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Introduction: The Evolution of iPad Products
Since the first iPad launched in 2010, Apple’s tablet lineup has revolutionized the way we interact with technology. Initially a device bridging the gap between smartphones and laptops, the iPad has evolved into a versatile tool used for everything from creative work to education, entertainment, and productivity. With each new iteration, Apple continues to push the boundaries of what tablets can do.
In this article, we will explore all iPad products released until 2025, examining their release dates, pricing, specifications, and a glimpse into the future of Apple’s iPad lineup.
Comprehensive Table: iPad Product Overview (2025)
Here’s a detailed table summarizing the key iPad models, their release dates, pricing, specifications, and more.
| Model | Release Date | Price (Starting) | CPU | GPU | RAM | Storage | Screen Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| iPad (1st Gen) | 2010 | $499 | Apple A4 | PowerVR SGX535 | 256MB | 16GB-64GB HDD | 9.7″ |
| iPad 2 | 2011 | $499 | Apple A5 | PowerVR SGX543MP2 | 512MB | 16GB-64GB HDD | 9.7″ |
| iPad 3 | 2012 | $499 | Apple A5X | PowerVR SGX543MP4 | 1GB | 16GB-64GB SSD | 9.7″ Retina |
| iPad Mini (1st Gen) | 2012 | $329 | Apple A5 | PowerVR SGX543MP2 | 512MB | 16GB-64GB SSD | 7.9″ |
| iPad Air | 2013 | $499 | Apple A7 | PowerVR G6430 | 1GB | 16GB-64GB SSD | 9.7″ |
| iPad Pro (12.9″) | 2015 | $799 | Apple A9X | PowerVR GT7600 | 4GB | 32GB-256GB SSD | 12.9″ |
| iPad Pro (10.5″) | 2017 | $649 | Apple A10X Fusion | PowerVR Series7XT GT7600 | 4GB | 64GB-512GB SSD | 10.5″ |
| iPad Air (2020) | 2020 | $599 | Apple A14 Bionic | Apple GPU | 4GB | 64GB-256GB SSD | 10.9″ |
| iPad Pro (2021) | 2021 | $799 | Apple M1 | Apple GPU | 8GB-16GB | 128GB-2TB SSD | 11″-12.9″ |
| iPad Mini (2021) | 2021 | $499 | Apple A15 Bionic | Apple GPU | 4GB | 64GB-256GB SSD | 8.3″ |
| iPad Air (2022) | 2022 | $599 | Apple M1 | Apple GPU | 8GB | 64GB-256GB SSD | 10.9″ |
| iPad Pro (2022) | 2022 | $799 | Apple M2 | Apple GPU | 8GB-16GB | 128GB-2TB SSD | 11″-12.9″ |
| iPad (2024) | 2024 | $499 | Apple A16 Bionic | Apple GPU | 4GB | 64GB-256GB SSD | 10.5″ |
Geekbench performance comparison table for iPads up until 2025.
Geekbench scores measure the CPU performance (single-core and multi-core) of devices, helping to compare processing power:
| iPad Model | Release Year | Geekbench Single-Core Score | Geekbench Multi-Core Score | Processor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| iPad (1st generation) | 2010 | ~200 | ~400 | Apple A4 |
| iPad 2 | 2011 | ~250 | ~500 | Apple A5 |
| iPad (3rd generation) | 2012 | ~400 | ~800 | Apple A5X |
| iPad (4th generation) | 2012 | ~600 | ~1200 | Apple A6X |
| iPad Air | 2013 | ~1300 | ~2600 | Apple A7 |
| iPad Air 2 | 2014 | ~1800 | ~3500 | Apple A8X |
| iPad (5th generation) | 2017 | ~2500 | ~4400 | Apple A9 |
| iPad (6th generation) | 2018 | ~2900 | ~5000 | Apple A10 Fusion |
| iPad (7th generation) | 2019 | ~2900 | ~4900 | Apple A10 Fusion |
| iPad (8th generation) | 2020 | ~3500 | ~7500 | Apple A12 Bionic |
| iPad (9th generation) | 2021 | ~4500 | ~9000 | Apple A13 Bionic |
| iPad (10th generation) | 2022 | ~4800 | ~9800 | Apple A14 Bionic |
| iPad (11th generation) | 2025 | ~5600 | ~12000 | Apple A16 Bionic |
| iPad Mini 7 | 2025 | ~6000 | ~12000 | Apple A17 Pro |
| iPad Air (7th generation) | 2025 | ~6800 | ~13000 | Apple M3 |
| iPad Pro (7th generation) | 2024 | ~7200 | ~14000 | Apple M4 |
Notes:
- These Geekbench scores are based on publicly available benchmarks and may vary depending on the model configuration, software version, and testing conditions.
- The single-core score reflects performance for tasks that rely on a single core, while the multi-core score reflects performance for tasks utilizing multiple cores (e.g., multi-tasking, complex operations).
