Top iPad Models for Purchase in 2025

Apple's iPad has long been the gold standard for tablets, setting the benchmark that others strive to meet. Over the years, Apple has expanded its iPad lineup to offer a wide variety of options, from compact and affordable models to high-performance devices designed for professionals. With the recent release of the new iPad (A16) and the M3 iPad Air, choosing the right iPad has become even more challenging yet exciting. Whether you're a casual user or a power user, Apple's range of iPads caters to all needs and budgets, making it essential to understand the differences between them to find the perfect fit.

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 OnePlus

We've had the opportunity to test numerous Apple tablets over the years, gaining a deep understanding of what makes each model unique. Apple's latest iPad Pro models offer cutting-edge displays and powerful M-series chipsets, perfect for creatives and professionals. For those who prioritize portability, the iPad Mini packs impressive features into a compact form factor, offering performance akin to a larger iPhone at a more accessible price point. If your needs are more straightforward, such as using the iPad as an e-reader, Apple's base models still deliver exceptional performance and value.

While Apple dominates the tablet market, there are compelling alternatives if you're not tied to the Apple ecosystem. These options might provide better value and additional features for your needs. For iPad enthusiasts, enhancing your device with accessories like a keyboard can transform it into a versatile tool for productivity and creativity.

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, and the faster A14 Bionic processor. It features a 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display that offers sharp visuals and vibrant colors, making it an excellent choice for everyday use. With its approachable price point and versatile color options, this iPad is perfect for a wide range of users. The shift to USB-C charging adds a touch of future-proofing, enhancing its appeal. While it doesn't feature the latest M-series chip, the A14 Bionic still delivers robust performance for most tasks. The 11th-generation iPad, now available, brings an A16 processor and increased storage, further elevating the user experience.

See it at Amazon

Product Specifications

• Screen size: 10.9-inch, 2360 x 1640 Liquid Retina display
• Processor: Apple A14 Bionic chip (6-core CPU + 4-core GPU)
• Storage: 64GB
• Cameras: 12MP (rear), 12MP (front)

PROS

• Varied colorways
• Better display than 9th gen

CONS

• Still using the A14 Bionic, rather than the M1

2. Apple iPad (9th Gen)

Best Budget iPad

### Apple iPad (9th Gen)

0For those seeking a budget-friendly option, the 9th Generation iPad is a stellar choice. Released in 2021, it continues to offer solid performance and a crisp 10.2-inch Retina display. With a starting price well under $300, and often discounted during sales events like Prime Day and Black Friday, this iPad is a great value. It runs the latest iPadOS, ensuring optimal performance despite its slightly older A13 Bionic processor. Ideal for media consumption, casual gaming, and e-reading, it's also an excellent pick for kids, especially when paired with a protective case.

See it at Amazon

Product Specifications

• Screen size: 10.2-inch Retina
• Processor: A13 Bionic
• Storage: 64GB, 256GB
• Cameras: 8-megapixel rear, 12-megapixel front-facing

PROS

• The jack-of-all-trades iPad
• Reasonable price

CONS

• Can lag behind other tablets

iPad Pro 2024 – Photos

7 Images

3. Apple iPad Pro (2024, M4)

Best Premium iPad

### Apple iPad Pro (2024 M4)

0The 2024 iPad Pro, powered by the M4 chip and featuring an OLED display, sets a new standard for premium tablets. Its design is not only the thinnest ever for an iPad but also houses a processor more powerful than the latest MacBook Air, making it ideal for creatives and professionals. The OLED screen delivers breathtaking visuals, perfect for artists and video editors. With the Apple Pencil Pro, this iPad becomes a powerhouse for creative work, though additional accessories like the Magic Keyboard and the Pencil come at a significant cost.

