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How To Choose The Best Tablets And iPads For Students

January 4, 2024 – 5 min read

As the start of a new school year approaches, you might be thinking about what tools and tech your kids need to become the best little school students they can be. As technology becomes more integrated into classrooms and learning goes online – there are more options than ever to choose from.

So if you’re after information and advice on choosing the best iPad or tablet for your primary school or high school student, then you’ve come to the right place! In this article, we take a look at the tablets, iPads and accessories on offer that can help to boost students’ productivity at school.
Want more Back To School inspo? Check out our Back to School hub!

Heading Back To School?

When it comes to finding the best tablets for students or iPads for school, it’s largely about how they’re going to use the device. Your child’s school might have rules on what they can and can’t take into the classroom, or they may already have a preference for the operating system they like to use. Either way, consider choosing a device that will enhance their experience at school, not distract them from what they’re meant to be focussing on.

Laptop Vs Tablet Or iPad For Your School (BYOD)

Many schools have a bring your own device (BYOD) policy, so you have some flexibility to pick your own devices from a list the school provides. You might be considering a Macbook or iPad for school – and if iPad is your preferred option, you’re likely wondering which is the best iPad for students. Or, if you have your heart set on a laptop, you might like to check out this handy guide we’ve put together on our top 5 best seller laptops for learning.

There are various benefits in using either a laptop, tablet or iPad for school work. While laptops may have a bigger screen and keyboard, your child might prefer to use a touchscreen instead on a tablet or laptop. It also depends on what year level they’re in and which programs they need to use. If you’re ever unsure, check with the school for clarity and specific advice.

What To Consider When Choosing A Tablet Or iPad

If you’re looking for a tablet or iPad for school, there are some features you’ll need to factor into your research. Your child’s school will likely have specifications for screen size and weight, so double check the limits before you buy.

Tablet / iPad Size

Most schools will accept tablets or iPads with screens that are 8 inches to 15 inches. A smaller screen tablet or iPad is super portable, whereas a bigger device is fantastic for streaming media and reading ebooks.

Storage For Tablet / iPad

For regular note taking and documents, storage of around 128GB may suffice. However, if your child intends on storing videos or high-resolution media on their device, you may want to upgrade the space to 256GB or larger.

Battery Life Of Tablet /iPad

As your child will be in class for the whole day - 8 hours or more, keep an eye out for tablets or iPads that will last the distance. They may not have time or the ability to charge their device between classes, so make sure to look for long battery life when you’re making your choice.

Weight Of Device

Check the requirements with your school, but anything over 2kg might be too heavy. Most iPads and tablets weigh under 500g, making them easy to transport and carry in school bags.

Software And App Support For Your Tablet / iPad

If your child’s school requires specific software or apps, make sure the device you choose can support them. This will likely be dictated by the operating system, so check that it's in line with the school’s BYOD and you shouldn’t run into any issues.

“Your child’s school might have rules on what you can and can’t take into the classroom, or they may already have a preference for the operating system you like to use.”

Benefits Of Having A Tablet While Studying

Tablets have become quite popular for students of all ages in recent times. There are a number of benefits for using a tablet at school, such as:

Portability: Tablets can be easily carried everywhere and most models are lightweight.
Learning styles: Your child can document learning the way that makes sense to them by handwriting notes, taking photos or recording videos in situ.
Communication: Tablets can connect students with teachers and parents instantly, greatly improving the speed and directness of communications.
Instant access to knowledge: Tablets give students the ability to access live information online to complement their learning, rather than waiting for printouts from their teacher.
Improves computer skills: Students can be a little more creative when it comes to their learning, which can boost their information retention.

Best iPads And Tablets For Primary School Students

For younger students, there are a few great options when it comes to iPads and tablets. The Apple iPad 10.2" (9th Gen) 64GB WiFi is intuitive to use and very customisable, so you can set what apps your child is free to use. Alternatively, the Apple iPad mini Wi-Fi 64GB has a more compact screen, while maintaining all the great features that iOS offers.

If the school’s BYOD list doesn’t require an Apple device, check out the Lenovo Tab M10 10.1” (3rd Gen) Tablet. Its brilliant screen resolution illuminates information and media clearly, plus it has 4GB of memory, making it super responsive when kids are multitasking between apps.

Shop The Apple iPad 10.2" (9th Gen) 64GB WiFi Silver

Best iPads And Tablets For High School Students

You might be weighing up options like an iPad vs laptop for high school, or thinking about an iPad mini vs Air for your child. If you decide an iPad is the way to go, then either the Apple iPad Pro 11" M4 Wi-Fi 256GB - Space Black or the Apple iPad 10.9” (10th Gen) 64GB WiFi are good options. The iPad Pro has the capacity to also add on a keyboard and mouse which is perfect for use in the classroom as it virtually functions like a laptop.

Similarly, if you want a device with the power of a laptop and versatility of a tablet, then the Microsoft Surface Pro 9 i5 8GB 128GB is worth exploring. A fast processing speed and up to 15.5 hours of battery life make it a great study buddy for any diligent student. Another tablet to check out is the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Wi-Fi 256GB. It has a massive 256GB of memory and is ideal for watching videos or streaming media. Its 11-inch screen is great for writing or even editing photos for those of you who are more on the creative side.

Shop The Apple iPad Pro 11" M4 Wi-Fi 256GB - Space Black

Shop The Apple iPad 10.9” (10th Gen) 64GB WiFi

Shop The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Wi-Fi 256GB

Tablet Accessories For Students

Once you’ve chosen a tablet, it’s time to set your child up for success with the right tablet accessories. From keyboards and cases to digital pencils and screen guards, it’s important to have the right tools – and best protection – to get the most out of the device long term.

Shop The Microsoft Surface Pen Charcoal

Shop The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Screen Protector

iPad Accessories For Students

For those of you who are iPad fans, we’ve got the right iPad accessories to take care of your new device. Choose from a selection of slimline cases or smart covers that come in a range of different colours and sizes.
Shop The Cygnett iPad 10.2" TekView Keyboard Case (Grey/ Black)

Shop The ZAGG iPad 10.2" Elite+ Glass Screen Protector

Shop The Apple Magic Mouse (Black)

Don’t Forget To Check The Portable Device Requirements Of Your School

One last reminder – your child’s school will have its own policies about technology requirements for each year level, so make sure you check in with them ahead of time.

Shop Our Range In-Store Or Online To Get The Best Deals

Once you know exactly what you’ll need for the school year ahead, come on down to your local Good Guys store or shop online to get the best deals on tablets and iPads for school.