The iPad 2022: A radical change of direction
The 2022 iPad breaks with everything Apple held sacred for years. Out with Lightning. Out with the round home button. Even the familiar design has been overhauled. For the first time in ten iPad generations, the entry-level model has been given a completely new identity—including a price tag that has many Apple fans shuddering.
But here's the twist: it's precisely this radical shift in direction that makes the 10th-generation iPad perhaps the smartest purchase you can make. Not because it's perfect. Quite the opposite. But because with this iPad, Apple has unintentionally created the ideal refurbished deal . A device that was overpriced new, but suddenly hits the sweet spot between modern features and an affordable price when used. Even without the accompanying accessories Apple is happy to sell you.
Useful links
- iPad accessories for cases, keyboards and pens
- AirPods collection for wireless audio with your iPad
- Refurbished iPad collection for more models
The break with tradition
The tenth-generation iPad marks a turning point in Apple's entry-level strategy. For the first time in years, we see a completely redesigned enclosure that aligns with the design language of the iPad Air and Pro models. The familiar circular home button has made way for a full-screen design with uniform bezels around the display.
This transformation goes beyond just the looks. The switch from Lightning to USB-C means you can finally use the same cables for all your modern devices. No more hassle with different chargers for your iPad, MacBook, and Android devices. For many users, this practical advantage outweighs any nostalgia for the old connector.
Display: Bigger but not necessarily better
The screen has grown to 10.9 inches, a welcome upgrade from the 10.2 inches of previous generations. However, the resolution remains stuck at 2360 x 1640 pixels, resulting in a pixel density of 264 ppi. By comparison, the iPad Air, with its laminated display, offers noticeably sharper images and better color reproduction.
What this model lacks is the fully laminated display technology that reduces reflections and gives the feeling of directly touching the screen. With the standard iPad, there's still a small air gap between the glass and the actual display. For everyday use, this difference is minimal, but artists and designers will immediately notice the difference when using the Apple Pencil.
Performance: The A14 Bionic under the microscope
Under the hood, we find the A14 Bionic chip, the same processor that debuted in the iPhone 12 series in 2020. This six-core processor, with four efficient and two powerful cores, delivers ample power for virtually all daily tasks. From video editing in iMovie to playing graphics-intensive games like Genshin Impact, this device can handle it all.
The sixteen-core neural engine enables machine learning tasks previously reserved for more expensive models. Think live text in photos, improved dictation, and smarter photo editing. For most users, the performance difference compared to the newer M-series chips in the Pro models will be barely noticeable.
Cameras: Finally, landscape mode for video calling
One of the smartest changes concerns the placement of the front camera. It's now located on the long edge of the device, exactly where you want it during landscape video calls. The 12-megapixel ultra-wide lens supports Center Stage, Apple's smart technology that automatically keeps you in frame during video calls.
The rear camera, at 12 megapixels, remains suitable for scanning documents and taking snapshots. Video recording is possible in 4K at 60 fps, more than sufficient for social media content. However, professional content creators will quickly switch to an iPhone or dedicated camera for better results.
Accessories: the hidden costs
Here's the rub. The first-generation Apple Pencil (€119) doesn't work with USB-C. Apple fixes this with an adapter (€10), but it's still an awkward solution. The Magic Keyboard Folio (€299) is specifically designed for this model but costs almost as much as a refurbished iPad itself.
Fortunately, there are affordable alternatives for practical use. Bluetooth keyboards from Logitech or other brands work perfectly and cost a fraction of Apple's own accessories. For drawing, there are capacitive pens starting at €20 that are sufficient for basic tasks.
Battery life and daily use
This model easily achieves its claimed ten hours of battery life with normal use. Watching Netflix, browsing the web, and light productivity tasks are no problem for a full day without a charger. The 20W charger (sold separately for €25) fully charges the device in about two hours.
At 477 grams, it's comfortable for extended handheld use. The aluminum casing feels premium, and the new color options (blue, pink, yellow, and silver) give the device a playful character without appearing childish.
Refurbished: the smart choice
Now that this generation has been on the market for a few years, more and more refurbished models are appearing. These certified pre-owned models offer the same warranty as new devices but at a fraction of the price. The price difference can be as much as 30-40%, making the originally inflated asking price suddenly acceptable.
The robust construction of iPads means that refurbished models often last for years without problems. However, be mindful of the storage capacity when purchasing: 64GB is a tight squeeze for modern apps and media. The 256GB model offers more storage space for a few tens of euros more.
The smart choice for conscious buyers
The 2022 iPad proved that Apple is willing to break with long-standing traditions, albeit with a hefty price increase. Ironically, it's precisely that high introductory price that makes this refurbished model so attractive.
With modern features like USB-C and a larger screen, you get a fully-fledged tablet that will last for years, without breaking the bank. Skip the expensive accessories, opt for affordable alternatives, and you'll have a device that does exactly what an iPad should: simply work .
