10 Best Apple iPads in 2026

Picking an iPad used to be simple: buy the latest one and you were set. Today Apple sells so many variations that the line between models feels blurry. Do you need an M5 chip or is the A16 enough? Should you go 11-inch or 13-inch? And what about the Mini? The decision gets harder when you factor in the renewed market, where older iPads still do the job at a different capability level.

We sorted through the current lineup and the most popular renewed options to find the 10 best Apple iPads you can buy right now. Whether you want a power workstation for video editing, a lightweight sketchpad, or a family tablet for streaming and homework, there is an iPad here that fits. The range covers the pro-level M5, the balanced Air with M4, the all‑around standard iPad, the ultraportable Mini, and three well-priced renewed units that still hold up.

TL;DR: The Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M5) is the obvious choice for creative professionals who need the best display and raw power. The Apple iPad Air 11-inch (M4) is the sweet spot for most people who want M‑class performance without the Pro price. The Apple iPad 11-inch (A16) is the simple buy for students and casual users, and the Apple iPad mini (A17 Pro) is the one for anyone who values pocketability over screen size. Among renewed iPads, the 8th Generation 128GB is the smart pick for a budget‑minded buyer.

#	Product	Display	Chip	Storage	Best for
1	Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M5)	11" Ultra Retina XDR	M5	256GB	Creative pros and demanding workloads
2	Apple iPad Air 11-inch (M4)	11" Liquid Retina	M4	256GB	Most users wanting premium performance
3	Apple iPad Air 13-inch (M4)	13" Liquid Retina	M4	128GB	Split‑screen multitaskers and artists
4	Apple iPad 11-inch (A16) 128GB Silver	11" Liquid Retina	A16	128GB	Students and everyday use
5	Apple iPad 11-inch (A16) 128GB Pink	11" Liquid Retina	A16	128GB	Same as above, with a fun color
6	Apple iPad 11-inch (A16) 256GB Silver	11" Liquid Retina	A16	256GB	Users who need more local storage
7	Apple iPad mini (A17 Pro)	8.3" Liquid Retina	A17 Pro	128GB	Frequent travelers and note‑taking
8	Apple iPad 8th Gen 10.2" 128GB (Renewed)	10.2" Retina	A12 Bionic	128GB	Budget buyer OK with older hardware
9	Apple iPad 10.2" 32GB (Renewed 7th Gen)	10.2" Retina	A10 Fusion	32GB	Kids or secondary family tablet
10	Apple iPad 2020 10.2" 32GB (Renewed)	10.2" Retina	A12 Bionic	32GB	Absolute rock‑bottom budget

How we picked

• Chip performance and longevity. The A16, M4, and M5 chips mark big leaps in speed and AI capability. A newer chip means longer software support and smoother multitasking.
• Display quality and size. Pro models use Ultra Retina XDR with ProMotion and extreme brightness; Air and standard models use Liquid Retina with True Tone. Screen size affects portability and split-screen usability.
• Storage and future‑proofing. 128GB is the new baseline for most users. 256GB suits media hoarders, while 32GB is tight and only works for light use.
• Ecosystem compatibility. Support for Apple Pencil (USB‑C or Pro) and Magic Keyboard varies by model. If you plan to draw or type a lot, check which accessories work.
• Camera and video call quality. Center Stage (12MP front camera) makes FaceTime and Zoom meetings much better. Older iPads have lower‑resolution front cameras.
• Connectivity speed. Wi‑Fi 6, 6E, and 7 affect download and streaming speeds. Models with Wi‑Fi 7 and Apple N1 are future‑ready, but Wi‑Fi 6 is still fine for most homes.

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1. Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M5): Best for Creative Pros

Pros

• Ultra Retina XDR display with ProMotion is the best screen on any iPad
• M5 chip handles 4K video, 3D modeling, and AI tasks without breaking a sweat
• Landscape 12MP front camera with Center Stage improves video calls
• LiDAR Scanner for AR and depth mapping
• Face ID is faster than Touch ID on wet or gloved hands

Cons

• No headphone jack
• The 256GB base storage may feel tight for pro video files
• Magic Keyboard is sold separately and adds significant bulk

Best for: Professional photographers, video editors, and designers who need the most powerful iPad and the best display.

