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Which iPad Should You Buy in 2025? A Comprehensive Guide

Which iPad is Right for you

Choosing the right tablet can be a daunting task, especially with Apple’s diverse iPad lineup. Each model offers a unique blend of features and capabilities, catering to different needs and budgets. Here at The Tech Review, we’ve put together an in-depth guide to help you navigate the iPad landscape and find the perfect fit for your 2025 tech arsenal.

Let’s dive into the details of each current iPad model:

1. iPad Pro (M4): The Powerhouse

  • Models: 13-inch and 11-inch
  • Target Audience: Creative professionals, designers, video editors, users who demand top-tier performance and features.
  • Processor: Apple M4 chip – Expect blazing-fast performance for demanding tasks, from video editing and 3D rendering to running complex applications.
  • Display: Ultra Retina XDR display with ProMotion technology offers stunning visuals, incredible contrast, and a super-smooth 120Hz refresh rate. The 13-inch model boasts the largest and most immersive iPad display yet.
  • Cameras: Advanced camera system with Wide and Ultra Wide lenses, plus a LiDAR Scanner for enhanced augmented reality experiences and improved autofocus in low light.
  • Storage Options: Expect various storage configurations, potentially ranging from 256GB up to 2TB, to accommodate large files and extensive app libraries.
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6E and optional 5G cellular for lightning-fast internet speeds. Thunderbolt / USB 4 port offers versatile connectivity for external displays, docks, and high-speed storage.
  • Colors: Likely available in Space Black and Silver, maintaining the premium aesthetic of the Pro line.
  • Price: Starting at a premium price point, reflecting its advanced technology and capabilities. The 11-inch model will be more affordable than the 13-inch. Expect prices to start around $999 for the 11-inch Wi-Fi model and $1299 for the 13-inch Wi-Fi model. Cellular models will cost extra.
  • Accessories:
    • Apple Pencil Pro: The ultimate tool for creative input, offering features like barrel roll, haptic feedback, and squeeze gesture.
    • Magic Keyboard: Provides a fantastic typing experience with a built-in trackpad, transforming the iPad Pro into a powerful laptop alternative. Available in colors to complement the iPad.
    • Smart Folio: Offers basic protection and can fold into a stand for viewing or typing.

Who is the iPad Pro (M4) best for?

If you need the absolute best performance, a stunning display, and professional-grade features for creative work or demanding tasks, the iPad Pro (M4) is the clear choice. Its power rivals many laptops, and with the right accessories, it can be a true mobile workstation.

2. iPad Air (M3): The Sweet Spot of Power and Portability

  • Models: 13-inch and 11-inch
  • Target Audience: Students, professionals, and general users who want a powerful and versatile tablet without the premium price tag of the Pro.
  • Processor: Apple M3 chip – Delivers excellent performance for multitasking, gaming, and creative applications. A significant step up from previous Air models.
  • Display: Liquid Retina display offers vibrant colors and sharp details. Available in both 13-inch and 11-inch sizes to suit different preferences.
  • Cameras: Capable front and rear cameras for photos, videos, and video conferencing. Likely features a landscape 12MP Ultra Wide front camera with Center Stage.
  • Storage Options: Expect storage options suitable for most users, potentially ranging from 128GB to 512GB.
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6 and optional cellular connectivity. USB-C port for charging and accessories.
  • Colors: Expected to be available in a range of attractive colors, potentially including Space Gray, Blue, Purple, and Starlight.
  • Price: Positioned as a more affordable alternative to the Pro, the iPad Air (M3) offers excellent value for its performance. Expect prices to start around $599 for the 11-inch Wi-Fi model and $799 for the 13-inch Wi-Fi model. Cellular models will have an additional cost.
  • Accessories:
    • Apple Pencil Pro: Fully compatible, allowing for a great creative experience.
    • Apple Pencil (USB-C): A more affordable Apple Pencil option that attaches magnetically and charges via USB-C.
    • Magic Keyboard for iPad Air: Specifically designed for the Air, offering a similar typing and trackpad experience to the Pro’s Magic Keyboard, likely in coordinating colors.
    • Smart Folio: Provides protection and a stand function.

Who is the iPad Air (M3) best for?

The iPad Air (M3) strikes a fantastic balance between power, features, and affordability. It’s an excellent choice for students, everyday users, and professionals who need a capable tablet for work, entertainment, and light creative tasks.

