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- Best overall: Apple iPad 11-inch (A16) Wi-Fi 128GB – Silver
- Best budget: Apple iPad (9th generation) Wi-Fi 64GB – Space Gray
- Best premium: Apple iPad Pro 13-inch (M4) Wi-Fi 256GB Standard Glass – Silver
- Best for travel: Apple iPad mini (A17 Pro) Wi-Fi 128GB – Blue
- The Apple iPad Pro 13-inch (M4) offers a 13-inch OLED display and 120Hz refresh rate for demanding work and entertainment.
- The Apple iPad (9th generation) has a 10.2-inch screen, A13 chip and 64GB of storage, making it a basic-use choice.
- The Apple iPad (A16) Wi-Fi 128GB offers a newer everyday option with 128GB of storage.
- The Apple iPad mini (A17 Pro) suits readers and travelers who want a compact 8.3-inch tablet.
- Match storage, display size and accessory needs before choosing a Black Friday 2026 iPad.
The Apple iPad Pro 13-inch (M4) is the stronger choice for demanding work, while the Apple iPad (9th generation) is a simpler tablet for browsing, reading and video. I researched and compared specs, reviews and owner feedback to clarify which features justify choosing each device for Black Friday 2026.
The comparison also includes five alternatives, from compact travel tablets to large-screen Air models. My pick for most people is the Apple iPad (A16) Wi-Fi 128GB: its 128GB starting storage and current-generation everyday performance make it a practical balance. Skip it if you need the Pro’s 120Hz display or the older iPad’s lowest-cost, basic-use appeal.
How We Picked
- Compared processor generations and practical performance claims, including the A13, A16, A17 Pro, M3 and M4 chips.
- Checked screen size, display technology and refresh rate to separate basic viewing from premium creative work.
- Considered base storage, because photo libraries, downloads and large apps use space quickly.
- Reviewed owner feedback and product specifications for portability, accessories and day-to-day usability.
- Selected models across seven distinct use cases, from a compact tablet to a 13-inch productivity screen.
Comparison Table
| Product | Best for | Display size | Storage | Refresh rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apple iPad Pro 13-inch (M4) Wi-Fi 256GB Standard Glass – Silver | Premium creative work | 13-inch | 256GB | 120Hz |
| Apple iPad (9th generation) Wi-Fi 64GB – Space Gray | Basic browsing and reading | 10.2-inch | 64GB | 60Hz |
| Apple iPad Air 13-inch (M3) Wi-Fi 128GB – Blue | Large-screen productivity | 13-inch | 128GB | 60Hz |
| Apple iPad Air 11-inch (M3) Wi-Fi 128GB – Blue | Portable productivity | 11-inch | 128GB | 60Hz |
| Apple iPad 11-inch (A16) Wi-Fi 128GB – Silver | Everyday family use | 11-inch | 128GB | 60Hz |
| Apple iPad mini (A17 Pro) Wi-Fi 128GB – Blue | Travel and reading | 8.3-inch | 128GB | 60Hz |
| Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) Wi-Fi 256GB Standard Glass – Silver | Portable premium performance | 11-inch | 256GB | 120Hz |
Best Picks Reviewed
#1
Apple iPad Pro 13-inch (M4) Wi-Fi 256GB Standard Glass – Silver
The Apple iPad Pro 13-inch (M4) Wi-Fi 256GB Standard Glass – Silver is the best premium iPad for creative professionals, with a 13-inch Ultra Retina XDR display and 120Hz refresh rate. The Apple iPad Pro 13-inch (M4) Wi-Fi 256GB Standard Glass – Silver's M4 chip and spacious screen suit demanding editing, drawing and multitasking.
Best for: Premium creative work, multitasking and large-screen entertainment
- Display
- 13-inch Ultra Retina XDR
- Chip
- Apple M4
- Storage
- 256GB
- Refresh rate
- 120Hz
- Bright OLED display with smooth 120Hz motion
- M4 performance for demanding apps
- 256GB base storage
- Premium features are excessive for basic browsing and video
- Large size is less convenient for one-handed use
Is the Apple iPad Pro 13-inch (M4) Wi-Fi 256GB Standard Glass – Silver worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
Yes. The Apple iPad Pro 13-inch (M4) Wi-Fi 256GB Standard Glass – Silver is worth considering for demanding creative work, with a 13-inch OLED screen, M4 chip and 120Hz refresh rate. Choose a smaller model for easier carrying.
