Best iPad for students: Best options for school goers, undergrads, and professionals across all budgets

The best iPad for students blends portability, performance, and versatility. It's the perfect tool for academic success, for school, undergrad, or work.

Get ahead with the best iPad for students in every class. (pexels)

By Shweta Pandey

Shweta Pandey is a Senior Content Writer at Hindustan Times, with over 12 years of experience in beauty and wellness journalism, specialising in makeup, skincare, and hair care.

She began her professional writing journey in 2011, entering the evolving world of digital lifestyle journalism as beauty and wellness content rapidly transformed in India. Over the years, she has worked with reputed digital media houses like India Today, the Times of India and Skymet Weather, steadily building credibility through well-researched features, product reviews, and trend analyses. Her career reflects consistent growth, moving from content contributor to senior writer. She now plays a key role in shaping editorial strategy, social media content, and ensuring high-quality, reader-focused content that aligns with evolving audience needs.

Shweta’s core expertise spans makeup, skincare, hair care, and holistic health and fitness. She specialises in in-depth beauty product reviews, ingredient analysis, skincare routines, and evidence-based wellness advice. Known for her analytical and data-driven approach, she relies on verified sources, dermatological insights, and expert consultations to ensure credibility. Her field experience includes interviewing Bollywood celebrities, beauty and makeup professionals, tracking consumer trends, and simplifying the top picks.

Shweta holds a Master’s degree in Mass Communication, Advertising, and Journalism and has done Bachelor’s in Commerce from Delhi University. She believes in delivering reader-first insights that empower informed decisions while maintaining transparency, credibility, and trust.

Beyond her writing desk, Shweta enjoys exploring new destinations, experimenting in the kitchen with delightful recipes, and staying in tune with the latest beauty and wellness trends.

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The best iPad for students offers an ideal combination of portability, functionality, and versatility. iPads have a dedicated following, and it's easy to see why. From school going students to undergrads and professionals, an iPad is a valuable investment. Its lightweight design, coupled with powerful hardware, makes it perfect for multitasking, from note taking and research to completing assignments.

When paired with the Apple Pencil, the iPad becomes a dynamic tool for note taking and sketching, making it perfect for lectures and creative tasks. With access to educational apps, e-books, and online resources, students can stay organised and engaged in their studies, maximising productivity and learning opportunities.

If you're looking to purchase an iPad for your academic or professional needs, we've curated a list of the best iPads for students available on Amazon across various price ranges.

Best iPad for students:

BUDGET FRIENDLY PRODUCT

1. Apple iPad (10th Generation): with A14 Bionic chip, 27.69 cm (10.9″) Liquid Retina Display, 64GB, Wi-Fi 6, 12MP front/12MP Back Camera, Touch ID, All-Day Battery Life – Pink

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The Apple iPad (10th Generation) combines power and versatility with a sleek, modern design. Powered by the A14 Bionic chip, it ensures smooth performance for multitasking, gaming, and content creation. The 10.9-inch Liquid Retina Display delivers vibrant colours and sharp details, perfect for streaming and productivity. With 64 GB of storage, you can store your essential files, photos, and apps. The iPadOS enhances functionality, offering features like Split View and Apple Pencil compatibility for creative tasks. This iPad is your go-to device for work, entertainment, and learning, offering portability and exceptional performance. In fact, this is one of the best iPad for students.

Specifications

Resolution:

2360 x 1640 pixels

Camera:

12MP rear, 12MP front Ultra Wide

Battery Life:

Up to 10 hours of web surfing on Wi-Fi

Connectivity:

Wi-Fi 6, USB-C

Dimensions:

248.6 x 179.5 x 7 mm

Reasons to buy

Sleek and modern design with a 10.9″ Liquid Retina Display

A14 Bionic chip ensures fast and smooth performance

Reason to avoid

Limited to 64GB storage with no expandable option

No headphone jack

What are buyers saying on Amazon?

Buyers love the iPad (10th Gen) for its smooth performance, vibrant display, and excellent battery life, making it great for everyday use. Some mention that the lack of a headphone jack and costly accessories are minor downsides.

