The iPad Lineup of 2025: A Comprehensive Review
The iPad remains the benchmark for tablets in 2025, credited to its vast range of high-quality applications and content, seamlessly integrated within the Apple ecosystem. Apple expanded its iPad lineup this year by introducing three new models: the sixth-generation iPad Air, the seventh-generation iPad Pro, and the seventh-generation iPad Mini. Each of these models offers unique features, targeting different user demographics and needs.
Choosing the Best iPad for Your Needs
Through extensive testing of every iPad currently available, ZDNET has singled out the base-model iPad as the best option for most users. This standard model combines the core attributes that users expect from an iPad, making it an ideal choice for general activities such as streaming content, reading, browsing, gaming, and video conferencing, all at a competitive price.
The design of the 10th-generation iPad was reimagined, drawing inspiration from the iPad Pro and iPad Air's aesthetics. This updated model now supports advanced features like USB-C, 5G, 4K video capturing, and Wi-Fi 6, elevating its utility in various scenarios.
iPad (10th Generation) Features
The iPad's hallmark feature, a horizontally-centered camera, optimizes video conferencing, especially when docked with a keyboard case, making it a preferred choice among users for platforms such as FaceTime and Zoom. The user-friendly interface and durability make it a suitable choice for new Apple users, kids, and seniors.
| Specs | Details |
|---|---|
| Display | 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display with True Tone |
| Processor | A14 Bionic chip with 16-core Neural Engine |
| Storage | 64GB or 256GB |
| Colors | Silver, Pink, Blue, Yellow |
| Camera | 12MP f/1.8 wide, 12MP f/2.4 front |
| Price | $299 |
Performance and Usability of the iPad Pro (2024)
Apple's 2024 iPad Pro debuts a sleeker design and the formidable M4 processor, featuring a 10-core GPU and enhanced machine learning capabilities. With the integration of ProMotion technology, the display can dynamically adjust refresh rates between 10 to 120Hz for optimal performance.
The 13-inch iPad Pro, praised for its Tandem OLED screen, offers exceptional visual clarity and color richness, crucial for creative professionals. Reviewers have extolled its performance in text-heavy and graphic editing tasks, highlighting its suitability for multimedia consumption under varying light conditions.
Innovative Tools with the iPad Pro
The iPad Pro is designed for professionals, featuring compatibility with the new Apple Pencil Pro. This accessory introduces functionalities such as gesture-based tool switching, precise control through a gyroscope, and custom haptic feedback. Alongside, the updated Magic Keyboard enriches the user experience with its lighter build, expansive trackpad, and function keys.
| Specs | Details |
|---|---|
| Display | 11- or 13-inch Ultra Retina XDR OLED display |
| Processor | Apple Silicon M4 |
| Storage Options | 256GB, 512GB, 1TB or 2TB |
| Price | $999+ |
The New iPad Mini: Portability Enhanced
This fall, the iPad Mini received a significant update, incorporating the A17 Pro chip and Apple Intelligence, reflecting its potential as a robust device in a compact form. While its AI capabilities are a narrative feature, the Mini excels as a portable device for entertainment and productivity on the go.
User feedback applauds the iPad Mini's compact size and versatility, making it an appealing choice for users seeking a broader reading and note-taking platform than a smartphone can provide.
The iPad Air and Its Evolving Role
Once a flagship recommendation, the iPad Air now finds itself delicately positioned between the iPad Pro and the standard iPad. While maintaining its familiar design, it incorporates the M2 processor, offering enhanced performance and welcoming compatibility with the Apple Pencil Pro.
Despite its substantial features, the cost of necessary accessories like the Magic Keyboard and the Apple Pencil can push the Air into a similar price bracket as the Pro, prompting potential buyers to reconsider their choices based on utility and budget.
Value Proposition of the Entry-Level iPad
For users with simple requirements, the ninth-generation base model remains a cost-effective choice. It serves as an excellent introduction to Apple's tablet ecosystem, with enduring capabilities to manage essential functions like video calls and app usage. This model preserves traditional features such as the Touch ID and Lightning port, facilitating users familiar with earlier technology. Customer reviews support its reliability, particularly as a cost-effective option for children and the technology averse.
| iPad Model | Price (starting cost) | Display | Processor | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| iPad (10th gen) | $349 | 10.9-inch Liquid Retina | A14 Bionic | 1.05 pounds |
| iPad Pro (7th gen) | $999 | 11- or 13-inch Ultra Retina XDR OLED | M4 | 0.98 or 1.28 pounds |
| iPad Mini (7th gen) | $499 | 8.3-inch Liquid Retina | A17 Pro | 0.65 pounds |
| iPad Air (6th gen) | $599 | 11- or 13-inch Liquid Retina IPS | M2 | 1.02 or 1.36 pounds |
| iPad (9th gen) | $330 | 10.2-inch Retina | A13 Bionic | 1.07 pounds |