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#2
Apple iPad (9th generation) Wi-Fi 64GB – Space Gray
The Apple iPad (9th generation) Wi-Fi 64GB – Space Gray is the best basic iPad for readers and casual users, with a 10.2-inch display and A13 chip. The Apple iPad (9th generation) Wi-Fi 64GB – Space Gray's 64GB capacity and older Lightning connection suit simple tasks better than intensive work.
Best for: Reading, web browsing and casual video
- Display
- 10.2-inch Retina
- Chip
- Apple A13 Bionic
- Storage
- 64GB
- Connector
- Lightning
- Familiar 10.2-inch screen for everyday use
- Touch ID home button
- Supports first-generation Apple Pencil
- 64GB fills quickly with large apps and downloads
- Older chip and Lightning connector
Is the Apple iPad (9th generation) Wi-Fi 64GB – Space Gray worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
Yes, for basic use. The Apple iPad (9th generation) Wi-Fi 64GB – Space Gray handles reading, browsing and video on its 10.2-inch screen. The 64GB storage and A13 chip make it a poor fit for heavy creative work or large app libraries.
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#3
Apple iPad Air 13-inch (M3) Wi-Fi 128GB – Blue
The Apple iPad Air 13-inch (M3) Wi-Fi 128GB – Blue is the best large-screen value pick for students and multitaskers, with a 13-inch display and M3 chip. The roomy screen offers more workspace than compact tablets without requiring a Pro model.
Best for: Large-screen study, multitasking and media
- Display
- 13-inch Liquid Retina
- Chip
- Apple M3
- Storage
- 128GB
- Refresh rate
- 60Hz
- Large screen for documents and split-screen tasks
- M3 chip handles demanding everyday apps
- 128GB starting storage
- 60Hz screen is less fluid than the Pro display
- Large body takes up more bag space
Is the Apple iPad Air 13-inch (M3) Wi-Fi 128GB – Blue worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
Yes. The Apple iPad Air 13-inch (M3) Wi-Fi 128GB – Blue gives students and multitaskers a 13-inch workspace, M3 performance and 128GB storage. Choose the Pro instead when a 120Hz OLED display is a must-have.
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#4
Apple iPad Air 11-inch (M3) Wi-Fi 128GB – Blue
The Apple iPad Air 11-inch (M3) Wi-Fi 128GB – Blue is the best balanced tablet for students and commuters, with an 11-inch display and M3 chip. The Apple iPad Air 11-inch (M3) Wi-Fi 128GB – Blue's smaller frame is easier to carry than the 13-inch Air while retaining strong app performance.
Best for: Portable productivity and study
- Display
- 11-inch Liquid Retina
- Chip
- Apple M3
- Storage
- 128GB
- Refresh rate
- 60Hz
- Portable size with capable M3 performance
- 128GB storage suits a broad range of users
- Works with compatible Apple Pencil accessories
- 60Hz display lacks ProMotion
- Smaller workspace than 13-inch models
Is the Apple iPad Air 11-inch (M3) Wi-Fi 128GB – Blue worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
Yes. The Apple iPad Air 11-inch (M3) Wi-Fi 128GB – Blue combines an easy-to-carry 11-inch screen with an M3 chip and 128GB storage. The Apple iPad Air 11-inch (M3) Wi-Fi 128GB – Blue is a strong fit for study and travel, though the 60Hz display is not as smooth as the Pro screen.
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#5 · Top pick
Apple iPad 11-inch (A16) Wi-Fi 128GB – Silver
The Apple iPad 11-inch (A16) Wi-Fi 128GB – Silver is the best everyday iPad for families and general users, with an 11-inch display and 128GB storage. The A16 chip and generous base capacity make it a sensible step up from the 64GB ninth-generation model.
Best for: Everyday apps, family sharing and streaming
- Display
- 11-inch Liquid Retina
- Chip
- Apple A16
- Storage
- 128GB
- Refresh rate
- 60Hz
- 128GB base storage
- 11-inch screen works well for video and browsing
- Current everyday chip for common apps
- Lacks the Pro models’ 120Hz display
- Not as compact as the iPad mini
Is the Apple iPad 11-inch (A16) Wi-Fi 128GB – Silver worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
Yes. The Apple iPad 11-inch (A16) Wi-Fi 128GB – Silver is a sound everyday choice for browsing, streaming and family apps. The Apple iPad 11-inch (A16) Wi-Fi 128GB – Silver's 11-inch screen and 128GB storage offer a more flexible starting point than the 64GB Apple iPad (9th generation).
