Best iPad Models to Buy in 2025

Apple’s iPad remains the go-to tablet for most users, setting the standard for performance and design. Many competitors have tried to match its excellence, with varying success. Apple’s current iPad lineup is diverse, offering options from compact to powerful, budget-friendly to premium. With multiple models and generations available, choosing the right one can be tricky. The recent launch of the iPad (A16) and M3 iPad Air models adds more options while lowering prices for older versions.

Quick Picks: Top Apple iPad Models for 2025

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 OnePlus

Having tested various Apple tablets, we’ve identified what makes each model unique. The latest iPad Pro boasts cutting-edge displays and M-series chips for unmatched power. For portability, the iPad Mini packs impressive features into a compact form, rivaling larger iPhones at a lower price. For basic needs like e-reading, Apple’s entry-level iPads deliver strong performance and excellent value.

While Apple dominates, other brands offer compelling alternatives. If you’re not tied to Apple’s ecosystem, exploring non-Apple tablets could yield cost-effective upgrades. For iPad enthusiasts, accessories like keyboards can enhance functionality.

Contributions by Mark Knapp and Danielle Abraham

1. Apple iPad (10th Gen)

Top All-Around iPad

Best Overall

Apple iPad (10th Gen)

2Featuring a 12MP front camera in landscape orientation, sleek design, A14 Bionic chip, and a 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display, this iPad excels in versatility.See it at Amazon

Product SpecificationsScreen size10.9-inch, 2360 x 1640 Liquid Retina displayProcessorApple A14 Bionic chip 6-core CPU + 4-core GPUStorage64GBCameras12MP (rear), 12MP (front)

PROSVibrant color optionsImproved display over 9th genCONSUses A14 Bionic instead of M1

Apple’s 10th Gen iPad is a stellar choice for most users, balancing performance and affordability. Unlike the pricier Pro models, which can exceed $1,000, this iPad is budget-friendly without sacrificing quality.

Its 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display, with a 2360x1640 resolution, delivers crisp visuals. While it lacks the 120Hz refresh rate of premium models, the difference is subtle. Compatible with the 1st generation Apple Pencil, it supports creative tasks like sketching or note-taking.

Redesigned with slimmer bezels and reduced weight, the 10th Gen iPad feels modern. Its front camera, now positioned for landscape use, pairs with Center Stage to keep you in frame during video calls. Powered by an A14 Bionic chip with 4GB of RAM, it offers solid performance and longevity. The switch to USB-C charging ensures compatibility with modern devices.

The 11th Gen iPad, now available, upgrades to an A16 processor and doubles the base storage for enhanced value.

2. Apple iPad (9th Gen)

Best Value iPad

Apple iPad (9th Gen)

0This budget-friendly tablet offers reliable performance and a sharp 10.2-inch Retina display at an affordable price.See it at Amazon

Product SpecificationsScreen size10.2-inch Retina ProcessorA13 BionicStorage64GB, 256GBCameras8MP rear, 12MP front-facing

PROSVersatile performanceCompetitive priceCONSSlower compared to newer models

Seeking an affordable yet capable tablet? The 9th Gen iPad, launched in 2021, remains a top budget pick with solid performance, a vibrant 10.2-inch Retina display, and a starting price often below $300, especially during sales like Prime Day or Black Friday, when it can drop to $250.

Running the latest iPadOS, it ensures smooth operation despite its older A13 Bionic chip. While it lacks the advanced features of the iPad Air, Mini, or Pro, it supports the same apps, though demanding ones may run less smoothly. Ideal for media consumption, news, casual gaming, or e-reading, it’s also a great choice for kids when paired with a sturdy case.

iPad Pro 2024 – Photos

7 Images

3. Apple iPad Pro (2024, M4)

Top Premium iPad

Apple iPad Pro (2024 M4)

0Equipped with an M4 chip and OLED display, this iPad Pro delivers unmatched power and visuals for professionals.See it at AmazonSee it at Apple

Product SpecificationsScreen size11-inch, 12.9-inchProcessorApple M4Storage256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TBCameras12MP wide camera (rear), Landscape 12MP ultra-wide camera (front)

PROSIdeal for creatives and editorsFaceID excelsHigh-quality cameraCONSRequires costly accessories for full workstation use

The iPad Pro (2024) is Apple’s thinnest tablet yet, surpassing even the iPad Air in slimness. Powered by the M4 chip, it outperforms recent MacBook Air models, making it a powerhouseillion for creative professionals.

Its OLED display, a first for iPads, delivers stunning visuals with vibrant colors and deep contrast, perfect for media consumption and creative work. Reviewer Jacqueline Thomas praised it as her top device for reading and watching content.

