You might need an iPad if you're an artist, heavy note-taker, frequent traveler, or want a versatile device for media consumption (movies, reading) and light productivity (emails, browsing) that's more portable than a laptop but offers more screen space than a phone. It excels for digital art, journaling, PDF editing, and as a portable entertainment hub, but it's less essential if your primary tasks are complex work that requires a full desktop OS or if you're on a tight budget.
For most people, a midrange Samsung Galaxy Tab or a Lenovo/Xiaomi tablet delivers comparable day-to-day functionality at lower cost; for document-heavy or desktop-app workflows, a Windows or Chromebook 2-in-1 is a better iPad alternative.
If your laptop usage focuses on email, web browsing, and media consumption, then yes. An iPad is also good for video conferencing (especially the 10th Gen with the camera in the ``correct'' location. If your workflow has you using a lot of Office apps (Word or Excel) and you want to multitask, then go for a laptop.
Yes, iPads are worth it in 2025, but it depends on your needs; the base iPad (11th Gen) is great for general use, the iPad Air (M3) offers a strong balance for creators, and iPad Pros (M4/M5) are premium tools for professionals, with older M1 iPad Pros offering fantastic value on the used market for serious tasks. Key considerations are budget, screen size, storage, and whether you need Pro features like high refresh rates or Apple Intelligence, making it a versatile device for media, work, or creativity.
However, it's important to consider the higher cost of ownership, potential battery life concerns, and data security risks when connecting to open networks. Despite these drawbacks, the iPad with cellular empowers you to maximize every moment by keeping you constantly connected.
Three-finger gestures on iPhone primarily activate accessibility features like VoiceOver (for screen reading and navigation) and Zoom (magnification), allowing scrolling, zooming, and text manipulation (copy/paste/undo) with specific taps and drags, though some text actions work without VoiceOver enabled for quick editing. Common gestures include three-finger double-tap to toggle VoiceOver speech, triple-tap for the screen curtain, and pinching/spreading with three fingers for copy/paste actions, notes this YouTube video.
iPads generally last 4 to 8 years, with most users finding them functional for 5-7 years, though high-end models and careful usage can extend this, while basic models or heavy use might shorten it; battery degradation is the main factor, but Apple supports them with software updates for about 5-6 years, ensuring continued security and app compatibility.
The best iPads we tested
The cheapest times to buy an iPad are Black Friday/Cyber Monday, around new model releases (for discounts on older generations), during Amazon Prime Day, and via the Apple Refurbished Store or education discounts for ongoing savings. For immediate savings, check deals now, as retailers often discount recent models, like the base iPad and iPad Air, in January after new releases.
Portability: The Need for Mobility
For those who value mobility and prefer a device that they can easily handle and carry, the iPad is a clear winner. Its slim profile and light weight reduce the physical strain of carrying a heavier device, which can be a significant advantage for older adults.
Whether you're just getting started or want to make sure you have the basics set up, you're in the right place.
With an Office 365 subscription, you can edit and create new documents with the iPad. An Office 365 subscription not only gets you the complete Office apps for iPad, but also always-up-to-date versions of Office for PC and Mac.
The best iPad alternatives in 2025
Best Android tablet for seniors: Samsung Galaxy Tab A8
The Samsung Galaxy Tab A8 provides Android users with a larger screen and a familiar interface at a reasonable price point. The Samsung Galaxy Tab A8 offers excellent value with its 10.5-inch LCD panel and costs around $220-250.
Neither an iPad nor an Android tablet is universally "better"; the choice depends on your needs, budget, and existing tech ecosystem, with iPads offering superior app optimization, long-term support, and resale value within Apple's ecosystem, while Android tablets provide more hardware variety, customization, and budget-friendly options but with inconsistent software support and app quality. For seamless integration with other Apple devices and a premium, reliable experience, choose an iPad; for more choice, affordability, and features like expandable storage, an Android tablet (like Samsung) is a strong contender, especially if you value specific hardware or software features.
If you're still not sure which model you want, take some time to think about the features that are most important to you and how they fit into your budget. Things to consider before you buy include Internet access (do you want a cellular data plan or just Wi-Fi?) and data storage (do you need a lot or just a little?).
We think 256GB or 512GB would suit most people's needs. For general office tasks, browsing, email and media, there's no need for more than the standard iPad.
For the best value, the 11th Gen base iPad is great for general use (content, kids, basic tasks) thanks to its low price and 128GB storage, while the iPad Air (M3) offers the best balance for power users, creatives, and students needing more performance (M3 chip, Apple Pencil Pro support, better screen) without Pro prices. The iPad Mini is ideal for portability, and the iPad Pro remains for top-tier professional needs.
Signs That It Might Be Time to Replace Your iPad
$200 to $400
The cost of iPad battery replacement can vary. It depends on the model you have and where you get it serviced. Apple offers battery replacement through their stores, with prices typically ranging from $99 to $179.
Set up Assistive Access on iPhone
*3001#12345#* on an iPhone activates the hidden Field Test Mode, a diagnostic tool for network engineers and power users to see detailed cellular data like signal strength (dBm), cell tower info, and network quality, accessible by dialing the code in the Phone app and pressing call, often after turning off Wi-Fi for accurate cellular readings.
You can double-tap or triple-tap the back of iPhone to perform actions such as taking a screenshot, turning on an accessibility feature, running a shortcut, and more. Go to Settings > Accessibility > Touch > Back Tap. Choose Double Tap or Triple Tap, then choose an action.