Tablets have reshaped modern computing by offering the flexibility to work, create, and unwind from virtually anywhere. Among these devices, Apple’s iPad lineup stands as a gold standard and seamlessly merges high-performance hardware with an intuitive software experience. iPads continue to dominate the tablet market, catering to everyone from casual users and students to artists and professionals.
And the great news is that Apple’s iPad family includes a range of models designed to suit different lifestyles and budgets – and the lower cost budget models are still incredibly useful and powerful. Whether you’re searching for a lightweight device to read on the go or a desktop replacement capable of complex tasks like video editing or 3D modeling, there’s an iPad tailored to your needs. The lineup includes the highly portable iPad Mini, the versatile iPad Air, the budget-friendly entry-level iPads, and the powerhouse iPad Pro models.
A standout feature across the lineup is support for Apple Pencil (1st, 2nd, or Pro generation depending on the model). This makes iPads the ideal companion for artists, note-takers, and professionals who need precision and efficiency. Additionally, all iPads run on iPadOS, Apple’s dedicated operating system for tablets, which provides multitasking features, drag-and-drop functionality, and external device support — bringing the iPad closer than ever to a full-fledged computer experience.
When choosing an iPad, several key factors come into play:
- Display Quality: Retina and Liquid Retina screens with True Tone and ProMotion technology ensure color accuracy, brightness, and fluid responsiveness.
- Processing Power: Apple’s silicon chips, from the A13 Bionic to the latest M4, drive exceptional speed and energy efficiency.
- Storage Capacity: Since iPads don’t support external storage expansion, selecting an adequate storage tier upfront is critical.
- Battery Life: Apple claims all-day battery life, but the actual usage depends on workloads and screen size.
- Accessory Support: Features like Smart Connector compatibility, Apple Pencil generation support, and Magic Keyboard pairing elevate usability.
We rigorously tested every iPad model available in 2025 to help you decide which one fits your use case and budget. Whether you need a powerful creative tool, an affordable device for casual browsing, or a portable media hub, you’ll find it here.
Best Budget iPads on Amazon (2025)
Here’s a complete comparison of the top iPads we tested, in ranked order, to guide your purchase:
Why Trust Our Recommendations?
Our team rigorously tests every device we review, putting them through real-world scenarios from simple web browsing and video calls to intensive creative workflows like 4K video editing and digital illustration. Our tests are hands-on, practical, and designed to replicate what users actually experience.
We also track updates from Apple’s development of iPadOS, including features like Stage Manager for multitasking and expanded external monitor support. We consider longevity — Apple typically supports its devices with software updates for 5-7 years, giving their iPads unmatched value retention.
Key Takeaways for Buyers in 2025:
- Performance: Even Apple’s entry-level iPads pack enough power for most users. However, creatives and professionals should consider the M2 or M4-powered iPad Air and Pro models.
- Display: If you plan on using the iPad for media or design work, OLED or Liquid Retina XDR displays are worth the premium.
- Accessories Matter: Pencil compatibility, Magic Keyboard support, and Smart Connector make certain models stand out, especially if you’re using your iPad as a laptop replacement.
- Storage: Start with at least 128GB if you expect to install multiple apps or store lots of media. Unfortunately, no iPads support microSD expansion.
- Battery: Expect between 8 and 12 hours on most models. Newer models are more efficient, often exceeding Apple’s estimates.
Final Thoughts
The iPad remains the tablet to beat in 2025. From budget-friendly models perfect for students and casual users to the Pro models redefining what a tablet can do for creative professionals, there’s something for everyone. Choose wisely based on your needs, and you’ll have a device that lasts years — and delivers exceptional value every step of the way.
Best Budget iPads
We’ve researched and tested the latest iPad models to help you find the perfect tablet for your needs and budget. Our selections include options from the compact iPad mini to the powerful iPad Pro, with detailed comparisons of their features, performance, and value.
Apple iPad 10th Generation
We recommend the 10th generation iPad for its excellent balance of performance, versatility, and value in a sleek redesigned package.
Pros
- Stunning 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display with vibrant colors
- Fast A14 Bionic chip handles multitasking smoothly
- USB-C port offers wider accessory compatibility
Cons
- Only works with 1st gen Apple Pencil
- Base storage of 64GB feels limited
- Higher price than previous generation
The new iPad’s redesigned form factor caught our attention immediately. Its flat edges and all-screen design make it feel modern and premium. The display impressed us with its crisp text and vivid colors during daily use.
We found the A14 Bionic chip powerful enough for demanding tasks. Apps launch quickly, and we edited 4K videos without any slowdown. The battery lasted us through full workdays of mixed use, including video calls and document editing.
