Choosing the right iPad can feel overwhelming. With six different models, multiple storage options, three types of Apple Pencils, and various keyboards to consider, the decision becomes complicated fast. And let's be honest—these devices aren't cheap.
After spending weeks testing every current iPad model, I'm here to break down exactly which one makes sense for your needs and budget. Whether you're a student, creative professional, or just want a tablet for browsing and streaming, this guide will help you avoid overspending while getting the perfect iPad.
7 Things to Consider Before Buying Any iPad
1. They're All Actually Great Tablets
Here's the truth: every iPad will run the same apps and games (with a few exceptions). They all claim around 10 hours of battery life, have front and rear cameras, support Apple Pencils, and use USB-C for charging. The differences come down to screen quality, processing power, and premium features.
2. How Will You Actually Use It?
This might seem obvious, but it's crucial. Are you watching Netflix and browsing social media? Get the base model. Editing 4K video and creating digital art? You'll want more power. Gaming and note-taking? Something in the middle works perfectly.
3. Don't Overlook Refurbished Models
You can save serious money by considering last-generation iPads. The M2 Air or even an M4 Pro from a year ago will still be incredibly capable. Just ensure you're getting a warranty from a reputable retailer.
4. Accessories Add Up Quickly
This is where costs spiral. Storage should be your first priority since you can't upgrade it later. Then consider a keyboard if you want a laptop replacement experience. The Apple Pencil comes next if you're into drawing or note-taking. Skip the 5G option unless your company is paying—just use your phone's hotspot instead.
Pro tip: Third-party accessories often work just as well for a fraction of Apple's prices.
5. Can It Replace Your Laptop?
Many people hope to skip buying both a MacBook and iPad. With iPadOS and a good keyboard, you can get 90% of the way there. However, you'll miss proper desktop applications and the full macOS experience. With keyboard accessories, even the iPad Air reaches MacBook Air pricing territory.
6. Consider the Alternatives
Galaxy Tabs, OnePlus Pads, and Microsoft Surface devices all have their strengths. However, if you're already in the Apple ecosystem with an iPhone or Mac, iPads offer the best integration and user experience.
7. Apple Intelligence Isn't Essential
All new iPads support Apple Intelligence except the base model. While features like improved Siri and AI writing tools are nice, they're not game-changers yet. You can always use ChatGPT or Gemini on any iPad anyway.
The Complete 2025 iPad Lineup
iPad (11th Generation with A16) - Starting at $349
Best for: Budget-conscious buyers, kids, seniors, casual users
The base iPad is fantastic value. You get a capable A16 chip, 128GB of storage (finally!), a 10.9-inch display, and all the core iPad features. Yes, the screen isn't laminated and lacks anti-reflective coating, but for watching videos, browsing, reading, and light gaming, it's more than enough.
What you're missing: Apple Intelligence, Stage Manager multitasking, and compatibility with the most demanding games like Assassin's Creed Mirage. The 60Hz screen feels less responsive than pricier models.
My take: If you just want an iPad and don't need all the bells and whistles, this is your answer. Stick with 128GB storage and save your money. It's cheap and cheerful in the best way possible.
Compatible accessories: Magic Keyboard Folio, Apple Pencil USB-C, or first-generation Apple Pencil
iPad Mini (7th Generation) - Starting at $499
Best for: People who need portability, one-handed reading, mobile professionals
The iPad Mini is adorable and genuinely pocket-friendly (though maybe not comfortably). Its 8.3-inch size makes it perfect for reading, gaming, and note-taking on the go. The A17 Pro chip brings Apple Intelligence support, and the laminated display with anti-reflective coating is noticeably nicer than the base model.
What you're missing: For the price, you're not getting an M-series chip, and it's stuck at 60Hz. At nearly $500, it feels a generation behind the Air.
My take: If you want a small iPad, this is your only option—and it's a good one. But the pricing feels steep for what you get. Industries and businesses that need ultra-portable tablets swear by it, though.
Compatible accessories: Apple Pencil Pro, Apple Pencil USB-C (no official keyboard, but Bluetooth keyboards work)
iPad Air (M3, 11-inch and 13-inch) - Starting at $599
Best for: Most power users, students, creative professionals on a budget
The Air is the sweet spot for many people. You get the powerful M3 chip with 8GB RAM, a gorgeous laminated display with anti-reflective coating, support for the Pencil Pro, and faster connectivity. The 13-inch option offers 30% more screen real estate, making it incredible for multitasking and media consumption.
