The 5 best iPads of 2025: We’ve tested every iPad on the market. These are the best ones
The iPad remains one of the best tablets available because of its wide array of quality apps and content and its product integration within the Apple ecosystem. Over the last year, Apple added the sixth-generation iPad Air and the 11th-generation iPad, joining the iPad Pro and the iPad Mini. We've tested all the iPad models available on the market and have broken down their key differences below.
What is the best iPad right now?
At ZDNET, we've tested current and past iPad models for many different purposes. Our current pick for the best iPad for most users is the base-model iPad because it offers nearly all of the tablet's best features at an approachable price.
Read on for our full breakdown of the current iPad lineup based on our team's hands-on experience and product testing. We also offer buying recommendations for each model to help you choose the best one for your needs and budget.
Also: Best Windows tablet 2025: Asus, Lenovo, & more
Sort by AllThe best iPads of 2025
Show lessWhy we like it: Our top pick for the best iPad for most people is the latest standard model. The 11th-gen iPad was launched this spring, and features an A16 Bionic chip, 6GB of RAM, USB-C, 5G, 4K video capture, Wi-Fi 6, and 128GB of base storage. The tablet starts at $349, but you can currently buy it on sale for $299 through Amazon.
This iPad also features a front-facing camera centered horizontally and optimized for video calls when the iPad is docking in its keyboard case, the preferred position for many iPad users. This unequivocally makes the iPad 10th-gen the best iPad for FaceTime calls, Zoom meetings, and other video calls.
Who it's for: Most people use iPads to watch movies, read, browse the web, play games, and make video calls. Apple's base iPad model does all of these like a champ. It's also very easy to put in a rugged case and allow kids to use it for their movies, shows, and games.
Who should look elsewhere: Based on customer reviews, this iPad would be a good option for most people including new Apple users, kids, and seniors. Power users or creatives who require more intense processing power would probably benefit from a more powerful tablet like the iPad Air or iPad Pro.
iPad (11th-gen) specs: Display: 11-inch Liquid Retina display | Processor: A16 Bionic chip with 16-core Neural Engine | Storage: 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB | Biometrics: Touch ID | Colors: Silver, Pink, Blue, Yellow | Cameras: 12MP f/1.8 wide, 12MP Landscape f/2.4 front | Weight: 1.05 pounds | Dimensions: 9.79 x 7.07 x .28 inches | Connections: USB-C, Smart Connector | Battery life: Up to 10 hours of video playback with USB-C charging | Price: $349
Pros
- Centered camera for landscape video calls
- Four color options
- USB-C charging
- Similar design to iPad Air and iPad Pro
- Doesn't support Apple Pencil Pro
- No Apple Intelligence
Why we like it: Our top pick for the best iPad for most people is the latest standard model. The 11th-gen iPad was launched this spring, and features an A16 Bionic chip, 6GB of RAM, USB-C, 5G, 4K video capture, Wi-Fi 6, and 128GB of base storage. The tablet starts at $349, but you can currently buy it on sale for $299 through Amazon.
This iPad also features a front-facing camera centered horizontally and optimized for video calls when the iPad is docking in its keyboard case, the preferred position for many iPad users. This unequivocally makes the iPad 10th-gen the best iPad for FaceTime calls, Zoom meetings, and other video calls.
Who it's for: Most people use iPads to watch movies, read, browse the web, play games, and make video calls. Apple's base iPad model does all of these like a champ. It's also very easy to put in a rugged case and allow kids to use it for their movies, shows, and games.
