The best iPad to buy in 2025 (and some to avoid).
Other good iPads
Photo: Apple
Apple no longer sells these iPads, but these slightly older models are still a good option as long as you can find them at the right discount. I recommend checking third party providers (e.g Amazon, Best buyAnd BRA). I also recommend comparing the price with the latest models to make sure you’re spending significantly less on the older tablet. Older models not mentioned here are becoming increasingly difficult to find and may not be worth it.
iPad Pro (2022, 6th generation): These iPad Pro tablets (7/10, WIRED review) use the same M2 chip located inside MacBook Air (2022), Mac Miniand iPad Air (2024). It also has an excellent mini-LED screen (with a 120Hz screen refresh rate), along with a dual camera system (with a lidar sensor), a front-facing camera with support for Center Stage, and 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 the 11-inch model for $749 or less and the 12.9-inch model for $900 or less.
iPad Air (2022, 5th generation): This iPad Air features an M1 processor (also found in the MacBook Air 2020), a 10.9-inch LCD screen, a USB-C port, Touch ID integrated into the top power button, and support for 5G. It’s a great, lightweight tablet that’s powerful enough for most tasks. It provides support for the Second generation Apple Pencil, Apple Pencil with USB-Cand the Magic Keyboard case. I only recommend it for $450 or less.
Great iPad accessories
iPad accessories are endless. Below we’ve highlighted some of our favorites to round out your tablet experience. For more information, see our Guide to the best iPad accessories.
Zugu suitcase for $50: This is our favorite folio case for the iPad for several reasons. Not only is it durable (complete with a sturdy bumper), it also features a magnetized cover that stays closed and a flap that lets you position the screen at eight different angles. The case is magnetic so you can attach it securely to the refrigerator. It’s also affordable, comes in a variety of colors, and has room for your Apple Pencil.
Satechi M1 Wireless Mouse for $30: We at WIRED are already big fans of Satechi accessories and this mouse didn’t disappoint. It features a comfortable ergonomic design, a sleek aluminum finish, and smooth scrolling. It also has great battery life – with a built-in lithium-ion battery, I’ve been using it for four months and have yet to charge it.
Mageasy CoverBuddy Case (iPad Pro) for $65: With this case you can connect it magnetically Apple’s Magic Keyboard case without having to remove the case every time. It feels durable and doesn’t add too much bulk to the iPad. There’s also a slot for the Apple Pencil Pro or the USB-C version. The company also offers the CoverBuddy Lite for iPad Air (M2).
Photo: Brenda Stolyar
Logitech Combo Touch (10th Gen) for $160: The Combo Touch (8/10, WIRED recommends) has a built-in keyboard, trackpad and stand, making it ideal for working on your iPad. It’s also removable, so you can easily remove the keyboard when you don’t need it. It connects via Apple’s Smart Connector, so you never have to tinker with Bluetooth or charge it. It is also available for iPad Pro (M4) (although it does add a bit more weight to such a thin tablet) and that iPad Air (M2).
Casetify Impact Screen Protector for $56: If you’re worried about your iPad screen getting damaged, I recommend this protection from Casetify. It is super thin, has excellent touch sensitivity and is mostly fingerprint resistant (I wiped off a few smudges here and there). The application is painless – the company supplies a microfiber cloth, a dust removal sticker, and wet and dry wipes.
Paperlike Charcoal Folio Case for $70: Paperlike is known for its screen protectors, but the company also offers a great case. It has a sketchbook feel and features a polyester fabric cover that feels light and premium. You can also place your iPad on two different levels. It doesn’t have an Apple Pencil slot, but there is a large flip latch to keep it from falling out. I tested it with that iPad Airbut it is also available for iPad Pro (both sizes).
Twelve South StayGo Mini USB-C Hub for $60: Regardless of the iPad model, ports are limited. This hub from Twelve South features an 85-watt USB-C port with pass-through charging, a USB-A port, an HDMI port, and a headphone jack. If you have trouble fitting it on an iPad with a case, you can use the included USB-C female to USB-C male cable to fix the problem.
Apple Magic Trackpad 2 for $128: For a spacious trackpad, the Magic Trackpad 2 is a good choice. Instead of physical buttons, it has force touch sensors that allow you to feel different levels of pressure on the pad. Support for various iPadOS gestures means you don’t have to touch the screen as often. It automatically pairs with your iPad via Bluetooth and charges via the Lightning port.
Logitech K380 Bluetooth keyboard for $40: If you prefer an external keyboard, you can hardly go wrong with the Logitech K380. Lightweight and portable, it can connect to up to three devices via Bluetooth (with dedicated buttons to switch between them). The keyboard runs on AAA batteries, which lasted us about four months, so you don’t have to worry about carrying around a charger.
Twelve South HoverBar Duo 2.0 for $80: The HoverBar serves two purposes. You can mount it on the side of your bed, kitchen counter, or shelf (for convenient, hands-free viewing) or you can use the included stand at your desk. With the 2nd generation version, you can now remove the arm from the clamp and attach it directly to the stand – making it easier to switch between both modes.
