Apple’s iPad remains the benchmark for tablets, defining excellence with its diverse lineup. From compact to high-performance models, Apple offers options for every need, though the variety can make choosing tricky. Recent releases, including the iPad (A16) and M3 iPad Air, add fresh choices while lowering prices on older models.

Top Apple iPad Picks for 2025:

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 OnePlus

Having tested various Apple tablets, we’ve identified what makes each model unique. The latest iPad Pro boasts cutting-edge displays and powerful M-series chips. For portability, the iPad Mini packs impressive features into a compact form, rivaling larger devices at a lower cost. For basic tasks like reading e-books, the standard iPads deliver strong performance and great value.

While Apple leads the tablet market, alternatives exist outside its ecosystem, often offering competitive features at better prices. If you’re committed to an iPad, consider accessories like a keyboard to enhance functionality.

Contributions by Mark Knapp and Danielle Abraham

1. Apple iPad (10th Gen)

Top All-Around iPad

Apple iPad (10th Gen)

Apple’s entry-level iPad shines as a versatile choice for most users, with the 10th Gen model standing out for its affordability compared to pricier Pro models. Its 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display, with a 2360x1640 resolution, delivers crisp visuals. While it lacks the 120Hz refresh rate of premium models, the difference is subtle for most users. It supports the 1st generation Apple Pencil, enabling creative tasks.

The 10th Gen iPad features a refined design, with slimmer bezels and reduced weight for a modern look. The front camera, now positioned at the top in landscape mode, pairs with Center Stage to keep you centered during video calls. Powered by the A14 Bionic chip and 4GB of memory, it offers a performance boost over the 9th Gen, ensuring longevity. Charging via USB-C adds future-proofing.

The 11th Gen iPad, now available, upgrades to an A16 processor and doubles the base storage for enhanced performance.

2. Apple iPad (9th Gen)

Top Budget-Friendly iPad

Apple iPad (9th Gen)

Seeking a cost-effective tablet? The 9th Gen iPad, launched in 2021, remains a strong contender with solid performance, a clear 10.2-inch Retina display, and a starting price often below $300, dropping to as low as $250 during sales like Prime Day or Black Friday.

Running the latest iPadOS, it ensures smooth operation despite its older A13 Bionic processor. While it lacks the advanced features of the iPad Air, Mini, or Pro, it supports the same apps, though demanding ones may run less smoothly. Ideal for media streaming, news, casual gaming, or e-reading, it’s also a great choice for kids when paired with a sturdy case.

iPad Pro 2024 – Photos

3. Apple iPad Pro (2024, M4)

Top Premium iPad

Apple iPad Pro (2024 M4)

The iPad Pro redefines premium with a slimmer design, now the thinnest iPad ever, yet powered by the robust M4 chip, surpassing the latest MacBook Air. This makes it a top choice for creative professionals.

The 7th Gen iPad Pro introduces a stunning OLED display, a first for iPads, delivering vibrant colors and deep contrast, as noted by Jacqueline Thomas in her review. The M4’s 8-core GPU ensures smooth gaming and creative tasks, paired perfectly with the Apple Pencil Pro (sold separately) for artists and editors.

Transforming it into a workstation requires additional purchases, like the $300 Magic Keyboard or $129 Apple Pencil, though alternatives exist.

Read the review: Apple iPad Pro (7th Generation)

4. Apple iPad Mini (7th Gen)

Best for Reading and Portability

Apple iPad Mini (7th Gen)

For those needing a device larger than an iPhone but smaller than a 10-inch iPad, the iPad Mini excels. Its 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display and 10.4oz weight make it ideal for reading, easily fitting into a bag or pocket.

Perfect for e-books via apps like Apple Books or Kindle, it’s a top reading tablet, as noted by IGN. It supports the Apple Pencil Pro and USB-C Pencil for note-taking or sketching. Its durable aluminum body and A17 Pro processor ensure smooth performance for streaming, gaming, and more, compatible with phone controllers.

OnePlus Pad 2 – Photos

5. OnePlus Pad 2

Top iPad Alternative

OnePlus Pad 2

The OnePlus Pad 2 stands out in the Android tablet market, offering premium features at a lower cost, starting at $549 and often discounted to $449. Its 12.1-inch IPS display boasts 10-bit color, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and a 144Hz refresh rate, ideal for gaming and creative work with the OnePlus Stylo 2 stylus.

Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, it handles demanding apps and games effortlessly, with 8GB RAM and 128GB storage. Its 9,510mAh battery lasts around 12 hours, with 80W fast charging. OnePlus commits to three years of OS updates and four years of security updates.

Read the full review: OnePlus Pad 2

Upcoming iPad Models

Excited for new Apple tablets? The 11th Gen iPad with an A16 processor and new 11-inch and 13-inch M3 iPad Air models are now available. The iPad Mini also received an A17 Pro processor upgrade.

Which Apple iPad Suits You?

Since its 2010 debut, the iPad has bridged the gap between smartphones and laptops, serving as a portable powerhouse or even a laptop replacement for some.

Here’s a 2025 buyer’s guide for choosing the right iPad:

Tablet Sizes

Apple offers six iPad models with five screen sizes. The iPad Mini’s 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display is perfect for e-books and one-handed use, weighing just 10oz. The 9th and 10th Gen iPads feature 10.2-inch Retina and 10.9-inch Liquid Retina displays, while the 11th Gen has an 11-inch screen. The M3 iPad Air offers 11-inch or 13-inch displays, balancing power and portability. The iPad Pro, with 11-inch or 13-inch Ultra Retina XDR OLED displays, is ideal for professionals needing a laptop alternative.

Storage Capacity Differences

Most iPads start at 64GB, with the iPad Pro offering up to 2TB. For casual use, 64GB suffices, but high-resolution media creators should opt for 1TB or more, with external drives connectable via USB-C.

Peripherals to Consider

All iPads (except the 9th Gen, which uses Lightning) feature USB-C for charging and peripherals like SSDs. Bluetooth connects accessories like the Apple Pencil, Smart Keyboard Folio, or gaming controllers. The AirPods 4 with ANC, rated 8/10 by IGN, pair seamlessly with iPads.

Connectivity

iPads come in Wi-Fi-only or Wi-Fi + cellular versions. Wi-Fi models suit home or office use, while cellular models, with 4G LTE and GPS, are ideal for travel but require a data plan and cost more.

Price Comparison

The 10th Gen iPad starts at $269, often cheaper during sales. A fully loaded iPad Pro with 13-inch OLED, 2TB, and cellular can exceed $2,000, catering to those seeking top-tier performance.

Best iPad for Kids and Teens in 2025

The iPad Air M2 is our top pick for kids, as highlighted in our best iPads for kids guide. For students, our comprehensive guide recommends the best iPads for academic use.