A guide to iPads and tablets for students

21 March 2024

Image credit: Roberto Nickson on Pexels

iPads and tablets are becoming a staple in Australian schools and universities, especially as online learning grows in popularity. Just like shopping for notebooks and stationery, it’s important to take the time to research and find the right iPad or tablet to suit your needs, so you can study and learn to the best of your ability.

Keep reading to find out how you can learn on an iPad or tablet, factors to consider, and which iPad or tablet may be best for you.

Learning on an iPad or tablet
iPad vs. Tablet for students
Factors to consider when buying an iPad or tablet
Top iPad and tablet options for students
Budget-friendly tablets

How can an iPad or tablet be used for learning?

iPads and tablets can be incredibly helpful in the classroom, no matter the level of education or subject of study. From primary school kids to university students, iPads and tablets can be valuable tools that encourage learning and productivity, converting traditional paper material to digitised eco-friendly versions.

Depending on your model’s capabilities, you can use an iPad or tablet to:

Annotate and write digital notes with a compatible stylus or keyboard accessory
Read eBooks, reports, documents, and PDFs
Connect with teachers and other students on virtual calls
Multitask with browser, messaging, and note-taking apps
Play academic online games
Take photos and record audio/videos of presentations and lectures
Use advanced software and applications like Microsoft 365 and Google One
Stream educational shows on services like Netflix, Amazon Prime, Paramount+, and BINGE

Whether you need to take basic notes at school or join virtual classrooms from home, you can trust an iPad or tablet to get the job done. But which of the two devices is best for you and your study needs?

iPad vs. Tablet: Which is best for students?

Image credit: Yan Krukau on Pexels

Both iPads and tablets have significant advantages depending on the kind of study activities you need them for, your budget, and preferred operating system.

The main difference between iPads and tablets – and the determining factor for which may be best – is their operation system. iPads use the Apple iOS operating system while tablets use the Android operating system. This means iPads are better suited for students used to the iOS/Apple ecosystem, and tablets are preferrable to students using other Android devices and Windows applications. When it comes down to which is better, personal design preferences and existing digital ecosystems are often the most considered factors.

Both iPads and tablets can run similar applications and support general educational functions, such as free-form note-taking, joining virtual classrooms, and internet browsing. Prices also vary depending on the model, storage options, and cellular capabilities you choose.

Factors to consider when buying an iPad or tablet

There are a few factors you should consider when buying an iPad or tablet.

Size

If you’re planning on travelling with your iPad or tablet often, you’ll need to consider whether its weight and size is travel-friendly. Both iPads and tablets come in a wide range of sizes, so it’s important to find one that suits your visual needs while being easy to carry and fitting snug in your bag.

Standard iPad sizes range from 8.3 inches in the iPad Mini to 12.9 inches in the iPad Pro. Tablets have an even larger size range, from 5 inches to 14 inches depending on the model and brand.

Price

Pricing and budget are often a big consideration when it comes to purchasing an iPad or tablet. Luckily, iPads and tablets come in virtually all price ranges, from budget-friendly values to premium ones.

Compatible accessories

Certain accessories like keyboards, cases, and stands need to be checked for iPad and tablet model compatibility. While most iPads and tablets support Bluetooth-connected accessories, it’s important to double check in case your iPad or tablet is an older model or the accessory hardware is not directly compatible with your device.

Explore Optus accessories to shop a wide range of products that are compatible with iPads and tablets.

Top tablets and iPads for students

Looking for an iPad or tablet that’s best for learning? Below are a few options.

Image credit: Julia M Cameron on Pexels

iPad (9^th gen)

Key features:

Large 10.2 inch Retina display
A13 Bionic chip and iPadOS for multitasking

iPad 9^th gen is a powerful and versatile device, fit for young students and learning. The Retina display measures an immersive 10.2 inches¹ with an intuitive True Tone setting that adjusts the display so it’s comfortable to view in any light. The iPad 9^th gen also runs on an A13 Bionic chip that delivers fast CPU and graphics performance so your kids can have multiple applications open at once – e.g. watching an educational video while note-taking.

Buy iPad (9th gen)

Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+

Key features:

5G and eSIM compatible
Flexible layouts with Multi Window setting

On top of being budget-friendly, the Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ is also a great tool for digital learning, with a wide 11-inch screen² with multitasking possibilities³, and the option of cellular connectivity so you can use it wherever you need (provided you have coverage⁴). It’s a great tablet for learning on-the-go, and can support software such as Microsoft 365.

Buy Galaxy Tab A9+

Budget-friendly tablets for students

More affordable than the latest premium iPads and tablets, the following mid-range devices accommodate for smaller budgets while still offering top-tier performance.

Image credit: Andrea Piacquadio on Pexels

Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE

Key features:

10.9 inch immersive display⁵
Cross-device connectivity with Galaxy smartphone, Buds, Samsung TV, and S Pen⁶

Featuring an abundance of “space to create”, the Galaxy Tab S9 FE is designed for the creative learners, with an expansive display to take notes, draw, and design. It’s compatibility with the in-box low-latency S Pen⁶ also means students can comfortably replicate on-paper studying while exploring a world of possibilities with creative apps available on the Galaxy Store.

Find out more about this tablet with our in-depth tablet reviews - Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE review.

Buy Galaxy Tab S9 FE

With so many iPad and tablet options to choose from, it’s always best to do your due diligence, research and find out which model best suits your study needs. Don’t forget to consider factors like pricing, device capabilities, and accessories while deciding which iPad or tablet to purchase.

Check out the large selection of iPads and tablets at Optus and visit our deals for more options.

iPad 9^th gen disclaimers

Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ disclaimers

^{2. Measured diagonally, Galaxy Tab A9+'s screen size is 11.0" in the full rectangle without accounting for the rounded corners. Actual viewable area is less due to the rounded corners.}

^{3. Up to three apps can be displayed simultaneously on Galaxy Tab A9+. Certain applications may not support multi-tasking.}

^{4. Coverage availability will vary depending on your device and location. 5G available in selected areas only (exc NT) and on selected plans. Compatible 5G device and plan required. Check coverage at optus.com.au/coverage}

Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE disclaimers

^{5. Measured diagonally, Galaxy Tab S9 FE’s screen size is 10.9” in the full rectangle and 10.8” accounting for the rounded corners. Galaxy Tab S9 FE+’s screen size is 12.4” in the full rectangle and 12.4” accounting for the rounded corners. Actual viewing area is less due to the rounded corners and the camera hole.}

^{6. The inbox S Pen for Galaxy Tab S9 FE and Tab S9 FE+ is rated as IP68. Based on lab test conditions for submersion in up to 1.5 meters of freshwater for up to 30 minutes. Not advised for beach or pool use. Ensure the charging port is dry before charging. Please refer to your phone's user manual for further care instructions and limitations. Remove any excess water from the S Pen with a dry cloth or towel before using or attaching it to tablet. S Pen Creator Edition sold separately.}

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