Apple's iPad has become the benchmark for tablet excellence, setting standards that others strive to meet. With an expansive lineup ranging from compact and portable to powerful and feature-rich devices, choosing the right iPad can be daunting. Apple's recent releases, including the new iPad (A16) and the M3 iPad Air models, have further expanded the options, offering enhanced performance and value across the board.
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 OnePlusWe’ve extensively tested Apple’s tablets and understand what makes each model unique. The latest iPad Pro models boast advanced displays and powerful M-series chipsets, ideal for professionals and creatives. For those seeking portability, the iPad Mini offers a compact yet powerful experience, resembling a larger iPhone but at a more affordable price. If you're looking for a simple device, perhaps as an e-reader replacement, the base iPads deliver impressive performance at a great value.
Of course, if you're open to alternatives outside of Apple's ecosystem, there are options that might offer better value and features. For those committed to iPads, enhancing your device with accessories like a keyboard can significantly boost its utility.
Additional contributions by Mark Knapp and Danielle Abraham
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 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 M1Apple excels at making its base-level iPads exceptional for most users, and the 10th Gen model is no exception. It's an ideal choice for anyone looking for a versatile iPad at a more accessible price point compared to the pricier Pro models.
While it doesn't boast the most advanced display, the 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display offers a sharp 2360x1640 resolution. Though it lacks the 120Hz refresh rate of higher-tier models, this is a feature you might not miss until you experience it. Compatibility with the 1st generation Apple Pencil also adds creative versatility.
The 10th Gen model features a refreshed design, slightly thinner and lighter than its predecessor, with updated bezels for a modern look. The front-facing camera's new landscape orientation, combined with Center Stage, enhances video calls by tracking and framing you effectively.
Powered by the A14 Bionic chip with 4GB of memory, it's a step up from the 9th Gen, offering improved performance and longevity. The shift to USB-C charging aligns it with the latest technology standards, adding future-proofing.
The 11th-generation iPad, now available, features an A16 processor and double the starting storage of previous models.
Apple iPad (9th Gen)
Best Budget iPad
### Apple iPad (9th Gen)
0The 9th Gen iPad offers solid performance and a crisp 10.2-inch Retina display at a budget-friendly price. 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 tabletsFor those seeking an affordable yet capable tablet, the 9th Gen iPad is an excellent choice. Released in 2021, it remains our budget pick due to its strong performance, clear 10.2-inch Retina display, and a starting price under $300, often dropping to $250 during sales events like Prime Day or Black Friday.
Running the latest iPadOS, it offers optimized performance despite its older processor. While it lacks some features found in the iPad Air, Mini, or Pro models, such as a faster processor or modern design, it still provides access to all Apple tablet apps, albeit with limitations for more intensive applications.
Ideal for media consumption, basic gaming, news, and e-books, it's also a great option for kids when paired with a durable case.
iPad Pro 2024 – Photos
7 Images
3. Apple iPad Pro (2024, M4)
Best Premium iPad
### Apple iPad Pro (2024 M4)
0The 2024 iPad Pro, powered by the Apple M4 processor and featuring an OLED display, is the pinnacle of Apple's tablet offerings. 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 always been a marvel of technology, and the 2024 model is no exception. It's the thinnest iPad ever, yet houses the powerful M4 chip, surpassing even the latest MacBook Air in performance. This makes it an even better choice for creative professionals.
The new OLED display adds a stunning visual experience, as noted by Jacqueline Thomas in our review, making it ideal for viewing and reading. The M4 chip ensures that the display's potential is fully realized, with an 8-core GPU that effortlessly handles native games and creative tasks. The Apple Pencil Pro, an additional purchase, enhances its appeal for artists and editors.
However, to turn it into a full workstation, you'll need to invest in accessories like the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil, which can significantly increase the cost.
Read the review: Apple iPad Pro (7th Generation)
Apple iPad Mini (7th Gen)
Best for Reading and Portability
### Apple iPad Mini (7th Gen)
3The iPad Mini, with its compact 8.3-inch display and lightweight design, is perfect for reading and portability. 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 modelFor those who find the best iPhones too small but larger iPads too cumbersome, the iPad Mini is the perfect middle ground, especially for reading. Its 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display and 10.4oz weight make it highly portable and comfortable for one-handed use.
The iPad Mini is a favorite among readers due to its compatibility with numerous reading apps and its support for the Apple Pencil Pro and Apple Pencil (USB-C), making it suitable for notetaking and sketching. Its robust build, made from recycled aluminum, outperforms many Android tablets in its price range.
The A17 Pro processor ensures smooth performance, suitable for everyday tasks like browsing, gaming, and even some light gaming with compatible phone controllers.
OnePlus Pad 2 – Photos
4 Images
5. OnePlus Pad 2
Best iPad Alternative
### OnePlus Pad 2
0The OnePlus Pad 2 offers exceptional performance and a high-quality display at a more affordable price than the iPad Pro. 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 is a compelling alternative to the iPad Pro in the Android tablet market. It features a 12.1-inch IPS display with 10-bit color depth, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and a 900-nit peak brightness, running at a smooth 144Hz refresh rate. It supports the OnePlus Stylo 2, a pressure-sensitive stylus with haptic feedback and magnetic charging.
Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, the same chip used in many 2024 flagship Android phones, it handles the latest apps and games with ease. With 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, it's well-equipped for multitasking and large files.
Our tests showed impressive battery life, lasting about 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 recently released an 11th-Gen iPad with an A16 processor and new 11-inch and 13-inch iPad Air models with 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 unique niche as a device more portable than a laptop yet more powerful than a smartphone. Whether as a complement or a replacement for other devices, choosing the right iPad depends on your needs.
Here's a guide to help you choose the best iPad in 2025:
Tablet Sizes
Apple offers six iPad models across five screen sizes, each suited for different purposes. The iPad Mini, with its 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display, is perfect for reading and portability, weighing just 10oz. The 9th and 10th Gen 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 variants, powered by the more robust M-series chips compared to the A-series chips in the standard models.
The 11-inch size is considered ideal for most users, balancing media consumption and portability. The iPad Pro, available in 11-inch and 13-inch sizes, is the top choice 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 might need at least 1TB. For more storage, an external hard drive can be connected via USB-C.
Peripherals to Consider
All iPads, except the 9th Gen, feature a USB-C port for charging and peripherals. Bluetooth connectivity allows for the use of accessories like the Apple Pencil, Apple Smart Keyboard Folio, and AirPods. The Apple AirPods 4 with ANC, reviewed by our experts, offer great performance and seamless integration with iPads at a lower price than the AirPods Pro 2.
Connectivity
Each iPad model comes in Wi-Fi-only and Wi-Fi + cellular versions. The Wi-Fi-only version is suitable for home or office use, while the cellular model offers mobile data connectivity, ideal for on-the-go use and includes GPS.
Price Comparison
The 10th Gen iPad starts at $269, often discounted during major sales events. The fully equipped iPad Pro can reach over $2,000, offering top-tier features for those who need the best.
Which iPad Is Best for Kids and Teens in 2025?
For younger users, the iPad Air M2 is our top pick, as highlighted in our list of the best iPads for kids. For students, we offer a comprehensive guide to the best iPads tailored for educational needs.