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#6
Apple iPad mini (A17 Pro) Wi-Fi 128GB – Blue
The Apple iPad mini (A17 Pro) Wi-Fi 128GB – Blue is the best travel iPad for commuters and readers, with an 8.3-inch display and A17 Pro chip. The Apple iPad mini (A17 Pro) Wi-Fi 128GB – Blue's compact size slips easily into a small bag while offering 128GB for apps and downloads.
Best for: Travel, reading and compact gaming
- Display
- 8.3-inch Liquid Retina
- Chip
- Apple A17 Pro
- Storage
- 128GB
- Refresh rate
- 60Hz
- Compact, lightweight design
- A17 Pro supports demanding apps
- 128GB storage in a small tablet
- Screen is cramped for long document editing
- No 120Hz ProMotion display
Is the Apple iPad mini (A17 Pro) Wi-Fi 128GB – Blue worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
Yes. The Apple iPad mini (A17 Pro) Wi-Fi 128GB – Blue is a smart pick for travel and reading, with an 8.3-inch screen and 128GB storage. Choose a larger iPad for split-screen work, lengthy writing or expansive creative projects.
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#7
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) Wi-Fi 256GB Standard Glass – Silver
The Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) Wi-Fi 256GB Standard Glass – Silver is the best compact premium tablet for artists and power users, with an 11-inch OLED display and 120Hz refresh rate. The Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) Wi-Fi 256GB Standard Glass – Silver pairs the M4 chip with a more portable frame than the 13-inch Pro.
Best for: Premium performance in a portable size
- Display
- 11-inch Ultra Retina XDR
- Chip
- Apple M4
- Storage
- 256GB
- Refresh rate
- 120Hz
- OLED display with smooth 120Hz motion
- M4 chip for demanding creative apps
- 256GB storage at the base capacity
- Premium performance exceeds basic-use needs
- Smaller canvas than the 13-inch Pro
Is the Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) Wi-Fi 256GB Standard Glass – Silver worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
Yes. The Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) Wi-Fi 256GB Standard Glass – Silver delivers M4 performance, 256GB storage and a 120Hz OLED screen in an 11-inch size. The Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) Wi-Fi 256GB Standard Glass – Silver suits power users who want portability more than the 13-inch Pro’s larger canvas.
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Which is better: the Apple iPad Pro 13-inch (M4) or the Apple iPad (9th generation)?
The Apple iPad Pro 13-inch (M4) is better for demanding work, while the Apple iPad (9th generation) is better for basic tasks and a straightforward tablet experience. The Pro has a 13-inch OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate; the ninth-generation model has a 10.2-inch Retina display and 60Hz refresh rate.
The chip and storage gap also matters: the M4 Pro starts at 256GB, while the A13-powered ninth-generation model starts at 64GB. The older tablet remains suitable for reading, browsing and video, but it is less future-facing for storage-heavy apps. Choose the Pro when display quality, creative apps and multitasking are central. Choose the ninth-generation model for simple use and compatibility with its Lightning-based setup.
Is the Apple iPad (9th generation) still good for basic use?
The Apple iPad (9th generation) remains suitable for reading, web browsing and video on its 10.2-inch screen. The A13 chip handles ordinary tasks, while the Home button with Touch ID gives users a familiar way to unlock the tablet.
The main trade-offs are 64GB of starting storage, the Lightning connector and an older design. Those limits matter when installing large apps, keeping many downloads or connecting newer accessories. Buyers seeking a simple device for a narrow set of tasks can still find value in its straightforward setup. Buyers planning to keep a tablet for demanding apps, large media collections or productivity should compare the Apple iPad 11-inch (A16) Wi-Fi 128GB – Silver before deciding.
Which iPad screen size is best for work, study and travel?
The Apple iPad Pro 13-inch (M4) and Apple iPad Air 13-inch (M3) are the strongest choices for large-screen work, while the Apple iPad mini (A17 Pro) is easiest to carry at 8.3 inches. Screen size affects split-screen use, typing comfort, video viewing and how easily a tablet fits in a bag.
