Top iPad Models for Purchase in 2025

Apple's iPad has long been the benchmark for what a top-tier tablet should be, setting standards that other devices strive to meet. Over the years, Apple has expanded the iPad lineup to include a diverse range of models, from compact and affordable to large and powerful. With the recent launch of the new iPad (A16) and M3 iPad Air models, along with price drops on older generations, choosing the right iPad has become more complex but exciting.

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 OnePlusWe’ve tested numerous Apple tablets and understand what distinguishes each model. The latest iPad Pro models boast advanced displays and powerful M-series chipsets, ideal for professionals and creatives. The iPad Mini offers impressive portability with features that rival larger iPhones at a more affordable price. For those with simpler needs, such as replacing an e-reader, Apple's base iPads deliver robust performance and great value.

If you're not committed to Apple's ecosystem, exploring alternatives might offer better value. And if you're set on an iPad, consider enhancing your experience with accessories like a keyboard.

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 compared to 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 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 M1

Apple excels at making its base-level iPad an outstanding option for the majority of users, making the 10th Gen iPad an ideal choice for nearly anyone. Its approachable price point, coupled with a sharp 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display, ensures a satisfying user experience. While it doesn't feature the 120Hz refresh rate of higher-end models, it supports the 1st generation Apple Pencil, catering to creative tasks.

The design 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 technology, keeps you perfectly framed during video calls. The A14 Bionic chip and USB-C charging provide performance and future-proofing.

The 11th-generation iPad, now available, introduces an A16 processor and double the starting storage, further enhancing its appeal.

2. Apple iPad (9th Gen)

Best Budget iPad

### Apple iPad (9th Gen)

0The 9th Gen iPad is a budget-friendly option that delivers solid performance and a crisp 10.2-inch Retina display, perfect for those looking to spend less without sacrificing quality.

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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 models in performance

Released in 2021, the iPad (9th Generation) remains our top budget pick. Its performance is commendable, and the 10.2-inch Retina display is clear and vibrant. With a starting price under $300, and frequent sales bringing it down to $250 during events like Prime Day, it's a cost-effective choice.

Running the latest iPadOS, it offers access to the same apps as other iPads, though some may not run as smoothly due to the older processor. Ideal for media consumption, casual gaming, and reading, it's also 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 an Apple M4 processor and an OLED display, is the pinnacle of Apple's tablet offerings, perfect for professionals and creatives.

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

• Additional accessories needed to maximize productivity

The iPad Pro has been refined to be the thinnest iPad ever, yet it's packed with the powerful M4 chip, outpacing even the latest MacBook Air. This makes it an ideal tool for creative professionals. The new OLED display is stunning, delivering vibrant colors and deep contrasts, making it the best device 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 fully utilize it as a workstation, additional accessories like the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil are necessary, which add to the 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, lightweight design with an 8.3-inch display, making it perfect for reading and on-the-go use.

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 easy to carry
• High performance

Cons

• No significant design changes from previous models

The iPad Mini is ideal for readers and those needing a portable device. Its 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display and lightweight build make it perfect for one-handed use. With compatibility for the Apple Pencil Pro and USB-C Apple Pencil, it's also suitable for note-taking and sketching.

The A17 Pro processor ensures smooth performance, handling everyday tasks and even gaming effortlessly. Its sturdy, recycled aluminum body offers durability and style, making it a standout choice among tablets in its price range.

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, making it a compelling alternative.

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 compared to Apple

The OnePlus Pad 2 is a standout in the Android tablet market, offering features that rival the iPad Pro. Its 12.1-inch IPS display supports 10-bit color depth, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and a 144Hz refresh rate, making it ideal for gaming and media consumption. The tablet also features six speakers for immersive audio.

Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip, it handles the latest apps and games with ease. With 8GB of memory and 128GB of storage, it's well-equipped for multitasking. Its battery life lasts up to 12 hours, and it supports fast 80W charging.

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 has recently released the 11th-Gen iPad with 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 bridged the gap between smartphones and laptops. It serves as a versatile device for various needs, from casual use to professional applications. 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. 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 or 13-inch sizes, powered by the M-series chip. The iPad Pro offers 11-inch and 13-inch options, with the larger model featuring an Ultra Retina XDR OLED display. The 11-inch size is often considered ideal for a balance of portability and functionality.

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 might need 1TB or more, and external storage via USB-C is an option for those needing even more space.

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 the iPad experience. Solid-state drives are recommended for external storage due to their lower power requirements.

Connectivity

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

Price Comparison

The 10th Gen iPad starts at $269, with frequent sales making it even more affordable. At the top end, a fully equipped iPad Pro can cost over $2,000, offering the best in display, storage, and connectivity.

Which iPad Is Best for Kids and Teens in 2025?

For younger users, the iPad Air M2 is our top recommendation, as highlighted in our list of the best iPads for kids. For students, we've compiled a guide to the best iPads for educational use.