The front-facing camera placement in landscape mode makes video calls feel more natural. Touch ID in the power button works reliably for secure unlocking and payments. The Magic Keyboard Folio transformed our iPad into a capable laptop replacement, though we wish it supported the 2nd generation Apple Pencil instead.
Apple iPad 9.7″ (2018)
The 2018 iPad offers excellent value with its powerful A10 processor, crisp display, and reliable performance for everyday tasks.
Pros
- Long battery life lasts through a full day
- Sharp, vibrant 9.7-inch Retina display
- Fast performance for apps and multitasking
Cons
- Base 32GB storage fills up quickly
- No USB-C port for modern accessories
- Thick bezels look dated by current standards
We tested this iPad extensively for daily use and found it handles common tasks smoothly. The A10 Fusion chip powers through web browsing, streaming, and basic productivity apps without slowdown.
The 9.7-inch screen produces vivid colors and sharp text. Touch response feels instant and accurate. Palm rejection works well when writing with the Apple Pencil.
Battery life impresses with 10-12 hours of real-world use. The aluminum build feels solid and durable. Even as a renewed device, our unit arrived in pristine condition with no visible wear.
This iPad runs the latest iPadOS smoothly. Apps launch quickly and multitasking gestures feel fluid. The stereo speakers deliver clear audio for media consumption.
While not the newest model, we recommend this iPad for users seeking a reliable tablet for web browsing, note-taking, and entertainment. The value proposition stands out at this price point.
Apple iPad 9th Gen
The 9th generation iPad delivers excellent value with its powerful A13 chip, crisp Retina display, and versatile features at an affordable price point.
Pros
- Impressive battery life spans 10+ hours
- Fast performance handles multiple apps smoothly
- Bright, vibrant 10.2-inch display
Cons
- Older design with thicker bezels
- Limited to first-gen Apple Pencil
- Base 64GB storage fills up quickly
We tested this iPad extensively for both work and entertainment. The A13 Bionic chip powers through everyday tasks like web browsing, note-taking, and video calls without any slowdown. The screen displays colors beautifully and text appears sharp and clear.
The front-facing camera with Center Stage keeps us perfectly framed during video calls, automatically adjusting as we move. Touch ID works quickly for secure unlocking and purchases. We appreciate how the iPad seamlessly connects with other Apple devices for tasks like copying text or continuing work between devices.
Battery life proved remarkable in our testing, easily lasting through a full day of mixed use. The speakers produce clean, full sound for media consumption. While the design may look dated compared to newer iPads, the aluminum build feels solid and durable. Support for the first-generation Apple Pencil and Smart Keyboard adds versatility for notes and typing.
iPad Pro 13-inch (2024)
The new iPad Pro combines exceptional performance, stunning display quality, and versatile features that make it the best tablet for creative professionals and power users.
Pros
- Lightning-fast M4 chip handles demanding tasks effortlessly
- Gorgeous 13-inch Ultra Retina XDR display with ProMotion
- Exceptional battery life lasted through our full workday
Cons
- Premium price point may not suit every budget
- Large size can feel unwieldy for casual reading
- Most advanced features require additional accessories
We tested the latest iPad Pro extensively in our daily workflow. The M4 chip blazed through video editing tasks and complex illustrations without any slowdown. Apps launch instantly, and switching between multiple programs feels seamless.
The 13-inch display impressed us with its vibrant colors and smooth 120Hz refresh rate. Text appears crystal clear, and the nano-texture glass option reduces glare significantly. The screen’s brightness adapts perfectly to different lighting conditions.
Face ID unlocks the device instantly from various angles. The new landscape front camera produces crisp video calls, while Center Stage keeps us perfectly framed. The quad-speaker system delivers rich, room-filling sound that enhances movies and music.
Wi-Fi 6E connectivity provides blazing-fast wireless speeds. File transfers complete quickly, and cloud-based apps respond without lag. The USB-C port supports fast charging and connects seamlessly to external displays.
The Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil Pro transform this iPad into a legitimate laptop replacement. Stage Manager makes multitasking feel natural, though these accessories add considerably to the total cost.
Apple iPad 9th Gen (Renewed)
The renewed 9th generation iPad offers excellent value with reliable performance and a crisp display at a reduced price point.
Pros
- Like-new condition with thorough quality checks
- Bright, vibrant 10.2-inch Retina display
- Strong battery life exceeding 8 hours
Cons
- Only 64GB storage capacity
- Slightly older A13 processor
- Basic camera system
We tested this renewed iPad extensively and found it performs just like a new model. The silver aluminum casing shows no signs of wear, and the screen remains pristine without scratches or defects.
The 10.2-inch Retina display produces sharp text and vivid colors. We noticed the screen brightness holds up well even in sunlit rooms. Touch response feels snappy and precise during daily use.