An 11-inch tablet is a practical middle ground: the Apple iPad 11-inch (A16) suits everyday use, and the Apple iPad Air 11-inch (M3) brings an M3 chip in a portable size. The Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) adds an OLED display and 120Hz refresh rate for users who want premium performance without the larger Pro’s footprint. Pick based on where the screen will be used most.
How much iPad storage should you choose?
Choose 64GB for light use and 128GB or more for a fuller app, photo and download library. The Apple iPad (9th generation) starts at 64GB, while the Apple iPad 11-inch (A16), Apple iPad Air models and Apple iPad mini start at 128GB.
The Apple iPad Pro models in this guide start at 256GB, giving creative users more room for large projects and local media. Cloud storage helps keep files accessible, but it does not replace device capacity for apps, offline video or working files. Think about how many apps and downloads stay on the tablet at once. A bigger capacity is useful when the tablet is shared or used for school and work, because repeated cleanup becomes less necessary.
Which iPad features matter most for Black Friday 2026?
For Black Friday 2026, compare the chip, storage, screen and accessory support before focusing on a product label. The Apple iPad Pro 13-inch (M4) offers a 120Hz OLED screen, while the Apple iPad (9th generation) is a 60Hz, 10.2-inch tablet with a Lightning connector.
Check that the chosen Apple Pencil and keyboard accessories match the exact iPad model; compatibility differs by generation and product line. Also decide whether Wi-Fi-only connectivity fits your routine, since every product in this guide is a Wi-Fi configuration. Black Friday shopping is a good time to compare competing models side by side and prioritize the features that will still matter after the seasonal event. A newer chip and more storage add value when they address a real workload, not just a spec-sheet preference.
Buying Guide
Choose the right screen size
An 8.3-inch screen keeps the Apple iPad mini (A17 Pro) compact for travel, while 11-inch models balance portability and workspace. Select a 13-inch model for split-screen work, drawing or media viewing.
Match the chip to your workload
The A13 in the Apple iPad (9th generation) suits basic tasks. The A16 and M3 cover everyday apps and study, while M4 and A17 Pro models target demanding apps and creative work.
Set a storage floor
Choose 64GB for a light app and download load. For room to grow, look at 128GB or 256GB configurations, especially when storing photos, games, videos or project files on the tablet.
Check display motion and technology
The Pro models have 120Hz OLED screens for smoother scrolling and richer contrast. Air and standard iPad models use 60Hz displays, which remain suitable for everyday browsing, reading and video.
Confirm accessory compatibility
Apple Pencil and keyboard support varies by iPad model and generation. Verify compatibility for the exact tablet before buying accessories, and consider whether Wi-Fi-only connectivity suits your daily routine.
FAQ
Which is better, the iPad Pro 13 M4 or iPad 9th generation?
The Apple iPad Pro 13-inch (M4) is better for creative work and multitasking, with a 13-inch OLED display, 120Hz refresh rate and M4 chip. The Apple iPad (9th generation) is better for basic browsing, reading and video when a 10.2-inch screen is enough.
Is the iPad 9th generation worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
Yes, the Apple iPad (9th generation) is worth considering for basic tasks such as reading and streaming. Its 10.2-inch screen and A13 chip remain useful for simple use, but 64GB storage and a Lightning connector are important limitations to weigh.
Is the iPad Pro 13-inch M4 good for students?
The Apple iPad Pro 13-inch (M4) is good for students who need a large 13-inch workspace for notes, creative apps and multitasking. The M4 chip and 120Hz display are premium features; students focused on documents and browsing can also compare the Apple iPad Air 11-inch (M3).
Which iPad is best for travel?
The Apple iPad mini (A17 Pro) is the best travel choice in this guide, with an 8.3-inch display and 128GB storage. Its compact size is convenient for reading and portable entertainment. Choose an 11-inch model when larger documents and split-screen work matter more.
How much storage is enough for an iPad?
A 64GB iPad suits light use with a small app library. Choose at least 128GB for regular downloads, photos and games, or 256GB for larger creative projects and local media. The Apple iPad Pro models in this guide start at 256GB.
Should I choose the iPad Air M3 or iPad Pro M4?
Choose the Apple iPad Air (M3) for capable everyday performance and a 60Hz screen. Choose the Apple iPad Pro (M4) for an OLED display, 120Hz refresh rate and more demanding creative work. Pick 11-inch or 13-inch size based on portability and workspace needs.