini packs a punch with a 7.9-Inch Retina Display, an A12 Bionic chip, and a full suite of useful features.

Why I selected it:
The compact design of the iPad Mini makes it an excellent choice for teachers who are always on the move. Despite its small size, it doesn’t skimp on power or functionality. The A12 Bionic chip ensures fast performance, while the sharp Retina display is perfect for presenting multimedia content. The added convenience of Touch ID and a 7MP FaceTime HD Front camera for video calls makes it a versatile tool in any educational setting.

Key Features:

• 7.9-Inch Retina Display with True Tone and wide Color
• A12 Bionic chip
• Touch ID Fingerprint Sensor
• 8MP back camera, 7MP FaceTime HD Front camera
• Stereo speakers
• 64 GB storage

FAQs on Best iPads for Teachers

What are the key things to consider when choosing an iPad for teaching purposes?
When choosing an iPad for teaching, consider factors such as display size, storage capacity, performance, battery life, and compatibility with educational apps and accessories like the Apple Pencil or external keyboards.

How does iPadOS enhance the use of an iPad in a teaching environment?
iPadOS provides features that enhance productivity, such as multitasking capabilities, a redesigned Home Screen, and new ways to use Apple Pencil. It also supports educational apps that can help in creating interactive lessons.

Is the storage capacity important for an iPad used in teaching?
Yes, storage capacity is essential. If you plan to store many educational apps, videos, presentations, and other teaching materials on your iPad, you’ll need more storage. Devices with larger storage capacity are typically more expensive, so balance your need for space with your budget.

Is the iPad Mini suitable for teachers?
Absolutely! The iPad Mini is an excellent choice for teachers seeking portability. It packs powerful performance in a compact design, which is perfect for educators on the move.

What about the longevity of these iPads? Will they last?
iPads are known for their durability and longevity. However, it also depends on how well they are taken care of. Using a protective case and screen protector can increase the lifespan of the iPad. Also, Apple’s support and updates for older models are generally reliable.

Can these iPads support video conferencing for online teaching?
Yes, all the iPads listed here have front-facing cameras suitable for video conferencing. They support various apps like Zoom, Google Meet, and Microsoft Teams, which are commonly used for online teaching.

Final thoughts

As an edtech enthusiast and educator, I’ve explored various models of iPad to offer you a guide tailored to the teaching profession. Apple’s lineup, from the all-encompassing iPad (9th Generation) to the compact iPad Mini, caters to every educational need, proving that technology can be both a facilitator and an innovator in learning environments. This guide aims to streamline your decision-making process, providing insights into the best iPads that promise to enrich your teaching toolkit. With a focus on the fusion of functionality and design, these recommendations are curated to ensure you find an iPad that resonates with your pedagogical and teaching strategies.