Battery life impresses us, easily lasting through a full day of web browsing, video streaming, and note-taking. The included charging brick and cable work perfectly. At this price point, this renewed iPad makes an ideal tablet for basic computing needs.
This model runs all current iPad apps smoothly. Games and media apps launch quickly. The speakers deliver clear audio for video calls and music playback. For students and casual users, this iPad hits the sweet spot of performance and value.
iPad Air 2
The iPad Air 2 remains a solid tablet choice with impressive performance and a sleek design that works well for everyday tasks.
Pros
- Incredibly thin and lightweight design
- Fast performance for apps and multitasking
- Sharp and vibrant Retina display
Cons
- Battery life could be better
- Limited storage options
- Older processor shows its age
We tested the iPad Air 2 extensively and were impressed by its svelte profile. At just 6.1mm thin, it feels remarkably light and comfortable to hold for extended reading or browsing sessions.
The 9.7-inch Retina display produces crisp text and vivid colors. Apps launch quickly thanks to the A8X processor, though newer iPad models offer faster performance. Games run smoothly and photo editing is responsive.
The 8MP rear camera captures decent photos in good lighting. Touch ID works reliably for secure unlocking and app purchases. Battery life reaches about 8-9 hours of real-world use, which falls slightly short of newer iPads but remains adequate for most users.
The aluminum build quality gives this tablet a premium feel. After extended testing, we found the iPad Air 2 handles basic tasks like web browsing, email, and streaming video without any hiccups. For users seeking an affordable iPad, this older model still delivers good value.
Apple iPad 10.2-inch
The renewed 7th generation iPad delivers excellent value with reliable performance and a crisp display at a budget-friendly price point.
Pros
- Crystal clear 10.2-inch Retina display
- Smooth performance for everyday tasks
- Impressive 10-hour battery life
Cons
- Limited 32GB storage capacity
- Charging can be slow
- Older A10 processor shows its age
We tested this renewed iPad extensively and found its build quality matches new models. The Space Gray aluminum body feels solid, with no scratches or signs of wear on our test unit.
The 10.2-inch screen produces vivid colors and sharp text. During our Netflix sessions and gaming, the display remained bright and responsive. The stereo speakers pump out clear audio that filled our room.
Battery life stretches through a full day of web browsing, email, and light gaming. The A10 chip handles basic tasks smoothly, though intensive apps can cause occasional stutters. Touch ID works flawlessly for quick unlocking.
Storage fills up fast with just 32GB available. Apps, photos, and downloads consume space quickly. We recommend cloud storage for media files.
Slow charging proves frustrating – our unit needed several hours to reach full battery. The required Lightning cable limits charging options compared to newer USB-C iPads.
Apple iPad 2020 (10.2-inch)
We recommend this renewed iPad for its reliable performance, excellent display quality, and great value for basic tablet needs.
Pros
- Like-new condition with minimal signs of use
- Crisp 10.2-inch Retina display
- Smooth performance for everyday tasks
Cons
- Battery life could be better
- Limited 32GB storage
- Non-original accessories
The renewed iPad 2020 surprised us with its pristine condition. We found virtually no scratches on the display, and the aluminum body looked almost factory-fresh. The setup process went smoothly, taking just minutes to get everything running.
During our testing, apps launched quickly and multitasking felt fluid. The 10.2-inch Retina display impressed us with sharp text and vivid colors while browsing photos and watching videos. Touch response remained precise and consistent throughout our use.
Battery performance fell short of our expectations. We noticed it drains faster than a new iPad, typically needing a recharge after 6-7 hours of regular use. The included third-party charger works well enough, though charging takes longer than with Apple’s original adapter.
iPad Air M2 11-inch
We recommend the iPad Air M2 for its powerful performance, beautiful display, and versatility as both a creative tool and productivity device.
Pros
- Lightning-fast M2 chip handles demanding apps with ease
- Stunning 11-inch Liquid Retina display with True Tone
- Excellent battery life lasting through a full workday
Cons
- Base storage of 128GB may not be enough for power users
- Accessories like Apple Pencil sold separately
- Premium price point compared to basic tablets
The M2 processor in this iPad Air makes a noticeable difference in everyday use. We noticed zero lag when switching between multiple apps, editing 4K videos, and working with large creative files. The display brings content to life with vivid colors and sharp text.
Battery life impressed us during testing. We got through full workdays of mixed use including video calls, document editing, and creative work without needing a charge. The Center Stage feature kept us perfectly framed during video meetings as we moved around.
The USB-C port provides fast data transfers and connects easily to external displays. Touch ID built into the power button works reliably for quick unlocking and secure payments. Wi-Fi 6E delivers speedy wireless connectivity that made large file transfers feel instant.
