Apple's iPad has long been the benchmark for tablets, setting standards that others strive to meet. With the extensive range of iPads now available, from compact to powerful models, choosing the right one can be daunting. Apple's recent releases of the new iPad (A16) and M3 iPad Air models have added even more options, along with price drops on older generations, making the decision process even more complex.
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 have thoroughly tested various Apple tablets over the years, gaining insights into what makes each model unique. The latest iPad Pro models boast advanced displays and powerful M-series chipsets, ideal for those needing top-tier performance. For portability, the iPad Mini packs a punch, offering a near-iPhone experience at a more affordable price. If you're seeking a straightforward device for everyday tasks like e-reading, the base iPads deliver impressive performance and great value.
While Apple dominates the tablet market, there are compelling alternatives if you're not tied to the Apple ecosystem. These alternatives can offer superior features at a lower cost. For those committed to an iPad, enhancing your device with accessories like a keyboard can significantly boost its functionality.
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, upgraded design, faster A14 Bionic processor, and a 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display. This makes it an excellent choice for most users, offering a balance of performance and affordability compared to the more expensive Pro models.
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, and the 10th Gen iPad is no exception. It's an ideal choice for anyone looking for a versatile tablet at a more approachable price point than the Pro models, which can exceed $1,000.
The 10th Gen iPad features a 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display with a 2360x1640 resolution, providing sharp visuals. While it doesn't have the 120Hz refresh rate of higher-tier models, the difference may not be noticeable for most users. It supports the 1st generation Apple Pencil, making it suitable for creative tasks.
The design of the 10th Gen model has been refreshed, making it thinner and lighter than its predecessor, with updated bezels for a modern look. The front-facing camera's new landscape orientation enhances video calls with Center Stage technology, which tracks and frames you effectively.
Powered by the A14 Bionic chip with 4GB of memory, the 10th Gen iPad offers a performance upgrade over the 9th Gen model, ensuring longevity and efficiency. It also uses a USB-C port for charging, aligning with current standards for future-proofing.
The 11th-generation iPad, now available, features an A16 processor and doubled starting storage, offering even more value and performance.
Apple iPad (9th Gen)
Best Budget iPad
### Apple iPad (9th Gen)
0The 9th Gen iPad is an excellent budget option, delivering solid performance and a crisp 10.2-inch Retina display at a starting price under $300. It's often available at even lower prices during sales like Amazon 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 tabletsIf you're looking for a budget-friendly tablet, the 9th Gen iPad is a great choice. Despite being released in 2021, it runs the latest iPadOS, ensuring optimized performance. While it lacks the advanced features of the iPad Air, Mini, or Pro, it offers access to the same apps at a fraction of the cost.
For basic tasks like media consumption, news, casual gaming, or e-reading, the 9th Gen iPad is more than sufficient. It's also an ideal choice for children, especially when paired with a durable case for added protection.
iPad Pro 2024 – Photos
7 Images
3. Apple iPad Pro (2024, M4)
Best Premium iPad
### Apple iPad Pro (2024 M4)
0The 2024 iPad Pro, equipped with an Apple M4 processor and an OLED display, is the most premium Apple tablet yet, designed for creative professionals and power users.
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 stunning piece of technology, and the 2024 model is the thinnest yet, surpassing even the iPad Air. Despite its slim profile, it's powered by the M4 chip, outpacing the latest MacBook Air, making it an ideal choice for creative professionals.
The introduction of an OLED display in the 7th Gen iPad Pro marks another first, offering vibrant colors and high contrast that enhance viewing experiences. Our review highlighted its suitability for watching and reading content.
The M4 chip ensures that the beautiful display is fully utilized, handling games and creative workloads with ease. Paired with the Apple Pencil Pro (sold separately), it's a top choice for artists and photo editors. However, to turn it into a complete workstation, additional accessories like the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil add significant costs.
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, weighing just over half a pound.
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 strikes the perfect balance for those who find iPhones too small and larger iPads too cumbersome. Its 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display and lightweight design make it ideal for one-handed reading, and it supports a range of reading apps from the Apple App Store.
The iPad Mini is also suitable for note-taking and sketching with the Apple Pencil Pro and Apple Pencil (USB-C). Its durable aluminum body and Touch ID feature add to its appeal. The A17 Pro processor ensures smooth performance for everyday tasks, including gaming and video streaming.
OnePlus Pad 2 – Photos
4 Images
5. OnePlus Pad 2
Best iPad Alternative
### OnePlus Pad 2
0The OnePlus Pad 2 offers excellent performance, a smooth display, and great quality at a lower price than the iPad Pro, making it 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 is a standout Android tablet, offering features that rival the iPad Pro at a more affordable price. Its 12.1-inch IPS display boasts 10-bit color depth, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and a 144Hz refresh rate, making it ideal for gaming and multimedia.
Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip, the OnePlus Pad 2 handles the latest apps and games with ease. It comes with 8GB of memory and 128GB of storage, ensuring ample space for multitasking. The tablet's battery life is impressive, lasting about 12 hours of heavy use, and it supports fast 80W charging.
OnePlus promises three years of OS updates and four years of security updates, ensuring longevity. The OnePlus Stylo 2 stylus and six-speaker system further enhance its appeal.
Read the full review: OnePlus Pad 2
Upcoming iPad Models
Apple has recently released the 11th-Gen iPad with an A16 processor and new 11-inch and 13-inch iPad Air models with an M3 chip. The iPad Mini has also been updated with an A17 Pro processor, offering enhanced performance.
Which Apple iPad Is Right for Me?
Since its introduction in 2010, the iPad has filled a digital gap, serving as a device more portable than a laptop yet more powerful than a smartphone. For first-time buyers or those upgrading from older models, here's a guide to help you choose the right iPad in 2025:
Tablet Sizes
Apple offers six iPad models with five different screen sizes. The iPad Mini, with its 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display, is ideal for reading and portability. The baseline iPad models, 9th and 10th generations, feature 10.2-inch and 10.9-inch displays, respectively, while the 11th Gen model has an 11-inch screen. The M3 iPad Air offers 11-inch or 13-inch Liquid Retina displays, powered by the M-series chip. The iPad Pro comes in 11-inch and 13-inch sizes, with the larger model featuring an Ultra Retina XDR OLED display.
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 may need higher capacities, up to 1TB or more, using external drives via USB-C.
Peripherals to Consider
All iPads (except the 9th Gen) use USB-C for charging and peripherals. Bluetooth is essential for connecting accessories like the Apple Pencil, keyboards, and AirPods. The Files app allows easy access to external storage.
Connectivity
iPads come in Wi-Fi-only and Wi-Fi + cellular versions. The latter, which supports 4G LTE, is more expensive but offers greater flexibility for internet access on the go.
Price Comparison
The 10th Gen iPad starts at $269, with frequent discounts during sales events. The top-tier iPad Pro can exceed $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 children and teens, the iPad Air M2 is our top recommendation. For students, our comprehensive guide to the best iPads for students can help you make an informed decision.