Who should look elsewhere: Based on customer reviews, this iPad would be a good option for most people including new Apple users, kids, and seniors. Power users or creatives who require more intense processing power would probably benefit from a more powerful tablet like the iPad Air or iPad Pro.
iPad (11th-gen) specs: Display: 11-inch Liquid Retina display | Processor: A16 Bionic chip with 16-core Neural Engine | Storage: 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB | Biometrics: Touch ID | Colors: Silver, Pink, Blue, Yellow | Cameras: 12MP f/1.8 wide, 12MP Landscape f/2.4 front | Weight: 1.05 pounds | Dimensions: 9.79 x 7.07 x .28 inches | Connections: USB-C, Smart Connector | Battery life: Up to 10 hours of video playback with USB-C charging | Price: $349
Read MoreWhy we like it: The design in Apple's new 2024 iPad Pro lineup is slimmer than previous Pro models and sports Apple's powerful M4 processor. This chip consists of a new 10-core GPU, next-generation machine learning accelerators to handle various tasks, and ProMotion technology, enabling variable screen refresh rates ranging from 10 to 120Hz.
The Pro also supports the new Apple Pencil Pro, which has a range of features, including a squeeze gesture for quick tool, color, and other changes, a gyroscope for precise control of pens and brush tools with a simple rotation, and custom haptic feedback that you can feel via a pulse. It also pairs with the newly revamped Magic Keyboard, which is thinner and lighter, has a larger trackpad, and a new row of function keys this year, making the keyboard case more essential than ever for the whole iPad experience.
Who it's for: The iPad Pro is perfect for creators and power users. ZDNET reviews editor Kerry Wan tested the 13-inch Apple iPad Pro and was especially impressed by the new Tandem OLED screen.
"In practice, Tandem OLED makes the iPad Pro a phenomenal tablet for visual experiences. I've been able to complete text-heavy and photo-editing work -- which often require adequate viewing angles -- under a New York City sun that thinks it's already summer," Wan wrote in his review. "Watching Netflix and Disney+ on the iPad is straight eye candy; colors pop, and the darker, moodier scenes have a level of shadow detail unseen on older Pro models."
Review: Apple iPad Pro (seventh-gen)
Who should look elsewhere: For most of us, getting the M4 iPad Pro would be like buying a Ferrari to commute five miles to work and never going over 30mph. This machine is screaming fast, has a stunning display, and the Apple Pencil Pro is an incredible digital tool. But this is a machine for the highest of high-end professionals. Unless you are an artist or a designer using the Apple Pencil Pro with it every day, or you are a filmmaker using it to view footage or even start your first edits in the field -- or putting it to use in other creative fields -- then we'd recommend sticking to the standard iPad.
iPad Pro (seventh-generation) specs: Display: 11- or 13-inch Ultra Retina XDR OLED display with ProMotion | Processor: Apple Silicon M4 | Storage: 256GB, 512GB, 1TB or 2TB | Biometrics: Face ID | Colors: Silver, space black | Cameras: 12MP wide (4K, ProRes), Landscape 12MP ultra-wide | Weight: 11-inch: .98 pounds, 13-inch: 1.28 pounds | Dimensions: 9.83 x 6.99 x .21 inches or 11.09 x 8.48 x 0.20 inches | Connections: USB-C connector with support for Thunderbolt / USB 4 | Battery life: Up to 10 hours of surfing the web | Price: $999+
Pros
- Tandem OLED display gets plenty bright
- M4 processor is fast, reliable, and for everyone
- Strongest accessory ecosystem yet
- iPadOS still feels inconsistent and limited
- Accessories are expensive but almost mandatory
Why we like it: The design in Apple's new 2024 iPad Pro lineup is slimmer than previous Pro models and sports Apple's powerful M4 processor. This chip consists of a new 10-core GPU, next-generation machine learning accelerators to handle various tasks, and ProMotion technology, enabling variable screen refresh rates ranging from 10 to 120Hz.
The Pro also supports the new Apple Pencil Pro, which has a range of features, including a squeeze gesture for quick tool, color, and other changes, a gyroscope for precise control of pens and brush tools with a simple rotation, and custom haptic feedback that you can feel via a pulse. It also pairs with the newly revamped Magic Keyboard, which is thinner and lighter, has a larger trackpad, and a new row of function keys this year, making the keyboard case more essential than ever for the whole iPad experience.
