Introduction — A Modern, Affordable iPad Worth Buying in 2025
When the iPad 10th Generation launched in 2022, it marked one of the biggest design shifts in Apple’s budget iPad lineup — featuring a larger 10.9-inch display, a modern flat-edge design, USB-C charging, and a landscape center stage front camera for better video calls. Fast forward to 2025, and the iPad 10th Gen remains one of the best midrange tablets you can buy. It supports the latest iPadOS 26, performs smoothly for everyday tasks, and offers a more premium experience than the lower-priced 8th and 9th Gen models.
According to UpTrade’s Price Tracker, Certified Used or Refurbished iPad 10th Gen units now start around $250+, making it an excellent option for students, families, and professionals who want a modern iPad without the high cost of newer models. If your budget allows, the iPad 10th Gen is absolutely worth buying in 2025.
iPad 10th Gen Overview — Key Features and Why It Still Shines
The iPad 10th Generation is the most advanced “budget” iPad Apple has released before the new A16-based 2025 model. It brings several upgrades that make it feel far more modern than the iPad 8th and 9th Gen, while remaining much more affordable than the iPad Air or iPad Pro.
- 10.9-inch Liquid Retina Display (True Tone)
- A14 processor for fast and smooth performance
- Modern flat-edge design (no Home button)
- 12MP Ultra-Wide front camera (landscape orientation with Center Stage)
- Touch ID integrated into the top button
- iPadOS 26 compatibility with long-term update support
Performance and Software Support (iPadOS 26)
The iPad 10th Generation remains fast and reliable in 2025 thanks to the A14 processor — the same chip used in the iPhone 12 lineup. While it’s not as powerful as the latest A16-based iPad released in 2025, the iPad 10th Gen still delivers smooth performance for browsing, schoolwork, video streaming, productivity apps, and light to moderate gaming. Multitasking with Split View and Slide Over feels responsive, and app animations remain fluid under iPadOS 26.
With full compatibility for iPadOS 26, the iPad 10th Gen benefits from Apple’s latest software enhancements, including improved multitasking tools, upgraded security, more efficient background management, improved Notes and Safari features, and ongoing compatibility with modern educational and productivity apps. Apple typically supports iPads for 6–8 years, meaning the 10th Gen is expected to stay updated through at least 2028–2029 — giving it stronger long-term value than older entry-level models.
Design and Display Quality (10.9-inch Liquid Retina)
The iPad 10th Gen marks a major design shift in Apple's entry-level lineup. It adopts the modern flat-edge look found in the iPad Air and the 2025 A16-based iPad. With slimmer bezels, no Home button, and Touch ID integrated into the top button, it feels like a cleaner, more premium device than both the 8th and 9th Gen models.
Its 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display is a big step up from the 10.2-inch standard Retina displays on older budget iPads. Colors are more vibrant, brightness is stronger, and the edge-to-edge design provides a noticeably larger and more immersive workspace — ideal for streaming, reading, drawing, and multitasking. True Tone support adjusts the color temperature automatically for more comfortable viewing in different lighting environments.
While it still lacks premium features like a laminated display, P3 wide color, or a 120Hz ProMotion refresh rate, the iPad 10th Gen offers one of the best displays in the budget-to-midrange tablet category.
Camera and Apple Pencil Experience
The iPad 10th Generation brings one of the biggest camera improvements Apple has ever given to its entry-level iPad line. It keeps the same excellent 12MP landscape-oriented front camera that Apple now uses across its newest models — including the 2025 A16-based iPad. This means the 10th Gen delivers outstanding video call quality, sharp detail, and smooth performance with Center Stage automatically adjusting the frame to keep you in view.
The rear camera also gets a meaningful upgrade from 8MP to 12MP, producing clearer photos, better low-light performance, and higher-quality document scans. For students, remote workers, and families who rely on FaceTime or Zoom, this is a major step up from the 9th Gen.
Apple Pencil support remains the same as the 9th Gen — it only works with the Apple Pencil (1st Gen). Because the 10th Gen uses USB-C instead of Lightning, the Pencil requires Apple’s USB-C adapter. The writing and drawing experience is smooth and reliable, perfect for digital note-taking, marking up homework, journaling, and light sketching. While it doesn’t match the responsiveness of the iPad Pro’s ProMotion display, it’s more than capable for everyday use.
Battery Life and Charging Performance
Battery life is another strong point for the iPad 10th Gen. Thanks to the A14 chip’s efficiency and Apple’s ongoing optimizations in iPadOS 26, users can expect dependable all-day performance:
- Up to 10 hours of web browsing or video streaming
- 8–9 hours of school or work tasks
- Several days of standby time with minimal drain
Even during heavier workloads — such as gaming, extended FaceTime calls, or multi-app productivity sessions — the iPad 10th Gen maintains solid endurance, typically delivering 6–7 hours of screen-on time.
