The Best iPad Models to Buy in 2025

Apple's iPad has long been the benchmark for what tablets should aspire to be, setting a standard that many have tried to emulate with varying degrees of success. Apple's extensive iPad lineup now includes a wide range of devices, from compact and modest models to large and powerful ones. With the recent release of the new iPad (A16) and M3 iPad Air models, along with price drops on older generations, choosing the right iPad has become more complex yet exciting. 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 OnePlusApple's tablets have been extensively tested over the years, revealing what makes each model unique. The latest iPad Pro models boast advanced displays and powerful M-series chipsets, making them ideal for professionals. The iPad Mini, on the other hand, offers remarkable portability and functionality, almost like a larger iPhone at a more affordable price. For those with simpler needs, like using a tablet as an e-reader, Apple's base iPads provide impressive performance and great value.

While Apple dominates the tablet market, there are compelling alternatives for those not tied to the Apple ecosystem, offering quality upgrades at competitive prices. If you're set on an iPad, consider enhancing your experience with accessories like keyboards to maximize its potential.

Additional contributions by Mark Knapp and Danielle Abraham

1. Apple iPad (10th Gen)

Best Overall iPad

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

2The 10th Generation 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 makes it a standout in Apple's lineup. 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 M1The 10th Gen iPad is a perfect choice for those seeking a versatile and affordable iPad. It may not have the most advanced display, but the 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display with a 2360x1640 resolution offers sharp visuals. While it lacks the 120Hz refresh rate of higher-tier models, it's still more than sufficient for everyday use. Compatibility with the 1st generation Apple Pencil also adds to its appeal for creative tasks.

The design of the 10th Gen model has been refreshed, reducing its thickness and weight, and updating the bezels for a modern look. A significant change is the front-facing camera's new landscape orientation, which, combined with Center Stage, enhances video calls and recordings by tracking your movement. The A14 Bionic chip and 4GB of memory provide a performance boost over the 9th Gen model, ensuring longevity and efficiency. Additionally, the shift to USB-C charging aligns with the industry standard, enhancing its future-proofing.

The 11th-generation iPad, now available, introduces an A16 processor and double the starting storage, further elevating the base iPad experience.

2. Apple iPad (9th Gen)

Best Budget iPad

### Apple iPad (9th Gen)

0For budget-conscious consumers, the 9th Generation iPad offers solid performance and a crisp 10.2-inch Retina display at a very affordable price, often dipping below $300 during sales. 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 tabletsThe 9th Gen iPad is the go-to budget tablet, delivering a robust performance despite its 2021 release. Running the latest iPadOS, it ensures optimized speed and performance. While it may lack the advanced features of the iPad Air, Mini, or Pro, it still offers access to the same expansive app ecosystem. For basic tasks like media consumption, gaming, and reading, it's an excellent choice, especially for kids 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, powered by the Apple M4 processor and featuring an OLED display, is the pinnacle of Apple's tablet technology, perfect for artists and video editors. 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 been refined to be thinner than ever, yet it's packed with the powerful M4 chip, surpassing even the MacBook Air. The new OLED display enhances its appeal, offering stunning visuals that make it ideal for consuming media. The M4's 8-core GPU handles gaming and creative workloads with ease, making it a top choice for professionals. However, to transform it into a complete workstation, additional accessories like the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil Pro 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's compact design and 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display make it an excellent choice for readers and those seeking portability. 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 modelThe iPad Mini strikes the perfect balance between size and functionality, making it ideal for reading and portability. Its 8.3-inch display and lightweight build make it easy to carry and use with one hand. The Apple App Store's vast selection of reading apps enhances its appeal for avid readers. With the Apple Pencil Pro and USB-C compatibility, it's also suitable for note-taking and sketching. The A17 Pro processor ensures smooth performance for everyday tasks and gaming, making it a versatile choice despite its unchanged design from previous models.

OnePlus Pad 2 – Photos

4 Images5. OnePlus Pad 2

Best iPad Alternative

### OnePlus Pad 2

0The OnePlus Pad 2 offers excellent performance, a smooth display, and great quality at a more affordable price than the iPad Pro. 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 compelling alternative to the iPad Pro, featuring a large 12.1-inch IPS display with 10-bit color depth, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and a 144Hz refresh rate. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip, it delivers robust performance for gaming and multitasking. Its impressive battery life and fast 80W charging make it ideal for long sessions, and the OnePlus Stylo 2 adds to its versatility for creative tasks. While it may not match Apple's long-term OS support, it offers a compelling package at a more affordable price.

Read the full review: OnePlus Pad 2

Upcoming iPad Models

For those eagerly awaiting new releases, Apple has recently launched the 11th-Gen iPad with an A16 processor and new 11-inch and 13-inch iPad Air models with an M3 chip. The iPad Mini has also been updated with an A17 Pro processor, ensuring continued innovation across the lineup.

Which Apple iPad Is Right for Me?

Since its introduction in 2010, the iPad has filled a unique digital niche, serving as a more portable alternative to laptops while offering more power than smartphones. It can even replace a laptop for some users. When buying your first iPad or upgrading, consider factors like size, storage, and intended use to find the perfect fit.

Tablet Sizes

Apple offers six iPad models with five different screen sizes, catering to various needs. 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 and 10.9-inch displays, respectively, while the 11th Gen model boasts an 11-inch screen. The M3 iPad Air offers 11-inch or 13-inch displays, powered by the more robust M-series chips. The iPad Pro comes in 11-inch and 13-inch variants, with the latter featuring an Ultra Retina XDR OLED display, ideal for professionals.

Storage Capacity Differences

Most iPads start at 64GB of storage, suitable for most users. However, creatives and professionals might need higher capacities, with the iPad Pro offering up to 2TB. For those requiring more storage, external solid-state hard drives can be connected via the USB-C port.

Peripherals to Consider

All iPads, except the 9th Generation, feature a USB-C port for charging and peripherals. Bluetooth connectivity allows for the use of various accessories like the Apple Pencil, keyboards, and headphones, enhancing the iPad's functionality.

Connectivity

Each iPad model is available in Wi-Fi-only and Wi-Fi + cellular versions. The latter offers mobile data connectivity, making it ideal for use on the go, though it comes at a higher price due to additional internal components.

Price Comparison

The iPad (10th Gen) starts at $269, often available at a discount during major sales events. At the top end, a fully equipped iPad Pro can exceed $2,000, catering to those seeking the best of the best.

Which iPad Is Best for Kids and Teens in 2025?

For younger users, the iPad Air M2 is recommended, as highlighted in our top iPads for kids list. For students, a comprehensive guide to the best iPads for students is available to help with your decision.