Who it's for: The iPad Pro is perfect for creators and power users. ZDNET reviews editor Kerry Wan tested the 13-inch Apple iPad Pro and was especially impressed by the new Tandem OLED screen.
"In practice, Tandem OLED makes the iPad Pro a phenomenal tablet for visual experiences. I've been able to complete text-heavy and photo-editing work -- which often require adequate viewing angles -- under a New York City sun that thinks it's already summer," Wan wrote in his review. "Watching Netflix and Disney+ on the iPad is straight eye candy; colors pop, and the darker, moodier scenes have a level of shadow detail unseen on older Pro models."
Review: Apple iPad Pro (seventh-gen)
Who should look elsewhere: For most of us, getting the M4 iPad Pro would be like buying a Ferrari to commute five miles to work and never going over 30mph. This machine is screaming fast, has a stunning display, and the Apple Pencil Pro is an incredible digital tool. But this is a machine for the highest of high-end professionals. Unless you are an artist or a designer using the Apple Pencil Pro with it every day, or you are a filmmaker using it to view footage or even start your first edits in the field -- or putting it to use in other creative fields -- then we'd recommend sticking to the standard iPad.
iPad Pro (seventh-generation) specs: Display: 11- or 13-inch Ultra Retina XDR OLED display with ProMotion | Processor: Apple Silicon M4 | Storage: 256GB, 512GB, 1TB or 2TB | Biometrics: Face ID | Colors: Silver, space black | Cameras: 12MP wide (4K, ProRes), Landscape 12MP ultra-wide | Weight: 11-inch: .98 pounds, 13-inch: 1.28 pounds | Dimensions: 9.83 x 6.99 x .21 inches or 11.09 x 8.48 x 0.20 inches | Connections: USB-C connector with support for Thunderbolt / USB 4 | Battery life: Up to 10 hours of surfing the web | Price: $999+
Read MoreWhy we like it: The latest iPad Mini features the A17 Pro chip, the same processor found in the iPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max. This chip is also compatible with Apple Intelligence, including Writing Tools, the redesigned Siri with ChatGPT, Priority Notifications and Messages, Summarization tools, Smart Reply, the Clean Up tool in Photos, and more.
Who it's for: The iPad Mini sometimes feels more like a big smartphone than a small tablet. It can easily slip into bags, purses, and even the pockets of some cargo pants and vests. Compared to a phone, it's better for reading e-books, PDFs, documents, news apps, and other digital content. The iPad Mini's portability and support for the new Apple Pencil Pro make note-taking a popular use case.
Customers who bought the new iPad Mini reported in reviews that they were impressed by the new tablet, "an enlarged iPhone with a whole new experience." It also has more storage options than the last generation -- up to 512GB.
Who should look elsewhere: ZDNET staff writer Maria Diaz, who went hands-on with the new iPad Mini, said that the AI features aren't this tablet's selling point. "I would not recommend buying an iPad Mini 7 simply because of the AI features. But I recommend it to someone looking for a future-proofed entertainment tablet that can go almost anywhere," she wrote in her review.
iPad Mini (seventh-gen) specs: Display: 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display | Processor: A17 Pro | Storage: 128GB, 245GB, 512GB | Biometrics: Touch ID | Colors: Space gray, blue, purple, starlight | Cameras: Rear: 12MP, Front: 12MP ultra-wide camera with Center Stage | Weight: 0.65 pounds | Dimensions: 7.69 x 5.31 x .025 inches | Connections: USB-C | Battery life: 10 hours | Price: $499+
Pros
- Light and compact
- Supports Apple Pencil Pro
- Apple Intelligence features
- Display tops out at 60Hz
- An expensive upgrade from previous generation
Why we like it: The latest iPad Mini features the A17 Pro chip, the same processor found in the iPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max. This chip is also compatible with Apple Intelligence, including Writing Tools, the redesigned Siri with ChatGPT, Priority Notifications and Messages, Summarization tools, Smart Reply, the Clean Up tool in Photos, and more.
