Top iPad Models for Purchase in 2025

Apple’s iPad has long been the benchmark for tablets, setting high standards that competitors strive to meet. The iPad lineup has grown significantly, offering a diverse range of devices tailored to different needs and budgets. With recent releases like the new iPad (A16) and the M3 iPad Air models, the choices have become even more varied, making it challenging to pick the right one. Whether you're a first-time buyer or looking to upgrade, this guide will help you navigate the extensive range of Apple's iPads in 2025.

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 OnePlus

Apple’s iPads vary widely in features and capabilities. The latest iPad Pro models boast advanced displays and powerful M-series chipsets, ideal for creative professionals. For those prioritizing portability, the iPad Mini offers a compact yet powerful experience, akin to a larger iPhone but at a more affordable price. For simpler needs, such as an e-reader, the base iPads deliver impressive performance at a budget-friendly cost.

While Apple dominates the tablet market, alternatives like the OnePlus Pad 2 offer compelling features at competitive prices for those not tied to Apple's ecosystem. If you're committed to 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 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, offering an approachable price point and versatile functionality.

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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 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 exceptional option for most users. The 10th Gen iPad offers a 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display with a 2360x1640 resolution, ensuring sharp visuals. While it lacks the 120Hz refresh rate of higher-tier models, its performance is robust for everyday use. It also supports the 1st generation Apple Pencil, adding creative versatility.

The design refresh includes slimmer bezels and a lighter build, with the front-facing camera now positioned for landscape orientation. This, combined with Center Stage, enhances video calls by tracking movement. The A14 Bionic chip and USB-C port provide improved performance and future-proofing.

The 11th-generation iPad, now available, features an A16 processor and double the starting storage of previous models.

2. Apple iPad (9th Gen)

Best Budget iPad

### Apple iPad (9th Gen)

0The 9th Generation iPad offers a budget-friendly option without sacrificing performance. With a crisp 10.2-inch Retina display and a starting price under $300, it's often discounted further 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

• Versatile and reliable
• Affordable

Cons

• May lag behind newer models in performance

Released in 2021, the 9th Gen iPad remains a strong budget pick, running the latest iPadOS for optimized performance. While it lacks some advanced features of the iPad Air, Mini, or Pro, it still provides access to all Apple tablet apps. It's ideal for media consumption, casual gaming, and e-reading, making it a great choice for kids 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 2024 iPad Pro, powered by the Apple M4 chip and featuring an OLED display, is the pinnacle of Apple's tablet offerings. Its slim design and powerful performance make it ideal 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

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

Cons

• Requires additional accessories to function as a full workstation

The iPad Pro 2024 is the thinnest iPad yet, featuring the powerful M4 chip, surpassing the MacBook Air in performance. The new OLED display offers stunning visuals, perfect for content consumption and creation. With the Apple Pencil Pro, it's an excellent choice for artists and photo editors, though additional accessories like the Magic Keyboard are necessary for a complete workstation setup.

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's compact size and 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display make it an excellent choice for reading and portability. Weighing just over half a pound, it's easy to carry and use with one hand.

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

• Lightweight and compact
• High performance

Cons

• No significant design changes from previous model

The iPad Mini is ideal for readers, offering a comfortable one-handed use and compatibility with various reading apps. Its high-quality build and the A17 Pro processor ensure smooth performance, making it suitable for casual use and light gaming. It also supports the Apple Pencil Pro and USB-C Apple Pencil for notetaking and sketching.

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 a large, smooth display and solid performance 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

• High-quality, smooth display
• Strong performance

Cons

• Shorter OS support compared to Apple

The OnePlus Pad 2, starting at $449, features a 12.1-inch IPS display with a 144Hz refresh rate, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, it offers robust performance for gaming and multitasking. Its long battery life and fast charging capabilities make it a practical choice, though its OS support is shorter than Apple's.

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 introduction in 2010, the iPad has filled a unique niche as a versatile device between a smartphone and a laptop. Whether you're looking for portability, performance, or specific features, there's an iPad for every need.

Tablet Sizes

Apple offers six iPad models with five different screen sizes. The iPad Mini's 8.3-inch display is perfect for reading and casual use. The 9th and 10th generation iPads feature 10.2-inch and 10.9-inch displays, respectively, while the 11th Gen model offers an 11-inch screen. The M3 iPad Air comes in 11-inch and 13-inch sizes, offering more power. The iPad Pro is available in 11-inch and 13-inch models, with the latter featuring an Ultra Retina XDR OLED display, ideal for professionals.

Storage Capacity Differences

Most iPads start at 64GB, with options up to 2TB on the iPad Pro. For general use, 64GB is sufficient, but creatives and professionals may need 1TB or more, with the option to connect external storage via USB-C.

Peripherals to Consider

All iPads, except the 9th Gen, feature a USB-C port for charging and connecting peripherals. Bluetooth is essential for accessories like the Apple Pencil, keyboards, and AirPods, enhancing the iPad's functionality.

Connectivity

iPads come in Wi-Fi-only and Wi-Fi + cellular versions. The latter, with 4G LTE and GPS, is ideal for mobile use but more expensive due to additional hardware.

Price Comparison

The iPad 10th Gen starts at $269, often discounted during sales events. The iPad Pro can reach over $2,000 when fully configured, offering top-tier features for those needing the best performance.

Which iPad Is Best for Kids and Teens in 2025?

For younger users, the iPad Air M2 is recommended. For students, our guide to the best iPads for students provides comprehensive recommendations.