Buyer's Guide of Apple iPad Models and iPad Mini Generations 2018 & 2019

With Apple's special event on September 10th, 2019, the world is buzzed with the company's main products, including the new iPad of 7th generation, iPhone 11 series, Apple watch series, and Apple TV. In this article, we will not cover all these products, but just all iPad models. If you are considering buying a new iPad or just making an upgrade, maybe you will like to read this article.

Ever since it was first introduced and launched in 2010, the Apple iPad has become one of the most popular mobile devices and the pioneer of other following tablets, including Android tablets. Following the 1st generation iPad are the other 6 additional iPad generations like Mini iPad, iPad Pro, and now the 7th gen iPad. And if you are looking to buy an iPad, you are suggested to figure out details of each generation and model.

Below is the full list of all iPad generations and iPad models.

List of iPad Models - iPad 10.2 inch (7th Generation 2019)

One of the biggest differences between this 2019 new iPad and previous models should lie in the amazing new capabilities of iPadOS. Yeah, it no longer runs iOS. 

As for display, the 7th gen iPad upgrades to a larger 10.2-inch Retina display that makes it more versatile. Just as what the official advocates: 'Like a computer. Unlike any computer.'

And the support for the full-size Smart Keyboard just make it a lot easier for work, while you still be able to draw and write with the Apple Pencil. Of course, it is one of the best tablets for entertaining especially gaming. Looking forward to experiencing the immersive games available at Apple Acrade?

* CPU: Quad-core 2.34 GHz (2x Hurricane + 2x Zephyr)

* RAM: 2 GB
* Display: 1620 x 2160

* Models: Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi + Cellular

* Storage: 32 GB, 128 GB

* Model Numbers: A2200, A2198, A2232

List of iPad Models - iPad Mini 2019

Powered by the A12 Bionic chip, the new iPad Mini 2019 almost has all the power found in the iPhone XS, XS Max, and XR. If you have the demand of software or apps, this should be the best tablet to pick. Just like previous iPad Mini generations, this model has the 7.9‑inch Retina display with True Tone.

* CPU: Hexa-core (2x2.5 GHz Vortex + 4x1.6 GHz Tempest)
* RAM: 3 GB
* Display: 1536 x 2048

* Models: Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi + Cellular

* Storage: 64 GB, 256 GB

* Model Numbers: A2126, A2124, A2133, A2125

List of iPad Models - iPad Air 2019

Featuring a bigger, better screen, more storage and support for Apple’s Smart Keyboard case, the iPad Air 2019 is a notable upgrade of the previous iPad Air generations.

* CPU: Apple A12 Bionic Chipset with Hexa-core Vortex CPU
* RAM: 2 GB
* Display: 1668 x 2224 pixels

* Models: Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi + 4G
* Storage: 64 GB, 256 GB

* Model Numbers: A2153, A2123, A2154, A2152

List of iPad Models - 12.9-inch iPad Pro (3rd Generation)

The 3rd generation 12.9-inch iPad Pro adds the second generation Apple Pencil, making it more powerful for professional and creative work. In addition to the features that can be found in previous iPad versions, this model features a slimmed bezel design. Another adorable feature is its upgrade from standard Lightning cable to the more industry-standard USB-C.

* CPU: A12X Bionic chip with Neural Engine

* RAM: 4 GB (1 TB model includes 6 GB)

* Display: 2732x2048

* Models: Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi + Cellular

* Storage: 64 GB, 256 GB, 512 GB, 1TB

* Model Numbers A1876, A2014, A1895, A1983

List of iPad Models - 11-inch iPad Pro (3rd Generation)

This tablet is one of the best iPad versions featuring unique size of 11 inch, yet still include the same CPU, M12 coprocessor, and powerful cameras of the 12.9-inch Pro version.

* CPU: A12X Bionic chip with Neural Engine

* RAM: 4 GB (1 TB model includes 6 GB)

* Display: 388x1668

* Models: Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi + Cellular

* Storage: 64 GB, 256 GB, 512 GB, 1TB

* Model Numbers: A1980, A2013, A1934, A1979

List of iPad Models - The iPad 2018 (6th Generation)

Packed with A10 Fusion power and Apple Pencil support, this new 9.7-inch iPad model is a powerful and versatile tablet great for creatives and professionals. It originally targeted at students, yet it is loved by many other groups for its design, features, and experience.

* CPU: 2.34 Ghz Quad-Core 64-bit Apple A10 Fusion

* RAM: 2 GB
* Display: 2056x1536
* Models: Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi + 4G
* Storage: 32 GB, 128 GB
* Model Numbers: A1893, A1954

List of iPad Models - 10.5-inch iPad Pro (2nd Generation)

Configured with a new A10X Fusion chip, the 10.5-inch iPad Pro use the True Tone tech that offers brighter and clearer display over the previous generation. So you can experience smooth animations and transitions, as well as the fluid response from the Apple Pencil with almost no latency.