Who it's for: The iPad Mini sometimes feels more like a big smartphone than a small tablet. It can easily slip into bags, purses, and even the pockets of some cargo pants and vests. Compared to a phone, it's better for reading e-books, PDFs, documents, news apps, and other digital content. The iPad Mini's portability and support for the new Apple Pencil Pro make note-taking a popular use case.
Customers who bought the new iPad Mini reported in reviews that they were impressed by the new tablet, "an enlarged iPhone with a whole new experience." It also has more storage options than the last generation -- up to 512GB.
Who should look elsewhere: ZDNET staff writer Maria Diaz, who went hands-on with the new iPad Mini, said that the AI features aren't this tablet's selling point. "I would not recommend buying an iPad Mini 7 simply because of the AI features. But I recommend it to someone looking for a future-proofed entertainment tablet that can go almost anywhere," she wrote in her review.
iPad Mini (seventh-gen) specs: Display: 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display | Processor: A17 Pro | Storage: 128GB, 245GB, 512GB | Biometrics: Touch ID | Colors: Space gray, blue, purple, starlight | Cameras: Rear: 12MP, Front: 12MP ultra-wide camera with Center Stage | Weight: 0.65 pounds | Dimensions: 7.69 x 5.31 x .025 inches | Connections: USB-C | Battery life: 10 hours | Price: $499+
Read MoreThe iPad Air was once our most-recommended iPad, but now it's dropped to the bottom of the list -- getting squeezed by the iPad Pro at the high end and the standard iPad (11th-gen) for nearly everyone else.
Why we like it: The 2025 iPad Air keeps the same design we saw Apple bring to the Air in late 2022, but it now boasts an M3 processor, compatibility with the Apple Pencil Pro, and two size choices -- 11 or 13 inches. The big draw of the iPad Pro was always its bigger size, but that benefit has now come down-market to a much more accessible price tier.
Review: Can an iPad replace a MacBook? I tested the M3 Air for weeks, and here's my verdict
I was impressed by the snappy performance of the M3 processor in her hands-on review. I think the latest iPad Air's performance is noticeably better than last year's M2 model, with about 17% gains in CPU improvements on benchmark tests. These improvements are most noticeable in better app performance, multitasking, and rendering speeds.
Who it's for: The iPad Air is a great option for creatives and students. It's not a midrange tablet but is one of the middle iPads, in between the base model and the iPad Pro. The iPad Air is so good, it's likely too powerful for most tablet users, capable of handling heavy editing work and entertainment alike.
Who should look elsewhere: However, if you plan to buy the iPad Air, you'll probably also get the Magic Keyboard and the Apple Pencil Pro, and maybe even add cellular connectivity and increase the storage. At that point, you'll be over $1,000 and only about $200 cheaper than a similarly configured iPad Pro. In that case, just get the Pro.
If you don't need all that power, then you can get away with the iPad (11th-gen) and you can even pair it with a much less expensive Logitech Combo Touch or ESR case and save a lot of money but still get a lot of the benefits of an iPad Air or iPro Pro.
iPad Air (seventh-gen) specs: Display: 11-inch or 13-inch Liquid Retina IPS, 60Hz | Processor: Apple Silicon M2 | Storage: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB | Biometrics: Touch ID | Colors: Space gray, starlight, purple, blue | Cameras: 12MP rear camera, 12MP webcam (landscape-oriented) | Weight: 11-inch: 1.02 pounds, 13-inch: 1.36 pounds | Dimensions: 9.74 x 7.02 x 0.24 inches and 11.04 x 8.46 x .24 inches | Connections: USB-C port and magnetic connector for Apple Pencil Pro | Battery life: 10 hours | Price: $599+
Pros
- Snappy M3 processor
- Two size options, including 13-inch
- Thicker and heavier than the iPad Pro
- Accessory costs can add up
The iPad Air was once our most-recommended iPad, but now it's dropped to the bottom of the list -- getting squeezed by the iPad Pro at the high end and the standard iPad (11th-gen) for nearly everyone else.
