Apple’s iPad lineup received significant updates in 2024, with refreshes to the iPad Pro, iPad Air, and iPad mini, alongside a price adjustment for the 10th-generation iPad. As we move into early 2025, with anticipated updates to the iPad Air and the entry-level iPad on the horizon, choosing the right iPad can be challenging. This comprehensive Macrumors Buying Guide provides a detailed comparison of the current iPad models to help you make an informed decision.
Finding the Best iPad for Your Needs
In 2023, Apple broke its tradition of annual iPad updates, but 2024 saw a resurgence with updates across most of the lineup. As we look to 2025, only the standard iPad is awaiting its next iteration. Deciding which iPad to buy depends largely on your budget and intended use.
For budget-conscious buyers, the 10th-generation iPad remains the most affordable option, offering a solid feature set despite its older technology. If portability is key, the iPad mini stands out with its compact size. For a balance of features and screen size, the iPad Air, now available in two sizes, presents a compelling mid-range choice.
The iPad Pro models occupy the high-end, delivering top-tier performance and features at a premium price. Unless you require professional-grade capabilities or are less concerned about cost, the more affordable iPads are likely to be sufficient.
Let’s delve into each iPad model to explore their strengths and weaknesses.
Exploring the iPad Models
10.9-inch iPad (10th Generation)
Starting at $349, the 10th-generation iPad is Apple’s most accessible tablet. Released in October 2022, it features a 10.9-inch display and the A14 Bionic chip. While it’s the oldest model in the current lineup, it still provides excellent value for everyday tasks.
The 10th-generation iPad boasts a modern design, eliminating the Home button and adopting slim bezels similar to the iPad Air and iPad Pro. It integrates Touch ID into the power button, utilizes USB-C, and has an upgraded 12MP rear camera.
However, as the entry-level option, it has limitations. It only supports the first-generation Apple Pencil or the USB-C Apple Pencil, not the Apple Pencil 2, and storage options are capped at 256GB.
Key Specs:
- 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display with True Tone
- Touch ID in the side button
- A14 Bionic chip
- 12MP Wide rear camera, 12MP Landscape Ultra Wide front camera
- Apple Pencil (1st generation) and Apple Pencil (USB-C) support
- Magic Keyboard Folio compatibility
- USB-C port
- Available in Blue, Pink, Silver, and Yellow
iPad mini (7th Generation)
The iPad mini, updated in October 2024 and starting at $499, is designed for portability and power in a small package. Apple doubled the base storage to 128GB, and offers configurations up to 512GB.
Its 8.3-inch display provides significantly more screen real estate than even the largest iPhones, while remaining exceptionally portable. The iPad mini is perfect for users who need a device that’s easy to carry around but still offers a comfortable viewing experience.
Powered by the A17 Pro chip, the iPad mini is a surprisingly powerful tablet, supporting Apple Intelligence features. It features an enhanced display compared to the base iPad, a 12MP rear camera with LED flash, and compatibility with the advanced Apple Pencil Pro.
Key Specs:
- 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display with True Tone and full lamination
- Touch ID in the power button
- A17 Pro chip with 5-core graphics and 16-core Neural Engine
- 12MP Wide back camera with Smart HDR 4 and 4K video
- 12MP Ultra Wide front camera with Smart HDR 4 and 1080p HD video
- Landscape stereo speakers
- Apple Pencil Pro and Apple Pencil (USB-C) support
- Bluetooth keyboard compatibility
- 10Gbps USB-C port
- Available in Space Gray, Blue, Purple, and Starlight
iPad Air (5th & 6th Generation)
The iPad Air, refreshed in May 2024, is now available in 11-inch and 13-inch sizes, starting at $599 and $799 respectively. It strikes an excellent balance between features and price, offering many of the premium capabilities of the iPad Pro at a more accessible price point.
The iPad Air is a versatile mid-tier option suitable for a wide range of users. It provides a significant step up from the entry-level iPad in terms of performance and display quality, while still remaining more affordable than the iPad Pro.
Key Specs:
- 11-inch or 13-inch Liquid Retina display with True Tone and full lamination
- Touch ID in the power button
- M2 chip
- 12MP Wide rear camera with Smart HDR 4 and 4K video up to 60 fps
- Landscape 12MP FaceTime HD front camera with Smart HDR 4
- Apple Pencil Pro and Apple Pencil (USB-C) support
- Magic Keyboard and Bluetooth keyboard compatibility
- USB-C port
- Available in Space Gray, Blue, Purple, and Starlight
iPad Pro (7th & 8th Generation)
For users demanding peak performance and cutting-edge technology, the iPad Pro models are the ultimate choice. Updated in May 2024, the iPad Pro comes in 11-inch and 13-inch sizes, starting at $999 and $1,299. These models feature the new M4 chip, stunning OLED displays, and a thinner design.
The iPad Pro is a significant leap above the iPad Air, offering superior displays with 120Hz ProMotion, Thunderbolt/USB 4 support, Face ID, and up to 2TB of storage. It’s designed for professionals and power users who require the best possible performance and features.
