Choosing an iPad for Takedown (and iPhones and Macs)

Takedown runs on an iPad. Almost any iPad from the last several years will do; here's how to pick one, and what to know about iPhones and Macs.

What Takedown 4.0 needs

An iPad running iOS 18.6 or later. These models can't update to iOS 18 and can't run Takedown 4.0: iPad (6th generation) and earlier, iPad Air 2 and earlier, iPad mini 4 and earlier, and the iPad Pro 9.7-inch, 10.5-inch and 12.9-inch 1st and 2nd generation. Check yours in the iPad's Settings > General > About.

An older iPad that can run iOS 15 can still download Takedown 3.5 from the App Store. Takedown 3.5 won't get new features, and support for it ends March 31, 2027.

Choosing an iPad

• Any current model works. The standard iPad is the value choice; the iPad Air and Pro add better cameras and speakers, which matter only for video.
• Size. An iPad mini is the easiest to carry to a tournament. A larger screen is easier for a new scorer and better for video review.
• Storage. Scoring only: any capacity. Recording video: 64 GB minimum; a 1080p dual meet is about 5 GB, and the more storage you have the less often you need to upload and clear video. See Managing iPad Storage for Video.
• Cellular isn't necessary. A phone's personal hotspot does the same job at a venue for far less.
• Used is fine. Refurbished and used iPads that meet the iOS requirement are often $200 or less.

Buying a used iPad

• Confirm the exact model and that it can run iOS 18.6 or later before you pay.
• Buy from a highly rated, US-based seller with a return policy.
• Avoid replaced screens, cracks in the viewing area and dented cases. Corner cracks and case scratches are cosmetic.
• Make sure it's signed out of the previous owner's Apple Account and iCloud, so Activation Lock won't block you.
• Ask for a screenshot of Settings > General > About showing the serial number, and confirm it matches what arrives.

iPhone

Takedown Scoring and Stats is an iPad app and doesn't appear in the App Store on an iPhone. Fans, parents and coaches follow results on any phone with Takedown LIVE; see Takedown LIVE.

Mac

Takedown installs on Macs with Apple silicon from the Mac App Store, and most of it works there: rosters, schedules, scoring, reports. Video recording, the scoreboard and notifications don't work on a Mac. Use the Mac for office work and an iPad at the table.

Useful accessories

• A tripod with an iPad mount, or a table stand, so the scorer never holds the iPad while recording.
• A wide-angle lens clip, so the camera sees the whole mat without panning.
• A USB-C webcam for a dedicated videographer; see Using an External Camera.
• An Apple Digital AV Adapter and HDMI cable for the scoreboard; see Setting Up the Scoreboard.
• A Befour PS-6615 scale with Bluetooth module for hands-free weigh-ins.