iPad 11th Generation Release Date: Everything You Need to Know

Ah yes, it’s that time again—Apple has dropped yet another iPad, and you’re wondering if this one’s worth your precious coin or if it’s just the same old tablet with a new outfit. Well, the iPad 11th generation is officially here, and no, it’s not just a reheated version of last year’s model. 

There’s some spice this time. Whether you’re a die-hard Apple fan, a casual tech browser, or someone who just cracked their old iPad screen, here’s the tea on everything you need to know about the iPad 11th gen.

iPad 11th Generation Release Date Confirmed

Mark your calendars (or maybe don’t, because it’s already here): Apple quietly announced the 11th-gen iPad back on March 4, 2025, with availability starting March 12. If you were refreshing the Apple Store in your pajamas at midnight—same here. 

Pre-orders opened right after the announcement, and by now, deliveries have been hitting doorsteps across the country.

What’s New in the iPad 11th Gen?

Okay, let’s talk upgrades. The iPad 11th generation may look familiar, but under the hood? Total makeover. Here’s what you get:

• The A16 Bionic chip (yes, the same one from the iPhone 15)
• 128GB base storage (finally!)
• Fresh new colors: Blue, Pink, Yellow, and Silver
• All at the same $349 starting price

Subtle on the outside, but surprisingly powerful inside.

Category	Specification
Release Details	Announced: March 4, 2025Released: March 12, 2025
Design	Dimensions: 248.6 x 179.5 x 7 mmWeight: 477g (Wi-Fi) / 481g (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
Display	11-inch Liquid Retina IPS LCDResolution: 2360 x 1640 (~264 ppi)Brightness: 500 nits
Performance	Chipset: Apple A16 Bionic (5-core CPU, 4-core GPU)RAM: 6GB LPDDR5XStorage: 128GB/256GB/512GB
Camera	Rear: 12MP (ƒ/1.8, 4K video)Front: 12MP ultra-wide (ƒ/2.4, Center Stage)
Connectivity	Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3Cellular: Sub-6GHz 5G (optional)Ports: USB-C (USB 2.0)
Battery	7,606 mAh (28.93 Wh)Up to 10 hours of web/video playback
Accessories	Apple Pencil (USB-C/1st gen), Magic Keyboard Folio
Limitations	No Apple Intelligence features
Pricing	Starts at $349 (128GB Wi-Fi)

iPad 11th Gen Design and Display

If you squint, it looks a lot like the 10th-gen iPad. Same 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display with True Tone and 500 nits brightness. The bezels are still there but thin enough to feel modern, and the Touch ID is still on the top button.

But the new colors? They actually slap. Think iPhone 5C but make it 2025. The pastel vibes are real, and if you want something that screams “spring energy,” the pink or yellow options are calling your name.

Performance Upgrades: A16 Bionic Chip Explained

Apple putting the A16 chip in the base iPad is kind of a big deal. This isn’t just a speed bump—it’s a full-on NOS boost. Compared to the A14 in the last gen, you’re looking at:

• 33% faster CPU performance
• 50% faster GPU
• Better energy efficiency

Translation? Faster app launches, smoother multitasking, and better support for the latest iPadOS features. It can handle games, Procreate, video editing, and that 47-tab Safari session without melting.

Storage & Battery Life: More Room, More Play

Finally, Apple gave us a respectable amount of storage to start with. 128GB as the base is such a glow-up from the old 64GB default. Now you can actually keep your apps, videos, and creative projects without running out of space on day three.

As for battery life? Apple claims up to 10 hours of web or video use, and real-world reviews suggest it lives up to that promise. The A16 is more power-efficient, so you get a longer-lasting device without a bigger battery. Efficient and sleek—like your favorite influencer.

Price and Value: Is It Worth the Upgrade?

At $349, Apple kept the same price tag as the 10th-gen iPad, which is rare considering the tech world loves inflation more than Starbucks loves a seasonal latte.

But with the A16 chip and double the storage, it actually feels like a good deal. Compared to:

• iPad 10th Gen: Same price, but slower and less storage
• iPad Air: Starts at $599—still a better display and second-gen Pencil support, but $$$

So yes, this is probably the best bang-for-your-buck iPad right now.

Accessories and Compatibility

Okay, here’s where Apple likes to keep us guessing. The iPad 11th gen supports:

• Apple Pencil (USB-C): Not the Gen 2, not the Gen 1. The weird USB-C one. (Yes, it’s confusing. Yes, we’re sighing too.)
• Magic Keyboard Folio: Works like a charm if you want a pseudo-laptop experience.
• A whole range of cases, stands, and sleeves are already flooding Amazon. Go nuts.

Who Should Buy the iPad 11th Gen?

This iPad is ideal for:

• Students who need performance on a budget
• Casual users who want something modern but not overpriced
• Artists & creators who want to use apps like Procreate without lag

Skip it if:

• You already have an iPad Air or iPad Pro from the last 2-3 years
• You want Face ID, laminated display, or full second-gen Pencil support

Alternatives to Consider

iPad Air M2: For More Power and Premium Vibes

Starts at $599, but you get M2 power, laminated display, and full support for second-gen Apple Pencil. Worth it if you want to step into semi-pro territory.

iPad 10th Gen: Budget Option (Now Discounted)

It’s basically the 11th gen with less power and half the storage. But it’s cheaper now, often going for under $300. Good if you’re really just browsing, streaming, and sending emails.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE: For Android Fans

12.4-inch display, solid performance, S Pen included, and starts at around $450. Great for those living the Android lifestyle.

Best Accessories for iPad 11 in 2025: What You Actually Need

1. Lingo N21 Open-Ear Bluetooth Headset

Let’s be honest—no one wants to feel isolated while binging YouTube or tuning into a Zoom call. The Lingo N21 headset brings open-ear magic to the iPad 11. It keeps your ears open to the world while delivering crisp audio, sleek comfort, and seamless Bluetooth pairing. Perfect for multitaskers, commuters, and anyone who wants to look cool while staying productive.

2. Logitech Crayon (USB-C)

Compatible with iPads using USB-C, this stylus is a strong alternative to the Apple Pencil—great precision, cheaper price, and student-friendly design.

3. Paperlike Screen Protector

If you’re into writing or drawing, this matte screen protector makes your iPad feel like paper—super satisfying for note-taking, sketching, and avoiding fingerprints.

Final Thoughts

The iPad 11th gen is a quiet revolution. It doesn’t scream “Look at me!” with flashy new features, but it does deliver where it counts. Apple finally gave us a base iPad with legit performance, real storage, and a price tag that doesn’t feel like a scam.

It’s the kind of upgrade that makes you feel smart, not impulsive. So, if you’ve been holding out or just need a new iPad that won’t break the bank, this one’s worth a very close look.

And yes, the pink one is absolutely the moment.