Top iPad Picks for 2025: What to Buy

Apple's iPad has long been the benchmark for tablets, setting the standard that others strive to match. With an expansive lineup that includes a variety of sizes, performance levels, and price points, choosing the right iPad can be challenging. Apple recently introduced the new iPad (A16) and M3 iPad Air models, adding even more options and bringing price reductions to 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 OnePlusOver the years, we've tested numerous Apple tablets and understand what distinguishes each model. The latest iPad Pro models boast advanced displays and powerful M-series chipsets, perfect for professionals. For those seeking portability, the iPad Mini packs impressive features into a compact design, offering a cost-effective alternative to larger iPads. For simpler needs, like using it as an e-reader, the base iPads deliver solid performance and excellent value.

While Apple dominates the tablet market, there are competitive alternatives for those not tied to the Apple ecosystem, potentially offering better value. 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 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. 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 M1The 10th Gen iPad is an excellent choice for most users, offering an approachable price point compared to higher-end models like the Pro, which can exceed $1,000. Despite not having the most advanced display, the 10.9-inch Liquid Retina screen provides sharp visuals with a 2360x1640 resolution. Although it lacks the 120Hz refresh rate found in premium models, this isn't something you'll miss unless you've experienced it.

This iPad supports the 1st generation Apple Pencil, making it suitable for creative tasks. Its design has been refreshed, making it thinner and lighter with even bezels for a modern look. The front-facing camera's new landscape orientation, combined with Center Stage, ensures you stay in the frame during video calls. Powered by the A14 Bionic chip with 4GB of memory, it offers a performance boost over the 9th Gen model. Additionally, it uses a USB-C port for charging, aligning with modern device standards.

We're excited about the latest update to this iPad: The 11th-generation iPad now comes with an A16 processor and double the starting storage of its predecessors.

2. Apple iPad (9th Gen)

Best Budget iPad

### Apple iPad (9th Gen)

0This budget-friendly option delivers solid performance and a crisp 10.2-inch Retina display. 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 tabletsThe 9th Gen iPad, released in 2021, remains our top budget pick due to its robust performance, clear 10.2-inch Retina display, and a starting price under $300. You can often find it even cheaper, especially during sales like Prime Day or Black Friday, where prices can drop to as low as $250.

Running the latest iPadOS, this iPad maintains strong performance despite its older A13 Bionic processor. While it may not match the advanced features of the iPad Air, Mini, or Pro, it provides access to the same apps, though some may run less efficiently. It's ideal for media consumption, casual gaming, and reading, making it an affordable choice and perfect for kids 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 latest iPad Pro model boasts an M4 processor and an OLED display, making it the most premium Apple tablet yet. 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 workstationThe iPad Pro has been refined to be the thinnest iPad ever, surpassing even the iPad Air. Despite its slim profile, it's powered by the M4 chip, outstripping the latest MacBook Air's performance. This makes it an exceptional choice for creative professionals.

The 7th Generation iPad Pro introduces an OLED display, a first for iPads, enhancing visual quality with vibrant colors and excellent contrast. Our reviewer, Jacqueline Thomas, praised it as her favorite device for watching and reading. The M4's 8-core GPU ensures smooth gameplay and efficient handling of creative tasks. The Apple Pencil Pro, though an additional cost, complements the tablet's capabilities for artists and editors.

However, turning this iPad into a full workstation requires significant investment in accessories like the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil.

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 weighs just over half a pound and features an 8.3-inch display, making it a top choice for handheld use. 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 modelThe iPad Mini is the perfect middle ground for those who find the best iPhones too small and larger iPads too cumbersome. Its 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display and lightweight design make it ideal for reading and portability.

This tablet is a favorite among readers due to its one-handed usability and compatibility with a wide range of reading apps. It also supports the Apple Pencil Pro and Apple Pencil (USB-C) for note-taking and sketching. Despite no major design updates, the iPad Mini's build quality and performance are superior to many Android tablets in its price range.

Powered by the A17 Pro processor, the same as the iPhone 15 Pro, the iPad Mini offers robust performance for its size, making it suitable for casual use and gaming.

OnePlus Pad 2 – Photos

4 Images5. OnePlus Pad 2

Best iPad Alternative

### OnePlus Pad 2

0Offering excellent performance, a smooth display, and high-quality build at a lower price than the iPad Pro, the OnePlus Pad 2 is a compelling alternative. 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 AppleThe OnePlus Pad 2, often overlooked but highly deserving of attention, launched at $549 and is now available for $449. It's the Android equivalent of the iPad Pro, featuring a 12.1-inch display with 10-bit color depth, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and a 900-nit peak brightness, all running at a smooth 144Hz refresh rate.

Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip, it matches the performance of 2024's flagship Android smartphones. With 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, it's well-equipped for multitasking and gaming. Its battery life is impressive, lasting around 12 hours of heavy use, and it supports 80W fast charging.

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 just released the 11th-Gen iPad with an A16 processor, along with new 11-inch and 13-inch iPad Air models powered by an M3 chip. The iPad Mini also received an update, now featuring an A17 Pro processor.

Which Apple iPad Is Right for Me?

Since its debut in 2010, the iPad has filled a digital gap, serving as a versatile device more powerful than a smartphone yet more portable than a laptop. For first-time buyers or those upgrading, here's a guide to selecting the perfect iPad in 2025:

Tablet Sizes

Apple offers six iPad models in five different sizes. The smallest, the iPad Mini, features an 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display, ideal for reading and portability. The 9th and 10th Gen iPads come with 10.2-inch and 10.9-inch displays, respectively, while the 11th Gen model sports an 11-inch screen. The M3 iPad Air is available in 11-inch or 13-inch sizes, offering more power with its M-processor.

The 11-inch size is considered optimal for most users, balancing media consumption and portability. The iPad Pro, available in 11-inch and 13-inch variants, is designed for creatives and professionals, featuring the powerful M4 processor and advanced displays.

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 might need more, with 1TB being a good starting point. For storage beyond 2TB, an external hard drive connected via USB-C is necessary.

Peripherals to Consider

All iPads except the 9th Gen use a USB-C port for charging and peripherals. Bluetooth is essential for connecting accessories like the Apple Pencil, keyboards, and AirPods. The Files app on iPadOS allows easy access to external storage devices.

Connectivity

iPads are available in Wi-Fi-only and Wi-Fi + cellular versions. The latter offers mobile data connectivity, requiring a separate plan, and includes GPS, making it suitable for use in vehicles.

Price Comparison

The 10th Gen iPad starts at $269, often discounted during major sales. At the top end, a fully configured iPad Pro can reach over $2,000, offering the best of Apple's technology.

Which iPad Is Best for Kids and Teens in 2025?

For younger users, the iPad Air M2 is our top recommendation. For students, we've compiled a guide to the best iPads for educational purposes.