When it comes to tablets, Apple's iPad has long been the benchmark for excellence, setting standards that many other devices strive to meet. With a diverse lineup ranging from compact and budget-friendly options to powerful, high-end models, choosing the right iPad can be daunting. Apple's recent releases, including the new iPad (A16) and M3 iPad Air, have further expanded the choices available, bringing with them improved performance and value across the board.

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 OnePlusApple's iPads cater to a wide range of needs, from the latest iPad Pro models featuring advanced displays and powerful M-series chipsets to the compact iPad Mini, which offers impressive capabilities at a more accessible price point. For those with simpler needs, such as replacing an e-reader, Apple's base iPads deliver exceptional performance and great value.

While Apple dominates the tablet market, there are compelling alternatives for those not tied to the Apple ecosystem, offering competitive features at potentially lower prices. For iPad enthusiasts, enhancing your device with accessories like a keyboard can significantly elevate your user experience.

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, the faster A14 Bionic processor, and a vibrant 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display. It's an ideal choice for most users, offering a great balance of features and affordability compared to higher-end models like the iPad Pro.

See it at Amazon

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 Gen

CONS

• Still uses the A14 Bionic, not the M1

Apple excels at making its base-level iPad an outstanding option for the majority of users. The 10th Gen model, with its approachable price, is perfect for those looking to enjoy the iPad experience without breaking the bank. While it doesn't feature the highest refresh rate, its 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display offers sharp visuals. Additionally, compatibility with the 1st generation Apple Pencil opens up creative possibilities.

This model sports a refreshed design that's slightly 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 technology, enhances video calls by tracking and framing you effectively. The A14 Bionic chip ensures smooth performance, and the shift to USB-C charging adds future-proofing.

The latest update to this iPad brings the 11th-generation model with an A16 processor and double the starting storage, now available for purchase.

2. Apple iPad (9th Gen)

Best Budget iPad

### Apple iPad (9th Gen)

0The 9th Generation iPad offers a budget-friendly option without sacrificing much in terms of performance. Its crisp 10.2-inch Retina display and solid performance make it a great choice for those looking to spend less.

See it at Amazon

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 tablets

The 9th Gen iPad, released in 2021, remains our top pick for budget-conscious buyers. It offers a crisp and clear display, runs the latest iPadOS for optimized performance, and is often available at discounted prices, especially during major sales events. While it may lack some of the advanced features of its newer siblings, it still provides access to the same apps and is perfect for everyday tasks like media consumption, gaming, and reading.

For families, this iPad is also an excellent choice for kids, particularly when paired with a durable case to protect against wear and tear.

iPad Pro 2024 – Photos

7 Images3. Apple iPad Pro (2024, M4)

Best Premium iPad

### Apple iPad Pro (2024 M4)

0The 2024 iPad Pro, equipped with the Apple M4 processor and an OLED display, represents the pinnacle of Apple's tablet technology. It's designed for professionals and creatives seeking the highest performance and display quality.

See it at AmazonSee it at Apple

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

• Ideal for artists and video editors
• Excellent FaceID functionality
• Improved camera quality

CONS

• Additional accessories required for a full workstation setup

The latest iPad Pro is thinner than ever, yet packed with the powerful M4 chip, surpassing even the MacBook Air in performance. Its new OLED display offers stunning visuals, making it a favorite for content consumption and creation. 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 transform the iPad Pro into a complete workstation, additional investments in accessories like the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil are necessary, which can add significant 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 offers the perfect balance of portability and functionality. Its compact size and lightweight design make it an excellent choice for reading and everyday use.

See it at AmazonSee it at AppleSee it at Best Buy

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 significant design changes from the previous model

For those seeking a tablet that's easy to carry and use with one hand, the iPad Mini is an ideal choice. Its 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display is perfect for reading, and the device is compatible with the Apple Pencil Pro and Apple Pencil (USB-C), making it suitable for note-taking and sketching. The A17 Pro processor ensures smooth operation, even for gaming and multimedia consumption.

Despite its unchanged design, the iPad Mini's build quality and performance are unmatched in its price range, making it a top contender for anyone looking for a versatile, portable device.

OnePlus Pad 2 – Photos

4 Images5. OnePlus Pad 2

Best iPad Alternative

### OnePlus Pad 2

0For those open to alternatives outside the Apple ecosystem, the OnePlus Pad 2 offers top-tier performance and a stunning display at a more affordable price than the iPad Pro.

See it at AmazonSee it at OnePlus

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 standout in the Android tablet market, offering features comparable to the iPad Pro at a more accessible price. Its 12.1-inch IPS display boasts a 144Hz refresh rate, 10-bit color depth, and HDR support, making it ideal for gaming and creative work. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip ensures robust performance, and its battery life supports up to 12 hours of heavy use.

While OnePlus promises three years of OS updates and four years of security updates, this is less than what Apple offers. Nonetheless, the OnePlus Pad 2 provides excellent value and functionality for those looking to explore beyond Apple's offerings.

Read the full review: OnePlus Pad 2

Upcoming iPad Models

For those eagerly awaiting new releases, Apple has recently introduced the 11th-Gen iPad with an A16 processor and new 11-inch and 13-inch iPad Air models powered by the M3 chip. The iPad Mini has also been updated with the A17 Pro processor, enhancing its performance capabilities.

Which Apple iPad Is Right for Me?

Since its debut in 2010, the iPad has been a versatile device that bridges the gap between smartphones and laptops. Whether you're a first-time buyer or looking to upgrade, understanding the key features of each model is crucial.

Tablet Sizes

Apple offers six iPad models across five screen sizes, each tailored for different uses. 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 comes with an 11-inch screen. The M3 iPad Air offers 11-inch or 13-inch options with the powerful M-series chip. For those needing the largest screen, the iPad Pro is available in 11-inch and 13-inch models, both powered by the M4 chip.

Storage Capacity Differences

Storage options range from 64GB to 2TB, with the iPad Pro offering the highest capacity. For most users, 64GB is sufficient, but creatives and professionals may require more, with 1TB being a good starting point. For those needing additional storage, external hard drives can be connected via USB-C.

Peripherals to Consider

All iPads (except the 9th Gen) feature a USB-C port for charging and connecting peripherals like external hard drives. Bluetooth connectivity is ideal for accessories such as the Apple Pencil, keyboards, and headphones, enhancing the iPad's versatility and functionality.

Connectivity

Each iPad model comes in Wi-Fi-only or Wi-Fi + cellular versions. The latter allows internet access via mobile data networks, ideal for on-the-go use and comes with GPS functionality.

Price Comparison

Prices start at $269 for the 10th Gen iPad, with significant discounts available during sales events. At the top end, a fully equipped iPad Pro can cost over $2,000, offering the best in display, performance, and connectivity.

Which iPad Is Best for Kids and Teens in 2025?

For younger users, the iPad Air M2 is our top recommendation, balancing performance and durability. For students, a comprehensive guide to the best iPads for education is available to help make the right choice.