Why choose this product?

With the powerful A14 Bionic chip, a stunning 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display, and all-day battery life, this iPad is perfect for work, entertainment, and creativity. Wi-Fi 6, a 12MP front camera for video calls, and Touch ID add to its convenience and security.

BEST OVERALL PRODUCT

2. Apple iPad (9th Generation): with A13 Bionic chip, 25.91 cm (10.2″) Retina Display, 64GB, Wi-Fi, 12MP front/8MP Back Camera, Touch ID, All-Day Battery Life – Silver

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Every product review clearly lists the Pros and Cons, giving you a balanced view.

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Another best iPad for students, the Apple iPad (9th Generation) offers incredible value, featuring the A13 Bionic chip for reliable and efficient performance. Its 10.2-inch Retina Display provides a vivid visual experience, perfect for streaming, reading, or working. With 64 GB of storage, it’s ideal for everyday tasks and light productivity. The iPadOS enhances multitasking and creativity, with features like Split View and Apple Pencil support. Designed with affordability in mind, this iPad is great for students, casual users, and anyone looking for a dependable and versatile tablet.

Specifications

Resolution:

2160 x 1620 pixels

Camera:

8MP rear, 12MP front Ultra Wide

Operating System:

iPadOS

Battery Life:

Up to 10 hours

Connectivity:

Wi-Fi, Lightning port

Dimensions:

250.6 x 174.1 x 7.5 mm

Reasons to buy

Affordable price point

Reliable A13 Bionic chip performance

Reason to avoid

Outdated Lightning port

Basic camera features compared to newer models

What are buyers saying on Amazon?

Buyers appreciate the iPad (10th Gen) for its vibrant display, smooth performance with the A14 Bionic chip, and long battery life. Many praise its sleek design and improved front camera but mention that the lack of a headphone jack and expensive accessories are drawbacks.

Why choose this product?

The Apple iPad (10th Gen) offers a powerful A14 Bionic chip, a stunning 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display, and all-day battery life, making it ideal for work, creativity, and entertainment. With Wi-Fi 6, a 12MP front camera for video calls, and Touch ID for security, it’s a versatile and reliable choice.

3. 2021 Apple 10.2-inch (25.91 cm) iPad with A13 Bionic chip (Wi-Fi, 256GB) - Silver (9th Generation)

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The 2021 Apple iPad (9th Generation) with 256 GB storage is perfect for those needing ample space for apps, photos, and videos. Powered by the A13 Bionic chip, it delivers consistent performance for browsing, streaming, and light productivity. Its 10.2-inch Retina Display offers sharp visuals, while the upgraded storage allows for more flexibility in handling large files. With iPadOS, you can enjoy multitasking features and Apple Pencil support, making it a great iPad for students, professionals, and movie enthusiasts.

Specifications

Resolution:

2160 x 1620 pixels

Camera:

8MP rear, 12MP front Ultra Wide

Battery Life:

Up to 10 hours of web surfing on Wi-Fi

Connectivity:

Wi-Fi, Lightning port

Dimensions:

250.6 x 174.1 x 7.5 mm

Reasons to buy

A13 Bionic chip offers reliable performance

Sharp 10.2 inch Retina Display

Reason to avoid

Slightly heavier than newer models

Same design as earlier iPads

What are buyers saying on Amazon?

Buyers appreciate the iPad (9th Gen) for its reliable A13 Bionic chip, smooth performance, and excellent value for everyday tasks. Many love the large storage and classic design but note that the dated look and Lightning port could be improved.

Why choose this product?

