Best Gaming iPad of 2024, Top 5 Picks for the Ultimate Gaming Experience

Experience gaming on the go like never before! Discover the top iPads tailored for gaming, catering to various budgets.

The finest iPads for gaming offer a blend of versatility and performance. These remarkable devices not only serve as exceptional tools for creativity but also transform into entertainment powerhouses for indulging in thrilling games like PUBG.

Primarily, iPads boast compatibility with the same extensive library of games available on iPhones, providing iPad users with access to a diverse array of gaming experiences. Moreover, subscribing to Apple Arcade further expands your gaming horizons, offering access to a plethora of high-quality titles that rival console games in quality and optimization. In our curated selection, we present a range of iPads across different price ranges, ensuring there’s something suitable for every budget.

1. Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch

If you’re seeking the pinnacle of gaming excellence on an iPad without any budget constraints, look no further. The ultimate gaming experience awaits with this iPad, boasting the formidable M2 chip, also featured in the MacBook Pro 13-inch (M2, 2022). With such immense processing power, even the most demanding and graphically-intensive games run seamlessly, making it the top choice for gamers aiming for immersive gameplay.

While some may argue that the M2 chip is overkill, it undeniably ensures this iPad remains future-proof for gaming endeavors. It’s poised to handle gaming challenges for years to come without breaking a sweat. For game developers, this level of power offers an ideal platform for coding and testing game creations.

The iPad Pro shines with its expansive 12.9-inch mini-LED XDR display, delivering not only the largest screen available on an iPad but also stunning visuals courtesy of mini-LED technology. However, its larger size compared to other iPads and tablets may compromise portability, a factor worth considering. For those prioritizing mobility, exploring the options further down our list, particularly number 3, might be beneficial.

Admittedly, this iPad commands a significant investment. If gaming is your primary focus, there are more budget-friendly options in this guide that offer better value for money.

Pros:

• Unmatched processing power
• Cutting-edge ultra-powerful display

Cons:

• Potentially excessive for some use cases

2. Apple iPad (10th Generation)

If the top-tier option isn’t within your budget, consider the iPad (2022) as an excellent alternative, striking a remarkable balance between affordability, performance, and features. Positioned as the most budget-friendly iPad in Apple’s current lineup, it received recent upgrades, enhancing its overall performance.

Equipped with the A14 chip, while not as robust as the M1 and M2 variants found in iPad Pros, it still delivers ample power for seamless gaming experiences. Mobile games, primarily designed for iPhones, don’t necessitate excessive power, making the A14 chip more than sufficient for gaming enthusiasts.

Sporting a spacious and vibrant 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display (2360×1640), games appear stunningly immersive, with the larger screen size offering enhanced comfort, especially for text-heavy games.

The iPad 2022 boasts numerous enhancements, including a larger and brighter display, improved video calling capabilities, USB-C support, and a range of new accessories. With added Apple Pencil support, it becomes an ideal choice for those seeking expanded functionalities from Apple’s entry-level iPad.

Pros:

• Enhanced screen size and brightness
• Improved video calling experience
• Adequate power for demanding tasks

Cons:

• Potential affordability concerns for some users
• Requires separate Apple Pencil adapter
• Additional expenses for accessories
• Lack of built-in Pencil storage

3. Apple iPad Mini (6th Generation)

If you’re in search of a compact and lightweight iPad offering stellar performance, look no further than the iPad mini.

Despite lacking recent updates, the 2021 model remains an exceptional choice, capable of handling modern iPad games effortlessly.

What sets the iPad mini apart for gaming is its 8.3-inch screen, making it incredibly portable. If you desire a gaming device reminiscent of the iconic GameBoy in terms of portability, this iPad fits the bill perfectly.

Despite its smaller size, games look stunning on the Liquid Retina display, boasting a resolution of 2266×1488 at 326 pixels per inch, ensuring crisp and vibrant visuals.

Powered by the A15 Bionic chip and equipped with USB-C support and 5G connectivity, the iPad mini delivers ample processing power and connectivity options. With a suitable mobile contract, you can download games and engage in online multiplayer gaming on the go. Furthermore, support for the Apple Pencil 2 expands its utility beyond gaming, offering advanced features for creative endeavors.