3. iPad (11th Generation): The Affordable All-Rounder

  • Model: 11-inch (likely)
  • Target Audience: Budget-conscious buyers, families, and users who need a reliable tablet for everyday tasks.
  • Processor: Apple A16 chip – Provides a solid performance for web Browse, email, streaming, and casual gaming.
  • Display: Retina display offers good image quality for everyday use.
  • Cameras: Features front and rear cameras suitable for video calls and capturing photos and videos. The 2025 model is expected to retain the landscape 12MP Ultra Wide front camera with Center Stage, a welcome addition.
  • Storage Options: Likely available with 64GB and 256GB storage options.
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi and optional cellular. Uses a Lightning port for charging and accessories.
  • Colors: Expected to be available in classic colors like Silver and Space Gray, and potentially some fun, vibrant options.
  • Price: The most affordable iPad in the lineup, making it an accessible option for a wide range of users. Expect the starting price around $349 for the Wi-Fi model.
  • Accessories:
    • Apple Pencil (1st Generation): Compatible with this model for note-taking and drawing.
    • Smart Keyboard: Offers a physical keyboard for improved typing productivity.
    • Smart Folio: Provides basic protection and a stand.

Who is the iPad (11th Generation) best for?

The standard iPad is a reliable and affordable tablet perfect for everyday tasks like Browse the web, watching videos, playing games, and staying connected. It’s a great option for families, students on a budget, and anyone who doesn’t need the advanced features of the Pro or Air.

4. iPad mini (7th Generation): The Pocket Rocket

  • Model: 8.3-inch (likely)
  • Target Audience: Users who prioritize portability and want a powerful tablet in a compact size. Great for reading, taking notes on the go, and niche uses like pilots or field workers.
  • Processor: Apple A17 Pro chip – Packs a surprising amount of power into its small form factor, offering excellent performance for its size.
  • Display: Liquid Retina display delivers sharp text and vibrant colors in a highly portable format.
  • Cameras: Features capable front and rear cameras.
  • Storage Options: Expect storage options ranging from 64GB to 256GB.
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6 and optional 5G cellular. USB-C port for charging and accessories.
  • Colors: Could be available in a range of colors, perhaps similar to the iPad Air, to appeal to a wider audience.
  • Price: Priced above the standard iPad but below the Air, reflecting its premium compact design and performance. Expect the starting price to be around $499 for the Wi-Fi model.
  • Accessories:
    • Apple Pencil (USB-C): A great companion for note-taking, sketching, and annotating documents on the go.
    • Smart Folio: Offers protection and a stand in a compact size.

Who is the iPad mini (7th Generation) best for?

If portability is your top priority and you still want a capable tablet experience, the iPad mini is the perfect choice. It’s powerful enough for most tasks and small enough to take anywhere.

Conclusion:

Choosing the right iPad in 2025 ultimately depends on your individual needs and budget.

  • For ultimate power and professional workflows, the iPad Pro (M4) is the king.
  • For a fantastic balance of performance and features without breaking the bank, the iPad Air (M3) is an excellent choice.
  • For everyday tasks at an affordable price, the iPad (11th Generation) delivers great value.
  • If portability is paramount, the iPad mini (7th Generation) offers a powerful experience in a compact package.

Consider how you plan to use your iPad, what your budget is, and which features are most important to you. With this guide, you’re well-equipped to make an informed decision and find the perfect iPad to enhance your tech life in 2025!

Dean Iodice, a seasoned freelance tech writer and industry analyst for TheTechReview.net, specializing in emerging technologies and consumer electronics.

Tablets

Samsung Unveils the Galaxy Tab 11 Ultra: A New Contender for Tablet Supremacy

Samsung Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra

Galaxy Tab 11 Ultra

Samsung has once again raised the bar in the tablet market with the official release of the Galaxy Tab 11 Ultra. Aimed squarely at professionals, creatives, and power users, this device packs a punch with its top-tier specifications, an enhanced S-Pen, and a design that screams premium. Let’s dive into what makes this new tablet a serious contender.

Features and Specifications: Powerhouse Performance

The Galaxy Tab 11 Ultra is designed to handle anything you throw at it. At its core lies the formidable Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, ensuring lightning-fast performance whether you’re gaming, editing 4K video, or multitasking with a dozen apps open. The display is a truly breathtaking 11-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X, boasting a stunning 120Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness that makes content pop even in direct sunlight. This translates to incredibly smooth scrolling, vibrant colors, and an immersive viewing experience.

