How to know which iPad to buy? It should be easy to decide. You select one that is not broken, right? I wish it were that easy. Apple sells four main iPad models, each with their own strengths. But in addition, a growing number of old iPads are floating around the world’s eBays. Since on the outside all of these devices look practically the same, it is important to know what you are buying and how much you should pay. This guide covers the best iPad models available right now, as well as those that are yet to come, the important differences between models and the old models that still exist, including the ones that you shouldn’t even get as a gift (Just kidding, if they give you one, accept it). We also talk about which Apple Pencil is right for you.
Be sure to check out all of our buying guidesincluding the best iPhones, the best tablets and the best MacBooks.
Updated October 2024: We added information about the new 7th generation iPad Mini.
The best for the majority
Apple iPad (2022, 10th Gen)
We originally said that the iPad (10th generation) (7/10, WIRED rating) was an awkward choice: It was too expensive for a basic iPad and the 9th generation version was better value for money. But now that Apple has reduced the price of this iPad by $100 and also discontinued the previous version, we think the 10th generation is the best one for most people. It’s powered by Apple’s A14 Bionic chip, the same one found in the iPhone 12, which Apple claims delivers 20% faster performance and a 10% increase in graphics compared to its predecessor; he never felt slow in testing.
Apple modernized the design with uniform thin bezels around a larger 10.9-inch Liquid Retina (IPS LCD) display. There’s a USB-C port instead of Lightning, so you can charge it with the same cable you use to charge a MacBook (or an iPhone 16). The cellular model now supports 5G and, like the iPad Air, the Touch ID sensor is integrated into the power button located on the top edge of the tablet. The rear camera has been upgraded to 12 megapixels, up from 8 megapixels. But, perhaps most importantly, the 12MP selfie camera has been moved to the center of the iPad (in landscape mode), so you no longer have to awkwardly look to the side during video calls.
This is the only iPad without a fully laminated screen, meaning there is an air gap between the screen and the glass. This can make interactions with the Apple Pencil feel a little imprecise. You also don’t get support for the second-generation Apple Pencil: it only works with the first-generation stylus or Apple Pencil USB-C. This iPad is compatible with the Magic Keyboard Folio and the original Smart Folio.
The best update
Brenda Stolyar
Apple iPad Air (2024, M2)
The base iPad is plenty powerful for most tasks, but the iPad Air (8/10, WIRED rating) steps things up a notch with an M2 processor, the same one that powers the 13-inch MacBook Air and 2022 MacBook Pro. Performance is smooth, even with a variety of applications running simultaneously. It’s not a huge difference from the predecessor, which had an M1 processor, but you’ll likely notice a difference if you’re coming from an older iPad with an A-series chip.
You now have the option to choose between an 11-inch and a 13-inch Liquid Retina display. The latter is an ideal option for people who don’t want to spend money on an iPad Pro if all they want is a larger screen. The design remains unchanged, with slim bezels, a USB-C port, and Touch ID integrated into the top power button. The only difference is the placement of the front camera: Apple moved the 12-megapixel sensor to landscape orientation (with Center Stage support).
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