Pros:

• Exceptionally portable
• Great value for its technology

Cons:

• Lack of Smart Keyboard support
• Absence of a 3.5mm jack

4. Apple iPad Air (5th Generation)

The iPad Air has undergone a significant transformation in 2022, shedding its former status as the lesser sibling to the mighty iPad Pro. With the inclusion of the M1 processor, identical to that of the 2021 iPad Pro, it now stands as a formidable contender in its own right, offering exceptional performance even with the most demanding iPad games. This positions it as a compelling alternative to the pricier iPad Pro.

Complemented by the breathtaking 10.9-inch 2360 x 1640 Liquid Retina IPS LCD screen, games on the iPad Air deliver an immersive experience. Its compact form factor and slender design, characteristic of ‘Air’ products, strike a balance between performance and portability. Additionally, the availability of various color options injects a touch of personality into this iPad, setting it apart from its counterparts.

While the iPad Air excels in many aspects, it does come with a higher price tag compared to its predecessors, inching dangerously close to the iPad Pro range. Gamers seeking the largest possible screen may find it worthwhile to save up for the iPad Pro. Similarly, budget-conscious individuals might explore alternative options, such as the second choice on our list.

Furthermore, the base model’s 64GB storage may prove insufficient for avid gamers, necessitating an upgrade to the 256GB version for ample storage space.

Pros:

• Equipped with the same powerful processor as the iPad Pro
• Stunning display

Cons:

• Price proximity to the iPad Pro may deter some potential buyers

5. Apple iPad (9th Generation)

While the 2021 model of the basic iPad may be aging, it remains a solid choice for gaming enthusiasts. Offering storage options of 64GB and 256GB, its 10.2-inch 1620 x 2160 LCD screen delivers ample space and impressive visuals, ensuring seamless gameplay across a wide array of iPad games.

The primary allure of this model lies in its affordability, especially considering that Apple has discontinued its sales, making it available at potentially discounted prices through other retailers. With the newer model on the market, obtaining this version for a significantly lower price becomes a feasible option.

The iPad 10.2-inch stands out as a budget-friendly tablet, boasting features and performance suitable for both creative endeavors and gaming. While there are areas for improvement, such as the lack of USB-C support and limited compatibility with the Apple Pencil 2nd Gen, its overall capability outweighs these shortcomings, especially considering its price point.

Pros:

• Impressive screen quality
• Flexible storage options
• Support for Apple Pencil

Cons:

• Absence of USB-C support
• Limited compatibility with Apple Pencil 2nd Gen
• Mediocre rear camera

How To Choose The Best iPad for Gaming

When considering an iPad for gaming, first, think about your intended use beyond gaming. Creatives may lean towards the iPad Pro for its powerful M2 chip, suitable for tasks like digital art and video editing.

Budget is another crucial factor to consider. While iPads can be expensive, if gaming is your primary concern, opting for a more affordable option like the Mini or Air might be preferable. Alternatively, investing in a pricier model featuring the M2 chip can ensure years of gaming enjoyment, offering future-proofing for your investment

Final Thoughts

Is an iPad a worthwhile investment for gaming? The latest M1/M2 iPads boast impressive power for mobile gaming, handling even graphically demanding titles admirably. However, they don’t quite match up to the performance of dedicated gaming laptops or consoles.

If your primary focus is on high-end gaming experiences, iPads may not be the ideal choice. Nevertheless, if your purchase decision is driven by other factors such as media consumption, web browsing, running apps, or digital drawing, the options listed here offer excellent capabilities for enjoying mobile and casual games.

Can iPhone games be played on an iPad? Some iPhone games, known as Universal games, are compatible with iPads. However, developers often create separate versions optimized for each device’s capabilities. This is typically indicated by ‘HD’ or ‘iPad’ in the game title. It’s advisable to check compatibility before making a purchase.

Can I use a gaming controller with an iPad? If touchscreen controls aren’t your preference or if you’re concerned about damaging the screen, several popular PC and console controllers can connect to iPads via Bluetooth, providing an alternative gaming experience.