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The iPad Pro with M5 is Apple's statement of what a tablet can be. The Ultra Retina XDR display hits brightness levels that make HDR content pop like nothing else, and ProMotion's 120Hz refresh rate makes scrolling and drawing feel instant. The M5 chip has dedicated Neural Accelerators for on‑device AI, which means apps like Final Cut Pro and Adobe Lightroom run tasks that would choke a laptop. The LiDAR Scanner lets you scan rooms for AR or measure furniture placement with surprising accuracy. For anyone earning a living from creative work, this is the one iPad that doesn't ask you to compromise. Its biggest flaw is that the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil Pro cost extra, but the Pro itself leaves almost nothing on the table.

2. Apple iPad Air 11-inch (M4): Best All‑Rounder

Pros

• M4 chip delivers near‑Pro performance for most tasks
• Liquid Retina display with P3 wide color and True Tone looks great
• Wi‑Fi 7 with Apple N1 for future‑proof wireless speeds
• Supports Apple Pencil Pro and Magic Keyboard
• Thin and light at 0.24 inches and just over a pound

Cons

• 60Hz refresh rate, not 120Hz like the Pro
• Base storage is 256GB (no 128GB option on the 11-inch)
• No Face ID, uses Touch ID in the top button

Best for: Students, office workers, and casual creators who want M‑class performance without the Pro's cost.

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The iPad Air 11-inch (M4) is the iPad most people should buy. It has the same M4 chip that powers the Pro in many workflows, the same Liquid Retina display tech as the standard iPad but with wider color, and it supports the same premium accessories. The only real sacrifices are the display refresh rate (60Hz vs. 120Hz) and the lack of a LiDAR scanner. For note‑taking, writing, web browsing, and even light video editing, the Air handles everything smoothly. The 256GB storage is generous for the tier, and Wi‑Fi 7 means this iPad will stay fast as home networks evolve. If you can only buy one iPad and you want it to last several years, this is the one.

3. Apple iPad Air 13-inch (M4): Best for Big‑Screen Lovers

Pros

• 13-inch Liquid Retina display gives you real estate for split‑screen work
• M4 chip with same performance as the 11-inch Air
• Great for drawing and note‑taking with Apple Pencil Pro
• Thin and relatively light for a 13-inch tablet
• Wi‑Fi 7 with Apple N1

Cons

• Base storage is only 128GB (the 11-inch Air starts at 256GB)
• 60Hz display feels dated compared to the Pro's 120Hz
• Not as portable as the 11-inch models

Best for: Artists, note‑takers, and anyone who frequently runs two apps side‑by‑side.

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The 13-inch iPad Air is the same M4 tablet as the 11-inch but stretched to a canvas that feels almost like a laptop screen. In landscape mode, you can run a browser on one half and a note‑taking app on the other, and both windows stay readable. Drawing with an Apple Pencil Pro on this size is noticeably more comfortable than on the 11-inch because you have room for your wrist. The 128GB base storage is a step down from the 11-inch Air's 256GB base, but it is enough for most users who rely on cloud storage. If you value screen space over portability and don't need the Pro's extreme brightness, this is the iPad to get.

4. Apple iPad 11-inch (A16) 128GB Silver: Best for Everyday Use

Pros

• A16 chip is fast enough for streaming, browsing, and light gaming
• 128GB base storage is double the old baseline
• USB‑C connector for modern accessories and charging
• Supports Apple Pencil (USB‑C) and Magic Keyboard Folio
• 12MP Center Stage front camera for video calls

Cons

• Display is Liquid Retina but lacks P3 wide color
• No laminated display (small air gap between glass and LCD)
• Touch ID in the top button is fine but less convenient than Face ID

Best for: Students, casual users, and anyone who needs a reliable tablet without paying extra for power they won't use.