* CPU: 6-Core 64-bit Apple A10X Fusion

* RAM: 4 GB
* Display: 10.5-inch True Tone with 2734x2048 resolution

* Models: Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi + 4G
* Storage: 64 GB, 256 GB, 512 GB

* Model Numbers: A1701 (Wi-Fi), A1709 (4G)

List of iPad Models - 12.9-inch iPad Pro (2nd Generation)

This 2nd generation iPad Pro includes the True Tone display that uses a theatrical wide color gambit and offers smooth graphical transitions. This takes the visual experience to a upper level. So it is great for your movie time or video work.

* CPU: 6-Core 64-bit Apple A10X Fusion

* RAM: 4 GB
* Display: 12.9-inch True Tone with 2734x2048 resolution

* Models: Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi + 4G
* Storage: 32 GB, 128 GB
* Model Numbers: A1670 (Wi-Fi), A1671 (4G)

List of iPad Models - The iPad 2017 (5th Generation)

This new 9.7-inch Apple iPad no longer follows the Air name and but a slight upgrade to iPad Air 2 with a slightly faster processor.

* CPU: 1.85 Ghz Dual-Core 64-bit Apple A9
* RAM: 2 GB
* Display: 2056x1536
* Models: Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi + 4G
* Storage: 32 GB, 128 GB
* Model Numbers: A1822 (Wi-Fi), A1823 (4G)

List of iPad Models - 9.7-inch iPad Pro (1st Generation)

Apple's 9.7-inch iPad Pro improves upon the display and adds True Tone and decreased reflection in bright light such as sunlight. It is equipped with a 12 MP camera that is compatible with Live Photos. It works with Apple's new Smart Keyboard and the Apple Pencil.

* CPU: Dual-Core 64-bit Apple A9X;
* RAM: 2 GB
* Display: 9.7-inch with 2056x1536 resolution
* Models: Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi + Cellular
* Storage: 32 GB, 128 GB, 256 GB
* Model Numbers: A1673 (Wi-Fi), A1674 or A1675 (4G)

List of iPad Models - 12.9-inch iPad Pro (1st Generation)

The iPad Pro has an 12-9-inch display and includes Apple's latest A9X processor. And that makes the iPad Pro run as fast or faster than most laptops. In addition, this 12.9-inch iPad supports the Smart Keyboard and Apple Pencil.

* CPU: 2.26 GHz Dual-Core 64-bit Apple A9X
* RAM: 4 GB
* Display: 12.9-inch with 2734x2048 resolution
* Models: Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi + Cellular
* Storage: 32 GB, 128 GB, 256 GB
* Model Numbers: A1584 (Wi-Fi), A1652 (4G)

List of iPad Models - iPad Mini 4 (4th Generation Mini)

The iPad Mini 4 is a big improvement over the iPad Mini 3. But the Mini 3 completely disappears from the Apple lineup, and now only Mini 2 and the Mini 4 from the iPad Mini generations are for sale. This extra processing power of the Mini 4 makes it compatible with all of the latest multitasking features in iOS.

* CPU: 1.5 GHz Tri-Core 64-bit Apple A8X w/Apple M8 Motion Co-Processor
* RAM: 2 GB
* Display: 2056x1536
* Models: Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi + 4G
* Storage: 16 GB, 64 GB, 128 GB
* Model Numbers: A1538 (Wi-Fi), A1550 (4G)

List of iPad Models - iPad Air 2 (6th Generation)

Unlike the previous Apple iPads that use the same processor of iPhone, the iPad Air 2 is powered by Apple's first triple-core processor which is even faster than the iPhone 6. It also upgrades the internal memory from 1 GB to 2 GB.

* CPU: 1.5 GHz Tri-Core 64-bit Apple A8X w/Apple M8 Motion Co-Processor
* RAM: 2 GB
* Display: 2056x1536
* Models: Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi + 4G
* Storage: 16 GB, 64 GB, 128 GB
* Model Numbers: A1566 (Wi-Fi), A1667 (4G)

List of iPad Models - The iPad Mini 3 (3rd Generation Mini)

The iPad Mini 3 is essentially the same as the iPad Mini 2 except for an additional Touch ID fingerprint sensor. The Touch ID supports unlocking your iPad with your thumbprint, purchasing apps, and using the new Apple Pay.

* CPU: 1.4 GHz Dual-Core 64-bit Apple A7 w/Apple M7 Motion Co-Processor
* RAM:  GB
* Display: 2056x1536
* Models: Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi + 4G
* Storage: 16 GB, 64 GB, 128 GB
* Model Numbers: A1599 (Wi-Fi), A1600 (4G)

List of iPad Models - The iPad Mini 2 (2nd Generation Mini)

The Apple iPad Mini 2 is a powerful upgrade to the 1st generation iPad Mini. It uses the same basic A7 processor as the iPad Air. The iPad Mini 2 is officially referred to as the "iPad mini with Retina display".

