Top iPad Models to Buy in 2025

Apple's iPad has long been the benchmark for tablet excellence, setting a standard that numerous other devices have strived to meet with varying degrees of success. The Apple iPad lineup has expanded significantly, offering a diverse range of devices from compact and portable to high-performance powerhouses. With the recent launch of the new iPad (A16) and M3 iPad Air models, alongside price reductions on older generations, choosing the right iPad has become increasingly complex. Let's delve into the best Apple iPad models to help you make 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 OnePlusHaving tested various Apple tablets over the years, we've gained a deep understanding of what distinguishes each model. Apple's latest iPad Pro models boast advanced displays and powerful M-series chipsets, ideal for professionals. The iPad Mini offers impressive portability and functionality, resembling a larger iPhone at a more affordable price. For those with simpler needs, like e-reading, Apple's base iPads deliver strong performance and great value.

While Apple dominates the tablet market, those not tied to the Apple ecosystem might find compelling alternatives at competitive prices. For iPad enthusiasts, enhancing your device with accessories like a keyboard can significantly boost its utility.

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, upgraded design, faster A14 Bionic processor, and a 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 Amazon

Product Specifications

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

PROS

• Varied color options
• Superior display compared to the 9th Gen

CONS

• Still uses the A14 Bionic chip, not the more advanced M1

Apple has masterfully crafted its base-level iPad to meet the needs of most users, making the 10th Gen iPad an ideal choice. Its approachable price point is a significant advantage over the pricier Pro models. The 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display with a 2360x1640 resolution ensures sharp visuals, though it lacks the 120Hz refresh rate found in higher-tier models. Compatibility with the 1st generation Apple Pencil adds creative versatility.

The design of the 10th Gen model has been refreshed, making it thinner and lighter than its predecessor. The front-facing camera now sits at the top in landscape orientation, enhancing video calls with Center Stage technology. The A14 Bionic chip and 4GB of memory offer a performance boost over the 9th Gen, and the switch to USB-C charging adds future-proofing.

The 11th-generation iPad, featuring an A16 processor and doubled starting storage, is now available.

2. Apple iPad (9th Gen)

Best Budget iPad

### Apple iPad (9th Gen)

0The 9th Generation iPad offers a budget-friendly option without compromising on essential features. With a solid performance, crisp 10.2-inch Retina display, and a starting price under $300, it's often available at even lower prices during sales events.

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

• Versatile functionality
• Affordable pricing

CONS

• May lag behind newer tablets in performance

Despite its 2021 release, the 9th Gen iPad remains our budget pick thanks to its reliable performance and clear display. It runs the latest iPadOS, ensuring optimized performance and speed. While it lacks the advanced features of the iPad Air, Mini, or Pro, it still offers access to the same apps and is perfect for media consumption, basic gaming, and e-reading. It's also an excellent choice for children when paired with a protective case.

iPad Pro 2024 – Photos

7 Images3. Apple iPad Pro (2024, M4)

Best Premium iPad

### Apple iPad Pro (2024 M4)

0The new iPad Pro, equipped with the Apple M4 processor and an OLED display, is the epitome of premium tablet technology. It's an ideal choice for creatives and professionals seeking top-tier performance.

See it at AmazonSee 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

• Excellent for artists and video editors
• Effective FaceID
• High-quality camera

CONS

• Requires additional accessories to function as a full workstation

Apple has refined the iPad Pro to be thinner than ever, yet it's powered by the potent M4 chip, surpassing even the latest MacBook Air. The introduction of an OLED display elevates the visual experience, making it ideal for watching and reading. The M4 chip ensures smooth performance for gaming and creative tasks, especially when paired with the Apple Pencil Pro. However, to transform it into a complete workstation, additional accessories like the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil are necessary, which add 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, with its compact design and 8.3-inch display, is perfect for reading and portability. It's lightweight at just over half a pound, making it an excellent handheld option.

See it at AmazonSee it at AppleSee 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
• High performance

CONS

• No significant design updates in the new model

For those seeking a device between the size of an iPhone and larger iPads, the iPad Mini is the perfect choice. Its 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display and light weight make it ideal for reading and portability. It's compatible with the Apple Pencil Pro and Apple Pencil (USB-C), making it suitable for notetaking and sketching. Despite its unchanged design, the A17 Pro processor ensures smooth performance for everyday tasks and gaming.

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 high-quality build at a more affordable price than the iPad Pro. It's a compelling alternative for those open to Android tablets.

See it at AmazonSee 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
• Strong performance

CONS

• Shorter-term OS support compared to Apple

The OnePlus Pad 2, with its 12.1-inch display and Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip, rivals the iPad Pro in the Android market. Its IPS panel supports 10-bit color depth, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision, running at a 144Hz refresh rate for smooth performance. It's compatible with the OnePlus Stylo 2 and features six speakers for immersive audio. With a 9,510mAh battery and 80W fast charging, it offers long battery life and quick recharges. OnePlus promises three years of OS updates and four years of security updates, ensuring longevity.

Read the full review: OnePlus Pad 2

Upcoming iPad Models

Apple continues to innovate with the release of the 11th-Gen iPad featuring an A16 processor and new 11-inch and 13-inch iPad Air models powered by an M3 chip. The iPad Mini has also been updated with an A17 Pro processor, offering enhanced performance.

Which Apple iPad Is Right for Me?

Since its introduction in 2010, the iPad has filled a unique digital niche, serving as a versatile device that's more portable than a laptop but more powerful than a smartphone. Whether you're buying your first iPad or upgrading, here's a guide to help you choose the right model in 2025:

Tablet Sizes

Apple offers six iPad models across five screen sizes, each tailored for different needs. The iPad Mini, with its 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display, is perfect for reading and casual use due to its portability and light weight. The 9th and 10th Gen iPads feature 10.2-inch and 10.9-inch displays, respectively, while the 11th Gen model boasts an 11-inch screen. The M3 iPad Air comes in 11-inch and 13-inch sizes, offering more power with the M-series processor. The iPad Pro, with 11-inch and 13-inch options, is ideal for creatives and professionals, featuring the M4 chip and advanced displays.

Storage Capacity Differences

Storage options range from 64GB to 2TB, with most models starting at 64GB. For general use, 64GB is sufficient, but creatives and professionals may need at least 1TB. For storage beyond 2TB, an external hard drive via USB-C is necessary.

Peripherals to Consider

All iPads, except the 9th Gen, feature USB-C ports for charging and connecting peripherals like external hard drives. Bluetooth enables wireless connections to accessories like the Apple Pencil, keyboards, and AirPods, enhancing the iPad's functionality.

Connectivity

Each iPad model comes in Wi-Fi-only or Wi-Fi + cellular versions. Wi-Fi-only models are best for home or office use, while Wi-Fi + cellular models offer mobile data connectivity and GPS, ideal for on-the-go use.

Price Comparison

The 10th Gen iPad starts at $269, often available at lower prices during sales events. At the top end, a fully configured iPad Pro can exceed $2,000, offering the best in performance and features.

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, our guide to the best iPads for students provides comprehensive recommendations.