Top iPad Models for Purchase in 2025

Apple's iPad has long been the gold standard in the tablet market, setting the benchmark that others strive to meet. With an extensive lineup ranging from compact and budget-friendly to powerful and premium models, choosing the right iPad can be challenging, especially with the recent introduction of the new iPad (A16) and M3 iPad Air models. These latest releases bring more options and price adjustments to the older generations, making it an exciting time for potential buyers.

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 are diverse, catering to a wide range of needs. The latest iPad Pro models boast advanced displays and powerful M-series chipsets, perfect for professionals and creatives. For those on the go, the iPad Mini offers impressive features in a compact package, resembling a larger iPhone but at a more affordable price. Meanwhile, the base iPads remain excellent choices for users with simpler needs, such as e-reading, providing robust performance at a great value.

While Apple dominates the tablet market, other brands offer compelling alternatives for those not tied to the Apple ecosystem. These alternatives can provide similar features at competitive prices. For iPad enthusiasts, exploring compatible accessories like keyboards can enhance the user experience significantly.

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. This model is ideal for a wide range of users thanks to its approachable price and versatile features.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 choice for most users, offering an excellent balance of performance and affordability. Its 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display delivers sharp visuals, and despite not having the 120Hz refresh rate of higher-end models, it's still a fantastic screen for everyday use. The iPad supports the 1st generation Apple Pencil, making it suitable for creative tasks.

The design refresh includes slimmer bezels and a repositioned front-facing camera for better video calls. The A14 Bionic chip, combined with 4GB of memory, ensures smooth performance, and the switch to USB-C enhances its future-proofing. The 11th-generation iPad, now available, features an A16 processor and double the starting storage, offering even more power and space.

2. Apple iPad (9th Gen)

Best Budget iPad

### Apple iPad (9th Gen)

0The 9th Generation iPad is a budget-friendly option that doesn't skimp on performance, featuring a crisp 10.2-inch Retina display and solid capabilities at a low starting price under $300. It's often available at even lower prices during sales events like Prime Day or Black Friday.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 tabletsThe 9th Gen iPad is our top pick for budget-conscious buyers. Released in 2021, it runs the latest iPadOS and offers a reliable performance for everyday tasks like media consumption, gaming, and e-reading. While it lacks some of the advanced features of higher-end models, it provides access to the same apps and is a great choice for kids 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 latest iPad Pro is a powerhouse with the Apple M4 processor and an OLED display, offering the most premium tablet experience from Apple. It's perfect for creative professionals and those who demand top performance from their devices.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 2024 iPad Pro is the thinnest iPad yet, featuring the powerful M4 chip that outperforms the latest MacBook Air. Its new OLED display is stunning, with vibrant colors and deep contrast, making it ideal for watching movies and reading. The M4 chip ensures smooth performance, especially for gaming and creative workloads, making it a top choice for artists and video editors. However, to fully utilize its capabilities as a workstation, you'll need to invest in accessories like the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil Pro.

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 Liquid Retina display, making it an excellent choice for reading and portability. Its performance is impressive, thanks to the A17 Pro processor, the same chip found in the iPhone 15 Pro.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 perfect for those who want a device that's easy to carry and use with one hand. Its 8.3-inch display is ideal for reading, and the Apple App Store offers a variety of reading apps. The iPad Mini also supports the Apple Pencil Pro and Apple Pencil (USB-C), making it suitable for note-taking and sketching. With its sturdy build and Touch ID, it's a reliable choice for under $500.

OnePlus Pad 2 – Photos

4 Images5. OnePlus Pad 2

Best iPad Alternative

### OnePlus Pad 2

0The OnePlus Pad 2 is an excellent alternative to the iPad Pro, offering impressive performance and a smooth display at a more affordable price. It's a strong contender in the Android tablet market, featuring a 12.1-inch display and the powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip.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 stands out with its 12.1-inch display, offering 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 a 9,510mAh battery and fast 80W charging, it's perfect for long sessions. While it may not have the same long-term OS support as Apple, it's a compelling choice for those seeking a high-quality Android tablet.

Read the full review: OnePlus Pad 2

Upcoming iPad Models

Exciting times are ahead with the 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, offering enhanced performance.

Which Apple iPad Is Right for Me?

Since its debut 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, consider the following factors:

Tablet Sizes

Apple offers six iPad models with five different screen sizes. The iPad Mini, with its 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display, is ideal 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 has an 11-inch screen. The M3 iPad Air offers 11-inch or 13-inch options, powered by the M-series chips. The iPad Pro, available in 11-inch and 13-inch sizes, is perfect for professionals needing a laptop replacement.

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.

Peripherals to Consider

All iPads (except the 9th Gen) use USB-C for charging and peripherals. Bluetooth accessories like the Apple Pencil, keyboards, and AirPods enhance functionality. The Files app allows easy access to external storage.

Connectivity

iPads come in Wi-Fi-only and Wi-Fi + cellular versions. The latter requires a mobile data plan but offers GPS functionality, making it ideal for travel and mobile use.

Price Comparison

The iPad (10th Gen) starts at $269, with frequent sales offering even better deals. At the top end, a fully equipped iPad Pro can exceed $2,000, catering to those who need the best performance and features.

Which iPad Is Best for Kids and Teens in 2025?

For younger users, the iPad Air M2 is our top pick, offering a great balance of performance and durability. For students, our comprehensive guide to the best iPads for students can help you make the right choice.