Apple’s latest entry-level iPad brings some welcome upgrades without breaking the bank. The new iPad 11 (2025) packs the A16 Bionic chip, a larger 11-inch display, and starts at just $349. Let’s dive into what this budget-friendly tablet has to offer.
Performance Boost with A16 Bionic
The iPad 11 receives a significant performance upgrade with the A16 Bionic chip. This processor, first introduced in the iPhone 14 Pro, delivers snappy performance for everyday tasks.
Benchmark Results:
- Single-core score: 2532
- Multi-core score: 4719
These numbers translate to smooth multitasking, faster app launches, and improved gaming performance compared to previous models. While not as powerful as the M-series chips in iPad Pro models, the A16 provides ample power for most users’ needs.
Larger, Improved Display
The iPad 11 features an 11-inch Liquid Retina display, up from 10.9 inches in the previous generation. Key display specs include:
- Resolution: 2360 x 1640 pixels
- Pixel density: 264 ppi
- Brightness: 500 nits
- True Tone technology
The larger screen offers more real estate for content consumption and productivity tasks. The fully laminated display reduces the gap between the glass and LCD panel, improving overall image quality and touch responsiveness.
Cameras and Center Stage
While tablet cameras aren’t typically a selling point, the iPad 11 offers solid options for video calls and basic photography:
- Front camera: 12MP Ultra Wide with Center Stage
- Rear camera: 12MP Wide
The front-facing camera supports Center Stage, which automatically pans and zooms to keep you in frame during video calls. This feature works across popular video conferencing apps like FaceTime, Zoom, and Microsoft Teams.
Apple Pencil and Keyboard Support
The iPad 11 is compatible with the Apple Pencil (USB-C), offering a great option for digital note-taking, sketching, and precision input. For those looking to use the iPad as a laptop replacement, it also supports the Magic Keyboard Folio, providing a comfortable typing experience and trackpad functionality.
iPadOS 18 and Software Features
Running the latest iPadOS 18, the iPad 11 benefits from new multitasking capabilities, improved widgets, and refinements to the overall user experience. However, it’s worth noting that this model does not support Apple Intelligence features due to its 6GB of RAM (8GB is required for AI functionality).
Storage and Connectivity
Apple has doubled the base storage to 128GB, addressing a common complaint with previous entry-level iPads. Available configurations include:
- 128GB
- 256GB
- 512GB
All models feature Wi-Fi 6 for faster wireless connectivity. Cellular models with 5G support are also available for an additional cost.
Battery Life and Charging
The iPad 11 maintains Apple’s claimed 10-hour battery life for web browsing or video playback. In real-world testing, users can expect:
- 8-10 hours of mixed use
- Fast charging support (up to 26W)
- 30% charge in 30 minutes (from 30-80% battery level)
Who Should Buy the iPad 11?
The iPad 11 is an excellent choice for:
- Students looking for a versatile device for note-taking and research
- Casual users who primarily browse the web, watch videos, and use social media
- Families seeking a shared device for entertainment and light productivity
- Budget-conscious buyers who want a capable tablet without premium features
Those needing more power for demanding tasks like video editing or 3D rendering should consider the iPad Air or iPad Pro models.
The iPad 11 (2025) proves that Apple’s budget tablet still packs a punch. With its A16 Bionic chip, larger display, and improved base storage, it offers excellent value for most users. While it may lack some premium features found in pricier iPads, it’s a solid choice for anyone seeking a capable and affordable tablet.