Top iPad Models for Purchase in 2025

Apple's iPad has long been the gold standard for tablets, setting the benchmark that others strive to meet. With a wide array of options now available, ranging from compact and budget-friendly to powerful and expansive, choosing the right iPad can be daunting. Apple's recent releases, including the new iPad (A16) and M3 iPad Air models, have added even more choices to the mix, alongside price reductions on older 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 OnePlusApple's range of tablets caters to various needs, from the high-performance iPad Pro models with advanced displays and M-series chipsets to the portable iPad Mini, which offers powerful functionality in a compact form. For those with simpler needs, such as using an iPad as an e-reader, the base models provide excellent performance and value.

While Apple dominates the tablet market, alternatives exist for those not tied to the Apple ecosystem, offering competitive features at potentially better prices. For those committed to an iPad, enhancing your device with accessories like a keyboard can significantly boost its utility.

Additional contributions by Mark Knapp and Danielle Abraham

1. Apple iPad (10th Gen)

Best Overall iPad

Best Overall### Apple iPad (10th Gen)

2With a repositioned 12-megapixel front-facing camera, sleek design, faster A14 Bionic processor, and a stunning 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display, the 10th Gen iPad stands out as a top choice for most users. Its approachable price point makes it an excellent option compared to pricier models like the iPad Pro.

The 10th Gen iPad offers a sharp 2360x1640 resolution on its display, providing clear visuals, though it lacks the 120Hz refresh rate found in higher-end models. It supports the 1st generation Apple Pencil, opening up creative possibilities.

Its design refresh includes slimmer bezels and a lighter build, and the front-facing camera's new landscape orientation enhances video calls with Center Stage technology. Powered by the A14 Bionic chip with 4GB of memory, it's a significant upgrade from the 9th Gen model, offering better performance and longevity. The shift to USB-C charging adds future-proofing to the device.

The latest update to this iPad, the 11th-generation model, now features an A16 processor and increased starting storage.

See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen size10.9-inch, 2360 x 1640 Liquid Retina displayProcessorApple A14 Bionic chip 6-core CPU + 4-core GPUStorage64GBCameras12MP (rear), 12MP (front)PROSVaried colorwaysBetter display than 9th genCONSStill using the A14 Bionic, rather than the M1

2. Apple iPad (9th Gen)

Best Budget iPad

### Apple iPad (9th Gen)

0Offering solid performance and a crisp 10.2-inch Retina display, the 9th Gen iPad is an excellent budget-friendly option, especially with its low starting price often reduced during sales events.

Running the latest iPadOS, this iPad delivers optimized performance despite its older A13 Bionic processor. While it lacks some of the advanced features of other models, it provides access to the same apps, making it versatile for everyday use like media consumption, gaming, and e-reading. Its affordability also makes it a great choice for children, especially when paired with a durable case.

See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen size10.2-inch Retina ProcessorA13 BionicStorage64GB, 256GBCameras8-megapixel rear, 12-megapixel front-facingPROSThe jack-of-all-trades iPadReasonable priceCONSCan lag behind other tablets

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 powerful Apple M4 processor and a stunning OLED display, sets a new standard for premium tablets. Its sleek design is the thinnest yet, outstripping even the iPad Air.

The OLED display, a first for iPads, offers exceptional color and contrast, making it ideal for viewing and reading. The M4 chip ensures smooth performance, excelling in gaming and creative tasks. The tablet's capabilities are further enhanced with the Apple Pencil Pro, though it comes at an additional cost.

To transform the iPad Pro into a full workstation, consider investing in accessories like the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil, though these add to the overall cost.

See it at AmazonSee it at AppleProduct SpecificationsScreen size11-inch, 12.9-inchProcessorApple M4Storage256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TBCameras12MP wide camera (rear), Landscape 12MP ultra-wide camera (front)PROSAwesome for artists and video editorsFaceID works wondersAn actually decent cameraCONSYou'll need to buy a lot of accessories to make it a true workstation

Read the review: Apple iPad Pro (7th Generation)

4. Apple iPad Mini (7th Gen)

Best for Reading and Portability

### Apple iPad Mini (7th Gen)

3Weighing just over half a pound and featuring an 8.3-inch display, the iPad Mini offers a compact and lightweight solution ideal for reading and portability.

Its design is perfect for one-handed use, making it a favorite among readers with access to numerous reading apps. The iPad Mini also supports the Apple Pencil Pro and Apple Pencil (USB-C), enhancing its utility for note-taking and sketching.

Built with a high-quality recycled aluminum body, the iPad Mini offers durability and a premium feel at a competitive price. Though its design remains unchanged, the A17 Pro processor ensures robust performance for everyday tasks and light gaming.

See it at AmazonSee it at AppleSee it at Best BuyProduct SpecificationsScreen size8.3-inch Liquid RetinaProcessorA17 ProStorage128GB, 256GB, 512GBCameras12-megapixel rear, 12-megapixel front-facingPROSCompact and lightweightExcellent performanceCONSNo major design changes with new model

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, high-quality display at a more affordable price.

Featuring a 12.1-inch IPS display with 10-bit color depth, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and a 144Hz refresh rate, the OnePlus Pad 2 is ideal for gaming, browsing, and creative work. It supports the OnePlus Stylo 2 and boasts six speakers for immersive audio.

Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip, it handles the latest apps and games with ease, backed by 8GB of memory and 128GB of storage. Its impressive battery life and fast 80W charging make it a practical choice for extended use.

While it may not receive as long-term OS support as Apple devices, the OnePlus Pad 2 offers a strong value proposition for Android users.

See it at AmazonSee it at OnePlusProduct SpecificationsScreen size12.1-inch, IPS, 2120 x 3000ProcessorQualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3Storage128GBCameras13-megapixel rear, 8-megapixel front-facingPROSLarge, smooth displaySolid performanceCONSShorter-term OS support than Apple

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 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, there's an iPad for every need.

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 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 creatives and professionals seeking 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 higher capacities, up to 1TB or more, especially for storing high-resolution media.

Peripherals to Consider

All iPads, except the 9th Gen, feature a USB-C port for charging and connecting peripherals like external hard drives. Bluetooth connectivity allows for seamless integration with 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 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 frequent discounts during sales events. At the top end, a fully equipped iPad Pro can exceed $2,000, offering the best performance and features available.

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.