Why we like it: The 2025 iPad Air keeps the same design we saw Apple bring to the Air in late 2022, but it now boasts an M3 processor, compatibility with the Apple Pencil Pro, and two size choices -- 11 or 13 inches. The big draw of the iPad Pro was always its bigger size, but that benefit has now come down-market to a much more accessible price tier.
Review: Can an iPad replace a MacBook? I tested the M3 Air for weeks, and here's my verdict
I was impressed by the snappy performance of the M3 processor in her hands-on review. I think the latest iPad Air's performance is noticeably better than last year's M2 model, with about 17% gains in CPU improvements on benchmark tests. These improvements are most noticeable in better app performance, multitasking, and rendering speeds.
Who it's for: The iPad Air is a great option for creatives and students. It's not a midrange tablet but is one of the middle iPads, in between the base model and the iPad Pro. The iPad Air is so good, it's likely too powerful for most tablet users, capable of handling heavy editing work and entertainment alike.
Who should look elsewhere: However, if you plan to buy the iPad Air, you'll probably also get the Magic Keyboard and the Apple Pencil Pro, and maybe even add cellular connectivity and increase the storage. At that point, you'll be over $1,000 and only about $200 cheaper than a similarly configured iPad Pro. In that case, just get the Pro.
If you don't need all that power, then you can get away with the iPad (11th-gen) and you can even pair it with a much less expensive Logitech Combo Touch or ESR case and save a lot of money but still get a lot of the benefits of an iPad Air or iPro Pro.
iPad Air (seventh-gen) specs: Display: 11-inch or 13-inch Liquid Retina IPS, 60Hz | Processor: Apple Silicon M2 | Storage: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB | Biometrics: Touch ID | Colors: Space gray, starlight, purple, blue | Cameras: 12MP rear camera, 12MP webcam (landscape-oriented) | Weight: 11-inch: 1.02 pounds, 13-inch: 1.36 pounds | Dimensions: 9.74 x 7.02 x 0.24 inches and 11.04 x 8.46 x .24 inches | Connections: USB-C port and magnetic connector for Apple Pencil Pro | Battery life: 10 hours | Price: $599+
Read MoreWhy we like it: The ninth-gen iPad is filled with last-generation technology such as the Lightning connector for charging, a Touch ID home button, 4G LTE connectivity, the A13 chip, and the 1st-gen Apple Pencil. It has a 12MP front-facing camera, and so it's still a good video call device. Overall, these older technologies are still good enough to handle the basics for most people and will be for several years to come.
Who it's for: If you just need a basic, full-screen iPad to watch videos, play games, answer messages, and do an occasional video call, for example, then the base-level iPad (ninth-gen) will suit plenty of people just fine. It's a great first iPad for kids. It's also a good one to give elderly relatives and friends who are still a little uncomfortable with technology and just need a device to do a few simple things.
The customer reviews speak for themselves -- 98% of customers who have purchased this iPad at Best Buy would recommend it to a friend and rated it 4.9 out of 5 stars.
Who should look elsewhere: The ninth-gen iPad is great for a lot of users, including the younger crowd. If you're looking for more high-end performance or a more future-proof tablet, you should look into at least the 11th-gen iPad or greater.
iPad (ninth-gen) tech specs: Display: 10.2-inch Retina display | Processor: A13 Bionic | Storage: 64GB or 256GB | Biometrics: Touch ID | Colors: Silver, space gray | Cameras: 8MP rear, 1080p video, 12MP FaceTime camera with Center Stage | Weight: 1.07 pounds | Dimensions: 9.8 x 6.8 x 0.29 inches | Connections: 3.5mm headphone jack, Lightning port | Battery life: 10 hours | Price: $319+
Pros
- Great price
- Solid display
- Traditional Touch ID home button
- Supports Apple Pencil (first-gen)
- Filled with last-generation tech
- Very large bezels
- Uses Lightning port for charging
Why we like it: The ninth-gen iPad is filled with last-generation technology such as the Lightning connector for charging, a Touch ID home button, 4G LTE connectivity, the A13 chip, and the 1st-gen Apple Pencil. It has a 12MP front-facing camera, and so it's still a good video call device. Overall, these older technologies are still good enough to handle the basics for most people and will be for several years to come.
