Top iPad Models for Purchase in 2025

The Apple iPad has long been the benchmark for what a top-tier tablet should be, setting a standard that others strive to meet. Apple's expansive iPad lineup now includes a diverse range of devices, from compact and portable models to powerful, feature-rich options. With the recent launch of the new iPad (A16) and the M3 iPad Air models, the choices have expanded even further, making it challenging to pinpoint the perfect device. Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly option or a premium device, Apple offers something for everyone.

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 OnePlusOur team has thoroughly tested numerous Apple tablets, gaining insights into what makes each model unique. 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 form, making it an excellent choice for on-the-go use. Meanwhile, the base iPads continue to offer strong performance and great value, ideal for simpler tasks like e-reading.

While Apple dominates the tablet market, other brands offer compelling alternatives, especially for those not tied to Apple's ecosystem. These alternatives might provide better value and features for your needs. 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 vibrant 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display. It's an excellent choice for most users, offering a balance of performance and affordability that's hard to beat. The updated design features thinner bezels and a more modern look, while the shift to a landscape-oriented front camera enhances video calls with Center Stage technology. With USB-C charging, it's also future-proofed for compatibility with a wide range of devices.

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 excels in delivering a premium experience without breaking the bank. It's perfect for users who need a versatile device for everyday tasks. While it doesn't have the high refresh rate of the Pro models, the Liquid Retina display offers sharp visuals. The inclusion of the 1st generation Apple Pencil support adds to its appeal for creative tasks.

The recent release of the 11th-generation iPad introduces an A16 processor and increased storage, further enhancing the value proposition of the iPad lineup.

2. Apple iPad (9th Gen)

Best Budget iPad

### Apple iPad (9th Gen)

0The 9th Generation iPad is our top pick for budget-conscious buyers, offering solid performance and a crisp 10.2-inch Retina display at a starting price under $300. Frequently available at discounts, it's an affordable option often found for as low as $250 during sales events like Prime Day or Black Friday.

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 tabletsThis iPad runs the latest iPadOS, ensuring smooth performance despite its slightly older processor. While it lacks some of the advanced features of the Air, Mini, or Pro models, it remains a versatile device with access to the full range of iPad apps. It's perfect for media consumption, casual gaming, and e-reading, making it an ideal choice for kids or as a secondary device.

iPad Pro 2024 – Photos

7 Images3. Apple iPad Pro (2024, M4)

Best Premium iPad

### Apple iPad Pro (2024 M4)

0The latest iPad Pro, powered by the Apple M4 processor and featuring an OLED display, represents the pinnacle of Apple's tablet technology. It's the thinnest iPad ever, yet packed with power that surpasses the MacBook Air. The OLED display offers stunning visuals, making it a top choice for artists and video editors.

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's performance is exceptional, thanks to the M4 chip's 8-core GPU, which handles gaming and creative tasks with ease. However, to fully utilize 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 is the perfect compact device, weighing just over half a pound and featuring an 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display. It's ideal for reading and portability, fitting comfortably in one hand and easily slipping into a bag or pocket.

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 modelThis model excels for readers, with a plethora of reading apps available on the App Store. It also supports the Apple Pencil Pro and Apple Pencil (USB-C), making it suitable for note-taking and sketching. The iPad Mini's robust build and powerful A17 Pro processor ensure a smooth experience for everyday tasks and casual gaming.

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, delivering excellent performance and a smooth, high-quality display at a more affordable price. Starting at $549, with discounts to $449, it's a great value for its capabilities.

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 features a 12.1-inch display with 10-bit color depth, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and a 144Hz refresh rate, making it ideal for gaming and content creation. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip provides robust performance, and its long battery life supports up to 12 hours of heavy use. While it may not match Apple's OS support, it's a strong contender in the Android tablet market.

Read the full review: OnePlus Pad 2

Upcoming iPad Models

Stay tuned for the latest from Apple, as the 11th-Gen iPad with an A16 processor and new 11-inch and 13-inch iPad Air models with an M3 chip have just been released. The iPad Mini also received an update with the A17 Pro processor, enhancing its performance.

Which Apple iPad Is Right for Me?

Since its debut in 2010, the iPad has filled a unique niche, serving as a more portable alternative to laptops while offering more power than smartphones. Whether you're a first-time buyer or looking to upgrade, our 2025 buyer's guide can help you choose the right iPad.

Tablet Sizes

Apple offers six iPad models with five different screen sizes to suit various needs. The iPad Mini, with its 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display, is perfect for reading and portability. The baseline 9th and 10th Gen iPads feature 10.2-inch Retina and 10.9-inch Liquid Retina displays, respectively, while the 11th Gen model offers an 11-inch screen. The M3 iPad Air comes in 11-inch or 13-inch sizes with more powerful M-series processors. For those needing the largest screen, the iPad Pro offers 11-inch and 13-inch displays, with the latter featuring an Ultra Retina XDR OLED display.

Storage Capacity Differences

Most iPads start at 64GB of storage, with the iPad Pro offering up to 2TB. For casual users, 64GB is sufficient, but creatives and professionals might need 1TB or more, especially for high-resolution media. For storage beyond 2TB, consider connecting an external SSD via the USB-C port.

Peripherals to Consider

All iPads, except the 9th Gen model, feature a USB-C port for charging and peripherals. Bluetooth connectivity allows for easy pairing with accessories like the Apple Pencil, keyboards, and headphones. The Apple AirPods, for example, offer seamless integration and high-quality audio, making them a great addition to your iPad setup.

Connectivity

Each iPad model comes in Wi-Fi-only and Wi-Fi + cellular versions. The Wi-Fi-only models are suitable for home or office use, while the Wi-Fi + cellular models, which support 4G LTE, are ideal for on-the-go internet access. These models are more expensive due to additional hardware.

Price Comparison

The 10th Gen iPad starts at $269, often available at lower prices during sales events. At the top end, a fully equipped iPad Pro can cost over $2,000, offering the best of the best in terms of features and performance.

Which iPad Is Best for Kids and Teens in 2025?

For younger users, the iPad Air M2 is our top recommendation, as highlighted in our guide to the best iPads for kids. For students, our comprehensive guide to the best iPads for students can help you find the perfect device for educational needs.