The best iPad to buy (and some to avoid) in 2025

Other good iPads

Image: Apple

Apple no longer sells these iPads, but these slightly older models are still good options, as long as you can find them at the right discount. I recommend checking with third party retailers (eg Amazon, Best buyand Bosnia and Herzegovina). I also suggest checking the price with the latest models to make sure you’re spending less on the older tablet. Older models not mentioned here are difficult to find and may not be worth the effort.

iPad Pro (2022, 6th generation): These iPad Pro tablets (7/10, Wired review) Use the same M2 chip found inside MacBook Air (2022), Mac miniand iPad Air (2024). It also has an excellent mini LED display (with Screen refresh rate is 120 Hz) along with a dual camera system (with a lidar sensor), a front camera with Center Stage support, in addition to great speakers and microphones. It is compatible with the original Magic keyboard case, Second generation Apple Penciland Apple Pencil with USB-C. I only recommend it if you can find an 11-inch for $749 or less and a 12.9-inch for $900 or less.

iPad Air (2022, 5th generation): This iPad Air has an M1 processor (which can also be found in the 2020 MacBook Air), a 10.9-inch LCD display, a USB-C port, Touch ID built into the top power button, and 5G support. It’s a great tablet, lightweight and very powerful for most tasks. It packs support for Second generation Apple Pencil, Apple Pencil with USB-Cand Magic keyboard case. I only recommend it for $450 or less.

Great iPad accessories

Zogo case

Photo: Zogo

The iPad accessories are endless. Below, we’ve highlighted some of our favorites to complete your tablet experience, and you can find more over at our site Best guide to iPad accessories.

Zugu case for $50: This is our favorite case for the iPad for multiple reasons. Not only is it durable (complete with a hard bumper), but it also has a magnetic lid that stays closed and a cover that allows you to position the screen at eight different angles. The case is magnetic, allowing you to stick it to your refrigerator securely. It’s also affordable, comes in a range of colors, and has a place for your Apple Pencil.

Satechi M1 Wireless Mouse for $30: We’re already big fans of Satechi accessories at WIRED, and this mouse did not disappoint. It features an ergonomic and comfortable design, a sleek aluminum finish, and smooth scrolling. It has great battery life too – with a built-in lithium-ion battery, I’ve been using it for the past four months and have yet to charge it.

Mageasy CoverBuddy Case (for iPad Pro) for $65: This case allows you to connect it magnetically Apple Magic Keyboard Case Without having to take off the case every time. It’s sturdy and doesn’t add a lot of bulk to the iPad. There’s also a slot for the Apple Pencil Pro or the USB-C version. The company also offers CoverBuddy Lite for iPad Air (M2).

Photo: Brenda Stolyar

Logitech Combo Touch (10th gen) for $160: mixed touch (8/10, WIRED recommends) It comes with a built-in keyboard, trackpad, and kickstand, making it perfect for getting work done on your iPad. It’s also detachable, so you can easily remove the keyboard when you don’t need it. It connects via Apple’s Smart Connector, which means you’ll never need to fiddle with Bluetooth or bother charging it. It is also available for iPad Pro (M4) (Although it does add a bit of weight to such a thin tablet) and iPad Air (M2).

Casetify Impact Screen Protector for $56: If you’re worried about damaging your iPad’s screen, I recommend this protector from Casetify. It’s very thin, has excellent touch sensitivity, and it does Mostly Fingerprint resistant (I wiped off a few smudges here and there). It’s a painless application, with the company providing a microfiber cloth, dust removal sticker, and wet and dry wipes.

Charcoal paper case $70: Paperlike is best known for its screen protectors, but the company also offers a great case. It’s designed to look like a sketchbook, complete with a polyester fabric cover that is lightweight and high quality. You can also prop your iPad on two different levels. It doesn’t come with a slot for the Apple Pencil, but there is a large locking cap that keeps it from falling out. I’ve tested it with iPad Airbut it is also available for iPad Pro (both sizes).

Stay Go Mini

Image: Twelve South

Twelve South StayGo Mini USB-C Hub for $60: Ports are limited regardless of iPad model. This hub from Twelve South has an 85W USB-C port with pass-through charging, a USB-A port, an HDMI port, and a headphone jack. If you have trouble installing it on an iPad with a case, the included USB-C-to-plug-USB-C cable will fix that problem.

Apple Magic Trackpad 2 for $128: For a spacious trackpad, the Magic Trackpad 2 is a great choice. Instead of physical buttons, it has Force Touch sensors where you can feel different levels of pressure on the pad. And with support for various iPadOS gestures, you won’t have to touch the screen as much. It automatically pairs with your iPad via Bluetooth and recharges using the Lightning port.

Logitech K380 Bluetooth Keyboard, $40: If you prefer an external keyboard, it’s hard to go wrong with the Logitech K380. It’s lightweight and portable and can be connected to up to three devices via Bluetooth (with dedicated buttons to switch between them). The keyboard is powered by AAA batteries, which last about four months, so you don’t have to worry about carrying a charger.

Twelve South HoverBar Duo 2.0 for $80: The HoverBar serves two purposes. You can mount it on your bedside, kitchen counter, or shelf (for convenient, hands-free content viewing) or you can use the included stand on your desk. With the second generation version, you can now remove the arm from the clip and attach it directly to the stand, making it easier to switch between both modes.