Is the iPad A16 Really a Bargain or Just Another Apple Illusion?

The iPad A16 is on sale for under $300, but is it truly the best deal for a budget tablet, or are we just falling for Apple’s marketing again?

So, the iPad A16—Apple’s newest ‘budget’ darling, now flaunting a price tag under $300. Sounds like a steal, right? Hold that thought. Just because it’s cheaper doesn’t automatically make it a win. Launched in March, this gadget’s been crowned the go-to for penny-pinchers in countless buying guides. But here’s the kicker: ‘budget’ often means ‘cut corners,’ and this iPad’s no exception.

Let’s get real. The A16 isn’t exactly a speed demon when you throw heavy tasks its way, and that non-laminated display? Good luck using it in sunlight. Apple insists it’s ‘more than enough’ for the average Joe. But let’s be honest, ‘enough’ is a moving target, especially when your shiny new toy starts lagging behind with the next iOS update.

Sure, Apple’s bumped up the storage and tossed in an extra 2GB of RAM compared to its predecessor. But here’s the plot twist: no Apple Intelligence here. Love it or hate it, AI’s the future, and this iPad’s sitting on the sidelines. That’s a pretty big ‘oops’ in my book.

On the bright side, the build’s solid, and the battery won’t quit on you halfway through your Netflix binge. But the accessories? Oh boy. USB-C’s a mess, first-gen Apple Pencils feel like relics, and the Magic Keyboard support is, well, less than magical. Makes you wonder if this ‘deal’ is really all it’s cracked up to be.

Then there’s the iPad Air M3, currently $100 off. Better screen, plays nice with Apple Intelligence, and actually supports decent accessories. Is shelling out an extra $200 worth it? Depends on who you ask. But before you jump on the A16 bandwagon, ask yourself: is this truly a bargain, or just the best-marketed one?

Bottom line? The iPad A16 might scratch your itch for a no-frills tablet. But remember, a sale price doesn’t always equal smart spending. Sometimes, spending less just means getting less—and that’s a deal breaker for me.