- The processors listed show the chips used in each model and their respective architectures.
Overview of iPad Products: From the First iPad to 2025 Models
Over the years, Apple has released several iPad models tailored to different user needs. These include the standard iPad, iPad Mini, iPad Air, iPad Pro, and the iPad (2024) powered by the latest chip technology. Here’s an overview of the iPad’s journey:
First iPad (2010)
The first iPad revolutionized personal computing, combining the portability of a smartphone with the screen size of a laptop. It had a 9.7-inch display and was powered by the Apple A4 chip.
iPad 2 (2011)
The iPad 2 brought thinner design, faster performance, and front/rear cameras. It was the first to offer the front-facing camera for FaceTime calls.
iPad 3 (2012)
Known as “The New iPad,” this model introduced Retina display, significantly improving the screen resolution. It also featured the Apple A5X chip.
iPad 4 (2012)
The iPad 4 came with a Lightning connector and improved performance, thanks to the new Apple A6X chip.
iPad Mini (2012)
Apple introduced the iPad Mini as a smaller alternative to the regular iPad, with a 7.9-inch screen, offering portability without sacrificing much power.
iPad Air (2013)
The iPad Air featured a thinner and lighter design than its predecessors while maintaining powerful performance. It was powered by the A7 chip.
iPad Pro (2015)
The iPad Pro, Apple’s first “professional” tablet, was released with a larger screen size (12.9 inches), support for the Apple Pencil, and Smart Keyboard. It used the A9X chip and aimed at creative professionals.
iPad Mini 4 (2015)
This model brought significant upgrades to the smaller iPad, including the A8 chip and better display quality.
iPad Pro 9.7” and iPad Pro 12.9” (2016)
The iPad Pro models were updated with a True Tone display, a more powerful A9X chip, and a 12.9-inch variant for creative professionals.
iPad Pro 10.5” and iPad Pro 12.9” (2017)
The 10.5-inch iPad Pro was introduced with a larger screen in a similar form factor to the 9.7-inch version, while maintaining a 120Hz refresh rate.
iPad (2017)
Apple released an entry-level 9.7-inch iPad, which was a direct successor to the iPad Air 2 and featured a lower price point for general users.
iPad Pro (2018)
The 2018 iPad Pro featured a complete redesign, including a bezel-less display, Face ID, USB-C support, and was powered by the A12X Bionic chip. It also introduced support for the new second-generation Apple Pencil.
iPad Air (2020)
The iPad Air 4 brought a complete redesign, similar to the iPad Pro, with flat edges, Touch ID integrated into the power button, and powered by the A14 Bionic chip.
iPad Pro (2020)
The 2020 iPad Pro models introduced LiDAR scanners for improved AR experiences and was powered by the A12Z Bionic chip. The 12.9-inch version became even more advanced, with better performance than most laptops.
iPad (2021)
This model received a significant refresh, with the introduction of a larger 10.2-inch screen, the A13 Bionic chip, and better camera improvements.
iPad Mini (2021)
The 2021 iPad Mini was updated with a new design similar to the iPad Air and iPad Pro, featuring an 8.3-inch screen, the A15 Bionic chip, and USB-C charging.
iPad Air (2022)
The iPad Air 5 brought an upgraded M1 chip, delivering impressive performance improvements and a larger 10.9-inch display. This version also included improved cameras and 5G support.
iPad Pro (2022)
The iPad Pro 2022 models were powered by the M2 chip, offering desktop-level performance, a new hover feature with the Apple Pencil, and ProMotion for a smoother experience.
iPad (2024)
In 2024, the iPad was redesigned, featuring the new A16 Bionic chip, USB-C charging, and a better 10.5-inch display, making it one of the best-value tablets on the market.
Future Outlook: What’s Next for iPads?
As Apple continues to innovate, we can expect several advancements in the iPad lineup:
- Faster and More Efficient Chips: Future iPads will likely feature even faster processors, possibly moving towards the M-series chips, similar to the MacBook and Mac Pro.
- Enhanced Displays: Expect to see improved display technologies, including better refresh rates, higher resolutions, and better HDR support, making iPads even more appealing for content creators.
- AR and VR Integration: With advancements in augmented and virtual reality, future iPads may come equipped with features designed for immersive experiences, targeting the growing AR/VR market.
- Pro-Level Features: The iPad Pro line will likely continue to target professionals, with enhanced storage, faster chips, and improved display technologies for power users.
- More Eco-Friendly Designs: Apple will likely continue its focus on sustainability, incorporating more recycled materials and eco-friendly features into future iPads.
Conclusion: The Future of iPad is Bright
From its humble beginnings to the powerful iPad Pro and Mini models of today, the iPad continues to set the bar in tablet computing. With constant improvements in design, performance, and functionality, the future of the iPad looks incredibly promising, especially as Apple continues to innovate across hardware and software.
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