iPad generations: all iPad models

The iPad models

It can be confusing deciding which iPad to buy, as there are four product lines comprised of multiple models. So we've compiled a guide that lists all the different types, from the iPad Mini to the iPad Pro, and explains the difference between them. 

At Creative Bloq we test and review tablets of all kinds, and reviewed every iPad released in the past few years. So our recommendations here are backed up by our findings – you can read how we test iPads to learn about our process.

To save you time, we start with a quick list of the top iPads you can buy right now. Then we'll list all the models of iPad you can buy today, listed by category. We've also listed older iPads that can be picked up for bargain prices – but if you're low on budget, also check out our list of the best iPad alternatives.

Quick list

iPad Pro generations

iPad Pro on a desk with a drawing of an eye on the screen

(Image credit: Future)
The most powerful iPad so far

Specifications

Screen size: 11-inch, 12.9-inch
Processor: Apple M2 chip (8-core)
Storage options: 128GB/256GB/512GB/1TB/2TB
Apple Pencil compatibility: 2nd generation, 3rd generation

Reasons to buy

+
Stunning screen on both models
+
Fastest iPad ever
+
USB-C port

Reasons to avoid

-
iPad Pro 2021 still great (and cheaper)
-
Not many upgrades to previous model beyond M2 chip

The M2-chipped iPad Pro, released in October 2022, is the fastest, most powerful iPad to date, available in 11-inch and 12.9-inch models. It comes with all-new Apple Pencil hover features (which we love, by the way), and Wi-Fi 6E. Add to that lightning-fast upload and download speeds and you've got a potential laptop-replacing super-tablet.

In our iPad Pro M2 2022 review, we declared it the tablet of dreams for creatives. We were particularly impressed by the Liquid Retina XDR display, which makes for a stunning canvas both to display digital art and create it on (it's incredibly responsive). The camera is amazing, and the support for ProRes video capture means it's like carrying a mini studio around with you. But beyond the M2 chip, Apple Pencil hover and Pro Res capability, many of the specs are in line with the previous iPad Pro.

It is also eye-wateringly expensive, which will be prohibitive to many – it'll only be serious iPad users that make the leap into buying the new addition to the range. There aren't a host of upgrades that aren't already available on the previous 2021 model, and the design is exactly the same, too. If the upgraded features are important to you and you've got money to spend, this could be the one for you. If you're okay with not having the latest features, though, you could save money by grabbing the 2021 iPad Pro instead.

If you need protection for the new tablet, see our pick of the best iPad Pro cases.

The iPad Pro 11-inch 2021, one of the latest iPad Pros in the iPad generations list, with Magic keyboard and Apple Pencil

(Image credit: Ben Brady)
An affordable, yet powerful, iPad Pro

Specifications

Display size: 11in or 12.9in
Processor: Apple M1 chip (8-core)
Storage options : Up to 2TB
Apple Pencil compatibility: 2nd generation, 3rd generation

Reasons to buy

+
Faster performance
+
Powerful camera
+
Strong 5G coverage

Reasons to avoid

-
Still pricey, unless you find a big discount

Not long ago, this was the flagship iPad. It had the most computing power available in an Apple tablet, the finest display, and the fastest user experience – as confirmed by our testing. It was the flagship model, the best of the best, and though it may no longer have the title, the 5th-generation iPad Pro is still a beast of a tablet.

Its eight-core M1 processor is laptop-grade, so it loads apps in the blink of an eye. Want to edit 4K video on a tablet? It'll handle that with ease. It supports Thunderbolt 3 and USB4, as well as eSIM, and offers global 5G coverage with speeds going up to 4GBps. It also comes in two sizes (an 11-inch model and a 12.9-inch version), giving you great options for screen real estate. In short, this is an intensely powerful tablet. 

With the best iPad camera you can get and clever extra features like Center Stage (which keeps you centered in the frame during video calls), it's a superb iPad for just about everything. Pair it with the Apple Pencil 2 and you've got one of the best drawing tablet experiences it's possible to get. It's hard to think of any creative Pro who couldn't get a lot of use out of this iPad.

Of course, all this comes at a cost (though less of a cost since the new release). This is not a cheap tablet, and if you don't need all that power we've detailed above, then there are definitely cheaper options that will suit you better. Still, if you want a brilliant iPad for a little less than the M2 iPad Pro, this is a great choice. 

