Best iPad to Buy (and Some to Avoid) in 2025
Apple’s 2025 iPad lineup offers something for everyone—but not all models are worth your money. Whether you’re a student, artist, or business pro, we’ll help you pick the best iPad for your needs and flag outdated models to steer clear of.
Best iPad Overall: iPad Pro (M3 Chip, 2025)
The 2025 iPad Pro dominates with Apple’s 3nm M3 chip, a Liquid Retina XDR display, and Thunderbolt 4 support. It’s the ultimate tablet for professionals who need desktop-grade performance in a slim, portable design.
Key Features:
✅ M3 chip – 20% faster GPU than M2
✅ Mini-LED display – 1,600 nits peak brightness
✅ Apple Pencil 3 support with hover detection
✅ Thinnest iPad ever (5.1mm)
Drawbacks:
❌ Starts at ₹99,900 (256GB)
❌ Overkill for casual users
Verdict: The undisputed king for power users.
Best for Most People: iPad Air (M2, 2025)
The 2025 iPad Air delivers 90% of the Pro’s performance at a lower price. With the M2 chip, 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display, and USB-C, it’s perfect for students and professionals.
Why Buy It?
✔ M2 chip handles heavy multitasking
✔ Compatible with Magic Keyboard & Apple Pencil 3
✔ ₹30,000 cheaper than the Pro
Downsides:
⚠️ 60Hz display (no ProMotion)
⚠️ No Thunderbolt
Verdict: The sweet spot for performance and value.
Best Budget iPad: 10th Gen iPad (2025 Refresh)
The 2025 10th-gen iPad gets an A15 Bionic upgrade, USB-C, and a 10.9-inch screen—making it ideal for streaming, browsing, and light work.
Pros & Cons:
➕ Starts at ₹38,900
➕ All-day battery life
➖ Non-laminated display
➖ Only supports 1st-gen Apple Pencil
Best for: Students, families, and casual users.
Best for Portability: iPad Mini (A16 Bionic, 2025)
The 2025 iPad Mini packs an A16 Bionic chip into an 8.3-inch body, perfect for artists and travelers.
Highlights:
✨ Ultra-portable (under 300g)
✨ Apple Pencil 3 support
✨ Improved thermals for sustained performance
Limitations:
⛔ Small screen limits multitasking
⛔ Expensive for its size (₹59,900)
iPads to Avoid in 2025
❌ 9th Gen iPad (2021, Still Sold)
Outdated Lightning port, A13 chip, and thick bezels. Only consider if under ₹25,000.
❌ Pre-M1 iPad Pro Models (2018–2020)
No M-series chip means shorter software support and slower performance.
❌ iPad Air 4 (2020)
Slower A14 chip and weaker USB-C vs. the 2025 Air.
Final Recommendations
| Use Case | Best iPad Choice |
|——————-|————————–|
| Power users | iPad Pro (M3, 2025) |
| Most buyers | iPad Air (M2, 2025) |
| Budget shoppers | 10th Gen iPad (2025) |
| On-the-go | iPad Mini (2025) |
Pro Tip: Avoid older iPads—Apple’s M-series chips future-proof your purchase.
