Apple iPad Apple iPad 2020 (10.2-inch, Wi-Fi, 32GB) - Space Review

So you're looking at the basic iPad. The 10.2-inch model with 32GB of storage is Apple's entry point into the tablet world, and it's the one most people think of when they ask 'should I get an iPad?'. It runs iPadOS 14, has that familiar home button with Touch ID, and still includes a headphone jack, which is a nice touch. For reading, watching videos, or casual browsing, it's a solid choice. The big question is whether its older design and limited storage are deal-breakers for you, especially when you can find it for around $156.

Let's be real, this isn't a powerhouse. Its CPU and GPU scores are in the 34th and 36th percentiles, which means it's fine for everyday stuff but will show its age with more demanding apps or multitasking. The 32GB of RAM is actually in the 92nd percentile, which sounds great, but that's storage, not system memory. The 32GB of actual storage is a major limitation, sitting in just the 7th percentile. You'll fill that up fast with apps, photos, and a few videos. For basic tasks, it's perfectly responsive. But if you're thinking about art apps or more serious work, you'll feel the constraints.

At around $156, the value proposition is simple. It's the cheapest way to get into the iPad ecosystem. But that low cost comes with big compromises, mainly the tiny 32GB storage. You're essentially paying for a device that needs constant cloud management or external drives. For someone who just needs a web browser, ebook reader, and video streamer, it can work. But for anyone else, spending a bit more on a model with more storage is almost mandatory.

This iPad sits at the very bottom of the tablet stack. Compared to an iPad Pro, it's a different universe in terms of speed, screen quality, and features. A more direct competitor might be a used or older model iPad Air, which often has a better design for not much more money. Against Android tablets like the Samsung Galaxy Tab S series, this iPad wins on software support and app ecosystem, but loses on hardware specs and value at this storage tier. If you need a device for business, the Microsoft Surface Pro or even a used laptop will be a far better choice, as this iPad scored very poorly for that use case.

Should you buy this? Only in a very specific scenario. If you need the absolute cheapest iPad possible, and you only plan to use it for reading, very light web browsing, and streaming video (and you're okay with constantly managing storage), then yes, it's a functional device. For literally anyone else, the 32GB storage is a deal-breaker. I'd recommend looking for a refurbished model with at least 64GB or 128GB, even if it costs $50-$100 more. It'll save you a huge headache down the line.