The Apple iPad has long been the benchmark for tablets, setting high standards that many others strive to meet. With its extensive lineup, Apple offers a range of devices from compact and affordable to large and powerful, catering to diverse needs. The recent launch of the new iPad (A16) and the M3 iPad Air models adds even more options to the mix, alongside price reductions on older generations, making it challenging yet exciting to choose the right iPad for your needs.

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 tested numerous Apple tablets over the years, and each model has its unique strengths. The latest iPad Pro models boast advanced displays and powerful M-series chipsets, making them ideal for professionals. For those seeking portability, the iPad Mini offers a compact yet capable solution, akin to a larger iPhone but at a more affordable price. If your needs are simpler, like using it as an e-reader, Apple's base iPads still deliver impressive performance and great value.

While Apple dominates the tablet market, other brands offer compelling alternatives for those not tied to Apple's ecosystem. These alternatives can provide quality upgrades at a better price. 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 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. It's an excellent choice for most users, offering a more approachable price point than the higher-end Pro models, which can exceed $1,000.

The 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display with a 2360x1640 resolution provides sharp visuals, though it lacks the 120Hz refresh rate found in more premium models. It supports the 1st generation Apple Pencil, making it suitable for creative tasks. The design refresh includes thinner bezels and a slimmer profile, with the front-facing camera now positioned for landscape use, enhancing video calls with Center Stage technology.

The A14 Bionic chip, coupled with 4GB of memory, offers a performance boost over the 9th Gen model, ensuring longevity and efficiency. The switch to USB-C charging adds future-proofing to the device.

The 11th-generation iPad, featuring an A16 processor and increased storage, is now available.

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 M1

2. Apple iPad (9th Gen)

Best Budget iPad

### Apple iPad (9th Gen)

0The 9th Gen iPad is a budget-friendly option that doesn't compromise on performance, featuring a crisp 10.2-inch Retina display. Often available for under $300, especially during sales like Amazon Prime Day or Black Friday, it's an affordable choice for basic needs.

Running the latest iPadOS, it ensures optimized performance despite its older A13 Bionic processor. It's perfect for media consumption, casual gaming, and e-reading, and its low cost makes it an excellent option for kids, especially when protected with a durable case.

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 tablets

iPad Pro 2024 – Photos

7 Images3. 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 lineup. Its sleek design is the thinnest yet, surpassing even the iPad Air, while the M4 chip outperforms the latest MacBook Air, making it ideal for creative professionals.

The OLED display delivers vibrant colors and high contrast, enhancing the viewing experience. The M4's 8-core GPU ensures smooth gameplay and efficient handling of creative workloads, especially when paired with the Apple Pencil Pro. However, to fully leverage its capabilities as a workstation, additional accessories like the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil are necessary, adding to the cost.

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 workstation

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, with its 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display and lightweight design, is perfect for reading and portability. Weighing just over half a pound, it's easy to carry and use with one hand, making it a favorite among readers and ideal for use with various reading apps.

Its compatibility with the Apple Pencil Pro and Apple Pencil (USB-C) also makes it suitable for note-taking and sketching. The A17 Pro processor ensures smooth performance for everyday tasks and light gaming, while the sturdy build quality sets it apart from many Android tablets in its price range.

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 model

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, featuring a large 12.1-inch IPS display with 10-bit color depth, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and a 144Hz refresh rate. It's powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip, ensuring robust performance for apps and games.

With a 9,510mAh battery, it provides up to 12 hours of heavy use and supports 80W fast charging. The OnePlus Stylo 2 stylus adds versatility for creative tasks. While it offers great value at a lower price point, it has shorter-term OS support compared to Apple's iPads.

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 Apple

Read the full review: OnePlus Pad 2

Upcoming iPad Models

Exciting new iPad models have recently been released, including the 11th-Gen iPad with an A16 processor and the 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.

Which Apple iPad Is Right for Me?

Since its introduction in 2010, the iPad has filled a unique niche between smartphones and laptops. Whether you're looking for a mobile device more powerful than a phone or a laptop replacement, there's an iPad model for you.

If you're considering your first iPad or upgrading from an older model, here's a buyer's guide for 2025:

Tablet Sizes

Apple offers six iPad models with five different screen sizes. The iPad Mini's 8.3-inch 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 has an 11-inch screen. The M3 iPad Air comes in 11-inch or 13-inch options, offering more power with its M-series processor. The iPad Pro, available in 11-inch and 13-inch sizes, is ideal for creatives and professionals needing 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 may need at least 1TB. For storage beyond 2TB, 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 is essential for connecting accessories like the Apple Pencil, keyboards, and headphones. The Apple AirPods, for example, offer seamless integration and excellent performance at a lower cost than the AirPods Pro 2.

Connectivity

iPads come in Wi-Fi-only and Wi-Fi + cellular versions. The latter allows internet access via 4G LTE and includes GPS, making it ideal for mobile use.

Price Comparison

The 10th Gen iPad starts at $269, with frequent discounts during sales events. At the top end, a fully equipped iPad Pro can exceed $2,000, offering the best in display, storage, and connectivity.

Which iPad Is Best for Kids and Teens in 2025?

The iPad Air M2 is our top pick for kids and teens, as detailed in our best iPads for kids list. For students, we've compiled a guide to the best iPads for school use.