Best iPads for 2025 — Guide & iPadOS 26 highlights
Apple currently sells multiple 11-inch and 13-inch iPads plus the iPad mini. We tested each model to help you choose the best tablet for your needs — whether you want a laptop replacement, a device for creative work, or a big screen for streaming.
Top picks
- Best overall: iPad Air (M3) — strong performance, better display, supports Pencil Pro and newer Magic Keyboards.
- Best budget: iPad (A16) — excellent value with the A16 chip and solid battery life.
iPadOS 26 — Key features
- Mac-style multitasking: open and resize more windows, improved split view and an Exposé view for all open windows.
- Menu bar and a dedicated Preview app for quick file viewing.
- Improved Files app, better background downloads/exports for large files.
- Refreshed „liquid glass“ design across the OS, pointier cursor, and Dock folder support.
How we test
We spend days with each iPad testing video playback, web browsing, gaming, 4K photo/video editing, multitasking, FaceTime, Apple Pencil responsiveness and battery life. We use benchmarks (Geekbench 6, 3DMark, GFXBench Metal), real-world app timings, and side-by-side display and speaker comparisons. Battery tests include continuous 1080p playback at ~70% brightness.
Where to buy (affiliate links)
- iPad Air M3 (search on Amazon): https://www.amazon.com/s?k=iPad+Air+M3&tag=f1rede-20
- iPad (A16) (search on Amazon): https://www.amazon.com/s?k=iPad+A16&tag=f1rede-20
Quick FAQs
- How long will an iPad be supported? Typically 5+ years of iPadOS updates for most models.
- iPad vs iPad Air: Air uses M3 chip, more RAM, better display and accessory support; iPad (A16) is cheaper by about $250.
- Can an iPad replace a laptop? For many users — yes, with the right accessories. For heavy multitasking, coding or advanced file management, a laptop may still be preferable. iPadOS 26 narrows that gap.
Updated: August 2025 (kept picks accurate, FAQ expanded). If you want direct product pages or price tracking, I can search retailers and add links.