In 2025, Apple released new versions of the basic, budget-friendly iPad, the midtier iPad Air, and the premium iPad Pro. The upgrades are relatively incremental, adding improvements like faster chips, extra AI functionality, and more storage.
But our advice hasn’t changed. Consumers in search of an iPad for “tablet-y” activities like browsing the web, watching videos, and reading e-books should seriously consider the entry-level iPad or the iPad Air.
For more demanding users—those who view an iPad as more of a laptop replacement, a tool for editing hi-res photos and videos—the iPad Pro makes more sense. It’s more powerful, and the larger, higher-quality display makes working with apps like Final Cut Pro and Logic Pro easier and more enjoyable.
We buy and test every model that Apple releases, measuring performance across a variety of metrics, including ease of use, the quality of the display, and how fast the model does the things we ask it to do, like load web pages and apply filters to photos. Whatever your budget and your needs, we can help you find the device that’s right for you.
CR members are also welcome to consult our buying guide and full tablet ratings to see how more than 45 models have performed in our labs, including those from brands like Amazon, Lenovo, and Samsung.