Storage options range from a generous 256GB all the way up to a capacious 1TB, ensuring you’ll have ample space for all your files, apps, and media. RAM configurations go up to 16GB, further solidifying its pro-grade capabilities. For photographers and videographers, the tablet features a versatile camera system with a 13MP wide-angle lens and an 8MP ultrawide on the rear, while a 12MP front-facing camera is perfect for high-quality video calls and selfies. The device is powered by a large 10,000 mAh battery, promising all-day usage, and supports 45W super-fast charging.

The New S-Pen: Precision Perfected

The included new S-Pen is not just an accessory; it’s an integral part of the Galaxy Tab 11 Ultra experience. Samsung has refined the S-Pen’s latency to an almost imperceptible level, making writing and drawing feel incredibly natural and fluid. New air gestures allow for intuitive control without even touching the screen, perfect for presentations or media playback. The improved pressure sensitivity and tilt recognition open up new possibilities for artists, offering greater control and nuance in their digital creations. From taking quick notes to detailed illustrations, the new S-Pen elevates productivity and creativity.

Pros and Cons: A Balanced View

Here’s a quick look at the strengths and weaknesses of the Galaxy Tab 11 Ultra:

ProsCons
Stunning Dynamic AMOLED 2X Display (120Hz)Premium Price Tag
Cutting-Edge Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 ProcessorNo Headphone Jack
Included, Enhanced S-Pen with Low LatencyKeyboard Cover Sold Separately
Excellent Battery Life (10,000 mAh)Android Tablet App Ecosystem Still Lags iPadOS for Some Pro Apps
Up to 1TB Storage & 16GB RAMLarge Size May Be Cumbersome for Some
Premium Build Quality and Design

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Competitor Comparison: Standing Against the Giants

The Galaxy Tab 11 Ultra enters a highly competitive market, primarily going head-to-head with Apple’s iPad Pro line.

Feature/SpecSamsung Galaxy Tab 11 UltraApple iPad Pro 11-inch (M2)Microsoft Surface Pro 9
ProcessorSnapdragon 8 Gen 3Apple M2Intel Evo Core i5/i7 or Microsoft SQ3
Display11″ Dynamic AMOLED 2X (120Hz)11″ Liquid Retina IPS LCD (120Hz)13″ PixelSense Flow (120Hz)
Stylus Included?Yes (S-Pen)No (Apple Pencil 2nd Gen)No (Surface Slim Pen 2)
Max RAM16GB16GB32GB
Max Storage1TB2TB1TB
Operating SystemAndroid 14 (One UI 6)iPadOS 17Windows 11 Home/Pro
Starting Price~$999~$799~$999

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Note: Prices are approximate and subject to change based on configuration and region.

While the iPad Pro offers a slightly more mature app ecosystem for certain professional creative tasks, the Galaxy Tab 11 Ultra counters with its stunning AMOLED display, the included S-Pen, and the versatility of Android. The Surface Pro 9, running full Windows, offers a true laptop experience in a tablet form factor, but at the cost of battery life and a heavier build. The Galaxy Tab 11 Ultra carves out its niche by offering a premium Android experience with top-tier hardware for productivity and media consumption.

Q&A: Your Burning Questions Answered

Q: Is the keyboard cover included with the Galaxy Tab 11 Ultra? A: No, the keyboard cover (Book Cover Keyboard) is sold separately, similar to most high-end tablets on the market.

Q: Can I use the Galaxy Tab 11 Ultra as a laptop replacement? A: For many users, yes! With Samsung DeX mode, you can connect an external monitor and use the tablet in a desktop-like environment. Coupled with the Book Cover Keyboard, it offers a solid productivity experience. However, for highly specialized software, a traditional laptop might still be necessary.

Q: How does the camera perform in low light? A: The Galaxy Tab 11 Ultra’s cameras are capable, especially in good lighting. For tablets, they are quite good for document scanning, video calls, and casual photos. Low-light performance is decent but won’t match dedicated flagship smartphones.

Q: What colors is the Galaxy Tab 11 Ultra available in? A: At launch, it’s available in Graphite, Silver, and Beige.

Q: Is the display suitable for professional creative work like photo and video editing? A: Absolutely. The Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with its high resolution, vibrant colors, and 120Hz refresh rate is excellent for creative tasks, offering accurate color representation and smooth visual feedback.

The Samsung Galaxy Tab 11 Ultra is a formidable entry into the premium tablet space. With its powerful internals, gorgeous display, and the versatile S-Pen, it offers a compelling package for anyone looking for a high-performance Android tablet.

