Top iPad Models for Purchase in 2025

Apple's iPad has long been the benchmark for tablets, setting standards that others strive to meet. The iPad lineup has expanded significantly, offering a range of sizes and capabilities to suit various needs. From the compact iPad Mini to the powerful iPad Pro, there's an iPad for everyone. With the recent release of the new iPad (A16) and M3 iPad Air models, the choices have grown even more diverse, alongside price adjustments 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 tablets offer something for everyone, from the advanced displays and powerful M-series chips in the iPad Pro models to the compact, yet capable iPad Mini, which rivals larger iPhones in functionality at a more affordable price. For those with simpler needs, such as e-reading, the base iPads deliver impressive performance and value.

However, if you're not tied to Apple's ecosystem, alternatives like the OnePlus Pad 2 might offer competitive features at a better price point. For iPad enthusiasts, enhancing your device with accessories like a keyboard can significantly boost productivity.

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, and faster A14 Bionic processor. Its 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display delivers sharp visuals, making it an excellent choice for most users. While it doesn't feature the latest M-series chip, the A14 provides a solid performance, and the switch to USB-C enhances its future-proofing. The 11th-generation iPad, now available, boasts an A16 processor and increased storage options.

See it at Amazon

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
• Improved display over the 9th generation

Cons:

• Still uses the A14 Bionic, not the M1

2. Apple iPad (9th Gen)

Best Budget iPad

### Apple iPad (9th Gen)

0The 9th Generation iPad is a budget-friendly option that doesn't skimp on performance. With a crisp 10.2-inch Retina display and the A13 Bionic chip, it's perfect for everyday tasks like media consumption and gaming. Its affordability, often dropping below $300 during sales, makes it an excellent choice for budget-conscious buyers or as a first iPad for kids.

See it at Amazon

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 affordable
• Solid performance for everyday use

Cons:

• May lag behind newer models in processing power

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 the epitome of luxury with its Apple M4 processor and stunning OLED display. This tablet is ideal for creatives, offering exceptional performance for tasks like video editing and digital art. Its thin design and powerful hardware make it a top choice for professionals, though additional accessories like the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil Pro come at a significant extra cost.

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 and camera quality

Cons:

• Additional accessories needed 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 is perfect for those who prioritize portability and reading. Its compact 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display and lightweight design make it easy to carry, while the A17 Pro processor ensures smooth performance. It's an excellent choice for casual use and supports the Apple Pencil for note-taking and sketching.

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 for its size

Cons:

• No major design updates in the latest model

OnePlus Pad 2 – Photos

4 Images5. OnePlus Pad 2

Best iPad Alternative

### OnePlus Pad 2

0For those considering alternatives to Apple's iPads, the OnePlus Pad 2 offers impressive performance and a high-quality display at a more affordable price. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 and featuring a 12.1-inch IPS display with a 144Hz refresh rate, it's a compelling choice for Android users seeking a premium tablet experience.

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:

• Large, smooth display
• Strong performance

Cons:

• Shorter-term OS support compared to Apple

Read the full review: OnePlus Pad 2

Upcoming iPad Models

Apple continues to innovate, with the recent launch of the 11th-Gen iPad featuring an A16 processor and new M3 iPad Air models in 11-inch and 13-inch sizes. The iPad Mini has also been updated with an A17 Pro processor, ensuring that Apple's lineup remains at the forefront of tablet technology.

Which Apple iPad Is Right for Me?

Since its debut in 2010, the iPad has bridged the gap between smartphones and laptops, serving various purposes from casual use to professional applications. Whether you're buying your first iPad or upgrading, consider the following factors:

Tablet Sizes

Apple offers iPads in various sizes to cater to different needs. The iPad Mini, with its 8.3-inch display, is ideal for reading and portability. The baseline models, including the 9th and 10th generations, offer 10.2-inch and 10.9-inch displays, respectively, suitable for general use. The 11th Gen iPad and M3 iPad Air feature 11-inch or 13-inch screens, striking a balance between size and power. The iPad Pro, available in 11-inch and 13-inch sizes, is the top choice for creatives and professionals.

Storage Capacity Differences

Most iPads start with 64GB of storage, but options go up to 2TB with the iPad Pro. For general use, 64GB is sufficient, but professionals and creatives may need more, especially for high-resolution media.

Peripherals to Consider

All iPads, except the 9th Gen, feature a USB-C port for charging and peripherals. Bluetooth connectivity allows for seamless integration with accessories like the Apple Pencil and keyboards, enhancing productivity.

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.

Price Comparison

The iPad lineup ranges from the budget-friendly 10th Gen model starting at $269 to the high-end iPad Pro, which can exceed $2,000 with all options included.

Which iPad Is Best for Kids and Teens in 2025?

For younger users, the iPad Air M2 is our top recommendation due to its balance of performance and features. For students, our guide to the best iPads for students can help you make an informed decision.