See our iPad Pro 12.9in (M1, 2021) review and iPad Pro 11in (M1, 2021) review for full details. 

iPad Air generations

iPad Air 5th Gen on white table with Magic Keyboard accessory

(Image credit: Future)
The most powerful iPad Air

Specifications

Display size: 10.9in
Processor: Apple M1 chip (8-core)
Storage options : 64GB, 256GB
Apple Pencil compatibility: 2nd generation

Reasons to buy

+
Now with the same processor as the iPad Pro
+
Stunning display 
+
Very versatile

Reasons to avoid

-
Quite close in price to the iPad Pro

Released in April 2022, this iPad Air brings the range into its 5th generation. With this launch, Apple made its mid-range tablet a whole lot more pro-like, giving it the same M1 processor as the 2021 iPad Pros. When we reviewed the new tablet, we found that the chip combined with a superb 1640 x 2360 Liquid Retina IPS LCD screen means the iPad Air is now well and truly an iPad Pro-lite at a more affordable price – although only just, because the price difference is now really very close unless you find a discount. 

It's also more portable than the 12.9-inch iPad Pro, with its compact size making the new iPad Air a very versatile device for word processing, digital sketching, gaming, messaging and lots more. It also comes in five attractive colour options compared to the two colours offered for the iPad Pro. The 64GB storage offered in the base device is rather small, so you'll probably want to go for the 256GB version if you're handling a lot of media. 

See our complete iPad Air (5th Gen, 2022) review for more details, and see our guide to the best iPad Air 5 prices to find the best deal where you are.

Apple iPad Air (2020, 4th generation) product shot straight on

(Image credit: Apple)
One of best tablets on the market for the balance of price and specs

Specifications

Display size: 10.9in
Processor: Apple A14 Bionic chip
Storage options : 64GB, 256GB
Apple Pencil compatibility: 2nd generation, 3rd generation

Reasons to buy

+
Beautiful full-screen display 
+
Extremely powerful 

Reasons to avoid

-
Quite expensive and still not a Pro
-
No Face ID

Despite the release of the 5th-generation iPad Air, the 4th-generation model from 2020 is still a fine tablet and will be more discounted now that it's been superseded. This tablet is fitted with the A14 Bionic, Apple's most advanced tablet chip until the 5th-generation iPad Pro launched with the M1 in May 2021, and it works with the 2nd-generation Apple Pencil, which magnetically charges by snapping to the edge of the iPad. It also supports the Magic Keyboard case with trackpad. 

The Home button was eliminated in this model, with Touch ID located in the power button. That allowed the bezels to be slimmed down. When we reviewed this tablet, we were impressed by the level of power and performance on offer, and appreciated how the Magic Keyboard compatibility made using it feel so different compared to what had come before. 

All in all, this iPad Air is a top-of-the-line Apple tablet for those who want outstanding features and performance but don't need the power – or want the cost – of the latest Air or the iPad Pros. 

For more details, see our iPad Air (2020) review.

Drawing with an Apple Pencil on the iPad Air 2019

(Image credit: Future)
Most affordable iPad Air, but not widely available

Specifications

Display size: 10.5in
Processor: Apple A12 Bionic chip
Storage options : 64GB, 256GB
Apple Pencil compatibility: 2nd generation

Reasons to buy

+
Cheaper than new iPad Air 
+
256GB storage option 

Reasons to avoid

-
Harder to get hold of
-
Chunky bezels

The 2019 iPad Air was a great piece of kit in its day, but it's not going to be at the top of most people's lists now that there are two newer iPad Air generations available. While there's a chance you might still spot a good deal, this tablet is becoming less common.

We'd generally recommend the newer entry-level iPad 10.2 as the best option for those on a budget. As we mentioned in our review, with this one you have to deal with artifacts of yesteryear such as compatibility with the first-generation Apple Pencil, rather than the much-improved second version. 

