CNN Underscored85est.
The 11th-generation iPad remains the best tablet for most users due to its reliable performance and increased base storage, though it is held back by a glossy screen and a relatively high entry price.
Apple iPad (A16)
4 expert reviews#4 in tabletsChecked 1 Nov 2026
Quick answer
The Apple iPad (A16) has a critic score of 81 out of 100 from 4 professional reviews, and 4 of them recommend it. It ranks #4 of 4 tablets we score. Critics praise its performance and battery life. The most common complaint is missing features.
Reviews checked 1 Nov 2026
Image: AppleCheapest iPad
Our verdict
4 professional reviewers tested the Apple iPad (A16), and 4 recommend it. Critics praise its performance and battery life. The most common complaint: missing features.
The catch: No Apple Intelligence, and a glossy screen that reflects.
Critic agreement: Medium
Scores run from 78 to 85
Early score: only 4 professional reviews so far. Expect it to move as more reviews come in.
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What do critics say about the Apple iPad (A16)?
Tech Advisor80
The Apple iPad (A16) is a highly capable entry-level tablet that excels at everyday tasks, offering great build quality and performance for its price.
Macworld80
The iPad (A16) is a reliable and capable tablet that serves as a great entry-level option, though it lacks premium features like Apple Intelligence and high-speed data transfer.
GSMArena78
The 2025 iPad is a reliable, iterative update that offers a solid experience for its price, though it lacks cutting-edge features like Apple Intelligence support.
Scores are converted to 0–100. "est." means the outlet gave no number, so we estimated one from its verdict. How we score
What critics praise most
Performance4 of 4
Battery life2 of 4
What critics dislike most
Missing features4 of 4
Software and app3 of 4
Alternatives
Not sure about the Apple iPad (A16)?
Common questions
Is the Apple iPad (A16) worth it?
Most critics think so: 4 of 4 recommend it. No Apple Intelligence, and a glossy screen that reflects.
What do critics dislike about the Apple iPad (A16)?
Missing features (4 of 4 reviews), Software and app (3 of 4 reviews).
What is the best alternative to the Apple iPad (A16)?
The Apple iPad Air (M4) (critic score 83), best overall.