Who it's for: If you just need a basic, full-screen iPad to watch videos, play games, answer messages, and do an occasional video call, for example, then the base-level iPad (ninth-gen) will suit plenty of people just fine. It's a great first iPad for kids. It's also a good one to give elderly relatives and friends who are still a little uncomfortable with technology and just need a device to do a few simple things.
The customer reviews speak for themselves -- 98% of customers who have purchased this iPad at Best Buy would recommend it to a friend and rated it 4.9 out of 5 stars.
Who should look elsewhere: The ninth-gen iPad is great for a lot of users, including the younger crowd. If you're looking for more high-end performance or a more future-proof tablet, you should look into at least the 11th-gen iPad or greater.
iPad (ninth-gen) tech specs: Display: 10.2-inch Retina display | Processor: A13 Bionic | Storage: 64GB or 256GB | Biometrics: Touch ID | Colors: Silver, space gray | Cameras: 8MP rear, 1080p video, 12MP FaceTime camera with Center Stage | Weight: 1.07 pounds | Dimensions: 9.8 x 6.8 x 0.29 inches | Connections: 3.5mm headphone jack, Lightning port | Battery life: 10 hours | Price: $319+
Read MoreWhat are the tariffs in the US?
The recent U.S. tariffs on imports from countries like China, Vietnam, and India aim to boost domestic manufacturing but are likely to drive up prices on consumer electronics. Products like smartphones, laptops, and TVs may become more expensive as companies rethink global supply chains and weigh the cost of shifting production.
The new U.S. tariffs also hit laptops, PCs, and tablets hard, with import duties potentially increasing prices by up to 35%. Many major brands still rely on Chinese and Vietnamese factories for assembly, meaning consumers could soon pay significantly more for everything from budget Chromebooks to high-end gaming rigs.
These tariffs may accelerate efforts to move production to regions like Mexico or India, but shoppers can expect higher costs and fewer discounts in the short term.
Right now, it looks like some tech may be exempt from the issued tariffs, but since it's always changing and developing, we are keeping an eye on it and will update you on the latest.
Latest news on iPads
Apple continues to release refreshed versions of each iPad -- Standard, Mini, and Air -- with updated displays and powerful chipsets, including the M3 Silicon for faster, more reliable multitasking as well as more robust security for your personal data.
What is the best iPad?
The best iPad overall is the 11th-generation base-model iPad since it has all of the most basic features most users will appreciate at a decent price point.
iPad model | Price (starting cost) | Display | Processor | Weight |
iPad (11th-gen) | $299 | 11-inch Liquid Retina display with True Tone | A16 Bionic | 1.05 pounds |
iPad Pro (seventh-gen) | $1,100 | 11- or 13-inch Ultra Retina XDR OLED display with ProMotion | M4 | .98 pounds or 1.28 pounds |
iPad Mini (seventh-gen) | $399 | 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display | A17 Pro | .65 pounds |
iPad Air (seventh-gen) | $529 | 11-inch or 13-inch Liquid Retina IPS, 60Hz | Apple Silicon M3 | 1.02 pounds or 1.36 pounds |
iPad (ninth-gen) | $319 | 10.2-inch Retina display | A13 Bionic | 1.07 pounds |
*MSRP at the time of writing. Please note that actual prices may vary depending on available sales, deals, discounts, and coupons.
Show moreIs the iPad the best tablet?
While the iPad lineup is certainly powerful, it really depends on personal preference and if you are an Apple person or not. We named the 10th-gen iPad the best tablet for most people due to its easy interface, versatility, and compatibility with what you can do. The iPad has access to the same App Store as the iPhone, with many apps optimized to take advantage of the larger display on the iPad.
