Apple’s iPad has long been the standard-bearer for tablets, setting a high bar that others strive to reach. Over the years, Apple has expanded its iPad lineup to offer a diverse range of devices, from compact and portable to powerful and expansive. With the introduction of the new iPad (A16) and M3 iPad Air models, choosing the right iPad has become even more nuanced. Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly option or a high-performance device, Apple has something to suit every need.

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 and understand what distinguishes each model. The latest iPad Pro models offer advanced displays and powerful M-series chipsets, ideal for professionals. For those seeking portability, the iPad Mini packs impressive features into a compact design, resembling a larger iPhone at a more affordable price. For simpler needs, such as replacing an e-reader, Apple’s base iPads deliver excellent performance and great value.

While Apple dominates the tablet market, other brands offer compelling alternatives for those not tied to the Apple ecosystem. These alternatives can provide quality upgrades at a better price. For dedicated iPad users, enhancing your device with accessories like a keyboard can significantly boost its utility.

Additional contributions by Mark Knapp and Danielle Abraham

1. Apple iPad (10th Gen)

Best Overall iPad

Best Overall### Apple iPad (10th Gen)

2The 10th Generation 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. It's an excellent choice for most users, offering a balance of performance and affordability that makes it a top pick for anyone shopping for an iPad. While it doesn't boast the highest-end features like the Pro models, its approachable price and solid performance make it a compelling option.

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Product Specifications

• Screen size: 10.9-inch, 2360 x 1640 Liquid Retina display
• Processor: Apple A14 Bionic chip with 6-core CPU and 4-core GPU
• Storage: 64GB
• Cameras: 12MP (rear), 12MP (front)

Pros

• Varied color options
• Superior display compared to the 9th generation

Cons

• Still uses the A14 Bionic chip, not the M1

Apple excels at making its base-level iPad a versatile option for everyday users. The 10th Gen iPad features a refreshed design that is 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 your movement. The A14 Bionic chip and 4GB of memory provide a performance boost over the 9th Gen model, and the switch to USB-C charging adds future-proofing.

The 11th-generation iPad, now available, features an A16 processor and doubled starting storage compared to previous models.

2. Apple iPad (9th Gen)

Best Budget iPad

### Apple iPad (9th Gen)

0For those seeking a budget-friendly option, the 9th Generation iPad offers solid performance and a crisp 10.2-inch Retina display at a starting price under $300. Frequently on sale, it can be found for as low as $250 during major shopping events. Despite its 2021 release, it runs the latest iPadOS, ensuring smooth operation. While it lacks the advanced features of higher-end models, it's perfect for media consumption, casual gaming, and reading.

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Product Specifications

• Screen size: 10.2-inch Retina
• Processor: A13 Bionic
• Storage: 64GB, 256GB
• Cameras: 8-megapixel rear, 12-megapixel front-facing

Pros

• Versatile and reliable
• Affordable price

Cons

• May lag behind newer models

The 9th Gen iPad is an excellent choice for budget-conscious consumers, particularly for kids, as it's both affordable and durable with the right case.

iPad Pro 2024 – Photos

7 Images3. Apple iPad Pro (2024, M4)

Best Premium iPad

### Apple iPad Pro (2024 M4)

0The 2024 iPad Pro is a premium device featuring an Apple M4 processor and a stunning OLED display. It's the thinnest iPad ever, yet packed with powerful hardware, making it ideal for creatives and professionals. The OLED display offers vibrant colors and deep contrast, perfect for video and photo editing. The M4 chip's 8-core GPU handles demanding tasks with ease, and with the Apple Pencil Pro, it's a top choice for artists and designers.

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Product Specifications

• Screen size: 11-inch, 12.9-inch
• Processor: Apple M4
• Storage: 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB
• Cameras: 12MP wide camera (rear), Landscape 12MP ultra-wide camera (front)

Pros

• Excellent for artists and video editors
• Advanced FaceID
• High-quality camera

Cons

• Requires additional accessories to function as a full workstation

The iPad Pro's sleek design, combined with its powerful performance, makes it an excellent choice for those needing a high-end tablet. However, to transform it into a complete workstation, additional accessories like the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil Pro are necessary, adding to the overall cost.

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 is perfect for those seeking a compact, portable device. Weighing just over half a pound, it features an 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display, making it ideal for reading and one-handed use. It's compatible with the Apple Pencil Pro and USB-C, enhancing its versatility for notetaking and sketching. The A17 Pro processor ensures smooth performance, and its durable aluminum body offers excellent build quality.

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Product Specifications

• Screen size: 8.3-inch Liquid Retina
• Processor: A17 Pro
• Storage: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB
• Cameras: 12-megapixel rear, 12-megapixel front-facing

Pros

• Compact and lightweight
• High performance

Cons

• No major design changes from the previous model

The iPad Mini's size and performance make it a favorite for reading and portability, and it's a solid choice for those who need a smaller device without sacrificing functionality.

OnePlus Pad 2 – Photos

4 Images5. OnePlus Pad 2

Best iPad Alternative

### OnePlus Pad 2

0For those looking beyond Apple, the OnePlus Pad 2 offers excellent performance and a high-quality display at a more affordable price than the iPad Pro. It features a 12.1-inch IPS display with 10-bit color depth, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and a 144Hz refresh rate, making it ideal for gaming and creative work. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip, it handles the latest apps and games with ease, and its long battery life and fast charging capabilities are impressive.

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Product Specifications

• Screen size: 12.1-inch, IPS, 2120 x 3000
• Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
• Storage: 128GB
• Cameras: 13-megapixel rear, 8-megapixel front-facing

Pros

• Large, smooth display
• Solid performance

Cons

• Shorter-term OS support compared to Apple

The OnePlus Pad 2 is a compelling alternative to the iPad Pro, offering similar high-end features at a more accessible price point.

Read the full review: OnePlus Pad 2

Upcoming iPad Models

Apple continues to innovate with new models. The 11th-Gen iPad with an A16 processor and the new 11-inch and 13-inch iPad Air models with an M3 chip have recently been released, alongside an updated iPad Mini featuring 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 need a device for casual use or a powerful tool for professional tasks, there's an iPad for you.

Tablet Sizes

Apple offers six iPad models with five different screen sizes. The iPad Mini, with its 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display, is perfect for reading and portability. The 9th and 10th generation iPads feature 10.2-inch Retina and 10.9-inch Liquid Retina displays, respectively, while the 11th Gen model boasts an 11-inch screen. The M3 iPad Air comes in 11-inch and 13-inch sizes, offering more power with its M-series processor. The iPad Pro, available in 11-inch and 13-inch models, is ideal for professionals and creatives.

Storage Capacity Differences

iPad storage options start at 64GB and go up to 2TB with the iPad Pro. For most users, 64GB is sufficient, but creatives and professionals may need higher capacities, especially for large files.

Peripherals to Consider

All iPads, except the 9th Generation, use a USB-C port for charging and connecting peripherals like external hard drives. Bluetooth is essential for connecting accessories such as the Apple Pencil, keyboards, and AirPods, enhancing the iPad's functionality.

Connectivity

Each iPad model comes in Wi-Fi-only and Wi-Fi + cellular versions. The cellular option is ideal for those needing internet access on the go, but it's more expensive due to additional hardware.

Price Comparison

The iPad starts at $269 for the 10th Generation model, often available at a discount during major sales events. At the top end, a fully equipped iPad Pro can exceed $2,000, offering the best of the best in terms of performance and features.

Which iPad Is Best for Kids and Teens in 2025?

The iPad Air M2 is our top recommendation for kids and younger family members. For students, we've compiled a detailed guide to the best iPads for educational use.