Apple's iPad has long been the benchmark for tablets, setting high standards that others strive to meet. With a diverse range of models catering to various needs, from compact and portable to powerful and feature-rich, choosing the right iPad can be daunting. The recent release of the new iPad (A16) and the M3 iPad Air models has further expanded the options, making it crucial to understand the differences between these devices to make an informed decision.

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 lineup includes a variety of iPads, each designed to cater to different user needs. From the powerful iPad Pro with advanced displays and M-series chipsets to the portable iPad Mini, which offers impressive performance in a compact package, there's something for everyone. For those with simpler needs, like using the device as an e-reader, the base iPads provide excellent value and performance.

If you're considering alternatives, the tablet market offers other options that might provide better value or features for your specific needs. However, if you're committed to the Apple ecosystem, enhancing your iPad with accessories like a keyboard can significantly improve your 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 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 ideal choice for most users due to its approachable price and robust features, making it a versatile option for various needs.

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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 + 4-core GPU
• Storage: 64GB
• Cameras: 12MP (rear), 12MP (front)

PROS

• Varied colorways
• Better display than 9th gen

CONS

• Still using the A14 Bionic, rather than the M1

The 10th Gen iPad is an exceptional choice for most users, offering a balance of features and affordability. Its 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display provides sharp visuals, and the A14 Bionic chip ensures smooth performance. The design has been refreshed, with slimmer bezels and a landscape-oriented front-facing camera that enhances video calls with Center Stage. Additionally, the shift to USB-C charging aligns it with modern standards, enhancing its future-proofing.

The 11th-generation iPad, now available, brings an A16 processor and double the starting storage, offering even more value for those looking to upgrade.

2. Apple iPad (9th Gen)

Best Budget iPad

### Apple iPad (9th Gen)

0The 9th Gen iPad is the go-to budget option, offering solid performance and a crisp 10.2-inch Retina display at a very reasonable price. It's perfect for those who want a reliable tablet without breaking the bank.

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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

• The jack-of-all-trades iPad
• Reasonable price

CONS

• Can lag behind other tablets

Despite its 2021 release, the 9th Gen iPad remains a top budget pick. It runs the latest iPadOS, ensuring optimal performance for everyday tasks like media consumption, gaming, and reading. While it may not have the latest features of higher-end models, it still provides access to the full range of iPad apps, making it a versatile and affordable choice.

3. Apple iPad Pro (2024, M4)

Best Premium iPad

### Apple iPad Pro (2024 M4)

0The latest iPad Pro, equipped with the Apple M4 processor and an OLED display, is the most premium Apple tablet yet. It's ideal for creative professionals and those seeking top-tier performance.

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

• Awesome for artists and video editors
• FaceID works wonders
• An actually decent camera

CONS

• You'll need to buy a lot of accessories to make it a true workstation

The 2024 iPad Pro is thinner than ever and packed with the powerful M4 chip, surpassing the performance of the latest MacBook Air. Its new OLED display delivers stunning visuals, making it a favorite for content consumption and creative work. The M4's 8-core GPU ensures smooth gaming and efficient handling of creative tasks, especially when paired with the Apple Pencil Pro. However, to fully utilize its potential as a workstation, additional accessories like the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil 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's compact design and 8.3-inch display make it perfect for reading and portability. It's lightweight and easy to carry, making it an excellent choice for on-the-go 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
• Excellent performance

CONS

• No major design changes with new model

The iPad Mini is ideal for readers and those who need a portable device. Its 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display is perfect for one-handed use, and the App Store offers numerous reading apps. The A17 Pro processor ensures smooth performance, making it suitable for light gaming and productivity tasks. Despite its unchanged design, the iPad Mini's build quality and compatibility with the Apple Pencil make it a solid choice for those seeking a compact yet powerful tablet.

5. OnePlus Pad 2

Best iPad Alternative

### OnePlus Pad 2

0The OnePlus Pad 2 offers excellent performance, a smooth display, and high-quality features at a more affordable price than the iPad Pro, making it a compelling alternative for Android users.

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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 than Apple

The OnePlus Pad 2 stands out in the Android tablet market with its 12.1-inch display featuring 10-bit color depth, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and a 144Hz refresh rate. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip, it offers robust performance for gaming and multitasking. Its battery life and fast charging capabilities make it suitable for extended use, and the inclusion of six speakers enhances the audio experience. While it may not match Apple's long-term OS support, it's a strong contender for those looking for a high-quality Android tablet.

Read the full review: OnePlus Pad 2

Upcoming iPad Models

Apple continues to innovate, with the recent release of the 11th-Gen iPad featuring an A16 processor and new 11-inch and 13-inch iPad Air models powered by an M3 chip. The iPad Mini has also been updated with an A17 Pro processor, offering enhanced performance in a compact package.

Which Apple iPad Is Right for Me?

Choosing the right iPad depends on your specific needs. Since its introduction in 2010, the iPad has evolved to serve various purposes, from being a portable device for media consumption to a powerful tool for professional work.

Tablet Sizes

Apple offers six iPad models with five different screen sizes:

• iPad Mini: 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display, perfect for reading and portability.
• Baseline iPads: 10.2-inch Retina (9th Gen) and 10.9-inch Liquid Retina (10th Gen), ideal for everyday use.
• 11th Gen iPad: 11-inch screen, offering a balance of size and portability.
• iPad Air (M3): Available in 11-inch and 13-inch sizes, featuring powerful M-series processors.
• iPad Pro: Available in 11-inch and 13-inch sizes, with the larger model boasting an Ultra Retina XDR OLED display. Best for professionals and creatives.

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 professionals and creatives may need more, especially for large files and projects.

Peripherals to Consider

All iPads (except the 9th Gen) use USB-C ports, allowing for connectivity with external hard drives and other peripherals. Bluetooth enables the use of accessories like the Apple Pencil, keyboards, and headphones, enhancing the iPad's functionality.

Connectivity

iPads are available in Wi-Fi-only and Wi-Fi + cellular versions. The latter allows for internet access via 4G LTE, ideal for on-the-go use but more expensive due to additional hardware.

Price Comparison

Prices start at $269 for the 10th Gen iPad and can go up to over $2,000 for a fully equipped iPad Pro. Budget-conscious buyers can find deals during major sales events, making iPads even more accessible.

Which iPad Is Best for Kids and Teens in 2025?

For younger users, the iPad Air M2 is recommended due to its balance of performance and features. For students, a comprehensive guide to the best iPads for educational purposes is available, helping to choose the right model for school needs.