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The standard iPad has always been the volume seller, and this 11-inch A16 model continues that tradition. The A16 chip is still more than enough for Netflix, Safari, Pages, and even some photo editing. The Liquid Retina display is bright and has True Tone, but it is not laminated, so there is a tiny gap between the glass and the LCD that some people notice when using an Apple Pencil. For most people, it won't matter. The Magic Keyboard Folio attaches magnetically and turns this iPad into a credible laptop replacement for schoolwork. The 128GB base storage is a huge upgrade from the old 64GB baseline. If you just want an iPad that does iPad things well, this is the one.

5. Apple iPad 11-inch (A16) 128GB Pink: Same Great iPad, Fun Color

Pros

• Identical hardware and performance to the Silver version
• Pink aluminum back stands out from the sea of silver and space gray
• Same 128GB storage, A16 chip, USB‑C, and Center Stage camera
• Works with the same Magic Keyboard Folio and Apple Pencil

Cons

• Same non‑laminated display as the Silver version
• No wide color or ProMotion
• Pink may not suit everyone

Best for: Users who want the standard iPad experience but in a color that feels less generic.

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This is exactly the same iPad as the Silver version above, just in pink. The color is a muted, metallic pink that looks more sophisticated than the bright shades on some Android tablets. If you carry your iPad everywhere and want something that feels personal, the pink finish is a nice touch. Everything else — performance, storage, camera, accessory support — is identical. Pick this one if the color makes you smile; otherwise, save yourself the decision and grab the Silver.

6. Apple iPad 11-inch (A16) 256GB Silver: More Room for Media

Pros

• 256GB storage for local music, movies, and large apps
• Same A16 chip and USB‑C as the 128GB models
• Still supports Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard Folio
• Center Stage camera is excellent for FaceTime

Cons

• Same non‑laminated display as the other standard iPads
• Overkill for users who stream everything
• Heavier than the iPad Air despite being thicker

Best for: Commuters who download movies, podcasters who record directly to the iPad, and families that share one device.

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The 256GB version of the standard iPad exists for a specific kind of user: someone who wants to store lots of content locally. If you fly often and download entire Netflix seasons, or if you keep a music library with thousands of songs, the extra room matters. The A16 chip handles everything you throw at it, and the USB‑C port lets you connect external drives or cameras. For most people, 128GB is enough, but if you hate managing storage, the 256GB version is a sensible upgrade. Just know that the display and chassis remain the same as the cheaper model.

7. Apple iPad mini (A17 Pro): Best for Portability

Pros

• 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display in a truly pocketable size
• A17 Pro chip delivers performance that rivals the M1 for most tasks
• Supports Apple Pencil Pro and Apple Pencil (USB‑C)
• 128GB base storage with optional 256GB and 512GB
• 12MP Ultra Wide front camera with Center Stage

Cons

• Small display not ideal for split‑screen multitasking
• No official Magic Keyboard for this size
• 60Hz display (same as the Air and standard iPad)

Best for: Frequent readers, note‑takers on the go, and anyone who wants a powerful tablet that fits in a jacket pocket.

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The iPad mini is the only small tablet that still makes sense in 2026. The A17 Pro chip gives it enough power to run demanding apps like LumaFusion or Procreate, and the 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display is sharp and color accurate. It fits easily in a large pocket or a small bag, making it the best companion for taking notes at meetings, reading ebooks, or flying with a lightweight setup. The USB‑C port supports fast transfers, and the camera includes Center Stage for video calls. The main trade‑off is that the screen is too small for serious multitasking. But if you value one‑handed use above all else, the Mini has no equal.

8. Apple iPad 8th Gen 10.2" 128GB (Renewed): Best Deal for a Budget Buyer

Pros

• 128GB storage is generous for a renewed iPad
• A12 Bionic chip still handles streaming, browsing, and light gaming
• Supports Apple Pencil (1st gen) and Smart Keyboard
• Lightning connector and headphone jack
• Much lower outlay than a new iPad

Cons

• Older design with thick bezels and Touch ID home button
• 10.2-inch Retina display is not laminated
• No Center Stage camera (1.2MP front camera is basic)
• Only Wi‑Fi 5, slower than modern standards

Best for: Someone who needs an iPad for basic tasks and wants to spend less.

