Apple Unveils the iPad 11th-Generation: What’s New and Is It Worth Upgrading?
Apple has officially introduced the 11th-generation iPad, bringing a handful of small but notable improvements to its popular predecessor. While this update doesn’t revolutionize the entry-level iPad, it does provide a solid upgrade in performance and storage capacity. If you’re wondering what’s changed and whether you should consider upgrading, let’s break it all down in a way that’s easy to understand.
iPad 11 – A Modest Upgrade with Key Improvements
The iPad 11 arrives two and a half years after its predecessor, the 10th-generation model. Visually, Apple has kept everything the same—there are no changes in design, cameras, or display technology. However, the biggest differences are under the hood.
Perhaps the most exciting change is that Apple has doubled the base storage while keeping the starting price at $349. That means you get 128GB instead of 64GB for the same price. This alone makes it a better deal than the previous model.
Let’s take a closer look at the major differences between the iPad 10 and iPad 11:
Performance Boost: A16 Bionic Chip in iPad 11
One of the most significant upgrades in the new iPad 11 is its processor. Apple has replaced the older A14 Bionic chip with the A16 Bionic chip, which was first introduced in the iPhone 14 Pro. Here’s how the two chips compare:
| Feature | 10th-Gen iPad (A14 Bionic) | 11th-Gen iPad (A16 Bionic) |
|---|---|---|
| CPU Cores | 6-core (2 performance, 4 efficiency) | 5-core (2 performance, 3 efficiency) |
| Transistors | 11.8 billion | 16 billion |
| Clock Speed | 3.0 GHz | 3.46 GHz |
| Neural Engine | 16-core (11 trillion ops/sec) | 16-core (17 trillion ops/sec) |
| Memory | 4GB | 6GB |
Even though the new iPad has one fewer CPU core, it makes up for it with a higher clock speed, more transistors, and improved efficiency thanks to a more advanced 4nm fabrication process. The A16 chip also brings a better Neural Engine, which enhances machine learning tasks, making the iPad more responsive for things like photo editing, gaming, and multitasking.
Storage Options: More Space for Your Files
Apple has finally made a much-needed improvement in storage options. Here’s how they compare:
- iPad 10: 64GB or 256GB
- iPad 11: 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB
With the older model, 64GB often felt too limiting for many users. By offering 128GB as the base model, Apple ensures that users have more breathing room for apps, photos, and videos without immediately feeling the need to upgrade to a more expensive tier.
Other Small but Notable Improvements
Besides the processor and storage changes, Apple has made a few other subtle but useful upgrades:
- Bluetooth 5.3: Slightly better connectivity and efficiency compared to Bluetooth 5.2.
- Smart HDR 4: An improved image processing feature that enhances photos taken with the iPad’s camera.
- eSIM-only Cellular Models: If you’re buying the cellular version, the new iPad no longer supports physical SIM cards, making it more in line with Apple’s push toward eSIM technology.
No Apple Intelligence Support in iPad 11
One notable limitation is that neither the 10th- nor the 11th-generation iPads support Apple’s new AI-powered features, known as Apple Intelligence. If you’re looking for an iPad with these advanced AI tools, you’ll need to consider the iPad mini ($499 and up) or a higher-end model.
Should You Upgrade?
Now comes the big question: is it worth upgrading to the new iPad? Here’s how to decide based on your current device:
If You Have a 10th-Gen iPad
The improvements are relatively small, so upgrading might not be necessary unless:
- You need more than 256GB of storage.
- You want better performance for gaming, video editing, or demanding apps.
However, if performance is a top priority, you might be better off going for an iPad Air, which offers an even bigger jump in power.
If You Have a 9th-Gen iPad (or Older)
If you’re still using a 9th-generation iPad, 4th-generation iPad Air, or anything older, this new model is definitely worth considering. The A16 chip, extra memory, and doubled base storage make it a much smoother and future-proof choice.
If You’re New to iPads
If you don’t own an iPad yet, the 11th-generation model is a solid entry-level choice. It’s affordable, powerful enough for everyday tasks, and will likely last you for years.
Final Thoughts: A Small but Smart Upgrade
The 11th-generation iPad doesn’t bring any radical design changes or flashy new features, but it refines what was already a solid tablet. With an A16 chip, 6GB of RAM, and more storage at the same price, it’s a practical upgrade—especially for those with older iPads or anyone looking to buy their first Apple tablet.
However, if you already own the 10th-gen iPad, the upgrade might not be worth it unless you really need the extra power or storage. And for those seeking Apple Intelligence features, this entry-level iPad won’t cut it—you’ll need to step up to an iPad mini or higher.
Overall, this is a good, practical update that ensures Apple’s entry-level iPad remains a strong contender in 2025. Whether you should buy it depends on your current device and needs, but one thing is clear: Apple has made its budget-friendly tablet a little better without raising the price, and that’s always a win.