The 9th Gen iPad offers a 10.2-inch Retina display, a powerful A13 Bionic chip, and 256GB storage, making it perfect for work, entertainment, and learning. With a 12MP front camera, Touch ID, and all-day battery life, it’s a budget-friendly yet capable device.

iPad for undergrads:

4. Apple iPad Air 11″ (M2): Liquid Retina Display, 128GB, Landscape 12MP Front Camera / 12MP Back Camera, Wi-Fi 6E, Touch ID, All-Day Battery Life — Space Grey

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The Apple iPad Air 11 inch (M2) redefines versatility with its powerful M2 chip, delivering exceptional performance for demanding tasks such as video editing, graphic design, and gaming. Its 11-inch Liquid Retina Display offers stunning visuals, ensuring an immersive experience for both work and entertainment. With 128GB of storage, this iPad Air balances ample space with portability. The iPadOS unlocks features like Stage Manager and Apple Pencil 2nd Gen compatibility, making it an excellent choice for creative professionals, students, and tech enthusiasts seeking a premium tablet experience.

Specifications

Resolution:

2388 x 1668 pixels

Capacity:

128GB, 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB

Height:

9.75 inches (24.76 cm)

Width:

7.03 inches (17.85 cm)

Weight:

0.462 kg (1.03 pounds)

Reasons to buy

Powerful M2 chip for fast and smooth performance

Stunning 11″ Liquid Retina display for vibrant visuals

Reason to avoid

Higher price compared to other mid-range tablets

No expandable storage, limited to 128GB

What are buyers saying on Amazon?

Buyers love the iPad Air (M2) for its sleek design, powerful M2 chip, and stunning 11-inch Liquid Retina display, making it great for multitasking and creativity. Some mention that the higher price and lack of Face ID are slight drawbacks.

Why choose this product?

With the M2 chip, a vibrant 11-inch Liquid Retina display, and Wi-Fi 6E, the iPad Air delivers top-tier performance for work and entertainment. Its 12MP landscape front camera, Touch ID, and all-day battery life make it a premium yet portable choice.

5. Apple iPad Mini (A17 Pro): Apple Intelligence, 21.08 cm (8.3″) Liquid Retina Display, 128GB, Wi-Fi 6E, 12MP Front/12MP Back Camera, Touch ID, All-Day Battery Life — Space Grey

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The Apple iPad Mini (A17 Pro) is a compact powerhouse, designed for users who need portability without compromising performance. Featuring the advanced A17 Pro chip, it’s capable of handling demanding apps and multitasking with ease. Its 8.3-inch Liquid Retina Display delivers vibrant visuals, making it ideal for reading, gaming, or note-taking. With 128GB of storage, it offers sufficient space for most users. The iPad Mini supports Apple Pencil 2nd Gen, making it perfect for on-the-go professionals and students seeking a powerful, lightweight device.

Specifications

Resolution:

2266 x 1488 pixels

Camera:

12MP Wide rear, 12MP front Ultra Wide

Battery Life:

up to 10 hours

Connectivity:

Wi-Fi 6, USB-C

Dimensions:

195.4 x 134.8 x 6.3 mm

Weight:

29 kg

Reasons to buy

Compact and lightweight design

Powerful A17 Pro chip for smooth performance

Reason to avoid

Smaller screen may not suit all users

No expandable storage

What are buyers saying on Amazon?

Buyers love the iPad Air (M2) for its sleek design, powerful M2 chip, and stunning 11-inch Liquid Retina display, making it great for multitasking and creativity. Some mention that the higher price and lack of Face ID are slight drawbacks.

Why choose this product?

With the M2 chip, a vibrant 11-inch Liquid Retina display, and Wi-Fi 6E, the iPad Air delivers top-tier performance for work and entertainment. Its 12MP landscape front camera, Touch ID, and all-day battery life make it a premium yet portable choice.

6. Apple iPad (10th Generation): with A14 Bionic chip, 27.69 cm (10.9″) Liquid Retina Display, 64GB, Wi-Fi 6, 12MP front/12MP Back Camera, Touch ID, All-Day Battery Life – Blue

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The Apple iPad (10th Generation) features a stunning 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display and the powerful A14 Bionic chip for smooth performance. With 64 GB storage, Wi-Fi 6, and a 12 MP front and back camera, it’s perfect for work, entertainment, and creativity. Touch ID ensures secure access, while the all-day battery keeps you productive. Its sleek design and vibrant Blue colour make it a stylish choice for everyday use.

