Become a MacRumors Supporter for $50/year with no ads, ability to filter front page stories, and private forums.

FyerFyer

macrumors 6502
Original poster
Dec 14, 2015
370
85
Hi guys

I’d like a half decent iPad that I can write and draw with the Apple Pencil, watch a movie on and connect to wifi. 256gb should be plenty

There are so many models, I just don’t know where to start. Some are £150, some £900. The cheaper the better tbh as a 2018 model seems ok, but any advice would be appreciated.
 

Starscape

macrumors 6502
Sep 23, 2016
345
503
Florida and New York
It really depends on any specific guidelines you have, such as budget, screen size, etc. I would always suggest buying new rather than used if possible.

I think the general rule here is always get the best you can afford. Based on what you say, it sounds like the standard iPad model with the Apple Pencil would probably be best. The standard iPad model is very fast with the A13 Bionic and the screen size (10.2 inches) really is ideal for most uses. Occasionally there are price reductions on this model as well.
 

sahmraw

macrumors newbie
Jan 23, 2014
5
1
Chesterfield, UK
For 256GB the cheapest is the iPad Air and the 4th generation model has gone down in price. The Apple Pencil 2 is nicer than the original pencil and charges more easily. My daughter is an artist. I asked them to draw on my iPad Air 5 the other day to see what they thought of it and they really enjoyed the experience.
 

ericwn

macrumors G5
Apr 24, 2016
12,118
10,910
For basic drawings any iPad does the job these days. Pick the screen size and storage you need and then order one and try them at home. Luckily you get two weeks return period from Apple and plenty other vendors.
 

rui no onna

Contributor
Oct 25, 2013
14,918
13,261
For 256GB the cheapest is the iPad Air and the 4th generation model has gone down in price. The Apple Pencil 2 is nicer than the original pencil and charges more easily. My daughter is an artist. I asked them to draw on my iPad Air 5 the other day to see what they thought of it and they really enjoyed the experience.

The iPad 9th gen comes in 256GB config now ($479).

Not sure about UK prices but in the US, the 2018 and 2020 iPad Pro 256GB wifi are available on the Apple certified refurbished store for $599 and $689 respectively.

Those would be my choices for 256GB while trying not to spend too much.
 
  • Like
Reactions: sahmraw

sahmraw

macrumors newbie
Jan 23, 2014
5
1
Chesterfield, UK
The iPad 9th gen comes in 256GB config now ($479).

Not sure about UK prices but in the US, the 2018 and 2020 iPad Pro 256GB wifi are available on the Apple certified refurbished store for $599 and $689 respectively.

Those would be my choices for 256GB while trying not to spend too much.
Yes also good choices
 

FyerFyer

macrumors 6502
Original poster
Dec 14, 2015
370
85
Thanks guys

I’m looking at the iPad 9,7" (2018) - WiFi 128gb second hand for £200. As mentioned I’d like to write and draw on it. What do you guys think?
 

meson

macrumors 6502a
Apr 29, 2014
516
511
There's nothing at all wrong with the 6th generation (2018) iPad and first generation Apple Pencil.

Between handing down iPads to my kids for remote learning during the pandemic and them shattering my iPad glass on my work iPad, I've upgraded to the 8th generation (We have a 6th, 7th, and 8th generation in the house). Otherwise, I would likely be using that model when I need to for remote teaching.

The older iPad still gets the job done just fine. There really isn't much difference between the 3 models when using them for basic browsing, media consumption, and writing notes. The only reason to spend more would be a more involved workflow for the iPad or you want some of the upgraded features of the Air or Pro models.
 
  • Like
Reactions: FyerFyer

rui no onna

Contributor
Oct 25, 2013
14,918
13,261
I’m looking at the iPad 9,7" (2018) - WiFi 128gb second hand for £200. As mentioned I’d like to write and draw on it. What do you guys think?

Depends on your expectations. It’s probably still way better than, say, the latest Amazon Fire Tablet. However, we’ve noticed more lagginess and stutters after updating to iOS 15.

We’re actually looking to replace it soonish. Just waiting for a good deal or refurb stock on 2020-2021 11” 128GB cellular.
 
  • Like
Reactions: FyerFyer
Register on MacRumors! This sidebar will go away, and you'll see fewer ads.