Expert review Apple iPad (2020)
Note: the Apple iPad (2020) is no longer available
With the launch of the Apple iPad (2021 and newer), the Apple iPad (2020) is discontinued. So this model is no longer available. Check the most recent model here.
First impression of the Apple iPad (2020)
It's noticeable right away that the iPad (2020) looks the same as the iPad (2019). It's the well-known design with wide bezels. All buttons and connectors are in the places I'm used to. The Smart Connector is on the left. I can easily connect the Smart Keyboard to this. The included 20W USB-C charger and USB-C Lightning Cable are new. With these, I can charge the device faster than before. The difference is about an hour to charge it up to 80%.
Clear and smooth 10.2-inch Retina screen
Watching movies and series on the 10.2-inch screen is pleasant. The screen is clear and smooth. The brightness and the color representation are also good. The touchscreen is very responsive when I tap something or scroll through a website. Thanks to the size of the screen, there's enough space to open multiple apps side by side. This is useful if you want to take notes during an online class, for example.
Fast multitasking with the A12 Bionic Chip
I notice the iPad opens all apps faster than its predecessor, the iPad 2019. The loading times of games are also shorter. This is because of the renewed processor, the A12 Bionic Chip. Switching apps goes smoothly. I can multitask without slowing down or problems. I can watch a video on the one side of the screen an make a shopping list on the other.
New features in iPadOS 14
The new operating system iPadOS 14 offers a few useful new features. For example, I can easily convert text written with the Apple Pencil to typed text. This is a nice function when I don't feel like typing. I can stick the renewed widgets to the start screen. That way, I won't have to swipe anymore to see the widgets. I can see all my agenda items, the weather, and the battery status of the iPad and the Apple Pencil at a glance.
Accessories for more convenience
The iPad 2020 is compatible with the Smart Keyboard and the Apple Pencil (1st generation). When I add these accessories, I have a good alternative for a laptop. With the physical keyboard and built-in stand of the Smart Keyboard, I can comfortably type long texts. Writing with the Apple Pencil feels natural. It's very responsive and there's no delay. This smart stylus is useful for taking notes during a meeting or video call, but also for drawings for reports. Thanks to the pressure-sensitive point, I can easily make thicker or thinner lines. I hold the Apple Pencil at an angle to mark texts or add shadow. You need to purchase both accessories separately.
Conclusion
The Apple iPad 2020 is a starter model tablet which is useful in many ways. You can watch series and movies in good quality on the 10.2-inch Retina screen. Apps and games start up fast and run smoothly. Feel free to use multiple apps at the same time and side by side without the iPad slowing down. Do you type a lot and want to work precisely? The Smart Keyboard and Apple Pencil are good additions.
