Top iPad Models for Purchase in 2025

Apple's iPad has long been the gold standard for tablets, setting benchmarks that others strive to meet. The extensive range of iPad models now includes everything from compact, portable options to powerful, large-screen devices. With the recent launch of the new iPad (A16) and M3 iPad Air models, choosing the right iPad has become even more challenging. Let's explore 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 OnePlusApple's iPad lineup offers a variety of models tailored to different needs, from advanced displays and powerful M-series chipsets in the latest iPad Pro models to the compact and portable iPad Mini, which rivals larger iPhones in functionality but at a more affordable price. For those with simpler needs, like using the device as an e-reader, Apple's base iPads still deliver impressive performance and great value.

If you're not committed to Apple's ecosystem, exploring alternatives might provide better value or features. However, for those set on 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 12-megapixel front-facing camera, sleek design, faster A14 Bionic processor, and a vibrant 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display. It's the ideal 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 6-core CPU + 4-core GPU
• Storage: 64GB
• Cameras: 12MP (rear), 12MP (front)

PROS

• Varied colorways
• Better display than 9th gen

CONS

• Still using the A14 Bionic, rather than the M1

Apple excels at creating a base-level iPad that's exceptional for most users, and the 10th Gen iPad is no exception. Its approachable price point and feature set make it a versatile choice for a wide range of users. The 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display offers sharp visuals, though it lacks the 120Hz refresh rate found in higher-end models. The iPad supports the 1st generation Apple Pencil, providing creative options.

The 10th Gen model boasts a refreshed design, slimmer profile, and 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. Powered by the A14 Bionic chip with 4GB of memory, it offers a performance upgrade over its predecessor. The switch to USB-C charging aligns with current trends, enhancing its future-proofing.

The 11th-generation iPad, now available, features 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 Generation iPad is the go-to budget option, delivering solid performance and a crisp 10.2-inch Retina display at a starting price under $300, often dropping lower during sales events.

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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

• The jack-of-all-trades iPad
• Reasonable price

CONS

• Can lag behind other tablets

Released in 2021, the 9th Gen iPad is our top budget pick, offering a solid performance and a clear 10.2-inch Retina display. It runs the latest iPadOS, ensuring optimized performance despite its older processor. While it lacks the advanced features of the iPad Air, Mini, or Pro, it provides access to the same apps, albeit with potential limitations for more intensive tasks.

Ideal for media consumption, basic gaming, and e-reading, the 9th Gen iPad is also a great choice 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 M4 processor and an OLED display, is the epitome of premium tablet technology, perfect for creative professionals.

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

• Awesome for artists and video editors
• FaceID works wonders
• An actually decent camera

CONS

• You'll need to buy a lot of accessories to make it a true workstation

The iPad Pro has been refined to its thinnest form yet, surpassing even the iPad Air, while incorporating the powerful M4 chip. This makes it an even better choice for creative professionals. The introduction of an OLED display adds a new level of visual excellence, making it ideal for viewing and editing content.

The M4's 8-core GPU ensures smooth performance for gaming and creative tasks, especially when paired with the Apple Pencil Pro. However, to turn it into a full workstation, additional accessories like the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil come at an extra 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 compact iPad Mini, weighing just over half a pound with an 8.3-inch display, is perfect for those on the go, especially for reading.

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
• Excellent performance

CONS

• No major design changes with new model

The iPad Mini strikes the perfect balance for those who need more than a smartphone but less than a larger iPad. Its 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display and lightweight design make it ideal for reading and portability. It supports the Apple Pencil Pro and Apple Pencil (USB-C), making it suitable for notetaking and sketching.

Despite its unchanged design, the 7th Generation Mini boasts the A17 Pro processor, ensuring smooth performance for everyday tasks and light gaming. Its sturdy build and compatibility with various reading apps make it a top choice for avid readers.

OnePlus Pad 2 – Photos

4 Images5. OnePlus Pad 2

Best iPad Alternative

### OnePlus Pad 2

0The OnePlus Pad 2 offers a compelling alternative to the iPad Pro, with excellent performance and a smooth display at a more affordable price.

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
• Solid performance

CONS

• Shorter-term OS support than Apple

The OnePlus Pad 2 stands out in the Android tablet market 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 robust performance for apps and games. The tablet's long battery life and fast charging capabilities make it ideal for extended use.

While it may not receive OS updates as long as Apple devices, the OnePlus Pad 2 offers a strong alternative for those looking for a high-quality tablet experience without the Apple price tag.

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 also received an update with the A17 Pro processor, ensuring that Apple's lineup remains cutting-edge.

Which Apple iPad Is Right for Me?

Since its introduction in 2010, the iPad has evolved to serve various needs, from a portable alternative to a laptop to a powerful device for creatives. 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 iPads (9th and 10th generations) come with 10.2-inch Retina and 10.9-inch Liquid Retina displays, respectively, while the 11th Gen model features an 11-inch screen. The M3 iPad Air offers 11-inch or 13-inch Liquid Retina displays, powered by the M-series chip. The iPad Pro, ideal for creatives, comes in 11-inch and 13-inch models, with the latter featuring an Ultra Retina XDR OLED display.

Storage Capacity Differences

iPad storage starts at 64GB and can go up to 2TB with the iPad Pro. Most users will find 64GB sufficient, but creatives and professionals might need more, especially for high-resolution content.

Peripherals to Consider

All iPad models (except the 9th Gen) feature a USB-C port for charging and peripherals. Bluetooth connectivity is key for accessories like the Apple Pencil, keyboards, and headphones, ensuring a seamless user experience.

Connectivity

Each iPad model comes in Wi-Fi-only and Wi-Fi + cellular versions. The latter offers mobile data connectivity, ideal for on-the-go use, but at a higher cost due to additional internal components.

Price Comparison

The iPad lineup spans from the affordable 10th Gen model, starting at $269, to the high-end iPad Pro, which can reach over $2,000 with all options included. Choosing the right model depends on your budget and specific needs.

Which iPad Is Best for Kids and Teens in 2025?

The iPad Air M2 is our top recommendation for kids and younger users, as highlighted in our guide to the best iPads for kids. For students, we've also provided a comprehensive guide to the best iPads for educational use.