Which iPad Should You Buy in 2025? A Comprehensive Guide

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!