Best ipad to buy in 2025

Trying to figure out which iPad to buy in 2025 can feel like a maze with all the different models, specs, and price tags. It’s tough to know if you’re getting the right device for your needs, especially when Apple keeps refreshing its lineup. But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. This guide is all about cutting through the confusion and helping you find the perfect iPad, whether you’re a student, a creative professional, a casual browser, or just someone looking for a great value.

To make things easy, here’s a quick rundown of my top picks for 2025, depending on what you’re looking for:

• Best Overall for Most People: The iPad Air 2025 11-inch is truly the sweet spot, offering fantastic performance with the M3 chip and a great display without breaking the bank like the Pro.
• Best for Power Users & Professionals: If you need the absolute best, the iPad Pro 2024 with M4 is an incredible machine, especially for demanding creative tasks, thanks to its stunning OLED screen and powerful chip.
• Best Budget-Friendly Option: For everyday tasks, browsing, and casual use, the iPad 11th Gen, 2025 offers amazing value and is often on sale.
• Best for Portability: The iPad mini 2024 is unmatched if you want a powerful tablet that easily fits in a small bag or even a large pocket.
• Best Value Refurbished/Used: Don’t overlook a refurbished iPad Air M2 or even a used iPad 10th Gen. You can save a lot of cash and still get a fantastic device.

Now, let’s dive into the details of each model so you can pick the one that truly fits your life.

iPad Pro 2024 & Expected 2025: Unmatched Power for the Demanding User

If you’re someone who pushes their devices to the limit – think video editing, 3D rendering, professional art, or just serious multitasking – then the iPad Pro is probably calling your name. It’s Apple’s flagship tablet for a reason, packing the most advanced tech and a premium experience.

The Current Champion: iPad Pro 2024 with M4 Chip

As of late 2024 and early 2025, the iPad Pro 2024 is the pinnacle of Apple’s tablet lineup. It was a big deal when it launched, bringing the incredibly powerful M4 chip, which is even more potent than what’s in many MacBooks. This means it can handle pretty much anything you throw at it with ease.

One of the biggest upgrades here is the Tandem OLED display. This isn’t just any screen. it’s an Ultra Retina XDR display that delivers stunning colors, deep blacks, and incredible brightness. Whether you’re watching movies, editing photos, or creating digital art, the visuals are simply breathtaking. The 11-inch model starts at $999, and the 13-inch at $1,299, making it a significant investment. It’s also incredibly thin and light, which is impressive for such a powerful device.

You also get features like Face ID, compatibility with the Apple Pencil Pro which has cool new gestures like barrel roll and squeeze, and support for the Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro. The Magic Keyboard even has haptic feedback keys and a larger trackpad, making it feel very much like a laptop. Best etf to buy in 2025

Looking Ahead: iPad Pro M5 Expected Late 2025

Now, here’s where it gets interesting for those who like to stay on the cutting edge. Rumors are swirling that a new iPad Pro with an M5 chip could launch in October 2025. While the 2024 M4 iPad Pro was a huge upgrade, the M5 model is expected to be a refinement rather than a complete overhaul.

What can you expect? Even more power, of course, with a rumored 10-core CPU and up to 12-core GPU for even faster processing and graphics. We might see increased RAM, possibly starting at 16GB, to better handle intensive multitasking and future Apple Intelligence features. There’s also talk of Wi-Fi 7 support for even quicker wireless speeds. A pretty big change could be a dual front-facing camera system, with one on the side and one on the portrait edge, which would be amazing for video calls no matter how you’re holding the tablet. The displays might also see a slight bump in size, possibly 11.5 and 13.5 inches, with even thinner bezels.

Who is this for? If you’re a professional who needs the absolute best performance for demanding apps, a top-tier creative, or someone who simply wants the most future-proof iPad, the iPad Pro is your go-to. If you already have the M4 model, you probably don’t need to rush for the M5, but if you’re coming from an older Pro, it’s a huge leap.

iPad Air 2025: The Sweet Spot for Most People

The iPad Air 2025 has really cemented its place as the best all-around iPad for a lot of people. It strikes a fantastic balance between performance, features, and price, making it an excellent choice for students, everyday users, and even many creative tasks.

Best bitcoin to buy in 2025

The 2025 iPad Air got a significant refresh, now sporting the powerful M3 chip. This is the same chip you’ll find in some MacBooks, so it’s incredibly capable for multitasking, gaming, and a wide range of productivity and creative apps. It’s a huge step up from the A-series chips in the standard iPad, allowing it to run Apple Intelligence features and advanced multitasking like Stage Manager smoothly.