As far as Samsung tablets go, these devices will run on Android and are closer to iPads in terms of performance, design, and features. The Galaxy Tab S series is ideal for users who need power, such as creators and professionals. The tablets in this series have larger screens and more processing power, comparable to the iPad Pro.
Show moreWhich is the best iPad for you?
Whether you're buying a new iPad or upgrading an old iPad, the first thing to do before you buy is to get really clear about what you're planning to use it for the most.
Choose this iPad... | If you want... |
iPad (11th-gen) | The best overall option when it comes to power, storage, and user-friendliness. The Apple iPad is the best tablet for anything. |
iPad Pro (seventh-gen) | A high-performance tablet. It has AI capabilities and is compatible with accessories, making it a great option for creatives. |
iPad Mini (seventh-gen) | A smaller, more manageable iPad model with an 8.3-inch display. |
iPad Air (seventh-gen) | A lightweight tablet for those who want something for work and play, without big sacrifices in performance or features. |
iPad (ninth-gen) | A budget-friendly tablet. It's a great first-iPad for kids, and can also handle basics like watching videos, playing games, quick video calls, and more. |
Factors to consider when choosing an iPad
If you're looking to buy an iPad, here are the top factors you should consider before making a purchase:
- Mobility: The iPad lineup now ranges from the very small and light iPad Mini to the iPad Pro 13-inch. This can heavier and bulkier than a laptop once you attach the Magic Keyboard Case or another third-party case. In between these two you have the rest of the iPad lineup that comes in slight variations of the traditional 10-inch iPad form factor. Think about how much you want to use the iPad on the go and the bag you want to carry it in. Will you be carrying just the iPad or will you also be carrying a laptop?
- Accessories: Think about which iPads are compatible with the accessories you'd like to use such as the Magic Keyboard Case and the three different versions of the Apple Pencil.
- Price: There are now iPads for nearly every budget, especially when you include the last-generation models we've highlighted below in the Alternatives section. You can get a standard iPad for around $300 and it will be fine for watching videos, doing light web surfing, and answering messages. This is a great choice for a first iPad or to upgrade an older one used for the same tasks. The premium iPad Pro models are loaded with features, have incredible displays, and cost the same as a premium laptop. However, they are best for creative professionals, artists, and those who want to use the device as their full laptop replacement, which can still be a frustrating endeavor if you're a power user with a long history on a laptop and you have a lot of work to do.
How we test iPads
We've tested all of the current iPad models in real-world situations to evaluate their features, design, performance, and overall value.
We've used the iPad Mini to take notes and read documents on the road, used the standard iPad for web browsing and watching YouTube, and used the iPad Pro models for lots of Zoom calls, Slack, web apps, creating Google Docs, as well as downloading and watching videos while traveling. We've also used the Magic Keyboard case since it props up the iPad quite nicely.
We've also tried using the iPad Air for all the things the iPad Pro can do and found that it works great with only two exceptions: the battery life isn't as good, and the fingerprint sensor isn't as convenient as Face ID for all day use during a long day of meetings or work.
For a deeper look into our testing process, check out our comprehensive tablet testing methodology.
Show moreFAQs on iPads
What are the newest iPad models?
The latest iPads include the 11th-gen iPad (2025), the seventh-gen iPad Air (2025), the seventh-gen iPad Pro (2024), and the 7th-gen iPad Mini (2024). All tablets, except the base model iPad, have Apple Intelligence compatibility.
The newest iPad is the base model, the 11th-gen iPad. This tablet has double the base storage as the iPad 10, starting at 128GB, and costs the same. It's reliable, with a strong A16 Bionic chip, and fast, with 6GB of RAM.
The new iPad Air comes in two sizes -- 11 inches and 13 inches -- and features the M3 chip. In addition, the iPad Air now starts at 128GB instead of the mere 64GB that Apple previously included in the
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