TheTechReview.net

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Tablets

ReMarkable Paper Pro Move: The Next Evolution of On-the-Go Productivity

ReMarkable Paper Pro

eMarkable Paper Pro

The digital world is awash with distractions, but for professionals seeking a focused, paper-like experience, the new reMarkable Paper Pro Move is poised to change the game. This portable paper tablet, a successor to its acclaimed predecessors, is designed specifically for face-to-face meetings and dynamic, on-the-go work. It promises the clarity of thought that comes from putting pen to paper, but with the added convenience and power of digital organization.

The most notable upgrade is the introduction of a 7.3″ Canvas Color display. This is a significant leap for the E Ink technology, offering a more vibrant and versatile experience for reviewing documents and visualizing ideas, without sacrificing the signature eye-friendly, low-glare feel. Paired with the new Marker stylus, which magnetically attaches to the side of the device, the Paper Pro Move provides a writing experience that feels remarkably true to life.

A standout new feature is the built-in reading light with adjustable brightness, a welcome addition for professionals working in various lighting conditions. Unlike traditional backlights, this low-glare light is designed not to emit harmful blue light, ensuring a comfortable experience for extended use. The battery life remains impressive, offering up to two weeks on a single charge, a critical feature for anyone who works away from a desk.

The Paper Pro Move’s focus on a distraction-free environment remains at its core. It’s free from the beeping, buzzing, and endless notifications of a typical tablet. Instead, it offers a refined ecosystem of folders, tags, and powerful search functionality to help you easily organize and find your notes and documents. This is further enhanced with the optional Connect subscription, which offers unlimited cloud storage, device protection, and the ability to convert your handwritten notes to typed text seamlessly.

Pros and Cons of the ReMarkable Paper Pro Move

ProsCons
New Canvas Color Display: Offers the familiar paper-like feel with the added benefit of color.Connect Subscription: Necessary for unlimited cloud storage, device protection, and some advanced features like handwriting conversion.
Distraction-Free Environment: No notifications, social media, or web browsing to pull your focus.Limited App Ecosystem: Primarily focused on note-taking, reading, and sketching. Not a multi-purpose tablet.
Exceptional Writing Experience: Mimics pen on paper with remarkable accuracy, reducing digital eye strain.Price Point: Can be a significant investment compared to standard tablets.
Built-in Reading Light: Adjustable, low-glare light for use in any environment.Learning Curve: While intuitive, some users might take time to adjust to the E Ink experience and its functionalities.
Long Battery Life: Weeks of usage on a single charge, perfect for travel.Limited Browser Functionality: Basic web browser primarily for connecting to cloud services, not general browsing.
Lightweight and Portable: Easy to carry anywhere without adding significant bulk.Relies on Cloud Storage: Without a Connect subscription, only the files used in the last 50 days are stored in the cloud.

Competitor Comparison: ReMarkable Paper Pro Move vs. The Field

Feature/DeviceReMarkable Paper Pro MoveiPad (Basic Model)Onyx Boox Note Air 2 PlusKindle Scribe
Primary UseFocused Note-taking, Reading, SketchingGeneral Purpose, Media Consumption, AppsNote-taking, Reading, Android AppsReading, Basic Note-taking
Display TypeE Ink (Color)LCD (Color)E Ink (Monochrome)E Ink (Monochrome)
Writing ExperienceExcellent (Paper-like)Good (Glassy)Excellent (Paper-like)Good (Slightly less friction)
Distraction LevelVery LowVery HighLow (Can be customized)Low
Battery LifeWeeks10-12 HoursDaysWeeks
App EcosystemLimited, FocusedVast (App Store)Moderate (Android Apps)Limited (Kindle Store)
PortabilityExcellent (Lightweight)Good (Slightly heavier)ExcellentExcellent
PricePremiumMid-rangePremiumMid-range

For more detailed information, you can visit the official product page here: https://remarkable.com/products/remarkable-paper/pro-move.

Q&A about the ReMarkable Paper Pro Move

Q1: What exactly is the ReMarkable Paper Pro Move, and how is it different from a regular tablet? A1: The ReMarkable Paper Pro Move is a specialized digital writing tablet designed to replicate the experience of writing on paper. Unlike a regular tablet (like an iPad), it uses an E Ink display, which is glare-free and easy on the eyes, making it ideal for extended reading and writing. It’s also intentionally designed to be distraction-free, lacking notifications, a full web browser, and most apps found on traditional tablets. Its primary focus is on note-taking, sketching, and document annotation, now with a new color display.

Q2: Can I use the ReMarkable Paper Pro Move to read books and PDFs? A2: Absolutely! The E Ink display is perfect for reading. You can import PDFs, EPUBs, and other document types to read and annotate them directly on the device. It’s especially useful for marking up professional documents or academic papers.

