Apple iPad Apple iPad 2021 (10.2-inch, Wi-Fi, 64GB) - Space Review
The 2021 iPad is a perfect couch tablet, but its 3GB of RAM makes it a terrible choice for anyone needing to do real work. At $195, it's a deal with clear limits.
The 30-Second Version
A great cheap iPad for media, but a terrible choice for work. The 3GB of RAM kills any hope of real productivity.
Overview
The 2021 iPad is the tablet you buy when you just need a tablet. It's Apple's entry-level model, and that's exactly what it is. The one thing to know? It's a fantastic screen for watching videos and browsing the web, but it's not a laptop replacement. With only 3GB of RAM, it's a bit sluggish if you try to do too much at once. For $195, it's a solid deal if you stick to its strengths.
Performance
The performance story here is simple: the A13 chip is still a solid middle-of-the-pack performer, handling everyday tasks fine. But the real surprise is how badly the 3GB of RAM holds it back. That's one of the worst amounts we've seen in our database. It means apps reload more often, and you can't have many open at the same time. It feels fast for one thing, but slow for multitasking.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Strong social proof (83th percentile) 83th
- Strong gpu (75th percentile) 75th
- Strong cpu (74th percentile) 74th
- Strong storage (72th percentile) 72th
Cons
- Below average ram (7th percentile) 7th
The Word on the Street
Specifications
Full Specifications
Processor
| CPU | 2.65 GHz |
Memory & Storage
| RAM | 3 GB |
| Storage | 256 GB |
Display
| Size | 10.2" |
| Resolution | 2160 |
Physical
| Weight | 0.5 kg / 1.1 lbs |
| OS | iPadOS |
Value & Pricing
At $195, it's a good value if your needs are simple. You're getting a reliable Apple tablet for less than half the price of a new one. But you're also buying a device with a clear, dated limitation. It's worth it for a media machine, but not for anyone who needs to do real work on it.
Price History
vs Competition
If you need more power, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S10+ is a much more capable Android alternative with better multitasking. For a similar price but more flexibility, the Xiaomi Redmi Pad 2 offers a newer design and USB-C. But if you're locked into Apple's ecosystem and just want a basic iPad for the couch, this is your cheapest ticket in.
| Spec | Apple iPad Apple iPad 2021 (10.2-inch, Wi-Fi, 64GB) - Space | Apple iPad Pro Apple 11" iPad Pro M5 Chip (Standard Glass, 512GB, | Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Samsung 12.4" Galaxy Tab S10+ 256GB Multi-Touch | Microsoft Surface Pro Microsoft - Surface Pro - Copilot+ PC - 13” OLED | Lenovo Yoga Tab Series Lenovo Yoga Tab Plus | Xiaomi Xiaomi Redmi Pad 2 Only WiFi (No Calls or Text) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CPU | 2.65 GHz | Apple M5 | MediaTek 9300 | Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite X1E-84-100 | Qualcomm® Snapdragon® 8 Gen 3, QCM8650 | 2.2 GHz mediatek_helio |
| RAM (GB) | 3 | 12 | 12 | 32 | 16 | - |
| Storage (GB) | 256 | 512 | 256 | 1000 | 256 | 256 |
| Screen | 10.2" 2160x1620 | 11" 2420x1668 | 12.4" 2800x1752 | 13" 2880x1920 | 12.7" 2944x1840 | 11" 2560x1600 |
| OS | iPadOS | iPadOS | Android 14 | Windows 11 Home | Android 14 | Android 15 |
| Stylus | false | true | true | false | false | false |
| Cellular | false | false | false | false | false | false |
Common Questions
Q: Is 64GB of storage enough?
For most people, yes. If you're just streaming videos and using apps, 64GB is fine. But if you download a lot of movies or games, or take tons of photos, you'll fill it up fast. Consider your habits.
Q: Can I use an Apple Pencil with it?
Yes, but only the 1st Gen Apple Pencil. It works, but the experience isn't as smooth as on an iPad Pro because of the non-laminated screen and slower response. It's okay for casual doodling, not for serious art.
Q: How good is 'Renewed'?
Based on reviews, the renewed condition is generally excellent. Most units look new and have batteries with at least 80% life. It's a safe bet if you want to save money.
Who Should Skip This
If you're looking for a tablet to replace your laptop for school or work, this isn't it. The 3GB RAM and weak productivity score mean it'll frustrate you. Go get an iPad Air or a Samsung Galaxy Tab S10+ instead.
Verdict
We recommend this iPad for a very specific person: someone who wants a simple, reliable Apple tablet for watching shows, reading, and light web browsing. It's a great renewed deal. But if you plan to use it for schoolwork, note-taking with an Apple Pencil, or any kind of productivity, you should skip it and look at an iPad Air or even an iPad Pro. The RAM limitation is a deal-breaker for real work.