Apple iPad (9th Generation)

Why We Like It

For kids 8 and up, the standard iPad is arguably the better long-term investment. The App Store has the richest educational ecosystem available, performance is exceptional, and the device will still be relevant in high school and college. The lack of a worry-free guarantee is the only meaningful drawback vs. the Fire — get a good case and AppleCare+ if you go this route.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Access to the full App Store — the widest selection of educational apps by far
• Screen Time parental controls are robust and deeply integrated into iOS
• Future-proof — kids use this same device through high school and college

Cons

• No included case — add $40–70 for a kid-proof case (Otterbox, STM)
• No worry-free replacement guarantee — AppleCare+ is an additional $79

Score Breakdown

Tablets were evaluated on educational content quality, parental controls and safety, durability and build quality, performance for age-appropriate tasks, and value.