Apple's 2021 10.2-inch iPad is the last Apple tablet to ship with a Lightning port, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and a home button — making it the answer to most 'what cable does my old iPad use?' searches. The Lightning port handles charging (a 20W USB-C-to-Lightning cable is bundled) and data over USB 2.0. A 3-pin Smart Connector on the side attaches the Smart Keyboard. There is no USB-C, no Thunderbolt, and no DisplayPort Alt Mode — external video requires the Lightning Digital AV adapter.
Apple’s 2021 entry iPad (A13) — last with Lightning, 3.5mm headphone jack and home button, plus the 3-pin Smart Connector.
Device Information
- Manufacturer
- Apple
- Release Year
- 2021
- Model Number
- A2602 / A2604 / A2603 / A2605
- Category
- Tablet
Available Ports
| Connector | Quantity | Label | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lightning (Apple 8-pin) | 1 | Lightning (bottom) | Apple 8-pin Lightning. USB 2.0 data and charging with the bundled 20W USB-C-to-Lightning cable. External video via the Lightning Digital AV adapter (up to 1080p). |
| 3.5mm TRRS (Headset with Mic) | 1 | Headphone jack (top) | 3.5mm TRRS jack — supports stereo headphones and headsets with microphone. |
| Apple Smart Connector (3-pin) | 1 | Smart Connector (side) | 3-pin pogo connector on the side for the Smart Keyboard. Carries power and data between iPad and keyboard — no separate cable. |
Notes & Compatibility
Last iPad with Lightning, 3.5mm headphone jack, and home button. Lightning carries USB 2.0 data and charges with the bundled 20W USB-C-to-Lightning cable. External video needs the Lightning Digital AV adapter (up to 1080p) — no DisplayPort Alt Mode. Side 3-pin Smart Connector for the Smart Keyboard. Apple Pencil (1st gen) is the only supported pencil and charges by inserting into the Lightning port.