For the first time, the iPad Air is available in two sizes: an 11-inch model starting at $599 and a larger 13-inch model at $799. This is a must if you wanted a bigger screen but didn’t want to shell out for the iPad Pro. Both models feature a vibrant Liquid Retina display with True Tone and P3 wide color, giving you a great visual experience. While it’s not OLED like the Pro, it still looks excellent for most content.

Connectivity is solid with Wi-Fi 6E, and it supports the Apple Pencil Pro and the Magic Keyboard for iPad Air, which now includes a function row and a larger trackpad. The -oriented front camera is also a welcome change for video calls.

Who is this for? If you’re a student needing a reliable device for notes and assignments, a creative who dabbles in digital art or light video editing, or simply someone who wants a premium iPad experience without going full “Pro,” the iPad Air is an outstanding choice. It’s often recommended as the best iPad for college students in 2025.

iPad mini 2024: The Portable Powerhouse

If portability is your absolute top priority, then look no further than the iPad mini 2024. This little tablet is a fan favorite for a reason, offering surprising power in a compact 8.3-inch form factor.

Best budget car to buy in 2025

The 2024 iPad mini packs the A17 Pro chip, which is seriously fast for a tablet this size. This means it can easily handle gaming, streaming, browsing, and even some more intensive apps. It also supports Apple Intelligence, bringing smart features to your compact companion.

The 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display is gorgeous for its size, offering sharp visuals and vibrant colors. It’s perfect for reading e-books, sketching with the Apple Pencil Pro yes, it supports the latest one!, or just catching up on your favorite shows on the go. Its compact design makes it ideal for travel and situations where a larger tablet would be cumbersome.

While rumors for a 2025 update were floating around, it seems the next major refresh for the iPad mini perhaps with an A18 Pro chip or even an OLED display might not come until 2026 or later, making the 2024 model a solid buy right now.

Who is this for? This is the best iPad for travel, commuters, digital notepads, or anyone who wants an iPad that feels like a “bigger iPhone.” It’s also a fantastic option for kids due to its size and robust capabilities. Best apple phone to buy in 2025

iPad 11th Gen, 2025: The Best Budget Option

For many people, the standard iPad 11th Gen, 2025 is all they need, and it delivers fantastic value for its price. Apple refreshed this model in March 2025, making it an even more compelling choice for those on a budget.

The 11th-gen iPad now features the A16 Bionic chip, a nice upgrade over its predecessor. While it’s not an M-series chip, it’s still plenty powerful for everyday tasks like web browsing, email, streaming video, social media, and a vast library of apps and games. It even starts with 128GB of storage, which is a welcome improvement, along with a 256GB and new 512GB option.

It sports a modern design with flat edges, thinner bezels, and an 11-inch Liquid Retina display though some sources still call it 10.9-inch with the same resolution as the previous model. You’ll find a USB-C port for charging and accessories, and Touch ID is conveniently integrated into the top button. The front-facing camera is now -oriented, which is great for video calls.

However, it’s worth noting a few differences compared to the Air. The display isn’t fully laminated, meaning there’s a small air gap between the glass and the screen, and it lacks an anti-reflective coating. It also doesn’t support Apple Intelligence, unlike the other current iPad models. You’ll also use a different, less premium Magic Keyboard Folio, which still works well but isn’t as robust as the Air/Pro versions. Galaxy Z Flip6 eSIM

Who is this for? This is the best cheap iPad to buy in 2025 for most users. It’s fantastic for casual use, media consumption, basic schoolwork, and as a first tablet for kids or older adults. If you just want a reliable iPad experience without all the bells and whistles, this is your pick.

The Value Play: Best Used & Refurbished iPads in 2025

Sometimes, the best iPad isn’t necessarily the newest one. Buying a used or refurbished iPad can be a smart move, saving you a good chunk of money while still getting a highly capable device that will last for years. This is especially true given how well Apple products hold their value and receive long-term software support.

Why Go Used or Refurbished?

• Cost Savings: This is the obvious one. You can get a high-end model from a year or two ago for significantly less than a new entry-level iPad.
• Sustainability: Buying refurbished helps reduce e-waste, which is a win for the environment.
• Still Plenty Powerful: Even older M1 or M2 iPads are incredibly powerful and will easily handle iPadOS 26 and most apps for years to come.

