Top iPad Models for 2025: What to Buy

Apple's iPad has long been the benchmark for tablets, setting high standards that others strive to meet. With an expansive lineup that includes everything from compact, portable devices to powerful, feature-rich models, choosing the right iPad can be daunting. Apple's recent releases, including the new iPad (A16) and M3 iPad Air models, have further expanded the options available, making it even more challenging to pick the perfect device. Whether you're a first-time buyer or looking to upgrade, understanding the nuances of each model is crucial to making an informed decision.

TL;DR – These Are the Best Apple iPad Models:

Best Overall### Apple iPad (10th Gen)

2See it at Amazon### Apple iPad (9th Gen)

0See it at Amazon### Apple iPad Pro (2024 M4)

0See it at AmazonSee it at Apple### Apple iPad Mini (7th Gen)

3See it at AmazonSee it at AppleSee it at Best Buy### OnePlus Pad 2

0See it at AmazonSee it at OnePlusWe've thoroughly tested Apple's tablets over the years, gaining insights into what makes each model unique. The latest iPad Pro models boast advanced displays and powerful M-series chipsets, ideal for professionals and creatives. For those seeking portability, the iPad Mini packs impressive features into a compact form, offering a near-iPhone experience at a more affordable price. If your needs are more basic, such as using the device as an e-reader, Apple's base iPads deliver solid performance and great value.

Of course, Apple isn't the only player in the tablet market. If you're not tied to Apple's ecosystem, exploring alternatives could provide quality upgrades at a better price. For those committed to an iPad, enhancing your device with accessories like a keyboard can significantly boost its functionality.

Additional contributions by Mark Knapp and Danielle Abraham

1. Apple iPad (10th Gen)

Best Overall iPad

Best Overall### Apple iPad (10th Gen)

2The 10th Gen iPad stands out with its repositioned 12-megapixel front-facing camera, sleek design, faster A14 Bionic processor, and a vibrant 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display. It's an excellent choice for most users, offering a balance of performance and affordability that's hard to beat. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen size10.9-inch, 2360 x 1640 Liquid Retina displayProcessorApple A14 Bionic chip 6-core CPU + 4-core GPUStorage64GBCameras12MP (rear), 12MP (front)PROSVaried colorwaysBetter display than 9th genCONSStill using the A14 Bionic, rather than the M1Apple excels at making its base-level iPad a compelling option for a wide range of users. The 10th Gen iPad is no exception, offering a more approachable price point compared to the pricier Pro models. While it doesn't feature the most advanced display, the 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display with a 2360x1640 resolution provides sharp visuals. Although it lacks the 120Hz refresh rate of higher-tier models, this is a feature you might not miss until you experience it. The iPad supports the 1st generation Apple Pencil, making it suitable for creative tasks.

The design of the 10th Gen model has been refreshed, reducing thickness and weight, and featuring updated bezels for a modern look. The front-facing camera's new landscape orientation, combined with Center Stage, ensures you stay in frame during video calls. Powered by the A14 Bionic chip with 4GB of memory, it offers a performance boost over the 9th Gen model. The switch to USB-C charging adds future-proofing to the device.

The 11th-generation iPad, now available, features an A16 processor and double the starting storage of previous models.

2. Apple iPad (9th Gen)

Best Budget iPad

### Apple iPad (9th Gen)

0The 9th Gen iPad is a budget-friendly option that doesn't skimp on performance, featuring a crisp 10.2-inch Retina display. It's an excellent choice for those looking to spend less without sacrificing quality. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen size10.2-inch Retina ProcessorA13 BionicStorage64GB, 256GBCameras8-megapixel rear, 12-megapixel front-facingPROSThe jack-of-all-trades iPadReasonable priceCONSCan lag behind other tabletsIf you're seeking the best budget tablet, the 9th Gen iPad, released in 2021, is our top pick. It offers solid performance, a clear 10.2-inch Retina display, and a starting price under $300, often dropping to as low as $250 during sales events like Prime Day or Black Friday.

Running the latest iPadOS, this iPad maintains good performance despite its older processor. While it lacks the advanced features of the iPad Air, Mini, or Pro, it still provides access to the same apps. For basic tasks like media consumption, news reading, casual gaming, or e-books, the 9th Gen iPad is a cost-effective solution. It's also a great choice for kids, especially when paired with a durable case.

iPad Pro 2024 – Photos

7 Images3. Apple iPad Pro (2024, M4)

Best Premium iPad

### Apple iPad Pro (2024 M4)

0The 2024 iPad Pro, equipped with the Apple M4 processor and an OLED display, is the pinnacle of Apple's tablet offerings. It's perfect for professionals and creatives seeking top-tier performance. See it at AmazonSee it at AppleProduct SpecificationsScreen size11-inch, 12.9-inchProcessorApple M4Storage256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TBCameras12MP wide camera (rear), Landscape 12MP ultra-wide camera (front)PROSAwesome for artists and video editorsFaceID works wondersAn actually decent cameraCONSYou'll need to buy a lot of accessories to make it a true workstationThe iPad Pro has always been a stunning piece of technology, and the 2024 model is no exception. Apple has made it the thinnest iPad yet, while packing it with the powerful M4 chip, surpassing even the latest MacBook Air. This makes it an ideal choice for creative professionals.

