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 an expansive lineup that includes everything from compact, budget-friendly models to powerful, feature-rich devices, choosing the right iPad can be daunting. Apple's recent releases, including the new iPad (A16) and the M3 iPad Air, have further expanded the options available, making it even more important to understand the differences between models.

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 over the years, gaining insights into what makes each model unique. The latest iPad Pro models boast advanced displays and powerful M-series chipsets, ideal for professionals. For those seeking portability, the iPad Mini offers impressive performance in a compact package, resembling a larger iPhone at a more affordable price. For simpler needs, like e-reading, Apple's base iPads deliver 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 compared to higher-end models like the iPad Pro.

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, not the M1

Apple excels at making its base-level iPad a compelling option for a wide range of users. The 10th Gen iPad, with its approachable price point, is ideal for those who don't need the advanced features of the Pro models. Its 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display offers sharp visuals, though it lacks the 120Hz refresh rate found in higher-tier models. Compatibility with the 1st generation Apple Pencil also makes it suitable for creative tasks.

The design refresh includes thinner bezels and a lighter build, enhancing its modern aesthetic. The front-facing camera's new landscape orientation, combined with Center Stage, ensures you stay in frame during video calls. The A14 Bionic chip and USB-C charging further future-proof the device.

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

2. Apple iPad (9th Gen)

Best Budget iPad

### Apple iPad (9th Gen)

0The 9th Gen iPad is a budget-friendly option that doesn't compromise on performance, featuring a crisp 10.2-inch Retina display and solid performance at a price often below $300, especially during sales events like Prime Day or Black Friday.

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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

For those seeking the best budget tablet, the 9th Gen iPad is a top pick. Released in 2021, it runs the latest iPadOS, ensuring optimal 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, making it suitable for media consumption, gaming, and e-reading. Its affordability also makes it an excellent choice for children, especially when paired with a protective case.

iPad Pro 2024 – Photos

7 Images3. Apple iPad Pro (2024, M4)

Best Premium iPad

### Apple iPad Pro (2024 M4)

0The latest iPad Pro, equipped with the Apple M4 processor and an OLED display, is the pinnacle of Apple's tablet offerings, ideal for creative professionals and those seeking the best in performance and display quality.

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

• Exceptional for artists and video editors
• Advanced FaceID technology
• High-quality camera

CONS

• Requires additional accessories to function as a full workstation

The iPad Pro has always been a showcase of Apple's technological prowess, and the 2024 model is no exception. It's the thinnest iPad yet, yet it houses the powerful M4 chip, surpassing even the latest MacBook Air in performance. The introduction of an OLED display enhances its visual appeal, making it ideal for watching and reading content.

The M4 chip ensures smooth performance in gaming and creative tasks, especially when paired with the Apple Pencil Pro. However, to transform it into a complete workstation, additional accessories like the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil are necessary, adding to 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, lightweight design with an 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display, making it perfect for reading and portability. Its performance is robust, thanks to the A17 Pro processor.

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 significant design changes from the previous model

The iPad Mini is the ideal choice for those who find larger iPads too cumbersome but need more screen space than a smartphone. Its 8.3-inch display and lightweight design make it perfect for reading and portability. The Apple App Store offers numerous reading apps, and the iPad Mini's compatibility with the Apple Pencil makes it suitable for note-taking and sketching.

Despite its unchanged design, the iPad Mini's build quality remains top-notch, and the 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 high-quality display at a more affordable price than the iPad Pro, making it a compelling alternative for Android users.

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-term OS support compared to Apple

The OnePlus Pad 2 is a standout in the Android tablet market, offering features comparable to the iPad Pro at a lower price. 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 creative work. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip ensures robust performance, and its long battery life and fast charging capabilities enhance its appeal.

OnePlus promises three years of OS updates and four years of security updates, providing peace of mind for long-term use.

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, offering enhanced performance in a compact form.

Which Apple iPad Is Right for Me?

Since its introduction in 2010, the iPad has filled a unique niche between smartphones and laptops. Whether you're looking for a portable device for everyday tasks or a powerful tool to replace your laptop, understanding the iPad lineup is crucial.

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) 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 models, is ideal 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. For storage beyond 2TB, an external hard drive 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 accessories like the Apple Pencil, keyboards, and gaming controllers, enhancing the iPad's versatility.

Connectivity

iPads come in Wi-Fi-only and Wi-Fi + cellular versions. The latter offers 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 in performance and features.

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.