Top Picks for Used and Refurbished iPads:

1. iPad Air M2 2024: If you can find a refurbished M2 iPad Air, it’s an incredible deal. It has the same design as the new M3 Air, and the M2 chip is still super fast. Many reviews suggest it offers nearly identical real-world performance to the M3 for most tasks, making it a fantastic value if you can get it for less.
2. iPad 10th Generation 2022: While the 11th Gen is out, the 10th Gen iPad is still a very capable device, especially if you can find it at a discount from third-party retailers or refurbished. It offers a modern design with USB-C and the A14 Bionic chip, which is still smooth for everyday use.
3. iPad Pro M1 or M2 2021/2022: For power users on a budget, an M1 or M2 iPad Pro offers an amazing Liquid Retina XDR display though not OLED, ProMotion, and powerful performance that rivals many laptops. These are great for creative work without the M4 price tag.

Where to Buy Refurbished:

• Apple Certified Refurbished: This is the “gold standard.” Devices undergo thorough inspection, replacement of parts like batteries and outer shells, come with a one-year warranty, and are essentially like new.
• Authorized Resellers Amazon, Best Buy: Many reputable retailers offer certified refurbished iPads with similar quality control processes, often at competitive prices. Always check their warranty and return policies.
• Reputable Third-Party Retailers e.g., Back Market: These platforms specialize in refurbished electronics and often provide good warranties. Just ensure the seller has strong reviews and guarantees.

Important Considerations: When buying used, always check the device’s condition, battery health, and ensure it’s not iCloud locked. Refurbished generally offers more peace of mind.

Key Features to Consider When Buying Your iPad

Beyond the model, a few features make a big difference in your daily iPad experience. AQUOS Zero6 eSIM

Display Quality & Size

This is a huge one.

• iPad Pro M4: Features a stunning Tandem OLED display with incredible contrast, true blacks, and high brightness. It’s fantastic for visual work and media consumption. Available in 11 and 13 inches.
• iPad Air M3: Uses a Liquid Retina IPS LCD display that’s bright, colorful, and fully laminated with an anti-reflective coating. Very good for most users. Available in 11 and 13 inches.
• iPad mini A17 Pro: Also has a Liquid Retina IPS LCD display, compact and sharp for its size, fully laminated. Comes in 8.3 inches.
• iPad 11th Gen: Features an IPS LCD display that’s bright enough for most, but lacks full lamination and an anti-reflective coating, which means you might see a small gap between the glass and the screen, and more reflections. It’s 11 inches.

Think about how you’ll use it. For watching movies or detailed design work, a larger, higher-quality screen like the Pro’s or Air’s is amazing. For reading on the go, the mini’s size is perfect.

Processor Power A-series vs. M-series

Apple’s chips are incredibly efficient and powerful.

• M-series M3, M4, M5: Found in the iPad Pro and iPad Air. These are desktop-class chips, designed for intensive tasks, professional applications, and advanced multitasking. If you’re doing heavy creative work or want the longest-lasting performance, an M-series iPad is the way to go.
• A-series A16, A17 Pro: Found in the base iPad and iPad mini. These are still incredibly fast and more than capable for everyday use, gaming, and most apps. The A17 Pro in the mini is especially snappy.

The good news is that even an A-series chip will provide a smooth experience for years to come.

Apple Pencil Support

If you plan on drawing, taking notes, or marking up documents, Apple Pencil support is crucial. Motorola Razr 40 Ultra eSIM

• Apple Pencil Pro: This is the latest and greatest, offering new features like “squeeze” for quick tools, “barrel roll” for precise brush control, and haptic feedback. It works with the iPad Pro M4, iPad Air M3, and iPad mini 2024.
• Apple Pencil USB-C: A more affordable option for basic note-taking and sketching. It works with most modern iPads, including the iPad Pro, iPad Air, iPad mini, and the 11th-gen iPad.
• Apple Pencil 1st Gen: Primarily for older iPads, including the 9th-gen iPad and the 10th-gen iPad though the 10th-gen needs an adapter to charge it.

The Pencil Pro offers the most natural and versatile experience for artists and serious note-takers. You can find all Apple Pencil models on Amazon.

Keyboard and Accessories

Transforming your iPad into a laptop-like experience often involves a keyboard.

• Magic Keyboard: Available for iPad Pro and iPad Air. It’s a premium accessory with a floating design, backlit keys, a trackpad, and a pass-through USB-C port for charging. It really turns your iPad into a productivity machine.
• Magic Keyboard Folio: Designed for the standard iPad 11th Gen. It’s a two-piece design with a kickstand and a function row, offering a good typing experience but less stability on a lap compared to the Magic Keyboard.
• Smart Keyboard Folio: For older iPad Pro and Air models, it’s a simpler, lighter keyboard cover without a trackpad.
• Third-Party Keyboards: Brands like Logitech offer excellent alternatives, often with more features or lower prices. Check out options like the Logitech Combo Touch.

