Apple’s midrange tablet gets a meaningful internal upgrade. We tested real-world performance, battery life and creative workflows to see whether the A16 chip truly changes the calculus for buyers in 2025.
If you’ve followed Apple’s product updates, the headline is simple: the 11-inch iPad for 2025 now ships with the A16 Bionic — the same chip that powered flagship iPhones a cycle earlier. At a starting price under $500 for the 128GB Wi‑Fi model, that move shifts expectations for what an affordable iPad can do. Now, the Apple Ipad 11 A16:
Design & Display: Familiar, Refined and Comfortable
The 2025 11-inch iPad retains Apple’s flat-edge aluminum design and light footprint, weighing about 1.03 lbs (466g). It’s available in four finishes, including a deep blue that feels modern without being flashy.
The Liquid Retina display measures 11 inches at 2360 x 1640 resolution (about 264 PPI). Colors are vivid and the panel supports True Tone, which adjusts white balance to ambient light — useful for long reading or drawing sessions. For students or commuters who read PDFs or sketch in cafes, the screen is bright and easy on the eyes.
Performance: The A16 Makes This Model Punch Above Its Price
The A16 Bionic is the most consequential change. Built on a 5nm process with a 6-core CPU and 5-core GPU, Apple rates it around 40% faster in CPU tasks and roughly 30% faster for graphics compared with the previous-generation entry iPad. In everyday use that translates to smoother multitasking (split-screen Safari, Notes and music apps), lag-free edits in Lightroom and iMovie, and surprisingly solid performance in demanding games such as Genshin Impact.
For students juggling note-taking, browsing and video calls, and for creatives using Procreate or vector sketch apps, the A16 provides headroom that should keep the device feeling snappy for several years.
Cameras, Biometrics, Battery and Connectivity
Apple equips the iPad with a 12MP front camera featuring Center Stage, which automatically reframes during video calls — handy for online classes and remote meetings. The 12MP rear camera with True Tone flash handles document scans, quick photos and 4K video capture.
Touch ID sits in the top power button, offering quick, secure unlocks and Apple Pay authentication. Battery life in testing hit about 10 hours of mixed use — browsing, video and light creative work — aligning with Apple’s “all-day” claim. The addition of Wi‑Fi 6 improves performance on crowded networks, and the long-awaited USB‑C port finally makes it easier to connect external drives, cameras and monitors without dongles.
Software, Pencil and Keyboard: Productivity Options Matter
Running iPadOS 17 (or later), this iPad supports Scribble, Slide Over and robust multitasking that elevates it beyond a consumption tablet. Apple Pencil (USB‑C) provides smooth inking and drawing; price at launch sits around $79. The Magic Keyboard Folio remains the premium typing accessory at about $249, turning the iPad into a portable productivity machine.
Tip: the older Apple Pencil (1st gen) remains compatible if you already own one, which can reduce upgrade cost for some users.
👥 Who Is This iPad For? (And Who Should Skip It?)
✅ Perfect for:
- Students needing a lightweight, powerful device for notes, research, and entertainment
- Digital artists starting with Procreate or Concepts
- Professionals who want a second screen for email, docs, and calls
- Anyone upgrading from an iPad older than 2020
❌ Consider another model if:
- You need 5G/cellular connectivity → go for the Wi-Fi + Cellular version
- You want Face ID and a larger screen → the iPad Air or iPad Pro may be better (but cost $200+ more)
- You only browse social media or watch YouTube → a cheaper tablet might suffice
This iPad is a strong choice for students who need a light, fast device for notes, research and media; for beginning and intermediate digital artists using Procreate or Concepts; and for professionals seeking a secondary screen for email, documents and video calls. If you want Face ID, a larger Pro-grade display, or built-in 5G, the iPad Air or iPad Pro (and cellular models) remain better fits — but also cost substantially more.
As of December 2025 the 11-inch iPad (128GB, Wi‑Fi) starts at about $429 on major retailers and frequently appears in holiday sales, which strengthens its value proposition.
Verdict: The A16 chip materially boosts performance for students and creatives at a price that undercuts Apple’s higher-tier tablets. For most buyers who want a balance of speed, display quality and accessory support without paying Pro prices, this 11-inch iPad is the smart buy in 2025.
📌 Final Thoughts
The 2025 iPad 11-inch isn’t just an upgrade — it’s a smart, long-term investment in your productivity and creativity. With the A16 chip, USB-C, and excellent display, it punches well above its price class.
If you’ve been waiting for the “right time” to buy an iPad…
This is it.
Where to Buy (With My Recommendation)
You can get the official Apple iPad 11-inch (2025, 128GB, Blue, Wi-Fi) on Amazon with fast shipping and reliable support:
👉 Check Current Price on Amazon
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. If you buy through my links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support my work — thank you!
We also cover the latest tech trends and offers on our Portuguese blog — check out our Apple reviews here
About the Author
