When it comes to purchasing an iPad, the decision can be overwhelming due to the variety of models available. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or someone simply looking for a device to watch movies and browse the web, there’s an iPad designed to meet your needs. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the different iPad models available in 2025, highlighting their features and helping you determine which one is best for you.
1. iPad 9th Generation: Best for Budget-Conscious Users
The iPad 9th generation is Apple’s most affordable model, but it doesn’t skimp on essential features. With a 10.2-inch Retina display, A13 Bionic chip, and support for Apple Pencil (1st generation) and the Smart Keyboard, the iPad 9th generation offers excellent performance for everyday tasks like web browsing, watching videos, and light productivity work.
-
Pros: Affordable price, solid performance for everyday use, compatible with older accessories like the Apple Pencil (1st generation)
-
Cons: Outdated design, lower resolution display compared to higher-end models
Best for: Budget-conscious buyers, casual users, students, and anyone who wants an affordable iPad for basic tasks.
2. iPad Air: A Perfect Balance of Power and Portability
The iPad Air is an excellent option for those looking for a powerful yet affordable tablet. With a 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display, the A14 Bionic chip, and support for Apple Pencil (2nd generation), the iPad Air delivers performance that rivals the iPad Pro in many ways but at a lower price. It’s also thinner and lighter than the Pro models, making it highly portable.
-
Pros: High-performance chip, beautiful display, thinner and lighter than the Pro models, support for the 2nd generation Apple Pencil
-
Cons: No ProMotion display (120Hz refresh rate), no Face ID
Best for: Users who want great performance for productivity, light creative work, and media consumption without paying for the Pro models.
3. iPad Pro: The Powerhouse for Professionals and Creators
The iPad Pro is the most advanced iPad model and is designed for users who need the best performance available. With 11-inch and 12.9-inch models, the iPad Pro is powered by the M1 chip, providing incredible speed and efficiency. It also features a ProMotion display with a 120Hz refresh rate, making it ideal for smooth scrolling and high-end gaming or creative applications. If you’re a designer, video editor, or someone who needs a high-performance tablet, the iPad Pro is the way to go.
-
Pros: Incredible performance with the M1 chip, ProMotion display, Face ID, large screen options, excellent for creative work (supports Apple Pencil 2)
-
Cons: High price tag, larger size may be cumbersome for some
Best for: Professionals, artists, designers, video editors, and anyone who needs the highest performance for demanding tasks.
4. iPad Mini: The Ultra-Portable Option
If you prefer a compact, portable tablet, the iPad Mini might be your best choice. With a 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display and the A15 Bionic chip, the iPad Mini offers impressive performance for its size. It’s perfect for reading, light gaming, or using on-the-go. The iPad Mini also supports the 2nd generation Apple Pencil, making it a great choice for those who need a portable device for sketching or note-taking.
-
Pros: Ultra-portable, powerful performance for its size, support for Apple Pencil (2nd generation)
-
Cons: Smaller screen may not be ideal for all tasks, higher price compared to the iPad 9th generation
Best for: Users who want portability, a smaller device for reading or media consumption, or a tablet for drawing and taking notes on the go.
5. iPad Pro vs. iPad Air: Which One Should You Choose?
If you’re stuck between the iPad Pro and the iPad Air, here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:
-
Performance: The iPad Pro has the M1 chip, which outperforms the A14 Bionic chip in the iPad Air. If you need maximum speed for tasks like video editing, 3D rendering, or intensive multitasking, the iPad Pro is the better choice.
-
Display: The iPad Pro offers a ProMotion display with a 120Hz refresh rate, which results in a smoother experience, especially for tasks like drawing or gaming. The iPad Air has a Liquid Retina display but lacks ProMotion.
-
Portability: While both devices are relatively portable, the iPad Air is lighter and thinner than the iPad Pro, making it easier to carry around.
-
Price: The iPad Air is more budget-friendly compared to the iPad Pro, making it the better choice if you don’t need the absolute best performance and want to save some money.
Verdict: Choose the iPad Air if you want a balance between performance and price. Opt for the iPad Pro if you need top-tier performance and a better display for professional creative work.
6. Which iPad Is Right for You?
The iPad model you choose ultimately depends on your personal needs and preferences. Here’s a simple breakdown:
-
For casual users: The iPad 9th generation is perfect for web browsing, streaming, and social media without breaking the bank.
-
For students and professionals: The iPad Air strikes a balance between price and performance, making it great for productivity apps, note-taking, and light media creation.
-
For creatives and power users: The iPad Pro is the best choice, providing unmatched performance for professionals who require high-level computing, drawing, or editing capabilities.
-
For portability: The iPad Mini is perfect for those who need a compact tablet for reading, media consumption, or quick tasks on the go.
Conclusion
In 2025, Apple offers a range of iPads to suit different needs, from budget-friendly options to high-end devices for creative professionals. The iPad 9th generation is ideal for basic tasks, the iPad Air is a great mid-range option, and the iPad Pro is designed for those who demand the best performance. The iPad Mini offers the ultimate portability if that’s your priority.
Before purchasing, consider your primary use case: Are you looking for a tablet to watch videos, create art, or get work done on the go? With this guide, you’ll be able to find the perfect iPad that suits your lifestyle and needs.
