iPads dominate the US tablet market for good reason—Apple has a top-notch set of tablet-focused apps, an easy-to-use operating system, and high-quality hardware. We've been reviewing iPads since the very first one reached the market back in 2010 and are intimately familiar with every tablet the company has released. With six different iPad models available, which one is right for you? Our top picks include the standard iPad for most people and the iPad Air for students and creators, both of which are Editors' Choice winners. Be sure to read about all our recommended iPads and click through to the full reviews for in-depth analysis. Don't forget to scroll down below our picks to find out everything you need to know about shopping for an iPad.

Can an iPad Replace My Laptop?

Maybe. iPads run Apple's iPadOS, which is essentially a tablet-focused version of iOS with split-screen and limited multi-window multitasking. It's not a full-fledged desktop-style windowed OS, but younger people who aren't used to multi-window OSes might be perfectly happy to use an iPad for chatting, gaming, schoolwork, and video editing. Most iPad apps work without a keyboard or trackpad, but they fully support most peripherals if you want to use them. Plenty of iPad-compatible keyboards and keyboard cases are available from Apple and third-party accessory makers. Notably, you can connect some iPads to an external monitor, such as the Studio Display and Pro Display XDR.

On the downside, no iPad can run more than two apps side-by-side and many professional apps don't necessarily have all of the capabilities of their desktop counterparts. If you need all those features but like the concept of a tablet, look into 2-in-1 convertibles or our favorite Windows tablets.

Which iPad Is Best for You?

The base-model iPad is the best tablet if you want an entry-level machine for games, media, or schoolwork. In a rugged case, it's also a suitable kid's tablet.

If you intend to do more productive or creative work, the iPad Air is the one to get. It offers many iPad Pro features (a fast processor, better audio, and compatibility with the Apple Pencil Pro) for less money.

(Credit: Eric Zeman)

The iPad mini has many of the features of the Air in a more petite body. Think of it as a portable notepad or sketchbook. It also works as an enterprise tablet for vehicle mounts, point-of-sale systems, or jacket pockets. However, it's the oldest of Apple's current iPad lineup (from 2021) and is thus the most likely to be updated sooner rather than later.

If price is no object, the iPad Pro is a terrific and luxurious piece of hardware. It's got a much better OLED screen and faster processor than the Air, though iPadOS prevents it from doing much more than the Air. The current iPad Pro starts at $999 for the 11-inch model and $1,299 for the 13-inch one.

Older or used models are sometimes on sale for less than new iPads. Currently, we recommend the 9th-generation iPad if you can find it. Apple discontinued it in May 2024, though it may still be on some store shelves or available refurbished or used.

Do You Need iPad Accessories?

Wehn you buy an iPad, you get the iPad itself, the appropriate cable, and a charger. You might want a few more things to make the most of your new tablet.

(Credit: Eric Zeman)

You can enhance any iPad with the optional Apple Pencil accessory, a high-quality active stylus. The first-generation Pencil works with the base-model iPad, while the second-generation Pencil works with high-end models. The second-gen Pencil is easier to hold because it's not perfectly round and conveniently charges with a magnetic connector on the side of the tablet. Apple also sells a USB-C Apple Pencil that mixes and matches features of the first- and second-generation Pencils for a little less. The Apple Pencil Pro is the best option for artists and creators due to its extended list of features, such as support for barrel rolls.

Apple also offers a full lineup of cases, covers, and keyboards for its iPads if you want to protect your device and extend its functionality further.

Battery life is just OK across the board. Grabbing a power bank is probably a good idea if you travel or commute with your iPad.

What's the Next Best Tablet?

The cheapest new iPad costs $349, which may be too steep for some buyers, particularly if you add accessories. Some Android tablets sell for less—even under $100—and are acceptable for basic gaming and media streaming, though not for schoolwork or productivity. Our list of the best cheap tablets tells you which low-end models are worth considering.