Specifications

Capacity:

64GB, 256GB

Chip:

A14 Bionic chip, 6-core CPU, 4-core graphics, 16-core Neural Engine

Connector:

USB-C

Height

9.79 inches (248.6 mm)

Reasons to buy

Powerful A14 Bionic chip for smooth performance

10.9-inch Liquid Retina display with vibrant colours

Reason to avoid

No headphone jack

Accessories like keyboard and Pencil are expensive

What are buyers saying on Amazon?

Buyers love the iPad (10th Gen) for its bright display, smooth performance, and long battery life, making it great for everyday use. Some feel that the lack of a headphone jack and expensive accessories are minor drawbacks.

Why choose this product?

With the A14 Bionic chip, 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display, and Wi-Fi 6, this iPad delivers speed and versatility. Its 12MP front camera, Touch ID, and all-day battery life make it perfect for work, study, and entertainment.

iPad for professional students:

7. Apple iPad Pro 11″ (M4): Ultra Retina XDR Display, 256GB, Landscape 12MP Front Camera / 12MP Back Camera, LiDAR Scanner, Wi-Fi 6E, Face ID, All-Day Battery Life, Standard Glass — Space Black

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The Apple iPad Pro 11 inch (M4) is a performance-driven tablet designed for professionals and creatives. Featuring the powerful M4 chip, it handles demanding tasks like video editing and 3D modelling with ease. The Ultra Retina XDR Display enhances the viewing experience with true-to-life colours and extreme clarity. With 256GB of storage, you can store large files without worry. The iPad Pro supports Apple Pencil (2nd Gen) and Magic Keyboard, making it a versatile tool for productivity and creativity. It’s a premium tablet for those who demand the best.

Specifications

Resolution:

2388 x 1668 pixels

Camera:

12MP Wide rear, 10MP Ultra Wide, and LiDAR Scanner; 12MP front True Depth

Operating System:

iPadOS

Connectivity:

Up to 10 hours of web surfing on Wi-Fi

Dimensions:

247.6 x 178.5 x 5.9 mm

Weight:

468g

Reasons to buy

Ultra-powerful M4 chip for intensive workloads

Stunning 11 inch Ultra Retina XDR Display

Reason to avoid

High price point

Overkill for casual users

What are buyers saying on Amazon?

Buyers praise the iPad Pro 11 inch (M4) for its exceptional performance, stunning Ultra Retina XDR display, and lightweight design. Some mention that while it's a powerhouse, the high price and lack of a headphone jack may be drawbacks.

Why choose this product?

With the M4 chip, Ultra Retina XDR display, and Face ID, the iPad Pro 11″ delivers top-tier performance for professionals and creatives. Its LiDAR scanner, Wi-Fi 6E, and all-day battery life make it a premium, future-ready device.

8. Apple iPad Pro 12.9″ (6th Generation): with M2 chip, Liquid Retina XDR Display, 156GB, Wi-Fi 6E, 12MP front/12MP and 10MP Back Cameras, Face ID, All-Day Battery Life – Space Grey

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The Apple iPad Pro 12.9 inch (6th Generation) is the ultimate powerhouse for creatives and professionals. Powered by the M2 chip, it offers unparalleled performance for tasks such as video editing, AR modelling, and graphic design. The expansive 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR Display provides breathtaking visuals with superior brightness and contrast. With 156GB of storage, it accommodates a wide range of files and applications. Compatible with Apple Pencil (2nd Gen) and Magic Keyboard, this iPad is perfect for anyone looking for a portable yet highly capable workstation.

Specifications

Resolution:

2732 x 2048 pixels

Operating System:

iPadOS

Connectivity:

Wi-Fi 6E, Thunderbolt/USB 4

Dimensions:

280.6 x 214.9 x 6.4 mm

Reasons to buy

Expansive 12.9 inch Liquid Retina XDR Display

M2 chip delivers exceptional performance

Reason to avoid

Bulky compared to smaller models

Premium price tag

What are buyers saying on Amazon?

