In a surprising twist, Apple has launched the iPad 11th Gen at a price point that defies its usual premium positioning. At ₹35,000 (or ₹32,900 with a bank discount), the iPad is now ₹10,000 less than its predecessor, and it comes with 128 GB of storage in the base model — a significant upgrade considering the 64 GB base in the previous generation. This shift in pricing strategy has sparked curiosity and raised questions about Apple’s approach to the budget tablet market.
But, is the iPad 11th Gen really the best budget tablet? Let’s break it down.
What’s New in the iPad 11th Gen?
Apple’s new offering brings several upgrades that elevate the iPad’s overall performance. Here are the major highlights:
Performance Boost
One of the most significant changes in the iPad 11th Gen is its performance. This model comes equipped with the A16 chipset, the same processor found in the iPhone 15, though with slightly reduced GPU and CPU cores. The 6GB of RAM (up from 4GB in the previous model) further contributes to a smoother experience.
In benchmark tests, the iPad 11th Gen outshines competitors like the Xiaomi Pad 7 in both single-core and multi-core scores. It even surpasses the OnePlus Pad 2 in single-core tests. While the A16’s GPU performance isn’t on par with high-end Android tablets, the iPad’s consistent, snappy performance makes up for it. Whether you’re multitasking with apps or playing casual games like BGMI or Genshin Impact, the device delivers a smooth experience. However, unlike the Pro models, this iPad is capped at 60 FPS due to its 60 Hz display.
A New Storage Upgrade
Gone are the days of 64GB base models. The iPad 11th Gen now comes with 128 GB of storage at the same price, offering faster storage for better performance. This storage bump makes a noticeable difference, especially for those who need more space for apps, media, and documents. Plus, it addresses one of the main grievances from earlier models.
No Apple Intelligence (But Is It a Dealbreaker?)
While the new iPad offers substantial hardware improvements, one feature that is notably missing is Apple Intelligence — Apple’s suite of AI-driven features. This decision may leave some users disappointed, especially students or professionals who could benefit from AI-based research tools, summarization, and productivity apps. Unfortunately, the iPad 11th Gen does not support Apple’s AI features, which are found on Android alternatives like the Xiaomi Pad 7 and OnePlus Pad 2.
Display and Build
In terms of design, the iPad 11th Gen sticks with the same all-metal body and flat sides seen in previous models. The back features a clean, minimalist look with the mirror-finish Apple logo. It’s also significantly lighter than Android competitors like the OnePlus Pad 2, making it more portable.
The display is 11 inches with color accuracy and brightness that delivers a sharp, clear image whether you’re browsing the web or watching content. However, this display is still limited to 60 Hz and doesn’t support HDR despite claims on the spec sheet. Unlike more premium tablets, this model has a non-laminated display — a trade-off that improves repairability but can result in minor light bleed and some flex when pressed.
Battery and Charging
The iPad 11th Gen houses a slightly larger battery than its predecessor, but it still lags behind Android tablets, which tend to feature batteries in the 8,000-9,000 mAh range. Nonetheless, users can expect a solid 6 hours of screen time on mixed usage, including light gaming.
Apple includes a 20W charger in the box, but don’t expect rapid charging speeds. While the battery life is decent, it doesn’t match the performance of its Android counterparts.
iPad Accessories: Still Expensive
As with all Apple products, the iPad 11th Gen comes with its share of costly accessories. The new USB-C Apple Pencil is priced at ₹8,000, lacks magnetic charging, and doesn’t support pressure sensitivity. The folio keyboard will set you back ₹25,000 — which seems excessive for what is essentially a budget tablet. However, these accessories are available, unlike many Android tablet accessories, which are often out of stock.
Where Does the iPad 11th Gen Stand?
Apple’s strategy with the iPad 11th Gen seems to be a direct response to the increasing competition from Android tablets. The Xiaomi Pad 7 and OnePlus Pad 2 have raised the bar with better displays, higher refresh rates, and AI features, forcing Apple to reconsider its pricing and positioning.
That being said, iPadOS, the quality app ecosystem, and the longevity of iPads still make the iPad 11th Gen a reliable option. For anyone looking for a tablet that will stay relevant for years, Apple’s iPads tend to perform well long after their initial launch. And while this iPad may not be the most powerful option in its price range, it remains a great choice for students, casual users, and those who prioritize the Apple ecosystem.
Is the iPad 11th Gen Worth It?
Ultimately, the iPad 11th Gen offers good value for the price. If your primary usage involves web browsing, media consumption, note-taking, and light productivity tasks, this iPad is more than capable. It will continue to receive long-term software support, so you can expect it to remain functional and relevant for several years.
However, if you are looking for high-end performance or advanced features like Apple Intelligence and Stage Manager multitasking, you might want to consider the Air or Pro models.
For ₹35,000, the iPad 11th Gen offers a balance of price, performance, and longevity — making it a solid choice for those who want a tablet that will stand the test of time.