* CPU: 1.4 GHz Dual-Core 64-bit Apple A7 w/Apple M7 Motion Co-Processor
* RAM: 1 GB
* Display: 2056x1536
* Models: Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi + 4G
* Storage: 16 GB, 32 GB, 64 GB, 128 GB
* Model Numbers: A1489 (Wi-Fi), A1490 (4G)

List of iPad Models - The iPad Air (5th Generation)

Powered by a 64-bit processor, the iPad Air is almost twice as powerful as the predecessor of iPad 4, but as slim as the iPad Mini.

* CPU: 1.4 GHz Dual-Core 64-bit Apple A7 w/Apple M7 Motion Co-* Processor
* RAM: 1 GB
* Display: 2056x1536
* Models: Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi + 4G
* Storage:16 GB, 32 GB, 64 GB, 128 GB
* Model Numbers: A1474 (Wi-Fi), A1475 (4G)

List of iPad Models - iPad 4 (4th Generation)

Compare with other members of the list of iPads, the 4th generation iPad has the same features of the iPad 3 but uses a more powerful processor. And just like on other iPads, you can get free wallpaper, videos and more from online resources such as FunForMobile.

* CPU: 1.4 GHz Dual-Core Apple Swift (Apple A6)
* RAM: 1 GB
* Display: 2056x1536
* Models: Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi + 4G
* Storage: 16 GB, 32 GB, 64 GB, 128 GB
* Model Numbers: A1458 (Wi-Fi), A1459 (4G), A1460 (4G MM)           

List of iPad Models - iPad Mini (1st Generation Mini)

The 1st generation of Apple iPad Mini Generations is built with a 7.9-inch display and powered by the same processor as the iPad 2. It also offers 4G compatibility and superior dual-facing cameras.

* CPU: 1 GHz Dual-Core ARM Cortex-A9 (Apple A5)
* RAM: 512 MB
* Display: 1024x768
* Models: Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi + 4G
* Storage: 16 GB, 32 GB, 64 GB
* Model Numbers: A1432 (Wi-Fi), A1454 (4G), A1455 (4G MM)

List of iPad Models - iPad 3 (3rd Generation)

The 3rd generation iPad has a 2056x1536 resolution Retina Display that was the highest resolution display for a tablet at its release. It applies the same basic processor as the iPad 2 but with updated graphics chip to help power the new display. It was also the first device of the iPad generation list to offer 4G compatibility.

* CPU: 1 GHz Dual-Core ARM Cortex-A9 (Apple A5X)
* RAM: 512 MB
* Display: 2056x1536
* Models: Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi + 4G
* Storage: 16 GB, 32 GB, 64 GB
* Model Numbers: A1416 (Wi-Fi), A1430 (4G), A1403 (4G VZ)

List of iPad Models - iPad 2 (2nd Generation)

The iPad 2 is a upgrade to the original Apple iPad, with dual-facing cameras that enable users to snap photos, capture movies and added video conferencing capabilities. It has a twice processing speed and a more powerful graphics processor, but is 33% thinner and 15% lighter than its predecessor. It also gained a gyroscope, making its basic features equal to the iPhone except for voice calling.

* CPU: 1 GHz Dual-Core ARM Cortex-A9 (Apple A5)
* RAM: 512 MB
* Display: 1024x768
* Models: Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi + 3G
* Storage: 16 GB, 32 GB, 64 GB
* Model Numbers: A1395 (Wi-Fi), A1396 (3G GSM), A1397 (3G CDMA)

List of iPad Models - iPad (1st Generation)

Released on April 3, 2010, the original Apple iPad has included many of the same features as the iPhone and iPod Touch, including the 3-axis accelerometer that enables the device to detect when it is being moved or tilted. This 1st generation iPad is powered by the same operating system as the iPhone, which enables it to run the same apps in compatibility mode. Since Apple no longer supports operating system update for this iPad, many apps do not support this model.

* CPU: 1 GHz ARM Cortex-A8 (Apple A4)
* RAM: 256 MB
* Display: 1024x768
* Models: Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi + 3G
* Storage: 16 GB, 32 GB, 64 GB
* Model Numbers: A1219 (Wi-Fi), A1337 (3G)

How to Identify Your iPad Model or Generation?

It is quite common that you might not know what model your iPad is after you buy it. So here are two methods to tell which model or generation your iPad is.

Method 1: Use the Model Numbers

Turn to the back of your iPad, and at the end of the top row, you'll find the word "Model" in tiny letters followed by an "A" and a four-digit string of numbers. Remember the Model Numbers for each iPad generation above? Then you will know your iPad model. For example, as below image shows, the model number is A1219 - your iPad is the iPad 1st generation (Wi-Fi).

Method 2: Find It in Your iPad Settings

In case above method doesn't work for you(for example, the number over the back is blur or scratched, or the iPad is installed with a case), you can try below.

1. Open the Settings app on your iPad.

2. Tap About.

3. Scroll down the page and you'll see the "Model" setting.

4. Tap on the "Model" section, and you'll see a shorter number that begins with a capital 'A', that's your model number.