Apple launched the original iPad over 10 years ago. Since then, the iPad lineup has gone on to become an incredible popular option for anyone looking to buy a tablet. The lineup has also expanded to include more than just the standard iPad, catering to the different needs (and budgets) of consumers looking for a larger screen than a smartphone, but a more portable form factor than a laptop.
Over the years, the iPad has gone on to become the go-to tablet for many consumers. While there are Android alternatives available, most notably, Samsung’s Galaxy Tab line, none have really captured the attention of the market in the same way that Apple’s has. In 2020 alone, Apple not only launched its latest iPad Pro models, but also a newer iPad Air. Not forgetting, the eighth-generation iPad, the latest model to follow in the footsteps of the original iPad.
Apple announced the first iPad on January 27, 2010. However, the company’s “magical & revolutionary device” featuring a 9.7-inch LED-backlit IPS display and Apple's A4 chip didn't become available to buy until April of the same year. In spite of the wait, the iPad immediately proved to be a good seller for the company, with more than 300,000 tablets sold on the very first day of release alone.
Original iPad Cost Compared
When the first iPad went on sale in 2010, it was priced at $499. However, this was for the base Wi-Fi model with 16GB storage. Buyers could upgrade to 32GB storage for $599 or 64GB for $699. Besides the Wi-Fi models, Apple also released Wi-Fi + 3G models, priced $130 more than the Wi-Fi-only versions. For example, the 16GB version with 3G network support cost $629 with each of the additional storage options increasing in price by an additional $100. Compared to what Apple customers are offered today, the current eighth-generation iPad costs $329 for the base Wi-Fi-only model with 32GB storage, or $429 if upgrading the storage to 128GB. Similar to the original iPad, the eighth-generation iPad is also available as a Wi-Fi plus cellular model, with the price set at $459 for the 32GB version or $559 when upgrading the storage to 128GB.
While the eighth-generation version is much cheaper than the original iPad was in 2010, Apple has a variety of options to now choose from. There's the iPad mini from $399 or the iPad Air from $599 while those looking for the ultimate in iPad experience can opt for the Pro model. Not only does Apple’s iPad Pro start at $799, but opting for the 12.9-inch version, along with 1TB storage and cellular support takes the price up to $1,649. That’s basically double the $829 price of Apple’s top-end 2010 iPad model with 64GB storage and 3G support.
Source: Apple