Buyers are impressed by the iPad Pro 12.9 inch (6th Gen) for its incredible M2 chip performance, stunning Liquid Retina XDR display, and seamless multitasking capabilities. Some feel the high price and heavy size could be drawbacks for casual users.

Why choose this product?

With the powerful M2 chip, Liquid Retina XDR display, and 12MP front and rear cameras, the iPad Pro 12.9 inch offers unrivaled performance for creatives and professionals. Face ID, Wi-Fi 6E, and all-day battery life make it a premium, versatile device.

9. Apple iPad Pro 13″ (M4): Ultra Retina XDR Display, 2TB, 12MP Front Camera / 12MP Back Camera, LiDAR Scanner, Wi-Fi 6E + 5G Cellular with eSIM, All-Day Battery Life, Nano-Texture Glass — Space Black

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The Apple iPad Pro 13″ (M4) is a high-performance tablet engineered for power users. Its advanced M4 chip ensures seamless multitasking and unparalleled speed for demanding applications. The 13-inch Ultra Retina XDR Display offers exceptional clarity and vibrant colours, making it ideal for creative professionals and immersive entertainment. With 256GB of storage, it provides ample space for large files and projects. Designed with premium materials, this iPad Pro is compatible with Apple Pencil (2nd Gen) and Magic Keyboard, making it a top choice for work and creativity on the go.

Specifications

Resolution:

2732 x 2048 pixels

Storage:

256 GB

Camera:

12MP Wide rear, 10MP Ultra Wide, and LiDAR Scanner; 12MP front True Depth

Connectivity:

Wi-Fi 6E, Thunderbolt/USB 4

Reasons to buy

Ultra Retina XDR Display offers stunning visuals

M4 chip delivers industry-leading performance

Reason to avoid

Larger size makes it less portable

Expensive for casual users

What are buyers saying on Amazon?

Buyers rave about the iPad Pro 13″ (M4) for its blazing-fast performance, stunning Ultra Retina XDR display, and 5G connectivity. Some mention the steep price and larger size as potential downsides for casual users or those on the go.

Why choose this product?

The iPad Pro 13″ with the M4 chip, 2TB storage, and 5G cellular support is perfect for power users, creatives, and professionals needing unmatched performance. Its LiDAR scanner, all-day battery life, and Nano-Texture glass make it a premium choice for any task.

10. Apple iPad Mini (6th Generation): with A15 Bionic chip, 21.08 cm (8.3″) Liquid Retina Display, 256GB, Wi-Fi 6 + 5G Cellular, 12MP front/12MP Back Camera, Touch ID, All-Day Battery Life – Starlight

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The Apple iPad Mini (6th Generation) boasts an 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display and powerful A15 Bionic chip for fast and efficient performance. With 256GB storage, Wi-Fi 6, and 5G cellular support, it's ideal for both work and entertainment on the go. The 12MP front and back cameras ensure high-quality photos and video calls, while Touch ID provides added security. All-day battery life ensures productivity, and the sleek Starlight color adds style.

Specifications

Display:

8.3 inch (21.08 cm ) Liquid Retina display

Capacity:

64GB, 256GB

Front Camera

12MP Ultra Wide front camera, 122° field of view

Connector

USB-C

Reasons to buy

A15 Bionic chip for fast performance

8.3-inch Liquid Retina display for vibrant visuals

Reason to avoid

Higher price compared to other small tablets

Limited to 256GB storage with no expandable memory

What are buyers saying on Amazon?

Buyers love the iPad Mini (6th Gen) for its compact size, powerful A15 Bionic chip, and vibrant display, making it great for productivity and entertainment. Some mention that the higher price and lack of expandable storage may deter budget-conscious buyers.

Why choose this product?

The iPad Mini (6th Gen) offers the perfect blend of portability, power, and performance with the A15 Bionic chip, 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display, and 5G support. It's an ideal choice for users who need a compact yet efficient tablet for everyday tasks.

Do you require Wi-Fi or 5G connectivity in the best iPads for students?

If you're mostly studying at home or in places with reliable Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi-only models will be sufficient. However, if you need internet access on the go for online classes or research, opting for an iPad with 5G or cellular connectivity ensures you're always connected.

