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. With its diverse lineup ranging from compact and budget-friendly to high-powered professional-grade models, choosing the right iPad can be daunting. Apple's recent releases, including the new iPad (A16) and the M3 iPad Air models, have further expanded the options available, offering enhanced performance and value across the board.

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 OnePlusOur extensive testing of Apple's tablets has revealed what makes each model unique. The latest iPad Pro models boast advanced displays and powerful M-series chipsets, ideal for professionals. The iPad Mini offers exceptional portability and performance, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a compact device. For everyday needs, such as e-reading or casual browsing, the base iPads deliver impressive performance at a great value.

While Apple's iPads are renowned, there are competitive alternatives for those not tied to Apple's ecosystem, offering quality upgrades at potentially better prices. For those committed to an iPad, enhancing your device with accessories like a keyboard can significantly boost productivity.

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 stunning 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display. It's an excellent choice for most users, offering a balance of performance and affordability compared to the pricier Pro models.

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 + 4-core GPU
• Storage: 64GB
• Cameras: 12MP (rear), 12MP (front)

Pros

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

Cons

• Still uses the A14 Bionic chip instead of the M1

The 10th Gen iPad is designed to be a versatile and accessible option for a wide range of users. Its approachable price point makes it an attractive choice for those looking to avoid the high costs of the Pro models. The Liquid Retina display delivers sharp visuals with a 2360x1640 resolution, though it lacks the 120Hz refresh rate found in higher-end models. Compatibility with the 1st generation Apple Pencil adds to its appeal for creative tasks.

The refreshed design of the 10th Gen model is both thinner and lighter than its predecessor, with modernized bezels for a sleek appearance. The front-facing camera's new landscape orientation, combined with Center Stage technology, enhances video calls by keeping you in the frame as you move. The A14 Bionic chip, paired with 4GB of memory, offers a performance boost over the 9th Gen, while the shift to USB-C charging aligns with modern standards, enhancing its future-proofing.

The latest update to the iPad lineup includes the 11th-generation iPad, featuring an A16 processor and increased starting storage, providing even more value and performance.

2. Apple iPad (9th Gen)

Best Budget iPad

### Apple iPad (9th Gen)

0For those on a budget, the 9th Generation iPad offers solid performance and a crisp 10.2-inch Retina display at a very reasonable price. Often available for under $300, especially during sales like Amazon Prime Day or Black Friday, it's a cost-effective choice for everyday use.

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Product Specifications

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

Pros

• Versatile and reliable
• Affordable price

Cons

• May lag behind newer tablets in performance

The 9th Gen iPad, despite its 2021 release, remains a strong budget pick due to its performance and display quality. Running the latest iPadOS, it ensures optimized speed and performance, even with its slightly older processor. While it lacks some of the advanced features of the iPad Air, Mini, or Pro, such as a faster processor and thinner bezels, it still offers full access to Apple's app ecosystem.

This model is perfect for casual users interested in media consumption, news, basic gaming, or e-reading. It's also an excellent choice for kids, especially when paired with a durable case to protect against damage.

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 powerful Apple M4 processor and a stunning OLED display, is the epitome of premium tablet technology. It's ideal 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
• Advanced FaceID functionality
• High-quality camera

Cons

• Requires additional accessories for a complete workstation

The iPad Pro 2024 is not only thinner than its predecessors but also more powerful, thanks to the M4 chip, which outpaces the latest MacBook Air. The introduction of an OLED display brings unparalleled color and contrast, making it a favorite for consuming media. The M4's 8-core GPU handles games and creative tasks with ease, making it a top choice for professionals using the new Apple Pencil Pro.

However, to transform this iPad into a full workstation, additional accessories like the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil are necessary, which can significantly increase 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 ideal choice for reading and portability. Weighing just over half a pound, it's perfect for on-the-go use and fits comfortably in a bag or jacket pocket.

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 changes from the previous model

The iPad Mini strikes the perfect balance for those who find larger iPads too cumbersome yet need more screen space than a smartphone. It's especially popular among readers due to its one-handed usability and compatibility with various reading apps. The device's build quality, featuring a sturdy recycled aluminum body, sets it apart from similarly priced Android tablets. The A17 Pro processor ensures smooth performance for everyday tasks and gaming, making it a versatile choice.

OnePlus Pad 2 – Photos

4 Images5. OnePlus Pad 2

Best iPad Alternative

### OnePlus Pad 2

0For those considering alternatives to Apple's iPads, the OnePlus Pad 2 offers excellent performance, a high-quality display, and overall great value at a more affordable price point than the iPad Pro.

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 OS support period compared to Apple

The OnePlus Pad 2 stands out as a formidable competitor in the Android tablet market, with a 12.1-inch display that supports 10-bit color depth, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and a 144Hz refresh rate. Its Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip ensures it can handle the latest apps and games, and its battery life supports up to 12 hours of heavy use. The tablet also features fast 80W charging, making it a convenient choice for long sessions. OnePlus promises three years of OS updates and four years of security updates, ensuring long-term usability.

Read the full review: OnePlus Pad 2

Upcoming iPad Models

Excitingly, Apple has recently released the 11th-Gen iPad with an A16 processor, along with 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, offering enhanced performance in a compact package.

Which Apple iPad Is Right for Me?

Since its introduction in 2010, the iPad has filled a unique niche in the digital landscape. Whether you're seeking a device more portable than a laptop but more powerful than a smartphone, or a complete laptop replacement, Apple's range of iPads caters to various needs.

If you're buying your first iPad or upgrading from an older model, consider the following factors in 2025:

Tablet Sizes

Apple offers six iPad models with five different screen sizes. The iPad Mini, with its 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display, is perfect for reading and casual use, weighing just 10oz. The baseline 9th and 10th generation 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 offers 11-inch or 13-inch Liquid Retina displays with enhanced performance. The iPad Pro comes in 11-inch and 13-inch sizes, with the larger model featuring an Ultra Retina XDR OLED display, ideal for professionals.

Storage Capacity Differences

Most iPad models start at 64GB, with options up to 2TB on the iPad Pro. For general use, 64GB is sufficient, but creatives and professionals may need higher capacities, especially for storing high-resolution media.

Peripherals to Consider

All iPads, except the 9th Gen, feature a USB-C port for charging and connecting peripherals. Bluetooth connectivity allows for seamless integration with accessories like the Apple Pencil, keyboards, and headphones.

Connectivity

Choose between Wi-Fi-only models for home or office use, or Wi-Fi + cellular models for internet access on the go. The latter require a mobile data plan but offer added flexibility with GPS capabilities.

Price Comparison

The iPad (10th Gen) starts at $269, often available at a discount during sales events. At the top end, a fully equipped iPad Pro can exceed $2,000, offering the best in display, performance, and connectivity.

Which iPad Is Best for Kids and Teens in 2025?

For younger users, the iPad Air M2 is our top recommendation, as detailed in our list of the best iPads for kids. For students, our guide to the best iPads for students provides comprehensive advice on choosing the right model.