Top iPad Models for Purchase in 2025

Apple's iPad has long been the benchmark for tablets, setting a high standard that others strive to meet. With a diverse range of models, from compact and budget-friendly to powerful and premium, Apple's iPad lineup caters to a wide array of needs and preferences. The recent launch of the new iPad (A16) and M3 iPad Air models has further expanded the options available, making it more challenging to choose the right one. Whether you're a first-time buyer or looking to upgrade, understanding the differences between these models 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, and each model offers unique features. The latest iPad Pro models boast advanced displays and powerful M-series chipsets, ideal for professionals. The iPad Mini, on the other hand, offers impressive performance in a compact form, making it a great choice for those seeking portability. For simpler needs, like e-reading, the base iPads provide excellent value and performance.

While Apple dominates the tablet market, alternatives exist for those not tied to the Apple ecosystem, potentially offering better value. For iPad enthusiasts, enhancing your device with accessories like a keyboard can significantly improve its functionality.

Additional contributions by Mark Knapp and Danielle Abraham

1. Apple iPad (10th Gen)

Best Overall iPad

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

2The 10th Gen 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's hard to beat. 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 stellar option for those seeking a versatile and cost-effective tablet. Its approachable price point makes it an attractive choice compared to the more expensive Pro models. While it doesn't feature the most advanced display, the 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display with a 2360x1640 resolution delivers sharp visuals. Although it lacks the 120Hz refresh rate of higher-tier models, this is a feature you might not miss until you experience it. The compatibility with the 1st generation Apple Pencil also adds to its appeal for creative users.

The design of the 10th Gen model has been refreshed, making it thinner and lighter than its predecessor, with updated bezels for a modern look. The front-facing camera's new landscape orientation, combined with Center Stage, ensures you stay in frame during video calls, enhancing the user experience. Powered by the A14 Bionic chip and 4GB of memory, it offers a significant performance boost over the 9th Gen model. The switch to USB-C charging further enhances its future-proofing.

The 11th-generation iPad, now available, features an A16 processor and double the starting storage, offering even more value.

2. Apple iPad (9th Gen)

Best Budget iPad

### Apple iPad (9th Gen)

0The 9th Gen iPad is the perfect budget-friendly option, delivering solid performance and a crisp 10.2-inch Retina display at a price that's hard to beat. 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 tabletsFor those seeking the best budget tablet, the 9th Gen iPad, released in 2021, is an excellent choice. With its solid performance, clear 10.2-inch Retina display, and a starting price under $300, it's often available for even less during sales events like Amazon Prime Day or Black Friday.

Running the latest iPadOS, this iPad offers optimized performance despite its older processor. While it may not have the advanced features of the iPad Air, Mini, or Pro, it still provides access to the same apps, making it suitable for media consumption, gaming, and e-reading. Its affordability also makes it a great option for kids, especially 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, equipped with the Apple M4 processor and an OLED display, is the pinnacle of Apple's tablet offerings. 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 always been a stunning piece of technology, and the 2024 model takes it to new heights. It's the thinnest iPad ever, yet it's powered by the M4 chip, surpassing even the latest MacBook Air in performance. This makes it an ideal choice for creative professionals.

The introduction of an OLED display marks a significant upgrade, offering vibrant colors and deep contrasts that enhance any content viewed on the tablet. The M4 chip ensures that the display's capabilities are fully utilized, making it perfect for gaming and creative work. The new Apple Pencil Pro, though an additional cost, complements the iPad Pro's powerful hardware and stunning display, making it a top choice for artists and photo editors.

To transform the iPad Pro 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 offers a compact and lightweight design with an 8.3-inch display, making it an excellent choice for reading and 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 is the perfect middle ground for those who find the best iPhones too small and larger iPads too cumbersome. Its 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display and lightweight design make it ideal for reading and portability, fitting easily into a bag or even a jacket pocket.

With a plethora of reading apps available on the Apple App Store, the iPad Mini is a favorite among readers. Its compatibility with the Apple Pencil Pro and Apple Pencil (USB-C) also makes it suitable for note-taking and sketching. The high-quality build, featuring a sturdy recycled aluminum body, sets it apart from many Android tablets in its price range. Despite no major design changes, the 7th Gen Mini's 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 and a smooth display 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, offering a 12.1-inch display with 10-bit color depth, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and a 144Hz refresh rate. It's powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip, ensuring smooth performance for gaming and multitasking. With 8GB of memory and 128GB of storage, it's well-equipped for demanding tasks.

The OnePlus Pad 2 also boasts impressive battery life, with a 9,510mAh battery providing up to 12 hours of heavy use. Its 80W charging capability allows for quick recharges. While it may not receive as many OS updates as Apple devices, the OnePlus Pad 2 is a strong contender in the Android tablet market.

Read the full review: OnePlus Pad 2

Upcoming iPad Models

Apple continues to innovate, with the recent release of the 11th-Gen iPad featuring 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 that Apple's lineup remains at the forefront of tablet technology.

Which Apple iPad Is Right for Me?

Since its introduction in 2010, the iPad has filled a unique niche, offering a device that's more portable than a laptop yet more powerful than a smartphone. Whether you're buying your first iPad or upgrading, consider the following factors to find the perfect model for your needs.

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 portability. The baseline iPad models (9th and 10th generations) feature 10.2-inch and 10.9-inch displays, respectively, while the 11th Gen model has an 11-inch screen. The M3 iPad Air comes in 11-inch and 13-inch sizes, offering more power with its M-series processor. The iPad Pro, available in 11-inch and 13-inch sizes, is ideal for professionals and creatives, featuring the powerful M4 chip.

Storage Capacity Differences

Most iPads start at 64GB, with the iPad Pro offering up to 2TB. For general use, 64GB is sufficient, but creatives and professionals may need more, especially for high-resolution media. For those requiring over 2TB, external hard drives can be connected via USB-C.

Peripherals to Consider

All iPads, except the 9th Gen, feature a USB-C port for charging and peripherals. Bluetooth connectivity allows for the use of various accessories, including the Apple Pencil, keyboards, and gaming controllers. The Apple AirPods, reviewed highly by IGN, offer seamless integration with iPads.

Connectivity

iPads come in Wi-Fi-only and Wi-Fi + cellular versions. The latter allows for mobile data connectivity, ideal for use on the go, but at a higher cost due to additional hardware.

Price Comparison

The iPad (10th Gen) starts at $269, with prices dropping during sales events. At the top end, a fully equipped iPad Pro can exceed $2,000, offering the best of Apple's technology.

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.