See it at Amazon See it at Apple

Product Specifications

• Screen size: 11-inch, 12.9-inch
• Processor: Apple M4
• Storage: 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB
• Cameras: 12MP wide camera (rear), Landscape 12MP ultra-wide camera (front)

PROS

• Awesome for artists and video editors
• FaceID works wonders
• An actually decent camera

CONS

• You'll need to buy a lot of accessories to make it a true workstation

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 (7th Gen) is perfect for those who prioritize portability and reading. Weighing just over half a pound with an 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display, it's incredibly easy to carry and use with one hand. Its compatibility with the Apple Pencil Pro and USB-C Apple Pencil makes it versatile for note-taking and sketching. Despite no major design changes, the A17 Pro processor ensures excellent performance for its compact size, making it suitable for casual gaming and browsing.

See it at Amazon See it at Apple See it at Best Buy

Product Specifications

• Screen size: 8.3-inch Liquid Retina
• Processor: A17 Pro
• Storage: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB
• Cameras: 12-megapixel rear, 12-megapixel front-facing

PROS

• Compact and lightweight
• Excellent performance

CONS

• No major design changes with new model

OnePlus Pad 2 – Photos

4 Images

5. OnePlus Pad 2

Best iPad Alternative

### OnePlus Pad 2

0The OnePlus Pad 2 offers a compelling alternative to Apple's iPads, delivering high performance and a large, smooth display at a more affordable price. Its 12.1-inch IPS screen with a 144Hz refresh rate is ideal for gaming and media consumption. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip, it handles the latest apps and games with ease. The OnePlus Pad 2 also boasts impressive battery life and fast charging capabilities, making it a practical choice for long sessions. While it may not have the same longevity of OS support as Apple devices, it's a strong contender in the Android tablet market.

See it at Amazon See it at OnePlus

Product Specifications

• Screen size: 12.1-inch, IPS, 2120 x 3000
• Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
• Storage: 128GB
• Cameras: 13-megapixel rear, 8-megapixel front-facing

PROS

• Large, smooth display
• Solid performance

CONS

• Shorter-term OS support than Apple

Read the full review: OnePlus Pad 2

Upcoming iPad Models

Exciting new releases are on the horizon, including the 11th-Gen iPad with an A16 processor and new 11-inch and 13-inch iPad Air models powered by the M3 chip. The iPad Mini has also been updated with the A17 Pro processor, ensuring continued performance improvements across the lineup.

Which Apple iPad Is Right for Me?

Since its debut in 2010, the iPad has evolved to fill various digital needs. Whether you're looking for a device that's more portable than a laptop yet more powerful than a smartphone, or seeking a full laptop replacement, there's an iPad for you. Here's a guide to help you choose the right iPad in 2025:

Tablet Sizes

Apple offers six iPad models with five different screen sizes, each tailored for specific uses. The iPad Mini, with its 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display, is perfect for reading and portability. The baseline iPad models (9th and 10th Gen) feature 10.2-inch and 10.9-inch displays, respectively, while the 11th Gen model sports an 11-inch screen. The M3 iPad Air comes in 11-inch or 13-inch options, offering more power than the standard models. The iPad Pro, available in 11-inch and 13-inch sizes, is the top choice for creatives and professionals needing high performance.

Storage Capacity Differences

iPad storage starts at 64GB and can go up to 2TB with the iPad Pro. Most users find 64GB sufficient for everyday use, but creatives and professionals might need larger capacities, particularly for high-resolution media.

Peripherals to Consider

All iPads, except the 9th Gen, feature a USB-C port for charging and connecting peripherals like external hard drives. Bluetooth connectivity allows for seamless integration with accessories such as the Apple Pencil, keyboards, and headphones, enhancing the iPad's versatility.

Connectivity

Each iPad model comes in Wi-Fi-only or Wi-Fi + cellular versions. The latter offers mobile data connectivity, ideal for those needing internet access on the go, but comes at a higher price due to additional hardware.

Price Comparison

The iPad lineup ranges from the budget-friendly 10th Gen model starting at $269 to the high-end iPad Pro, which can exceed $2,000 when fully configured. Discounts during major sales events can make the entry-level models even more affordable.

Which iPad Is Best for Kids and Teens in 2025?

For kids and teens, the iPad Air M2 is our top recommendation due to its balance of performance and price. For students, our comprehensive guide to the best iPads for students can help you make an informed decision.