iPads for schools (Pro, minis, Air): choosing between these tech titans

There was a time when choosing an iPad was simple. Rewind a decade and there was only one 9.7-inch model available! Over time, Apple has expanded its range to include the 7.9-inch iPad mini and the 12.9-inch iPad Pro, as well as its recent 10.5-inch iPad Air and 11-inch Pro additions.

With a few more options now around to choose from, this article will look at the key differences between them to help your school select the best iPads for its needs.

Essential tech specs for iPads for schools

More often than not, choosing iPads for schools comes down to budget and the tech specs of what the equipment can offer. Here’s a rundown of what you can expect from each of Apple’s iPad models:

iPad 9.7:

If you’re on a budget, this could be the iPad option for you. This device comes with:

• 9.7-inch Retina display
• A10 Fusion chip
• Up to 128GB storage
• Up to 10 hours’ battery life on a single charge
• Touch ID
• Compatible with Apple Pencil (1^st generation)
• 1.2-megapixel front camera
• 8-megapixel rear camera
• Lightning connector
• Compatible with Bluetooth keyboards
• Colours: silver, space grey and gold

Tip: Choose this model if you’re new to iPads for schools, using them on a part-time or occasional basis or if price is the most important factor.

iPad mini:

If you’re after an ultra-lightweight, compact device, the iPad mini could be your ideal choice. This model comes with:

• 7.9-inch Retina display with True Tone
• A12 Bionic chip with Neural Engine
• Up to 256GB storage
• Up to 10 hours’ battery life on a single charge
• Touch ID
• Compatible with Apple Pencil (1^st generation)
• 7-megapixel FaceTime HD front camera with Auto HDR
• 8-megapixel rear camera with HDR and 1080p HD video
• Lightning connector
• Compatible with Bluetooth keyboards
• Colours: silver, space grey and gold

Tip: Choose this model if you want a device with similar performance to the iPad Air, but that’s lightweight and ultra-portable at about 2/3 of the size. It also comes in at a reasonable price point.

iPad Pro:

If you’re looking for a serious device that packs a punch that you can use professionally, then the iPad Pro should meet your criteria. This device comes in two screen sizes and features:

• 11-inch or 12.9-inch Liquid Retina display with ProMotion technology and True Tone
• A12X Bionic chip with Neural Engine
• Up to 1TB storage
• Up to 10 hours’ battery life on a single charge
• Face ID
• Compatible with Apple Pencil (2^nd generation)
• 7-megapixel TrueDepth front camera with Portrait mode, Portrait Lighting and Smart HDR
• 12-megapixel rear camera with Smart HDR and 4K video at 30 fps or 60 fps
• USB-C connector
• Compatible with Smart Keyboard Folio and Bluetooth keyboards
• Colours: silver and space grey

Tip: Choose this model if you need a powerful, high-performance device that’s versatile yet still very portable.

iPad Air:

For a good all-rounder, you might want to opt for the iPad Air. This device comes with:

• 10.5-inch Retina display with True Tone
• A12 Bionic chip with Neural Engine
• Up to 256GB storage
• Up to 10 hours’ battery life on a single charge
• Touch ID
• Compatible with Apple Pencil (1^st generation)
• 7-megapixel FaceTime HD front camera with Auto HDR
• 8-megapixel rear camera with HDR and 1080p video
• Lightning connector
• Compatible with Smart Keyboard (10.5-inch) and Bluetooth keyboards
• Colours: silver, space grey and gold

Tip: Choose this model if you need a general-purpose iPad for frequent use at a reasonable price point.

At Utility Rentals we recognise the amazing potential of iPads for schools, and we’ve developed an exclusive rental package to ensure teachers and students get the most out of these inspiring tools for learning. Our package includes:

• Expert guidance on choosing the right iPad for your school
• Free delivery
• 3-year parts and labour breakdown warranty
• 3-year accidental damage and misuse cover
• 3-year theft cover

For more help with the tech specs and choosing the right iPad for your school, contact the expert team at Utility Rentals.