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Renewed iPads are a mixed bag, but the 8th Generation with 128GB is the best of the older bunch. The A12 Bionic chip is still capable for everything except the most intensive games and video editing. The 10.2-inch Retina display looks good, though it lacks the lamination and wide color of newer models. The big advantage here is storage: 128GB is double what most renewed tablets offer. It also has a headphone jack, which the new iPads lack. The trade‑offs are a slower Lightning port, Wi‑Fi 5, and an aging design. But if you just need a family iPad for YouTube, homework, and FaceTime, this one works perfectly.

9. Apple iPad 10.2" 32GB (Renewed 7th Gen): Cheapest Entry Point

Pros

• Lowest cost of any iPad in this roundup
• Same 10.2-inch Retina display as the 8th gen
• Headphone jack and Lightning connector
• Smart Connector supports Smart Keyboard
• A10 Fusion chip still runs basic apps fine

Cons

• Only 32GB storage (fills up fast)
• A10 Fusion is showing its age (no iPadOS 20+ support)
• 1.2MP front camera is poor for video calls
• No Pencil support beyond Apple Pencil (1st gen)

Best for: A child's first iPad or a secondary device for reading and very light use.

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The 7th generation iPad is the oldest still worth considering. It runs the basic iPadOS apps well, but the A10 Fusion chip will likely miss future major iPadOS updates. The 32GB storage means you'll be managing space constantly: no more than a few games, a handful of apps, and some music. The front camera is low resolution and lacks Center Stage. This iPad is best suited for very young children who just need a durable device for educational apps, or as a kitchen tablet for recipes and video calls. For anyone else, the extra cost for the 8th gen with 128GB is a much better investment.

10. Apple iPad 2020 10.2" 32GB (Renewed): Last Resort Budget Pick

Pros

• A12 Bionic chip is slightly faster than the A10 in the 7th gen
• Same 10.2-inch Retina display and 1.2MP front camera as the 8th gen
• Smart Keyboard and Apple Pencil (1st gen) support
• Headphone jack included

Cons

• Only 32GB storage
• 2020 model is now six years old, limited future OS support
• Same basic front camera as the 7th gen
• Lightning connector (not USB‑C)

Best for: Users who need the absolute minimum iPad for reading and web browsing, and nothing more.

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This renewed iPad from 2020 is nearly identical to the 8th generation in terms of performance (both use the A12 Bionic) but comes with only 32GB of storage. The 8th gen at 128GB is a much better value for anyone who plans to do more than light browsing. The 2020 model runs iPadOS 16 and 17, but its compatibility for newer features is uncertain. If you find one at a very low outlay and only need it for reading ebooks, checking email, and watching the occasional video, it will get the job done. But given the small storage and age, it is hard to recommend over the 8th gen.

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Buyer's guide: how to choose an iPad

Choosing the right iPad starts with understanding what you need the chip, screen, and storage to do. Here are the factors that actually matter.

Chip generation and longevity

Apple's chips fall into two families: the A‑series (A16, A17 Pro) and the M‑series (M4, M5). M‑series chips have more GPU cores and unified memory bandwidth, making them better for video editing, 3D rendering, and running multiple pro apps simultaneously. A‑series chips are still plenty fast for streaming, web browsing, and office apps. A newer chip also means more years of iPadOS updates. The M5 and A17 Pro will likely get major OS updates for at least five more years, while A10 Fusion models are near the end.

Display size and panel quality

The 11-inch screen is the most versatile, fitting a keyboard folio for laptop‑like use. The 13-inch Air and the large Pro give you more room for drawing and multitasking. The 8.3-inch Mini is best for reading and one‑handed use. All modern iPads have Liquid Retina displays with True Tone, but the Pro's Ultra Retina XDR with 120Hz ProMotion is noticeably smoother for scrolling and more accurate for color work. Non‑laminated displays (on standard iPads) have a tiny gap that can make tapping feel slightly less direct.

Storage capacity

128GB is the new comfortable minimum for most people. 64GB models (not sold new anymore) fill up quickly if you install many games or download movies. 256GB gives you room for a large media library. 512GB and 1TB are available in the Air and Pro for heavy users. Cloud storage can offset local space, but if you fly often or have limited data, local storage matters.