While overkill for many, the iPad Pro delivers unmatched capabilities for those who need it.
Key Specs:
- 11-inch or 13-inch Ultra Retina XDR OLED display with ProMotion
- Face ID
- M4 chip
- 12MP Wide rear camera with Smart HDR 4 and 4K video up to 60 fps
- Landscape 12MP TrueDepth front camera with Center Stage, Portrait mode, and Smart HDR 4
- Four-speaker audio
- 5G connectivity
- Apple Pencil Pro and Apple Pencil (USB-C) support
- Magic Keyboard and Bluetooth keyboard compatibility
- Thunderbolt / USB 4 connector
- Available in Silver and Space Black
Customizing Your iPad
Beyond the base models, several customization options can enhance your iPad experience, including storage, cellular connectivity, and AppleCare+.
Storage: Choosing the right storage capacity is crucial. The 10th-generation iPad offers 64GB and 256GB options. The iPad mini starts at 128GB and goes up to 512GB. iPad Air models range from 128GB to 1TB. iPad Pro models start at 256GB and offer options up to 2TB.
Consider your usage: for basic tasks and streaming, lower storage might suffice. For professionals or those storing large files, higher capacities are recommended. iCloud can help manage storage, but local storage offers quicker access and offline availability.
Display Options: The iPad Pro introduces a nano-texture display option for 1TB and 2TB configurations. This $100 upgrade reduces glare, beneficial for color-sensitive work or bright environments, making it ideal for professionals in fields like photography or design, or for outdoor use.
Cellular Connectivity: For constant connectivity on the go, cellular models are available for all iPads, adding $130–$200 to the price. This eliminates reliance on Wi-Fi and hotspots. While convenient, it requires a separate data plan. Many users find tethering to their smartphone a cost-effective alternative. All current iPads support sub-6GHz 5G for fast speeds.
AppleCare+: All iPads include a one-year limited warranty and 90 days of support. AppleCare+ extends coverage to two years and includes unlimited accidental damage incidents (service fees apply: $49 for iPad and iPad mini, $29 for iPad Air/Pro screen damage, $99 for other damage).
AppleCare+ also covers Apple Pencil and Apple-branded keyboard accessories ($29 service fee). Given the repair costs without it, AppleCare+ can be a worthwhile investment. It must be purchased within 60 days of the iPad.
Essential iPad Accessories
Enhance your iPad with accessories for protection, style, and functionality. Apple offers a range of accessories, and third-party options are also widely available.
Apple Pencil: The Apple Pencil enhances creativity and productivity, especially for artists and note-takers. There are now four Apple Pencil models:
- Apple Pencil (1st Generation) ($99): Compatible with older iPads with Lightning ports and the 10th-generation iPad.
- Apple Pencil (2nd Generation) ($129): Compatible with older iPad Air and iPad Pro models with magnetic charging.
- Apple Pencil (USB-C) ($69): Offers a budget-friendly option compatible with a range of recent iPads, including the 10th-generation iPad, iPad mini 6th and 7th gen, iPad Air (4th gen and later), and iPad Pro (2018-2022).
- Apple Pencil Pro ($129): The most advanced, compatible with iPad mini 7th gen, iPad Air (M2), and iPad Pro (M4), featuring squeeze and barrel roll gestures, haptic feedback, and Find My support.
Choose the Apple Pencil that best suits your iPad model and needs. For basic use, the USB-C Pencil is sufficient, while creatives might prefer the Pro model.
Cases: Apple’s Smart Cover and Smart Folio cases provide protection and stand functionality. Smart Covers protect the screen, while Smart Folios offer front and back protection. Prices range from $39 to $99 depending on iPad size and model.
Keyboards: For enhanced productivity, consider a keyboard. Apple’s Magic Keyboard ($299-$349) offers a premium typing experience with a trackpad, backlit keys, and USB-C passthrough charging.
The Smart Keyboard Folio ($179-$199) is a more affordable option for older iPad Pro models. The 10th-generation iPad has its own Magic Keyboard Folio ($249) with a detachable keyboard and trackpad. Bluetooth keyboards from brands like Logitech and Belkin are also excellent alternatives.
Cables: All new iPads use USB-C. While a cable is included, extra cables are always useful. Apple sells them, but brands like Anker offer reliable and more affordable alternatives.
Making Your iPad Choice
The iPad Air is the best overall iPad for most users, balancing price and features, and now offered in two sizes. It delivers many iPad Pro features for a significantly lower price.
For budget-conscious buyers, the 10th-generation iPad remains a strong contender, offering great value for basic use, especially for students or casual users.
The iPad mini excels in portability, ideal for e-reading and on-the-go tasks. It’s a powerful compact tablet with a great display and Apple Pencil Pro support.
The iPad Pro is for power users and professionals who demand the best performance and features. It can serve as a laptop replacement with its processing power and accessories like the Magic Keyboard, particularly for those who value portability.
Ultimately, the best iPad depends on your individual needs and budget. Consider how you’ll use your iPad and choose the model that aligns best with your priorities.
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