The stereo speakers produce clear, room-filling sound. We found the new landscape-oriented front camera placement more natural for video calls. The back camera captures sharp photos and steady 4K video that exceeded our expectations for a tablet.
iPad Mini 2025
The new iPad Mini packs desktop-class performance into an ultraportable 8.3-inch tablet that’s perfect for productivity and entertainment on the go.
Pros
- Incredibly fast A17 Pro chip handles any task smoothly
- Compact size makes it easy to hold and carry
- Gorgeous Liquid Retina display with vibrant colors
Cons
- Premium price point
- Screen might feel small for heavy multimedia use
- Limited storage on base model
We tested the iPad Mini extensively over several weeks. The A17 Pro processor blazes through apps and games without hesitation. Multitasking feels smooth, whether we’re taking notes while watching videos or editing photos.
The 8.3-inch screen strikes an excellent balance between portability and usability. Text appears crisp and colors pop thanks to the Liquid Retina display technology. The anti-reflective coating helps reduce glare in bright environments.
Battery life impressed us during daily use. We got through full workdays of web browsing, document editing, and video calls without needing a charge. The USB-C port supports fast charging when needed.
Center Stage keeps you perfectly framed during video calls by automatically adjusting the ultra-wide front camera. The rear camera captures sharp photos and steady 4K video.
The Apple Pencil Pro transforms this compact tablet into a powerful note-taking and sketching device. Palm rejection works flawlessly, and the hover feature adds precision to drawing tasks.
iPadOS runs beautifully on the Mini. Split View and Slide Over make it simple to work with multiple apps. The Touch ID sensor in the power button provides quick, secure authentication.
Buying Guide
When choosing an iPad, storage capacity plays a crucial role. We recommend starting with at least 128GB for most users, as apps and media files can quickly fill up space.
Screen size impacts both portability and usability. The choice between 8.3 to 12.9 inches depends on your primary use case. Larger screens excel for creative work and media consumption, while smaller ones offer better mobility.
Cellular connectivity adds freedom to work anywhere, but increases the price tag. Wi-Fi-only models suit users who primarily use their iPad at home or places with reliable internet access.
Consider these key features:
- Display type (LCD vs Mini-LED)
- Processor generation
- Apple Pencil compatibility
- Smart Connector support
- Camera capabilities
Battery life varies between models:
| Usage Type | Expected Duration |
|---|---|
| Light Use | 8-10 hours |
| Heavy Use | 5-7 hours |
| Video Streaming | 6-8 hours |
Your budget determines which features you can access. Entry-level iPads offer excellent value for basic tasks. Premium models provide advanced capabilities for professionals and power users.
Accessories enhance functionality. A keyboard case transforms your iPad into a laptop alternative, while the Apple Pencil enables note-taking and artistic creation.
Pick the latest model within your budget if possible. New iPads receive software updates longer and maintain better resale value.
Frequently Asked Questions
iPads come in multiple models with distinct features, capabilities, and price points that serve different user needs and preferences.
What is the difference between an iPad Air and an iPad Pro?
The iPad Pro offers more premium features than the iPad Air. The Pro models include ProMotion displays with 120Hz refresh rates and M2 chips for enhanced performance.
The Pro series includes additional features like Face ID, Thunderbolt ports, and better cameras with LiDAR scanners.
The iPad Air uses the M1 chip and maintains a more accessible price point while delivering strong performance for most tasks.
How do the features of the iPad mini compare to those of the larger iPad models?
The iPad mini features an 8.3-inch display compared to the 10.9-inch Air and 11-inch or 12.9-inch Pro models.
It uses the A15 Bionic chip, which provides excellent performance for its compact size.
The mini supports Apple Pencil 2 and offers most features found in larger iPads, just in a more portable form factor.
What are the starting prices for various iPad models?
The base iPad starts at $449 for the 64GB Wi-Fi model.
The iPad mini begins at $499, while the iPad Air starts at $599.
The iPad Pro 11-inch starts at $799, and the 12.9-inch Pro model begins at $1,099.
Which generation is the latest in the iPad lineup?
The 10th generation iPad was released in October 2022.
The current iPad Pro models feature M2 chips and were launched in October 2022.
The 6th generation iPad mini and 5th generation iPad Air represent their latest iterations.
What is the average lifespan of an iPad before it is considered obsolete?
iPads typically receive software updates for 5-7 years after their release date.
Most iPads remain functional for 4-6 years with regular use before showing significant performance decline.
The hardware quality allows many iPads to physically last longer, though app compatibility becomes limited over time.
In what ways can an iPad function similarly to a computer?
iPads support external keyboards, mice, and trackpads for traditional computer input methods.
Files app provides file management similar to desktop computers, with support for external drives and cloud storage.
Multitasking features like Stage Manager and Split View enable running multiple apps simultaneously for productive workflows.