Accessory compatibility

Not all iPads work with all Apple Pencils and keyboards. The standard iPad (A16) supports Apple Pencil (USB‑C) and the Magic Keyboard Folio. The Air models support Apple Pencil Pro and Magic Keyboard for iPad Air. The Pro supports both Pencil Pro and Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro. The Mini supports Pencil Pro but not a keyboard case with a trackpad. If you plan to draw or type a lot, check compatibility before buying.

Camera and video call quality

The 12MP Ultra Wide front camera with Center Stage (on all new iPads from 2021 onward) automatically keeps you framed during video calls. Older iPads have 1.2MP front cameras that look soft and lack Center Stage. If you use FaceTime or Zoom frequently, a newer iPad makes a big difference.

Connectivity and ports

USB‑C is the standard on all new iPads. Lightning is only on older and renewed models. USB‑C supports faster data transfers, external displays, and charging with the same cable as your MacBook. Wi‑Fi 6 is fine for most homes, but Wi‑Fi 6E and 7 are faster and less prone to interference. The M5 and Air M4 models include Wi‑Fi 7 with Apple N1, which is future‑proof but not essential today.

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Frequently asked questions

Which iPad is best for note‑taking?

The iPad Air 11-inch (M4) or iPad Pro 11-inch (M5) with an Apple Pencil Pro are the best choices. Both support the pressure‑sensitive Pencil Pro and offer laminated displays that feel like writing on paper. The iPad mini is also great for note‑taking but the smaller screen limits how much you can see at once.

Can I use an iPad as a laptop replacement?

Yes, with the right accessories. The iPad Air or standard iPad paired with a Magic Keyboard Folio provides a comfortable typing experience and a built‑in trackpad. For heavy multitasking, the 13-inch Air or the Pro models work best. iPadOS can run multiple apps side by side, but some desktop‑class apps are still missing.

How long will a renewed iPad last?

A renewed iPad from the 8th generation (2020) or newer should last three to four more years of normal use. Battery condition varies, but many renewers replace the battery. Check the return policy and warranty from the seller. Avoid models with A10 Fusion or earlier chips, as they will lose iPadOS support soon.

Is the iPad Pro worth it over the Air for most people?

No. The iPad Air with M4 covers 90% of what most people need: fast performance, a great display, and full accessory support. The Pro's Ultra Retina XDR display, 120Hz refresh rate, and M5 chip matter only for professional creatives, video editors, and anyone who works with AR. For everyone else, the Air is the better choice.

What's the difference between a new iPad and a renewed one?

Renewed iPads are pre‑owned units that have been tested, cleaned, and often have new batteries. They cost less but may have minor cosmetic scratches. They are typically one to three generations behind the current models, so they have older chips and displays. Renewed iPads usually come with a 90‑day warranty from the seller, not the full Apple warranty.

Should I buy a cellular iPad or Wi‑Fi only?

Wi‑Fi‑only models are fine if you stay in range of home or work networks. Cellular models let you use data plans on the go, which is useful for mapping, social media, and email while traveling. Most people can stick with Wi‑Fi and tether their phone when needed.

Which iPad has the best display for watching movies?

The iPad Pro 11-inch (M5) with Ultra Retina XDR offers the highest brightness and contrast for HDR movies. The iPad Air 13-inch (M4) is also excellent for movies because of its large screen, but it lacks the Pro's extreme brightness and ProMotion.

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Final verdict

The 10 best Apple iPads in 2026 cover a wide range, but the choice ultimately comes down to how you work and play. The iPad Pro 11-inch (M5) is the ultimate creative tool, but most people will be happier with the iPad Air 11-inch (M4) which delivers M‑class performance and great accessories at a more accessible level. If you just need a dependable tablet for everyday tasks, the Apple iPad 11-inch (A16) is the sensible pick, and the iPad mini (A17 Pro) is unbeatable for portability. Among renewed options, the 8th Generation 128GB offers the best balance of storage and capability for a lighter outlay.

If you are still unsure, ask yourself one question: what will you use this iPad for most? If the answer is "drawing or editing video," go Pro or Air. If it's "reading and notes," go Mini. If it's "everything else," go standard. That simple split will lead you to the right iPad among these 10 best Apple iPads.

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