Our iPad Air (2019) review goes into more detail. 

iPad generations

iPad 2022 on desk with Apple Pencil and plant

(Image credit: Future)
The latest basic iPad reminds us of a 2020 iPad Air

Specifications

Display: 10.9in, Liquid Retina (2360x1640)
Processor: Apple A14 Bionic chip
Storage options : 64GB, 256GB
Apple Pencil compatibility: 1st generation, 3rd generation

Reasons to buy

+
Bigger, brighter screen
+
Better video calling experience
+
Enough power for complex tasks

Reasons to avoid

-
Price hike too much for some
-
Needs Apple Pencil adapter
-
Expensive accessories
-
No Pencil storage

Apple released a new iPad in October 2022, and there are plenty of updates to be found. Apple has been walking a fine line with its crammed iPad range, and it was only a matter of time until they released a tablet in one section that actually looked and acted like another iPad from a different section. That's the new 2022 iPad, which feels a lot like the 2020 iPad Air. It has the same A14 Bionic chip, the same screen resolution and the same 12MP rear camera, making it feel remarkably familiar.

There are a few differences, though. It works with a new Magic Keyboard Folio, offers 5G instead of 4G, and uses the 1st-generation Apple Pencil instead of the newer 2nd-generation version. Oh, and the camera is now positioned in the middle of the landscape side of the body, which is better for video calls. 

With these new updates, the 10th Gen iPad is $449 in the US, which is a little steep for the 'base-level' iPad. Our initial thoughts were that if you want to pay that much, why not look at 2020's iPad Air and be able to use the 2nd-generation Apple Pencil? Or seek out an amazing deal on 2021's iPad (below) and you've still got a cracking tablet. 

However, when going hands-on, our reviewer loved the tablet's bigger, brighter screen and the amount of power available for complex tasks. The lack of 2nd-generation Apple Pencil support is annoying, but the tablet feels luxurious and runs Procreate like a dream. Find out more in our iPad 2022 review.

The iPad 10.2-inch (2021, 9th generation) on a desk, with keyboard

(Image credit: Future)
A great affordable iPad that will serve most people fine

Specifications

Display size: 10.2in
Processor: Apple A13 Bionic chip
Storage options : 64GB, 256GB
Apple Pencil compatibility: 1st generation

Reasons to buy

+
Excellent value for money
+
Huge storage

Reasons to avoid

-
No new design

The 9th Gen edition of the entry-level iPad went on sale in 2021. The first thing we noticed that sets it apart from the previous version is its storage capacity, as you get more space for all your media, games, photos and more compared to previous versions.

There are more differences between this and the preceding 8th-generation model inside. While it looks almost identical to 2020's iteration, the 2021 model boasts Apple's TrueTone tech, allowing the screen to adjust to ambient lighting wherever you are. The camera is also upgraded, growing to 12MP with Apple's Center Stage features, first seen on the 2020 iPad Pro. We would have loved it to have had Apple Pencil 2 compatibility, but otherwise, rated this tablet highly as a budget drawing tablet.

Other than that, the 2021 model has the same 10.2in 1620x2160 LCD screen as the 8th-generation version, with a maximum 500 nits of brightness, which will be just fine for most users. At this price, it's a great tablet for general use.

For more information, read our more detailed iPad 10.2 (2021) review.

iPad (2020, 8th generation) on a desk, open to apps screen

(Image credit: Basil Kronfli)
An affordable iPad that still packs plenty of power

Specifications

Display size: 10.2in
Processor: Apple A12 Bionic chip
Storage options : 32GB, 128GB
Apple Pencil compatibility: 1st generation

Reasons to buy

+
Excellent value for money
+
Includes all essential iPad features

Reasons to avoid

-
Thick bezels
-
Lacks advanced features

This is the previous iPad generation for those who want a quality tablet at a very good price. It's since been superseded by the 2021 and 2022 models, but this could be a good buy if you find it on sale since it still offers everything you need for the core iPad experience. That includes Apple Pencil support (see here for Apple Pencil alternatives), a powerful processor and a great Retina display. So if you spot a discount that makes it cheaper than the 2021 version, it's still a tempting buy.

The 10.2in screen size puts this model in the Goldilocks zone between the bite-sized iPad mini and the large-scale 12.9in iPad Pro, making it ideal for media consumption without it becoming unwieldy. To our eyes, it has started to look a little outdated with its chunky bezels and Home button, but there's no doubting its capabilities. 

