Apple iPad 11-inch A16 Review: 5G Cellular, Liquid Retina Display & All-Day Battery
The Apple iPad 11-inch with the A16 chip is designed as an everyday tablet for productivity, entertainment, learning, gaming, video calls and mobile connectivity. This Wi-Fi + Cellular version adds 5G support and eSIM connectivity to the standard iPad experience.
Apple iPad 11-inch (A16)
11-inch Liquid Retina display, Apple A16 chip, 5G cellular, 128GB/256GB/512GB storage options and USB-C connectivity.
Apple iPad 11-inch A16: Quick Specifications
Apple iPad 11-inch A16 Overview
The iPad 11-inch is Apple's mainstream iPad designed for everyday computing. The 2025 generation introduced the A16 chip and doubled the base storage to 128GB, while also adding a new 512GB option. Apple offers the model in blue, pink, yellow and silver.
The supplied listing is the Wi-Fi + Cellular version. That means the tablet can connect to compatible 5G and LTE cellular networks without relying exclusively on Wi-Fi.
Design & Build Quality
The iPad retains Apple's slim aluminium tablet design with a full-screen front and rounded display corners. It measures 248.6 × 179.5 × 7.0 mm.
The Wi-Fi + Cellular model weighs 481 grams, making it portable enough for students, commuters and users who want a larger screen than a smartphone without moving to a laptop.
11-inch Liquid Retina Display
The iPad features an 11-inch Liquid Retina display using IPS technology. It has a 2360 × 1640 resolution and 264 pixels per inch.
Apple rates the display at up to 500 nits brightness and includes True Tone technology, which adjusts the display's colour temperature according to the surrounding lighting conditions.
A16 Chip & Performance
The iPad is powered by Apple's A16 chip. The configuration includes a 5-core CPU, 4-core GPU and 16-core Neural Engine.
For everyday tasks such as browsing, document editing, streaming, note-taking, social media, photo editing and multitasking, the A16 gives the tablet plenty of performance headroom.
Apple also highlights the iPad's ability to handle demanding tasks such as 4K video editing and machine-learning features within supported apps.
Use-Case Assessment
These are editorial use-case assessments rather than laboratory benchmark scores.
Gaming Performance
The A16 GPU provides enough performance for a wide range of iPad games. Apple also includes Game Mode in iPadOS, designed to give supported games more consistent frame rates and responsiveness.
The 11-inch display is large enough for immersive gaming, while controller support allows the iPad to work with compatible gaming controllers.
However, users looking specifically for a high-refresh-rate gaming tablet should note that this iPad uses a 60Hz display.
12MP Rear Camera
The rear camera uses a 12MP Wide sensor with an f/1.8 aperture. It includes autofocus with Focus Pixels, Smart HDR 4, panorama support and digital zoom up to 5x.
Video recording goes up to 4K at 60fps. The camera also supports 1080p and 720p recording along with slow-motion video.
Rear Camera Highlights
12MP Landscape Center Stage Camera
One of the most useful features for video calls is the landscape 12MP Center Stage front camera. The camera is positioned for landscape video calling and supports Center Stage.
It can record 1080p video at 25, 30 and 60fps and is designed for FaceTime and compatible video-calling applications.
5G Cellular Connectivity
The supplied variant is the Wi-Fi + Cellular version. It supports 5G sub-6GHz cellular connectivity and Gigabit LTE, allowing users to stay connected when Wi-Fi is unavailable.
The cellular version uses eSIM rather than a physical SIM card. Cellular connectivity is data-focused, and availability depends on carrier support and region.
Wireless & Port Connectivity
Along with cellular connectivity, the iPad supports Wi-Fi 6 with 2×2 MIMO and Bluetooth 5.3.