Charging performance improves because the iPad 10th Gen uses USB-C instead of Lightning. It supports 20W fast charging:
- Around 50% charge in 45 minutes
- Full charge in roughly 2.5 hours
USB-C also makes the 10th Gen far more convenient for modern users, allowing it to share chargers with newer iPhones, MacBooks, and third-party accessories. While it doesn’t support ultra-fast charging like the iPad Pro models, its efficiency and convenience make it one of the best-balanced tablets in the budget segment.
iPad 10th Gen vs iPad 9th Gen — Should You Upgrade?
The iPad 10th Generation introduces a major redesign and several feature upgrades that make it feel significantly more modern than the iPad 9th Gen. While both tablets support iPadOS 26 in 2025, the 10th Gen is closer to Apple’s newest A16-based iPad in both design and functionality. The choice comes down to your budget and how long you plan to keep the device.
Specs Comparison
| Feature | iPad 9th Gen | iPad 10th Gen |
|---|
| Launch Year | 2021 | 2022 |
| Processor | A13 Bionic | A14 Bionic |
| Display | 10.2" Retina, True Tone | 10.9" Liquid Retina, True Tone |
| Design | Classic bezel + Home Button | Modern edge-to-edge, flat sides |
| Front Camera | 12MP Ultra-Wide (Center Stage) | 12MP Ultra-Wide (Landscape Center Stage) |
| Rear Camera | 8MP | 12MP |
| Charging Port | Lightning | USB-C |
| Apple Pencil Support | 1st Gen | 1st Gen (USB-C adapter required) |
| Keyboard Support | Smart Keyboard | Magic Keyboard Folio |
| Software Support (2025) | iPadOS 26 | iPadOS 26 |
| Expected Update End | 2027–2028 | 2028–2029 |
| Starting Price (Refurbished 2025) | $180+ | $250+ |
Key Differences
1. Modern Design & Larger Display
The iPad 10th Gen adopts Apple’s modern flat-edge design with slimmer bezels and no Home Button. Its larger 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display provides more workspace, brighter colors, and a more premium tablet feel.
2. Faster A14 Bionic Chip
The A14 provides smoother multitasking, better gaming performance, and longer overall software support.
3. Big Rear Camera Improvement
The upgrade from 8MP to 12MP greatly improves document scanning, photography, and low-light clarity.
4. USB-C Replaces Lightning
USB-C brings universal charging, hub support, and better accessory compatibility — making the 10th Gen far more future-proof.
5. Better Keyboard Options
The Magic Keyboard Folio provides a trackpad, function row, and better typing experience than the Smart Keyboard.
6. Longer Software Support
The iPad 10th Gen is expected to receive at least one additional year of iPadOS updates over the 9th Gen.
Recommendation
Choose the iPad 9th Gen ($180+) for maximum value under $200.
Choose the iPad 10th Gen ($250+) for modern design, USB-C, longer support, better display, and superior accessory compatibility.
iPad 10th Gen vs iPad (A16) — How Close Is It to the Newest iPad?
The iPad (A16), released in 2025, offers stronger performance and longer support — but the iPad 10th Gen remains surprisingly close in design, camera quality, and everyday usability. The iPad 10th Gen at $250+ is an excellent value compared to the iPad (A16) at $349+.
Specs Comparison
| Feature | iPad 10th Gen | iPad (A16) |
|---|
| Launch Year | 2022 | 2025 |
| Processor | A14 | A16 |
| Display | 10.9" Liquid Retina, True Tone | 10.9" Liquid Retina, True Tone |
| Front Camera | 12MP Ultra-Wide (Landscape Center Stage) | 12MP Ultra-Wide (Landscape Center Stage) |
| Rear Camera | 12MP | 12MP |
| Charging Port | USB-C | USB-C |
| Apple Pencil Support | Pencil (USB-C) & 1st Gen (USB-C Adapter) | Pencil (USB-C) & 1st Gen (USB-C Adapter) |
| Keyboard Support | Magic Keyboard Folio | Magic Keyboard Folio |
| Software Support (2025) | iPadOS 26 | iPadOS 26 |
| Expected Update End | 2028–2029 | 2031–2032 |
| Starting Price (Refurbished) | $250+ | $349+ |
Key Differences
1. A16 Processor — Faster, More Efficient, More Future-Proof
The A16 offers a major leap in CPU/GPU performance and adds 3–4 more years of software support.
2. Same Modern, Edge-to-Edge Design
Both tablets share the same 10.9-inch display, flat edges, USB-C, and landscape camera placement. They look nearly identical.
3. Camera Quality — Identical
Both models feature identical 12MP front and rear cameras with Center Stage.
