Choosing the right iPad can be challenging, given the range of models Apple offers to suit different needs and budgets. Whether you need a tablet for everyday tasks or a device capable of handling demanding professional applications, Apple has a model to fit your requirements.

Apple currently offers five main iPad models: the 2021 iPad, the 2022 iPad, the iPad Mini, the iPad Air, and the iPad Pro. Each model boasts top-notch hardware, impressive battery life, and support for iPadOS 17.

To help you make an informed decision, we’ve analyzed the pros and cons of each model based on hands-on testing. Overall, the 2022 iPad stands out as the best choice for most users due to its balance of performance, design, features, and price. For those on a tighter budget, the 2021 iPad provides excellent value, despite its older design.

Apple iPad (2022)

Pros:

  • Excellent display
  • Modern design
  • USB-C charging port
  • Centered front camera for better video call angles

Cons:

  • $120 pricier than the 2021 iPad
  • Requires an adapter to charge the Apple Pencil with a Lightning connector

Apple’s 10th-generation iPad brings a larger 10.9-inch display and a refreshed design that aligns more closely with the iPad Air and iPad Pro models, moving away from the older design of the 9th-generation iPad. This new design offers a more modern look and feel, while still providing ample power for everyday apps, games, and streaming.

The shift from a Lightning port to USB-C is a notable upgrade, allowing you to charge the 2022 iPad with the same cable used for many other devices, including your laptop and iPhone 15 series. While this change improves convenience, it also means that the first-generation Apple Pencil with a Lightning connector will require an adapter to charge. Apple now offers a USB-C compatible Apple Pencil, which is the better choice for this iPad.

A unique feature of the 2022 iPad is its front-facing camera, which is centered along the long horizontal edge. This positioning provides a more flattering angle for video calls, a feature not found on other iPad models.

The 2022 iPad starts at $449, a notable increase from the $329 price of the previous generation. Although it is more expensive, it is frequently available at a discount, sometimes $50 off. The newer model includes an upgraded processor and better longevity in terms of performance and software support, making it a worthwhile investment if the higher price is within your budget.

Apple iPad (2021)

Pros:

  • Most affordable iPad
  • Supports first-generation Apple Pencil

Cons:

  • Outdated design
  • Uses Lightning port

The ninth-generation iPad from 2021, alongside the 10th-generation model from 2022, represents Apple’s entry-level offerings. Although it doesn’t feature the latest hardware or the fastest performance, the 2021 iPad is still highly capable for essential tasks like running apps, playing games, and streaming video. It’s an excellent choice for first-time buyers, students, or anyone looking for a budget-friendly option.

The ninth-gen iPad boasts a 10.2-inch Retina display with a 2,160 x 1,620 resolution, delivering clear and sharp visuals. It also includes True Tone technology, which adjusts the screen’s color temperature based on the surrounding light. The 12-megapixel ultra-wide front camera offers quality similar to higher-end iPads, though it lacks the landscape orientation of the newer model.

Powered by the A13 Bionic chip, the same processor used in the 2019 iPhone 11 series, the ninth-gen iPad performs well for most applications and even demanding games. It supports Apple’s Smart Keyboard and first-generation Apple Pencil, which provides a responsive and lag-free writing experience.

While the design of the ninth-gen iPad is more outdated compared to the 10th-gen model—featuring thicker dimensions and larger bezels—it remains a solid choice for most users. It is also the last iPad to use the Lightning port. Despite its older design, the ninth-gen iPad delivers a great balance of price and performance, making it a strong contender in the current iPad lineup.

Apple iPad Air (2022)

Pros:

  • High performance from M1 processor
  • Sleek, thin design
  • Supports second-generation Apple Pencil

Cons:

  • Base model only has 64GB of storage
  • Display limited to 60Hz
  • Lacks some premium features for the price

The standout feature of the 2022 iPad Air is its powerful M1 chip, the same processor found in the 2020 13.3-inch MacBook Air, providing exceptional performance in the $600 tablet range.

The fifth-generation iPad Air shares several features with the 2022 iPad, including a USB-C port, a fingerprint sensor, similar speaker setups, and comparable camera quality. However, it offers a more affordable alternative to the 2022 iPad Pro rather than a premium version of the standard iPad, with its high-performance capabilities and P3 wide color display, which is particularly beneficial for photo editing.

If your primary use for the iPad is simple tasks, spending an additional $270 on the 2022 iPad Air may not be necessary unless you specifically want support for the second-generation Apple Pencil or a larger display.

One major drawback to consider is the storage. The base model of the 2022 iPad Air starts at just 64GB, with a $150 upgrade available to 256GB, bringing the total cost to $750. If you need more storage but not as much as 256GB, the 11-inch iPad Pro offers 128GB starting at $800, along with the M2 chip and Apple’s 120Hz ProMotion display for smoother animations.