Q3: Is the writing experience truly like paper, or is that just marketing hype? A3: The writing experience is remarkably close to paper. ReMarkable uses a textured display surface that provides a slight friction, combined with a stylus (Marker Pro) that has a responsive tip. This combination creates a tactile and auditory sensation very similar to pen on paper, making it one of the best digital writing experiences available.

Q4: How does the battery life compare to other devices? A4: The ReMarkable Paper Pro Move boasts exceptional battery life, often lasting up to two weeks on a single charge with typical usage. This is a significant advantage over traditional tablets and smartphones, which usually require daily charging.

Q5: Can I sync my notes and documents with other devices? A5: Yes, the ReMarkable Paper Pro Move offers cloud synchronization. With a Connect subscription, your notes, documents, and sketches are automatically synced to the ReMarkable cloud, allowing you to access them from your computer, phone, or other ReMarkable devices through their dedicated apps. Without the subscription, only files used and synced in the last 50 days are stored in the cloud.

Q6: Does it have a backlight for reading in the dark? A6: Yes, the ReMarkable Paper Pro Move features a built-in reading light with adjustable brightness. It is designed to be low-glare, eye-friendly, and to not emit harmful blue light, ensuring a comfortable reading and writing experience in any environment.

Q7: Is there a web browser or email client on the ReMarkable Paper Pro Move? A7: While there’s a very basic web browser primarily for connecting to cloud services or logging into certain portals, it’s not designed for general web browsing. There is no dedicated email client; the device is intentionally designed to minimize distractions and focus on writing and reading.

Q8: What kind of files can I import and export? A8: You can typically import PDF and EPUB files for reading and annotation. For export, you can convert your notes and sketches into PDF, SVG (scalable vector graphics), or PNG image files. With a Connect subscription, you can also convert your handwritten notes to typed text.

TheTechReview.net

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Tablets

iPadOS 26 Public Beta: A Step Forward, But Still Not a Mac Replacement

iPadOS26

When will Apple make the iPad we all want?

As a long-time user of Apple’s ecosystem, I’m always eager to dive into new software releases, and the iPadOS 26 public beta is no exception. Having spent a week with it on my iPad Pro 13-inch, I can confidently say it’s a monumental leap from previous iPadOS versions. The “Liquid Glass” design language brings a beautiful, fluid aesthetic, and the enhanced multitasking features with a new windowing system truly push the iPad closer to a desktop-like experience.

The ability to fluidly resize app windows, place them exactly where I want, and manage multiple applications simultaneously is a game-changer for many users. The addition of a Mac-like Preview app for PDF annotation and the improved Files app with features like colored folders and a more intuitive layout are welcome additions that undeniably boost productivity. For quick, simple tasks like checking email, managing my calendar, or even light document editing while multitasking with other apps, iPadOS 26 shines. It feels more capable and versatile than ever before.

However, despite these significant advancements, after a week of intensive use, I’m still firmly in the camp that iPadOS 26 is in no way a replacement for macOS. My workflow on my MacBook is almost automatic – I don’t think about how to do something, I just do it. Simple actions like dragging a file directly to the desktop or seamlessly saving a document to a specific, easily accessible location are still a struggle on iPadOS. While the file system has improved, it lacks the intuitive fluidity and directness of Finder on a MacBook.

The display, too, presents a challenge for my specific workflow. I’m using the iPad Pro 13-inch, and its almost square 4:3 aspect ratio, while great for some content consumption, simply doesn’t work for my professional tasks. I find myself constantly wishing for more horizontal screen real estate. This is where devices like the Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra, with its wider display and the desktop-like experience offered by Samsung DeX, truly stand out as a better option for power users seeking a more traditional computing layout in a tablet form factor.

I understand that this is just the beginning for iPadOS 26, and Apple will continue to refine it. But it begs the question: why can’t Apple give us what many power users truly desire? A MacBook with a detachable display that functions as a tablet running a tabular version of macOS. Imagine the seamless transition from a full desktop environment to a touch-first tablet, all powered by the same robust operating system. This would truly bridge the gap between portability and professional capability, offering the best of both worlds without the inherent compromises that currently exist between iPadOS and macOS.

iPadOS 26 is undoubtedly a significant step forward for the iPad, making it a more powerful and versatile device than ever before. But for those of us who demand the full, uncompromised functionality of a desktop operating system in a portable form, the wait for a truly converged Apple device continues.

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