What screen size is ideal for your study needs in the best iPads for students?

A larger screen, like the 10.9-inch iPad Air or 12.9-inch iPad Pro, is great for multitasking and viewing study materials side by side. For portability and easy handling during note-taking or reading, the 8.3-inch iPad Mini might be a better fit for students on the move.

How much storage do you need in the best iPads for students?

If you plan to store large files like textbooks, presentations, or videos, choosing an iPad with 256GB or higher is ideal. For lighter use, such as note-taking and web browsing, a 64GB or 128GB model might be sufficient, ensuring you don’t overpay for unnecessary storage.

Top 3 features of the best iPads for students:

Best iPad for Students	Display	Storage	Battery Life
Apple iPad (10th Generation)	10.9″ Liquid Retina	64GB	Up to 10 hours
Apple iPad (9th Generation)	10.2″ Retina	64GB	Up to 10 hours
2021 Apple 10.2″ iPad (9th Generation)	10.2″ Retina	256GB	Up to 10 hours
Apple iPad Air 11″ (M2)	11″ Liquid Retina	128GB	Up to 10 hours
Apple iPad Mini (A17 Pro)	8.3″ Liquid Retina	128GB	Up to 10 hours
Apple iPad (10th Generation): with A14 Bionic chip	10.9-inch Liquid Retina display with True Tone	64GB, 256GB	Up to 10 hours
Apple iPad Pro 11″ (M4)	11″ Ultra Retina XDR	256GB	Up to 10 hours
Apple iPad Pro 12.9″ (6th Generation)	12.9″ Liquid Retina XDR	156GB	Up to 10 hours
Apple iPad Pro 13″ (M4)	13″ Ultra Retina XDR	256GB / 2TB	Up to 10 hours
Apple iPad Mini (6th Generation): with A15 Bionic chip	8.3 inch (21.08 cm ) Liquid Retina display	64GB, 256GB	Up to 10 hours

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Factors to consider before buying the best iPad for students from Amazon:

Budget

Determine how much you’re willing to spend. Apple offers iPads across a wide price range, from entry-level models to premium Pro versions.

Screen size

iPad Mini (8.3"): Compact and portable for note-taking on the go.

iPad (10.2"): Affordable and suitable for general use.

iPad Air (10.9"): A balance of performance and size.

iPad Pro (11" or 12.9"): Larger screens for multitasking and creative tasks like drawing or video editing.

Performance and processor

M1/M2 Chips (iPad Air, iPad Pro): Ideal for demanding tasks like editing, gaming, or multitasking.

A13/A14 Chips (iPad, iPad Mini): Adequate for browsing, note-taking, and video streaming.

Storage capacity

64GB: Suitable for basic use like note-taking and cloud storage.

128GB/256GB: Better for storing files, apps, and media locally.

512GB or More: Necessary for students involved in design, media editing, or large data storage.

Battery life

Ensure the iPad offers 10-12 hours of battery life to last through classes and study sessions.

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FAQ on the best iPads for students

Which iPad is best for students on a budget?

The Apple iPad (9th Generation) is affordable and delivers good performance for everyday tasks.

Is the iPad Air suitable for college students?

Yes, the iPad Air (5th Generation) offers a balance of performance and portability, ideal for college assignments and creative work.

Can the iPad Mini handle multitasking?

While compact, the iPad Mini (A17 Pro) is powerful enough for multitasking, though the smaller display may not be ideal for extensive work.

What is the best iPad for creative professionals?

The iPad Pro 12.9″ (6th Generation) and iPad Pro 13″ (M4) with the M2/M4 chips are excellent choices for tasks like graphic design or video editing.

How long does the battery last on an iPad?

Most iPads offer up to 10 hours of battery life for web browsing or media playback.

Disclaimer: At Hindustan Times, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. Hindustan Times has an affiliate partnership, so we may get a part of the revenue when you make a purchase. We shall not be liable for any claim under applicable laws, including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, with respect to the products. The products listed in this article are in no particular order of priority.