Consider your workflow. If you type a lot, a good keyboard is a must-have.

iPadOS 26 and Apple Intelligence

Apple’s software updates are a big part of the iPad experience. iPadOS 26, expected later in 2025, is rumored to bring significant improvements, making the iPad even more capable for multitasking and productivity. Expect features that bring iPadOS closer to macOS, with more flexible window management and a Mac-style Menu bar. Pixel 9 Pro eSIM

Apple Intelligence is another massive development, bringing advanced AI features directly to your device. This includes enhanced writing tools, image generation, smarter Siri, and more personalized experiences. It’s available on M-series iPads iPad Pro M4, iPad Air M3 and the iPad mini A17 Pro, but notably, not on the base iPad 11th Gen due to its A16 chip. If you want to take full advantage of Apple’s latest AI innovations, you’ll need one of the more powerful models.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the best iPad in 2025 really boils down to your personal needs and budget.

• For the ultimate power and a stunning display, the iPad Pro M4 2024 is unbeatable, with the potential M5 update later in the year offering even more.
• The iPad Air M3 2025 remains my top recommendation for most people, hitting that sweet spot of performance, features, and value, especially for students and creatives.
• If portability is key, the iPad mini 2024 is a fantastic, compact device with surprising power.
• And if you’re on a tighter budget, the iPad 11th Gen, 2025 delivers an excellent all-around experience for everyday tasks.

Don’t forget to explore refurbished iPads as well. they can offer incredible value, often feeling like new for a fraction of the price. Whichever you choose, an iPad in 2025 is a versatile and powerful device that can enhance your daily life, whether for work, creativity, or entertainment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which iPad is best for students in 2025?

For most students, the iPad Air 2025 with the M3 chip is the best choice. It offers powerful performance for essays, presentations, research, and creative projects, alongside great battery life and compatibility with the Apple Pencil Pro and Magic Keyboard. If you’re on a tighter budget, the iPad 11th Gen, 2025 is also a solid and affordable option for essential schoolwork.

Pixel 9a eSIM

Is it worth buying a used or refurbished iPad in 2025?

Absolutely! Buying a used or refurbished iPad in 2025 can be a smart financial decision and an environmentally friendly one. Devices like a refurbished iPad Air M2 or a used iPad 10th Gen still offer excellent performance and receive long-term software support from Apple. Just make sure to buy from reputable sources like Apple Certified Refurbished or authorized resellers who offer warranties.

What’s the difference between the iPad and iPad Air in 2025?

The main differences lie in their processors, display quality, and accessory support. The iPad Air 2025 features the more powerful M3 chip, a fully laminated display with an anti-reflective coating, and supports Apple Intelligence. It also works with the premium Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil Pro. The iPad 11th Gen, 2025 uses the A16 Bionic chip, has a non-laminated display, and does not support Apple Intelligence. It works with a more basic Magic Keyboard Folio and an older Apple Pencil. The Air is a step up in performance and premium features.

Will the iPad mini get an update in 2025?

As of now, a major hardware update for the iPad mini in 2025 is unlikely. The iPad mini 2024, with its A17 Pro chip and Apple Intelligence support, was recently released. Rumors suggest the next iPad mini refresh, potentially featuring an A18 Pro chip or an OLED display, might not arrive until 2026 or even later. So, the 2024 model is a solid purchase for the foreseeable future.

Which iPad is best for gaming in 2025?

For serious gamers, the iPad Pro 2024 with its M4 chip is the top choice. Its powerful M4 chip and stunning Tandem OLED display deliver incredible graphics and smooth frame rates for even the most demanding AAA titles. The iPad Air 2025 with M3 is also an excellent option, offering great gaming performance at a more accessible price point. The iPad mini 2024 is great for mobile gaming due to its compact size and A17 Pro chip. Pixel 3a eSIM

Should I wait for the 2025 iPad Pro M5, or buy the M4 now?

If you need an iPad Pro now for professional or demanding creative work, the iPad Pro 2024 with M4 is an exceptional device and an amazing purchase. However, if you’re always after the very latest tech and can hold off until late 2025 likely October, waiting for the rumored iPad Pro M5 might be worth it for potential upgrades like the M5 chip, Wi-Fi 7, and a dual front-facing camera system. For most users, the M4 is already overkill, so waiting might not be necessary.