The M4’s 8-core GPU ensures smooth gaming and handles creative tasks effortlessly. Paired with the Apple Pencil Pro (sold separately), it’s a dream for artists and editors. However, transforming it into a full workstation requires expensive accessories like the $300 Magic Keyboard and $129 Apple Pencil, though alternatives exist.

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

4. Apple iPad Mini (7th Gen)

Best for Reading and Portability

Apple iPad Mini (7th Gen)

3This lightweight iPad, at just over half a pound with an 8.3-inch display, is perfect for on-the-go use.See it at AmazonSee it at AppleSee it at Best Buy

Product SpecificationsScreen size8.3-inch Liquid RetinaProcessorA17 ProStorage128GB, 256GB, 512GBCameras12MP rear, 12MP front-facing

PROSUltra-portable and lightweightStrong performanceCONSNo significant design updates

For those needing a device larger than an iPhone but smaller than a 10-inch iPad, the iPad Mini is ideal. Its 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display and 10.4oz weight make it perfect for reading and portability, easily fitting into a bag or pocket.

Readers will love its one-handed usability and access to apps like Apple Books, Kindle, and comiXology. It supports the Apple Pencil Pro and USB-C Pencil, making it suitable for note-taking or sketching. Its durable aluminum body and sub-$500 price outshine many Android tablets.

The A17 Pro chip, shared with the iPhone 15 Pro, delivers snappy performance for streaming, browsing, and gaming. It also supports phone controllers for enhanced gaming.

OnePlus Pad 2 – Photos

4 Images

5. OnePlus Pad 2

Top iPad Alternative

OnePlus Pad 2

0This Android tablet offers strong performance, a vibrant display, and great value at a lower price than the iPad Pro.See it at AmazonSee it at OnePlus

Product SpecificationsScreen size12.1-inch, IPS, 2120 x 3000ProcessorQualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3Storage128GBCameras13MP rear, 8MP front-facing

PROSLarge, vibrant displayRobust performanceCONSLimited OS support compared to Apple

The OnePlus Pad 2 is a standout Android tablet, offering premium features at a competitive price, starting at $549 and often discounted to $449. It rivals the iPad Pro with a 12.1-inch IPS display featuring 10-bit color, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and a 144Hz refresh rate for smooth visuals. Six speakers deliver immersive audio.

Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip, it handles demanding apps and games effortlessly, supported by 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage. The 9,510mAh battery lasts around 12 hours under heavy use and charges in just over an hour with 80W fast charging.

The optional OnePlus Stylo 2 stylus adds versatility for artists. With Android 14, it’s promised three years of OS updates and four years of security patches.

Read the full review: OnePlus Pad 2

New iPad Models for 2025

Excited for the latest Apple tablets? The 11th Gen iPad with an A16 processor, new 11-inch and 13-inch M3 iPad Air models, and an updated iPad Mini with an A17 Pro chip are now available.

Choosing the Right iPad for You

Since its debut in 2010, the iPad has bridged the gap between smartphones and laptops, serving as a portable yet powerful device or even a laptop replacement for some.

Here’s a 2025 buyer’s guide to help you pick the perfect iPad:

Screen Sizes

Apple offers six iPad models with five screen sizes. The iPad Mini’s 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display is perfect for reading and portability, weighing just 10oz. The 9th and 10th Gen iPads feature 10.2-inch and 10.9-inch Retina displays, while the 11th Gen has an 11-inch screen. The M3 iPad Air offers 11-inch or 13-inch Liquid Retina displays with more power.

The 11-inch size is ideal for most users, balancing media consumption and portability. The iPad Pro, available in 11-inch or 13-inch Ultra Retina XDR OLED, is best for professionals needing top-tier performance.

Storage Options

Storage ranges from 64GB to 2TB on the iPad Pro. For most users, 64GB suffices for apps and media. Creatives handling high-resolution content should opt for 1TB or more, with external drives connectable via USB-C.

Accessories to Enhance Your iPad

All iPads (except the 9th Gen, which uses Lightning) feature USB-C for charging and peripherals like SSDs. The Files app simplifies access to internal and external storage. Bluetooth connects accessories like the Apple Pencil, Smart Keyboard Folio, Magic Keyboard, AirPods, or gaming controllers. The AirPods 4 with ANC, rated 8/10 by IGN, pair seamlessly with iPads.

Connectivity Options

Choose between Wi-Fi-only or Wi-Fi + cellular models. Wi-Fi-only suits home or office use, while cellular models add 4G LTE and GPS, ideal for travel or in-car entertainment, requiring a data plan.

Price Range

The 10th Gen iPad starts at $269, often less during sales. A fully loaded iPad Pro with 13-inch OLED, 2TB storage, and cellular can exceed $2,000, offering premium features for professionals.

Best iPad for Kids and Teens in 2025

The iPad Air M2 is our top pick for kids, as highlighted in our best iPads for kids guide. For students, our comprehensive guide to the best iPads for school offers tailored recommendations.