iPads dominate the US tablet market for good reason. Apple has a great set of tablet-focused apps, an easy-to-use operating system, and an excellent service and support structure. As of this writing, there are five main iPad models: the base iPad, the iPad Air, the iPad mini, and the 11-inch and 12.9-inch iPad Pro models. Apple also sells refurbished devices for a little less. You have a lot of choices. But which one is right for you? Scroll down below our picks to find out everything you need to know.
Can an iPad Replace My Laptop?
Maybe. iPads run Apple's iPadOS, which is essentially a tablet-focused version of iOS with split-screen 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 schoolwork, video editing, and chatting. Most iPad apps work without a keyboard or trackpad, but they fully support those 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 now connect some high-end 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 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 good choice for a 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 vastly better second-generation Apple Pencil) for less money.
A keyboard turns the iPad Air into a powerful productivity tablet (Credit: Molly Flores)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.
If price is no object, the iPad Pro is a terrific piece of hardware. However, its OS keeps it from doing much more than the Air. Plus, it costs more. The current iPad Pro starts at $799 for the 11-inch model and $1,099 for the 12.9-inch one. It's a luxurious experience, regardless.
Older or used models are sometimes on sale for less than new iPads. Currently, we recommend the 9th-generation iPad for around $329. It's just one generation old, so it should get new software versions for a few more years.
Do You Need iPad Accessories?
In the box, you get an iPad, the appropriate cable, and a charger. You might need a few more things to make the most of your new tablet.
You can enhance any iPad with the optional Pencil accessory, a high-quality active stylus. There are two Pencils; the first-generation one works with the base-model iPad, while the second-generation one works with other 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. There is also a less-expensive Pencil alternative, the Logitech Crayon (we've reviewed only the first-generation model). Apple also offers a full lineup of cases and covers for its iPads if you want to protect your device.
Just keep in mind that battery life is just okay 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?
It's worth noting that the cheapest iPad isn't very cheap, especially once you factor in the cost of 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.
Sascha Segan and Dave LeClair contributed to this story.
