Apple's first base-model iPad with USB-C ditches Lightning but runs at USB 2.0 speeds — just 480Mbps for data transfer. That's 20x slower than the iPad Air's USB-C port, so large file transfers and external SSD use will feel sluggish. DisplayPort video output still works via USB-C adapters for mirroring to TVs and monitors. The A14 Bionic chip and 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display handle everyday tasks well, and the landscape front camera is a welcome upgrade for video calls.
tablet Devices
Apple iPad Air 11-inch (M3, 2025)
The 11-inch iPad Air pairs Apple's M3 chip with a USB-C port running at 10Gbps — a significant upgrade over the USB 2.0 speeds of some entry-level iPads. DisplayPort alt mode lets you drive an external monitor at up to 6K@60Hz with the right adapter, making it a capable portable workstation. The 8-core GPU handles ProRes video playback and photo editing smoothly, while 8GB of RAM enables Apple Intelligence features. One port for everything means a multiport adapter is essential for desk setups.
Apple iPad Air 13-inch (M3, 2025)
The larger iPad Air brings a 13-inch Liquid Retina display and M3 chip with USB-C connectivity at 10Gbps — fast enough for external SSDs and 4K displays but without Thunderbolt. DisplayPort alt mode over USB-C supports mirroring or extended display up to 6K@60Hz with compatible adapters. The M3's 8-core GPU and hardware ray tracing handle demanding creative apps, and 8GB of RAM supports Apple Intelligence features. One USB-C port means a dock is necessary for power-and-peripherals workflows.
Apple iPad Mini 7th Gen (A17 Pro, 2024)
The smallest iPad gets a serious connectivity upgrade with USB-C running at 10Gbps — 20 times faster than the base iPad's USB 2.0 port. DisplayPort alt mode drives external displays at up to 4K@60Hz, turning this 8.3-inch tablet into a portable presentation tool. The A17 Pro chip brings the same silicon found in the iPhone 15 Pro, including a 6-core CPU and hardware ray tracing GPU. Apple Pencil Pro support via magnetic attachment adds precision input for creative work on the go.
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4, 2024)
The compact 11-inch Pro packs the same Thunderbolt 3/USB 4 port as its larger sibling, delivering 40Gbps data speeds and support for external displays up to 6K@60Hz. The M4 chip brings desktop-class performance to a tablet that weighs under a pound, with a 10-core GPU handling everything from ProRes video editing to 3D rendering. A single USB-C port handles charging, data, and video output — a hub is essential for multi-accessory workflows. The tandem OLED Ultra Retina XDR display hits 1,000 nits full-screen brightness.
Apple iPad Pro 13-inch (M4, 2024)
Apple's flagship tablet delivers Thunderbolt 3 and USB 4 through a single USB-C port, enabling data transfers at up to 40Gbps — matching many laptops. That Thunderbolt connection drives external displays up to 6K@60Hz and powers high-speed storage arrays without dongles. The M4 chip is Apple's first to debut in an iPad, bringing a 10-core GPU and hardware-accelerated ray tracing. One port does it all, but you'll need a hub or dock if you want to charge and connect peripherals simultaneously.
Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra (2024)
Samsung's largest tablet features a 14.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display and USB 3.2 Gen 1 connectivity at 5Gbps through its USB-C port. DisplayPort alt mode enables Samsung DeX desktop mode on external monitors, transforming the tablet into a laptop replacement. The 45W fast charging gets the massive 11,200mAh battery topped up quickly, and a microSD slot expands storage up to 1.5TB. Two USB-C ports on the bottom edge let you charge while a USB accessory is connected — a rare and practical feature.
Samsung Galaxy Tab S10+ (2024)
The 12.4-inch Tab S10+ pairs a Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with USB 3.2 Gen 1 connectivity and DisplayPort alt mode for Samsung DeX on external screens. At 5Gbps, the USB-C port handles external storage and display output, while 45W fast charging keeps the 10,090mAh battery ready for all-day use. A microSD slot adds up to 1.5TB of expandable storage — essential for creative professionals working with large files. The included S Pen and pogo-pin keyboard connector make it a productivity-focused tablet.