The USB-C port supports charging, DisplayPort output and USB 2.0 data transfer at up to 480Mb/s.
| Connectivity | Specification |
|---|---|
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6, 802.11ax, 2×2 MIMO |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.3 |
| Cellular | 5G sub-6GHz + Gigabit LTE |
| SIM | eSIM |
| USB | USB-C, USB 2.0 up to 480Mb/s |
| Display Output | DisplayPort over USB-C |
| External Display | Up to 4K at 60Hz |
Storage Options
Apple increased the starting storage of this generation to 128GB. The iPad is also available in 256GB and 512GB configurations.
Since there is no microSD expansion slot, choose the storage capacity carefully based on your expected use of apps, games, photos and videos.
Battery Life & Charging
Apple rates the iPad for up to 10 hours of web surfing over Wi-Fi or video playback. The Wi-Fi + Cellular version is rated for up to 9 hours of web surfing using a cellular data network.
Actual battery life varies according to usage, network conditions, settings and other factors.
Audio & Speakers
The iPad features landscape stereo speakers and dual microphones for calls, video recording and audio recording.
Supported audio formats include AAC, MP3, Apple Lossless, FLAC, Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus and Dolby Atmos.
Apple Pencil Support
The iPad supports Apple Pencil (USB-C) and Apple Pencil (1st generation). For the first-generation Apple Pencil, Apple specifies the use of a USB-C to Apple Pencil Adapter for pairing and charging.
iPadOS 26 Experience
The iPad runs iPadOS 26. Apple's current iPadOS experience introduces a redesigned interface and a more flexible windowing system while maintaining the tablet-focused iPad experience.
Productivity applications such as Notes, Files, Pages, Numbers, Keynote, Safari and Microsoft Office apps can turn the iPad into a useful portable work device.
The iPad also supports features such as Game Mode and a wide selection of apps through the App Store.
Touch ID & Security
Touch ID is integrated into the top button. It can be used to unlock the iPad, authenticate within supported apps and authorise purchases.
Productivity & Study
For students and everyday office users, the iPad provides a flexible combination of touchscreen interaction, Apple Pencil support and a large 11-inch display.
Pairing the tablet with a compatible keyboard can make document editing, email, presentations and web research more comfortable.
Students
Useful for notes, PDFs, online classes, research and educational applications.
Office Users
Good for email, documents, presentations, meetings and browser-based workflows.
Creators
The A16 chip and Apple Pencil support make it useful for drawing, editing and creative applications.
Apple iPad 11-inch A16: Pros & Cons
✓ Pros
- Powerful A16 chip
- 11-inch Liquid Retina display
- True Tone display
- 128GB starting storage
- 512GB option available
- 5G cellular connectivity on this variant
- eSIM support
- 12MP rear camera with 4K video
- 12MP landscape Center Stage camera
- Apple Pencil USB-C support
- USB-C connectivity
- Up to 10 hours Wi-Fi battery life
- Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3
- Long-term iPadOS software ecosystem
✕ Cons
- 60Hz display
- No ProMotion 120Hz
- No Face ID
- No Apple Intelligence on this A16 iPad
- USB-C data speed is limited to USB 2.0
- No microSD storage expansion
- Cellular model uses eSIM rather than physical SIM
- Apple Pencil and keyboard accessories cost extra
- Not positioned as Apple's highest-end iPad for professional workflows
Apple iPad 11-inch A16 Full Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Product | Apple iPad 11-inch (A16) |
| Generation | 2025 iPad with A16 |
| Chip | Apple A16 |
| CPU | 5-core CPU |
| GPU | 4-core GPU |
| Neural Engine | 16-core Neural Engine |
| Display | 11-inch Liquid Retina IPS |
| Resolution | 2360 × 1640 |
| Pixel Density | 264 ppi |
| Brightness | 500 nits |
| True Tone | Yes |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz |
| Storage | 128GB / 256GB / 512GB |
| Rear Camera | 12MP Wide, ƒ/1.8 |
| Rear Video | Up to 4K at 60fps |
| Front Camera | 12MP Landscape Center Stage, ƒ/2.4 |
| Front Video | Up to 1080p at 60fps |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6, 2×2 MIMO |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.3 |
| Cellular | 5G sub-6GHz + Gigabit LTE |
| SIM | eSIM |
| Location | GPS/GNSS on Wi-Fi + Cellular model |
| USB | USB-C, USB 2.0 up to 480Mb/s |
| External Display | Up to 4K at 60Hz |
| Battery | 28.93Wh lithium-polymer |
| Wi-Fi Battery Rating | Up to 10 hours |
| Cellular Web Rating | Up to 9 hours |
| Operating System | iPadOS 26 |
| Biometric Security | Touch ID |
| Dimensions | 248.6 × 179.5 × 7.0 mm |
| Weight | 481g — Wi-Fi + Cellular |
| Apple Pencil | Apple Pencil (USB-C) and Apple Pencil (1st generation) |
| Speakers | Landscape stereo speakers |
| Microphones | Dual microphones |
Who Should Buy the Apple iPad 11-inch A16?