What you're missing: Still stuck at 60Hz (rumors suggest 120Hz is coming in 2026), Face ID, and OLED display technology. The screen is lovely but not as stunning as the Pro models.
My take: These are the best all-rounders. The 11-inch at $599 offers tremendous value if the base iPad feels too limited. The 13-inch is perfect if you want a big screen without Pro pricing. With the M3 chip, these will last 5-10 years easily.
Recommendation: The base 128GB is decent value, but 256GB for an extra $100 is smart for future-proofing.
Compatible accessories: Magic Keyboard for iPad Air, Apple Pencil Pro
iPad Pro (M5, 11-inch and 13-inch) - Starting at $999
Best for: Creative professionals, those who need the absolute best, company-funded purchases
These are the flagship iPads, and they're spectacular. The M5 chip is absurdly powerful—30-35% faster graphics than the M4, over three times faster for AI tasks. The 120Hz ProMotion OLED display is stunning with perfect blacks and incredible brightness. At just 5.1-5.3mm thick, they're impossibly thin yet feel premium.
You also get Face ID, quad speakers with studio-quality mics, better cameras, Thunderbolt 4 support, and the option for nano-texture glass (adding a paper-like feel).
What you're missing: About $1,000-3,000 from your bank account. Seriously, these are expensive. The fully loaded 13-inch with 2TB, nano-texture, keyboard, and pencil costs over $3,000.
My take: Unless you're a professional who genuinely needs this power, or your company is paying, these are hard to justify. They're incredible devices, but the Air offers 80% of the experience for significantly less money.
My personal choice: The 11-inch Pro hits the sweet spot between portability and performance for tech enthusiasts.
Compatible accessories: Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro (most premium option), Apple Pencil Pro
Apple Pencil Guide: Which One Do You Need?
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Apple Pencil USB-C ($79): Works with all iPads, attaches magnetically, no pressure sensitivity. Great for casual use and note-taking.
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Apple Pencil Pro ($129): Works with Air and Pro models. Adds pressure sensitivity, haptic feedback, squeeze and barrel roll controls, wireless charging, and Find My support. This is the one for serious artists and note-takers.
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First/Second Generation Pencils: Compatible with older iPads. If buying new, stick with the newer options above.
The Pencil Pro feels noticeably better on the 120Hz Pro displays, so if you're a professional artist, that's another reason to consider the Pro iPads.
Keyboard Options Explained
- Magic Keyboard Folio ($249): For base iPad, includes kickstand and detachable keyboard
- Magic Keyboard for iPad Air ($299-349): Glass trackpad, USB-C pass-through charging, function row
- Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro ($349-399): Same as Air version but with aluminum chassis, haptic feedback, backlit keys, black or white color options
All offer excellent typing experiences, but they're expensive. Consider buying your iPad first and adding a keyboard later if needed.
My Final Recommendations
Best Overall Value: Base iPad (A16) - Perfect for 80% of people who just want a great tablet
Best for Portability: iPad Mini - If you need small, this is your only option
Best All-Rounder: iPad Air 11-inch (M3) - The sweet spot of performance and price
Best for Screen Size: iPad Air 13-inch (M3) - Huge screen without Pro pricing
Best for Professionals: iPad Pro 11-inch (M5) - If you need the best and can justify the cost
Best Value Hack: Previous-gen M2 Air or M4 Pro - Basically the same experience for less money
Money-Saving Tips
- Trade-in your old iPad: Apple offers decent trade-in values, even for engraved devices
- Student/teacher discounts: Check if you qualify for education pricing
- Shop around: Amazon and other retailers often have $50-100 off
- Skip unnecessary upgrades: Base storage is often enough, 5G rarely needed
- Consider refurbished: Apple Certified Refurbished comes with warranty
The Bottom Line
For most people, the standard iPad offers everything you need at an unbeatable price. If you use your iPad heavily for work or creative projects, the Air models provide excellent value. The Pros are magnificent but expensive—only worth it if you genuinely need that power or can't live with a 60Hz screen.
Remember: the best iPad is the one that fits your actual needs and budget. Don't overspend on features you won't use.
Looking for a screen protector? Check out Paperlike for that premium paper-like texture that makes writing and drawing feel more natural while protecting your screen.
What iPad are you considering? Drop a comment below with your use case, and I'll help you decide!