If the storage limitations and the 60Hz display don’t significantly impact your experience, the iPad Air remains a strong choice for those seeking a performance boost over the basic iPad. It’s an excellent “budget” pro device for tasks like photo and video editing but falls short of including some of the premium features found in the iPad Pro, such as a 120Hz display, Face ID, or additional storage options.

Apple iPad Mini (2021)

Pros:

  • Most portable model
  • USB-C charging port

Cons:

  • Price unchanged since 2021
  • Awaiting an update

The 2021 iPad Mini stands out as Apple’s smallest and most portable tablet, featuring an 8.3-inch display.

The sixth-generation iPad Mini boasts a Liquid Retina display similar to the 2022 iPad Air, offering richer colors compared to the ninth-generation iPad. Its higher pixel density makes for a sharper screen.

Powered by the A15 Bionic chip from the iPhone 13, the iPad Mini is well-equipped to handle tasks for years to come. It offers a performance advantage over the ninth-gen iPad, which uses the older A13 Bionic processor.

The iPad Mini supports both the second-gen Apple Pencil and the new USB-C Apple Pencil, making it an excellent choice for note-taking and quick drawing, thanks to its compact size.

Overall, the iPad Mini is ideal for those who value portability in a tablet. Its smaller size can make it more comfortable to use compared to larger iPads. If you need a screen larger than your phone for apps and streaming, while still being easy to carry around, the iPad Mini is definitely worth considering.

Apple iPad Pro (2022)

Pros:

  • Powerful M2 chip
  • Best-in-class display
  • Only models with Face ID
  • Exclusive hover feature for Apple Pencil

Cons:

  • Front camera positioned awkwardly

The 2022 iPad Pro models are equipped with Apple’s M2 chip, delivering the same processing power found in the 2022 MacBook Air in a slim, lightweight tablet. They feature a fast Thunderbolt 4 USB-C port for quick file transfers from external drives.

While the MacBook Air might be an alternative for those seeking a powerful, lightweight machine, the iPad Pro’s added bulk and expense—especially with accessories like Apple’s Magic Keyboard starting at $299—make it less portable.

However, if you use an Apple Pencil for work, the iPad Pro is unmatched, as the MacBook Air lacks this capability. The 2022 iPad Pro models also support the Hover feature with the second-generation Apple Pencil, enhancing precision and interaction.

In addition, the iPad Pro offers premium features like a 120Hz ProMotion display, Face ID, improved speakers, and expanded storage options. It can also capture high-quality photos and videos, making it a versatile tool for creative projects.

The larger 12.9-inch model stands out with its mini-LED display and XDR (Apple’s HDR technology), providing superior brightness and contrast for HDR content.

Overall, the iPad Pro is best suited for creative professionals who need high performance and advanced features for intensive tasks, rather than casual users.

What to look for in an iPad

When choosing an iPad, consider three key factors: screen size, performance, and storage. If you use an Apple Pencil for note-taking or artistic purposes, also factor in stylus compatibility.

Screen Size and Portability: Screen size can greatly influence your decision. Most iPads have screens ranging from 10 to 11 inches. If portability is crucial, the iPad Mini is your best bet. For the largest display, the 12.9-inch iPad Pro is the top choice. If a 10 to 11-inch screen meets your needs, you can choose between the 2021 standard iPad, the 2022 standard iPad, the 2022 iPad Air, and the 11-inch iPad Pro.

Performance: While even the most budget-friendly 2021 iPad can handle basic tasks and apps, performance varies. If you’re focused on simple apps or streaming, the iPad Air or iPad Pro won’t offer much additional speed. However, for tasks like photo and video editing or rendering, the increased performance of the iPad Air and iPad Pro becomes more relevant.

Storage Needs: Storage capacity is another critical factor. If you require more than 256GB of storage for extensive media files or apps, the iPad Pro is your option, as the basic iPads and iPad Air do not offer larger storage capacities. If you’re deciding between the iPad Air and iPad Pro, note that the base iPad Air’s 64GB might prompt you to upgrade to the 128GB iPad Pro for just $50 more. For 256GB, the iPad Air at $749 offers great value compared to the $899 256GB iPad Pro.

Apple Pencil Support: Every iPad supports at least one Apple Pencil model. However, iPad Pro models are the best choice for using the second-generation Apple Pencil or USB-C Apple Pencil due to their exclusive Hover feature.

How we test iPads

In our iPad reviews, we use each model as if it were our own, assessing its performance in running apps, games, and streaming video. We evaluate the screen quality, audio performance, and design, and assess the storage capacity of the base model relative to its price.

We also examine the advancements in new models compared to their predecessors. This includes comparing peripheral specifications, such as USB-C data transfer speeds, and compatibility with accessories like the Apple Pencil and keyboard cases.

For performance evaluation, we use the Geekbench 5 benchmarking app and test real-world scenarios that require more power, such as light photo and video editing.

To assess battery life, we stream video over WiFi at full brightness until the battery is depleted, then compare the duration across different models.