Top iPad Picks for 2025: What to Buy

Apple's iPad has long been the benchmark for tablets, setting a high standard that others strive to meet. With the expansive range of iPads now available, from the compact iPad Mini to the powerful iPad Pro, choosing the right model can be daunting. Apple's recent releases, including the new iPad (A16) and M3 iPad Air models, have further diversified the lineup, offering more options and competitive pricing on older generations.

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 something for everyone, from the cutting-edge displays and powerful M-series chipsets in the latest iPad Pro models to the compact and portable iPad Mini. For those with simpler needs, like using the device as an e-reader, Apple's base iPads deliver impressive performance and value.

However, if you're open to alternatives outside Apple's ecosystem, other brands offer compelling options at competitive prices. And for those committed to an iPad, enhancing your device with accessories like a keyboard can significantly boost 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 Generation iPad stands out with its repositioned 12-megapixel front-facing camera, sleek design, faster A14 Bionic processor, and a 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display. It's an excellent choice for most users due to its 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
• Better display than the 9th Gen

CONS

• Still uses the A14 Bionic chip, not the M1

Apple excels at making its base-level iPads exceptional for most users. The 10th Gen iPad is no exception, offering an approachable price point while still delivering a sharp 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display with a 2360x1640 resolution. Although it lacks the 120Hz refresh rate found in higher-tier models, it supports the 1st generation Apple Pencil, making it versatile for creative tasks.

The design refresh in the 10th Gen model includes reduced thickness and weight, along with updated bezels for a modern look. The front-facing camera's new landscape orientation, combined with Center Stage, ensures you stay framed during video calls. The A14 Bionic chip and USB-C charging enhance performance and future-proofing.

The 11th-generation iPad has now been released, featuring an A16 processor and doubled starting storage compared to previous models.

2. Apple iPad (9th Gen)

Best Budget iPad

### Apple iPad (9th Gen)

0This budget-friendly iPad offers solid performance and a crisp 10.2-inch Retina display, making it an excellent choice for those looking to save money 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 iPad suitable for various tasks
• Affordable price

CONS

• May lag behind other tablets in performance

The 9th Generation iPad, released in 2021, remains a top budget pick with its solid performance and clear 10.2-inch Retina display. With a starting price under $300, it often sees discounts during sales events, making it even more accessible.

Running the latest iPadOS, it offers a smooth experience for media consumption, gaming, and reading, though it lacks some of the advanced features of the iPad Air, Mini, or Pro. Its affordability also makes it a great choice for kids, 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 model is equipped with the powerful Apple M4 processor and a stunning OLED display, making it the most premium iPad yet.

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

• Ideal for artists and video editors
• Excellent FaceID functionality
• Impressive camera quality

CONS

• Requires additional accessories to serve as a workstation

The iPad Pro continues to impress with its sleek design, now even thinner than the iPad Air, and powered by the formidable M4 chip, surpassing the performance of the MacBook Air. The introduction of an OLED display enhances its appeal, providing vibrant colors and high contrast, ideal for media consumption and creative work.

The M4 chip ensures smooth performance across gaming and professional applications. However, to fully leverage its capabilities as a workstation, additional accessories like the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil Pro 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 an 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display and weighs just over half a pound, making it an excellent choice for portability and 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
• Strong performance

CONS

• No significant design changes from previous model

The iPad Mini is perfect for those seeking a device that's more portable than larger iPads but larger than iPhones. Its 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display and lightweight design make it ideal for reading and one-handed use. It's compatible with the Apple Pencil Pro and USB-C, enhancing its utility for note-taking and sketching.

Despite its unchanged design from previous generations, the A17 Pro processor offers robust performance, making it suitable for casual use and gaming. Its build quality, using recycled aluminum, sets it apart from many Android tablets at similar price points.

OnePlus Pad 2 – Photos

4 Images5. OnePlus Pad 2

Best iPad Alternative

### OnePlus Pad 2

0The OnePlus Pad 2 offers exceptional performance and a high-quality display at a more affordable price than the iPad Pro, making it a compelling alternative.

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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 compared to Apple

The OnePlus Pad 2 stands out in the Android tablet market with its 12.1-inch IPS display featuring 10-bit color depth, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and a 144Hz refresh rate. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip, it offers robust performance and long battery life, making it ideal for gaming and productivity.

With six speakers for enhanced audio and compatibility with the OnePlus Stylo 2, it's a versatile device. 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 an 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, providing more options for consumers.

Which Apple iPad Is Right for Me?

Since its introduction in 2010, the iPad has filled a unique niche as a device more portable than a laptop but more powerful than a smartphone. It can serve as a laptop replacement for some users.

If you're considering your first iPad or upgrading from an older model, here's a buyer's guide for 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 Retina and 10.9-inch Liquid Retina displays, respectively, while the 11th Gen model has an 11-inch screen. The M3 iPad Air offers 11-inch or 13-inch Liquid Retina displays with more power from its M-processor.

The iPad Pro comes in 11-inch and 13-inch models, with the larger model featuring an Ultra Retina XDR OLED display. Both are powered by the M4 processor, making them ideal for professionals and creatives.

Storage Capacity Differences

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

Peripherals to Consider

All iPads except the 9th Gen use USB-C for charging and peripherals. Bluetooth connectivity is essential for accessories like the Apple Pencil, Smart Keyboard Folio, Magic Keyboard, and AirPods, enhancing the iPad's functionality.

Connectivity

iPads come in Wi-Fi-only and Wi-Fi + cellular versions. The latter allows internet access via 4G LTE and includes GPS, making it suitable for use in cars or without Wi-Fi.

Price Comparison

The 10th Gen iPad starts at $269, with frequent discounts during sales events. A fully equipped iPad Pro can reach over $2,000, offering the best of the best in terms of display, storage, and connectivity.

Which iPad Is Best for Kids and Teens in 2025?

For younger users, the iPad Air M2 is recommended. For students, a comprehensive guide to the best iPads for students is available.