Students
Excellent for note-taking, PDFs, online classes, research and educational apps, especially when paired with Apple Pencil.
Everyday Users
A strong option for streaming, browsing, social media, email, video calls and general tablet use.
5G Users
The Cellular configuration is useful for people who frequently work or travel without reliable Wi-Fi access.
Who Should Consider Another iPad?
If you need Apple Intelligence, a 120Hz ProMotion display, advanced professional graphics performance or support for Apple's higher-end accessories, an iPad Air or iPad Pro may be a better fit.
Final Verdict
The Apple iPad 11-inch with A16 is a well-balanced everyday tablet. Its biggest strengths are the A16 chip, excellent app ecosystem, 11-inch Liquid Retina display, Apple Pencil compatibility, strong cameras and long battery rating.
The Wi-Fi + Cellular version reviewed here adds 5G and eSIM connectivity, making it particularly attractive for students, professionals and travellers who need internet access away from Wi-Fi networks.
The biggest compromises are the 60Hz display, USB 2.0 data speeds, lack of microSD expansion and the fact that this model does not support Apple Intelligence.
Apple iPad 11-inch A16 FAQ
Which processor does the iPad 11-inch use?
It uses Apple's A16 chip with a 5-core CPU, 4-core GPU and 16-core Neural Engine.
Does this iPad support 5G?
Yes. The Wi-Fi + Cellular version supports 5G sub-6GHz cellular connectivity.
Does the iPad 11-inch use a physical SIM?
No. Apple specifies eSIM for the cellular model and says it is not compatible with physical SIM cards.
How much storage does the iPad A16 have?
Apple offers 128GB, 256GB and 512GB storage configurations.
Does the iPad 11-inch have a 120Hz display?
No. The display is a 60Hz Liquid Retina IPS panel.
Does the iPad A16 support Apple Pencil?
Yes. It supports Apple Pencil (USB-C) and Apple Pencil (1st generation).
Does the iPad A16 have USB-C?
Yes. The iPad uses USB-C for charging and connectivity. The port supports DisplayPort and USB 2.0 data transfer up to 480Mb/s.
How long does the iPad battery last?
Apple rates it for up to 10 hours of web surfing over Wi-Fi or video playback. The cellular model is rated for up to 9 hours of web surfing using cellular data.
Does the iPad A16 support Apple Intelligence?
No. Apple's current comparison identifies the A16 iPad separately from iPad models that support Apple Intelligence.
Does the cellular iPad have GPS?
Yes. Apple lists GPS/GNSS on the Wi-Fi + Cellular model.
Interested in the Apple iPad 11-inch A16?
Check the current Amazon listing for today's price, availability and exact storage/colour configuration.
Check Latest Price on AmazonDisclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through an affiliate link, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you.
Source & Specification Note
Product specifications in this review are based primarily on Apple's official iPad 11-inch (A16) technical specifications. Apple lists 128GB, 256GB and 512GB capacities, a 2360 × 1640 Liquid Retina display, A16 chip, 12MP cameras, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3 and 5G/eSIM support for Wi-Fi + Cellular models.
Battery-life figures are Apple's stated maximums under specified test conditions. Actual results vary depending on usage, settings, cellular conditions and other factors.