NEW iPADS were announced on May 7, 2024 and are included in the listing below.  (Updated June 14, 2024)

Considering which of the various versions of iPad to purchase can be challenging. This guide will walk you through the various option in model, memory sizes and options that will best suite your student for use during their high school years and beyond.

iPads come in numerous models and each has a Wi-Fi or Wi-Fi + Cellular option. The first thing to consider is longevity of use, keeping in mind the practicality of the device throughout their high school years and post high school educational goals. The rule of thumb we recommend is to purchase as newer a model with as much memory as is practicable.

Capacity: iPads come in sizes of 64GB all the way up to 2TB depending on the model . We recommend that you consider the 64GB or 256GB models since this offers larger storage capacity for textbooks, videos, photos and other related school work. If you anticipate your child doing extensive video work, larger is definitely better.

Cellular enabled iPads: We do not recommend the purchase of an iPad with the Wi-Fi + Cellular option since this option could incur monthly charges and prices can range between $150.00 and $200.00 more than the Wi-Fi only versions . Saint Mary’s has a network infrastructure to accommodate the number of devices on campus and a cellular network enabled iPad is not necessary for normal school usage. If you opt to purchase an iPad with cellular connectivity, students will be required to have the feature turned off while on campus.

iPad Models

iPad 10.9″ (10th Generation)  This is the latest version of iPad and comes in two memory sizes of 64GB and 256GB. The listed price is $ 349. Amazon currently lists it at $ 329 and Costco $ 339.  The 10.2" (9th Generation) was discontinued in May but you may still see special offers. This spring Costco were selling them for $ 249.99

iPad Pro 13" (M4) and 11" (M4): This iPad Pro version is available in four memory sizes ranging from 256 GB to 2 TB. List price is currently $ 1299 and $ 999 respectively. They are also designed to work with the newest Apple Pencil type C ($ 79) and Apple Pencil Pro ($ 129). Amazon is currently listing these with a $ 50 discount. Previous M2 and M1 versions still may be found at a lower price.

The iPad Air 11" and 13" (6th generation M2): This refreshed line was announced in May 2024. They are available in memory sizes of 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, or 1 TB versions. Prices start from $ 599 (11") and $ 799 (13").

iPad Mini 8.3″ (6th Generation Fall 2021): The iPad Mini is also a recommended device. The current version is available in a 64GB and 256GB versions. Price starts at $ 499. Currently Amazon, Best Buy, and Costco have it listed at $ 400.

Not Recommended iPads: Anything older than a 2021 iPad of any type.  

For a complete list of iPad models options, and prices, visit Apple’s website that compares the various iPad models.

Additional Information

Where to Buy: iPads can be purchased from the Apple Store, from Apple’s online store, or from a number of home electronic retailers. If you purchase your iPad directly from Apple, students can take a free workshop to help get familiar with your new device.

Apple Certified Refurbished: Apple’s Certified Refurbished website is a great place to find deals on used iPads . Visit them at their https://www.apple.com/shop/refurbished/ipad

Apple Care: Saint Mary’s strongly recommends the purchase of Apple Care for your student’s iPad. Visit Apple’s Apple Care for iPads page to learn more.