4. Apple Pencil Support — Same
Both support Apple Pencil (USB-C) and Apple Pencil (1st Gen) with the USB-C adapter.
5. Software Longevity
The iPad (A16) receives updates until 2031–2032, offering significantly longer lifespan.
Recommendation
For most buyers in 2025, the iPad 10th Gen is the smarter purchase.
It delivers almost the same everyday experience as the newer A16 iPad — but at a significantly lower price.
Conclusion — The iPad 10th Gen Is Absolutely Worth Buying in 2025
In 2025, the iPad 10th Generation stands out as one of the best-value tablets in Apple’s lineup — especially when purchased Certified Used or Refurbished. With its modern edge-to-edge design, upgraded 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display, A14 performance, USB-C port, and support for Apple Pencil (USB-C) and the Magic Keyboard Folio, it delivers a near-identical experience to the newest iPad (A16) at a much lower price.
According to UpTrade’s Price Tracker, Certified Used or Refurbished iPad 10th Gen models start around $250+, giving buyers a premium iPad experience without the higher $349+ cost of the iPad (A16). Both support the latest iPadOS 26 in 2025, but the iPad 10th Gen remains the better value for most users because of its affordability and strong long-term usability.
If you’re looking for a modern iPad with great performance, updated design, and future-proof features — all at a reasonable price — the iPad 10th Gen is absolutely worth buying in 2025.
FAQ: Buying the iPad 10th Gen in 2025 (Organized & Grouped)
Pricing & Availability
1. How much does the iPad 10th Gen cost in 2025?
According to UpTrade’s Price Tracker, Certified Used or Refurbished iPad 10th Gen models start around $250+, depending on storage and condition.
2. Should I buy the iPad 10 or 11?
Choose the iPad 10th Gen if you want the best value.
Choose the iPad 11 (A16) if you want the newest chip and longest updates.
3. Which is better, the iPad A16 or the 10th generation?
The A16 model is more powerful and future-proof, but the 10th Gen is much cheaper and still offers 90% of the experience.
Support, Longevity & Performance
4. Does the iPad 10th Gen support iPadOS 26?
Yes — it fully supports iPadOS 26 in 2025.
5. How long will the iPad 10th Gen receive updates?
It is expected to get major updates until 2028–2029, plus additional security patches.
6. Is the iPad 10th Gen still supported in 2025?
Yes — it runs the latest iPadOS 26 with full compatibility.
7. Is the iPad 10th Gen still good in 2025?
Absolutely. The A14 chip, True Tone display, and modern design make it excellent for everyday use.
8. How many years will an iPad 10th Gen last?
Most units should last 6–7 years total, depending on battery health.
9. Is the iPad 10th Gen still fast with the A14 chip?
Yes — it remains fast for web browsing, streaming, schoolwork, note-taking, and light gaming.
Compatibility & Features
10. What generation is the iPad A16?
It’s the 11th Generation iPad — the 2025 entry-level iPad.
11. Is the iPad 10 and 11 the same size?
Both have a 10.9-inch display, but dimensions vary slightly. Cases and accessories are NOT cross-compatible.
12. Is the iPad 10th Gen good for students?
Yes — it supports Apple Pencil (USB-C), Magic Keyboard Folio, and all major school apps.
13. Is the iPad 10th Gen good for drawing?
Yes — excellent for note-taking, sketching, and digital art with Apple Pencil (USB-C).
14. Is the iPad 10th Gen good for gaming?
Yes — it runs most popular games smoothly, though M-series iPads perform better for high-end 3D games.
15. Does the iPad 10th Gen support Apple Pencil?
Yes — it supports Apple Pencil (USB-C) and Apple Pencil (1st Gen with USB-C adapter).
Comparisons With Other iPads
16. How does the iPad 10th Gen compare to the iPad 9th Gen?
The 10th Gen has a larger 10.9" Liquid Retina display, USB-C, A14 chip, better cameras, modern design, and longer support.
17. Should I buy the iPad 10th Gen or the 9th Gen?
Get the 10th Gen for longer lifespan, USB-C, and modern design.
Get the 9th Gen for the cheapest price ($180+).
18. Should I get the iPad 10th Gen or the iPad 8th Gen?
The 10th Gen is much better, but the 8th Gen is the best option under $150. Choose based on budget.
Everyday Use
19. Is the iPad 10th Gen good for video calls?
Yes — the 12MP Ultra-Wide front camera with landscape orientation and Center Stage is excellent.
20. Is the iPad 10th Gen a good family or household tablet?
Definitely. It’s durable, affordable, and supports all major apps.
21. Is the iPad 10th Gen good for schoolwork and productivity?
Yes — with Apple Pencil, keyboard support, and strong battery life, it’s great for students and remote work.
Device Age
22. How old is the iPad 10th Gen in 2025?
Released in October 2022, it is 3 years old in 2025.
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