Best iPads to Buy in 2025

Apple's iPad continues to dominate the tablet market, setting industry standards that competitors strive to match. The lineup now spans an extensive range from compact to large-screen models, featuring everything from entry-level to professional-grade devices. With the recent introduction of the A16 iPad and M3 iPad Air models - plus price reductions on previous generations - choosing the right model requires careful consideration.

TL;DR – Top Apple iPad Picks:

Best Overall

Apple iPad (10th Gen)

The perfect balance of performance and value with a 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display and A14 Bionic chip.

Best Budget Option

Apple iPad (9th Gen)

A cost-effective choice with solid performance and 10.2-inch Retina display.

Premium Pick

Apple iPad Pro (2024 M4)

The most advanced iPad with M4 chip and stunning OLED display for creative professionals.

Compact Choice

Apple iPad Mini (7th Gen)

Perfect for reading with its 8.3-inch display and lightweight A17 Pro-powered design.

After extensive testing of Apple's tablet lineup, we've identified key differences between models. The iPad Pro series boasts cutting-edge displays with M-series processors, while the iPad Mini delivers remarkable power in a pocket-friendly form factor. Even the basic iPad models offer impressive performance for everyday tasks.

For those considering alternatives outside Apple's ecosystem, several Android tablets offer excellent value. iPad users should also explore essential accessories to maximize their tablet experience.

Detailed iPad Reviews

1. Apple iPad (10th Gen)

The Well-Rounded Choice

• 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display (2360x1640 resolution)
• A14 Bionic chip with 4GB RAM
• 12MP front/rear cameras with Center Stage
• USB-C charging
• Compatible with 1st Gen Apple Pencil

Apple's 10th Gen iPad delivers exceptional value, combining premium features at an accessible price point. The redesigned display offers slimmer bezels and more screen real estate than previous models, while the A14 Bionic chip ensures smooth performance for most tasks.

The landscape-oriented camera makes video calls more natural, particularly when paired with Center Stage's intelligent framing. Though it lacks the 120Hz refresh rate of pricier models, most users won't notice the difference for everyday use.

Note: The newer 11th-gen model now features an A16 chip and doubled base storage.

2. Apple iPad (9th Gen)

Affordable Excellence

• 10.2-inch Retina display
• A13 Bionic chip
• Lightning connector
• Often discounted below $250

Released in 2021, the 9th-gen iPad remains a remarkable value proposition. While its design shows its age with thicker bezels and a physical Home button, it delivers excellent performance for basic tasks like web browsing, video streaming, and casual gaming.

This model makes an especially good choice for children or secondary devices, particularly when paired with a protective case. Though it can't handle intensive applications as smoothly as newer models, its compatibility with the full iPadOS ecosystem ensures access to all essential apps.

3. Apple iPad Pro (2024 M4)

Professional Powerhouse

• 11-inch or 12.9-inch OLED display
• M4 chip with 8-core GPU
• Thinnest iPad ever
• Compatible with Apple Pencil Pro

The latest iPad Pro represents Apple's most significant tablet redesign in years. The move to OLED display technology creates unprecedented color accuracy and contrast, while the M4 chip delivers desktop-class performance in a mobile form factor.

Creative professionals will particularly appreciate the combination of the brilliant display with the pressure-sensitive Apple Pencil Pro. The tablet's thin profile makes it remarkably portable for its capabilities.

Investors should note the substantial additional costs for essential accessories like the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil.

4. Apple iPad Mini (7th Gen)

Pocket-Sized Performer

• 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display
• A17 Pro processor
• Under 0.7 pounds (293g)
• Touch ID fingerprint sensor

The 7th-gen iPad Mini hits the sweet spot between smartphone and full-size tablet. Its compact dimensions make it ideal for reading, while the powerful A17 Pro chip handles demanding apps with ease.

Compatibility with both the Apple Pencil Pro and USB-C Apple Pencil transforms this small device into a capable note-taking and sketching tool. The familiar design retains Touch ID - a feature abandoned on most other iPad models.

Buying Considerations

Screen Size Options:

• iPad Mini: 8.3" (portability)
• Basic iPad: 10.2"-11" (versatility)
• iPad Air: 11" or 13" (productivity)
• iPad Pro: 11" or 13" (professional use)

Storage Recommendations:

• 64GB: Casual users
• 256GB+: Heavy users
• 1-2TB: Creative professionals

Recent Updates:

Apple recently refreshed the iPad line with: - 11th-gen iPad (A16 chip) - New iPad Air models (M3 chip) - 7th-gen iPad Mini (A17 Pro)

The extensive iPad range ensures there's an ideal model for every need and budget. Whether you seek maximum portability, professional creative tools, or simple web browsing capabilities, Apple's tablet lineup delivers compelling options.