As 2026, Apple’s current entry iPad—the 11-inch iPad (A16)—costs $349, and at this price point, it’s really one of the best-value iPads available. It’s a great purchase for general use, education, or entertainment purposes, but if you are looking for ProMotion technology, a more advanced display stack, or Apple Pencil Pro support, it’s obvious that Apple wants you to purchase an iPad Air or iPad Pro.
The 2026 idea (value has shifted)
In 2017 the “cheap iPad” story was mostly about getting into iOS for less; in 2026 it’s about getting a modern, all‑screen iPad with enough performance and storage to keep for years without paying Pro money. Apple positions the price ladder very clearly today: iPad from $349, iPad mini from $499, iPad Air from $599, and iPad Pro from $999.
iPad (A16) positives in 2026
- Strong baseline performance: the iPad now uses the A16 chip and starts at 128GB of storage, which is a much better “starting point” than older base configurations.
- Modern screen size and design: Apple markets it as an 11‑inch Liquid Retina, all‑screen iPad aimed at what you do every day.
- Better cameras for calls: it includes a 12MP Wide rear camera and a landscape 12MP Center Stage front camera.
- Real accessory support: it works with Magic Keyboard Folio and supports Apple Pencil (USB‑C) plus Apple Pencil (1st gen, with an adapter).
The trade-offs (what you don’t get)
The display is where Apple draws the line: the standard iPad is listed with sRGB color and no anti‑reflective coating, and it also lacks ProMotion. If “pro” input matters, iPad Pro supports Apple Pencil Pro, while the standard iPad does not. Also, on Apple’s own comparison chart, Apple Intelligence is called out on iPad Pro, iPad Air, and iPad mini—not on the standard iPad.
Today’s price reality (Apple vs deals)
Apple’s $349 starting price is the clean, simple option if you want a new device with straightforward accessory support. If you’re bargain-hunting, recent resale data shows iPad 11th Gen units selling around the low-to-mid $300s on average (depending on configuration and condition), which can undercut new pricing. On the Android side, a common “value” alternative like the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE can be found around $299 at major retailers, often bundled/positioned with an S Pen—so the decision becomes iPadOS + Apple accessories vs Android + pen-first value.