The introduction of an OLED display marks a first for iPads, delivering vibrant colors and excellent contrast. Jacqueline Thomas, in her review, praised it as her favorite device for watching and reading. The M4 chip ensures the display's capabilities are fully utilized, making it perfect for gaming and creative tasks. With the new Apple Pencil Pro, the iPad Pro is an excellent tool for artists and photo editors.

However, to transform it into a full workstation, additional accessories like the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil are necessary, adding to the overall cost.

Read the review: Apple iPad Pro (7th Generation)

4. Apple iPad Mini (7th Gen)

Best for Reading and Portability

### Apple iPad Mini (7th Gen)

3The iPad Mini is the perfect choice for those who need a compact, lightweight device for reading and portability. Its 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display and lightweight design make it an excellent handheld option. See it at AmazonSee it at AppleSee it at Best BuyProduct SpecificationsScreen size8.3-inch Liquid RetinaProcessorA17 ProStorage128GB, 256GB, 512GBCameras12-megapixel rear, 12-megapixel front-facingPROSCompact and lightweightExcellent performanceCONSNo major design changes with new modelFor those who find the best iPhones too small and larger iPads too cumbersome, the iPad Mini strikes the perfect balance. Its 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display and lightweight design make it ideal for reading on the go. The App Store offers numerous reading apps, making it a favorite among readers. It also supports the Apple Pencil Pro and Apple Pencil (USB-C), making it suitable for note-taking and sketching.

The iPad Mini's build quality is superior to many Android tablets in its price range, featuring a sturdy recycled aluminum body. While the design remains unchanged from previous generations, it still includes Touch ID. The A17 Pro processor provides excellent performance for its size, making it suitable for casual use and gaming.

OnePlus Pad 2 – Photos

4 Images5. OnePlus Pad 2

Best iPad Alternative

### OnePlus Pad 2

0The OnePlus Pad 2 offers excellent performance and a smooth display at a more affordable price than the iPad Pro, making it a compelling alternative for Android users. See it at AmazonSee it at OnePlusProduct SpecificationsScreen size12.1-inch, IPS, 2120 x 3000ProcessorQualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3Storage128GBCameras13-megapixel rear, 8-megapixel front-facingPROSLarge, smooth displaySolid performanceCONSShorter-term OS support than AppleThe OnePlus Pad 2 is a standout in the Android tablet market, offering features comparable to the iPad Pro at a lower price. Its 12.1-inch IPS display boasts 10-bit color depth, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and a 900-nit peak brightness, with a smooth 144Hz refresh rate. The tablet supports the OnePlus Stylo 2, enhancing its utility for creative tasks, and features six speakers for immersive audio.

Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip, the OnePlus Pad 2 handles the latest apps and games with ease. It comes with 8GB of memory and 128GB of storage, providing ample space for multitasking. Our testing revealed impressive battery life, with a 9,510mAh battery lasting about 12 hours of heavy use. It also supports 80W fast charging, recharging in just over an hour.

OnePlus promises three years of OS updates and four years of security updates, ensuring long-term support.

Read the full review: OnePlus Pad 2

Upcoming iPad Models

If you're eagerly awaiting new Apple tablets, you're in luck. The 11th-Gen iPad with an A16 processor and new 11-inch and 13-inch iPad Air models with an M3 chip have just been released. The iPad Mini has also been updated with an A17 Pro processor.

Which Apple iPad Is Right for Me?

Since its introduction in 2010, the iPad has filled a unique digital niche. For some, it's a versatile device that's more portable than a laptop yet more powerful than a smartphone. For others, it serves as a complete laptop replacement.

If you're buying your first iPad or upgrading from an older model, here's a guide to help you choose the right one in 2025:

Tablet Sizes

Apple offers six iPad models with five different screen sizes, each suited for different purposes. The iPad Mini, with its 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display, is perfect for reading and portability, weighing just 10oz. The baseline iPad models (9th and 10th generations) feature 10.2-inch Retina and 10.9-inch Liquid Retina displays, respectively, while the 11th Gen model has an 11-inch screen. The M3 iPad Air comes in 11-inch and 13-inch sizes, offering more power with its M-processor. The 11-inch size is considered the "sweet spot" for most users, balancing media consumption and portability.

The iPad Pro, available in 11-inch and 13-inch sizes, is the top choice for creatives and professionals, featuring the powerful M4 processor.

Storage Capacity Differences

Most iPad models start at 64GB, with the iPad Pro offering up to 2TB. For general use, 64GB is sufficient, but creatives and professionals may need at least 1TB. For storage beyond 2TB, an external hard drive can be connected via USB-C.

Peripherals to Consider

All iPads, except the 9th Gen, feature a USB-C port for charging and peripherals. Bluetooth is the preferred method for connecting accessories like the Apple Pencil, keyboards, and AirPods. Ensure compatibility with your chosen peripherals.

Connectivity

Each iPad model comes in Wi-Fi-only and Wi-Fi + cellular versions. The Wi-Fi-only version is ideal for home or office use, while the Wi-Fi + cellular version offers mobile data connectivity, making it suitable for use on the go.

Price Comparison

The iPad (10th Gen) starts at $269, with prices dropping during sales events. The fully loaded iPad Pro can exceed $2,000, offering top-of-the-line features.

Which iPad Is Best for Kids and Teens in 2025?

For kids and younger family members, the iPad Air M2 is our top recommendation. For students, we've compiled a comprehensive guide to the best iPads for educational use.