Find out more in our iPad 2020 review.

iPad mini generations

Apple iPad mini 6th generation with Apple Pencil 2 on a desk, with Apple Pencil stylus attached

(Image credit: Future)
The most portable iPad with a big heart (of storage)

Specifications

Display size: 8.3in
Processor: Apple A15 Bionic chip
Storage options : 64GB, 256GB
Apple Pencil compatibility: 1st generation, 3rd generation

Reasons to buy

+
New design, new tech
+
Super portable 
+
Good price for tech 

Reasons to avoid

-
Still no Smart Keyboard support

The iPad mini got a pretty big upgrade in its September 2021 release. It's still very portable, but it's been bumped up to 8.3 inches across (up from 7.9 inches). It also now boasts a Liquid Retina display with a 2266x1488 resolution at 326 pixels per inch.

That's not all. It comes with an A15 Bionic chip, a USB-C port (at last), and with 5G connectivity, we feel that it's now more on par with the iPad Air. Added to that, it now supports the 2nd-generation Apple Pencil, making it a good choice for creatives on the move. 

As with the 2021 iPad, the rear camera got upgraded to a 12MP snapper (which is able to record in 4K). The front camera also maxes out at 12MP, but comes with an ultra-wide lens and the Centre Stage feature the higher-end iPads now sport. Read more in our full iPad mini (6th gen) review.

Apple iPad mini (2019, 5th generation) product shot with person using the Apple Pencil

(Image credit: Apple)
The perfect size and price for an iPad to use on the move

Specifications

Display size: 7.9in
Processor: Apple A12 Bionic chip
Storage options : 64GB, 256GB
Apple Pencil compatibility: 1st generation

Reasons to buy

+
Small and light 
+
Affordable price 

Reasons to avoid

-
Old design 
-
No Smart Keyboard support

Finishing off our iPad generations list is the 5th-generation iPad mini. Like the 6th-generation iPad mini, it's an ideal tablet if you find most iPads are too big for your needs. It's lightweight and its 7.9-inch display makes it easy to pop into a bag to take on your travels.

Think of this tablet as a more capable Kindle or Kobo for reading or watching content on the go, although it has Apple's A12 Bionic chip so its performance is by no means weak. It doesn't work with any of Apple's keyboard cases, and unlike the newer 6th-generation iPad mini, it's only compatible with the 1st-generation Apple Pencil. 

Having said that, we loved this device when we reviewed it on its release, and it remains a good option if you want to look out for a bargain rather than pay the full price of the newer model (if you can find it that is, because few retailers have new models in stock nowadays). Find out more with our iPad mini (5th generation) review.

Older models

Older iPad Pros

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  • iPad Pro (4th generation, 2020)
  • iPad Pro (3rd generation, 2018)
  • iPad Pro (2nd generation, 2017)
  • iPad Pro (9.7-inches, 1st generation, 2016)
  • iPad Pro (12.9-inches, 1st generation, 2015)

Older iPads 

  • iPad (2018, 6th generation)
  • iPad (2017, 5th generation)
  • iPad (2012, 4th generation)
  • iPad (2012, 3rd generation)
  • iPad (2011, 2nd generation)
  • iPad (2010, 1st generation)

Older iPad Airs

  • iPad Air (2019, 3rd generation)
  • iPad Air (2014, 2nd generation)
  • iPad Air (2013, 1st generation)

Older iPad minis

  • iPad mini (2015, 4th generation)
  • iPad mini (2014, 3rd generation)
  • iPad mini (2013, 2nd generation)
  • iPad mini (2012, 1st generation)

FAQs

Which is latest generation of iPad?

The latest generations of each iPad model are as follows:

- iPad Pro: 6th generation (2022)

- iPad Air: 5th generation (2022)

- iPad: 10th generation (2022)

- iPad mini: 6th generation (2021)

Which iPad series is best?

The iPad Pro (M2, 2022, 6th Gen) is the best iPad overall. Coming in 11in and 12.9in versions, this is the iPad generation that currently offers the best specs in terms of sheer power and capability. 

That said, such a powerful tablet will be overkill for many people, and unless you're planning to use demanding apps, you probably don't need to spend that much money on a tablet. 

The new iPad Air (5th generation/2022) comes very close to the iPad Pro for performance while being more affordable, and also smaller, which can be a benefit in terms of portability since some people find the iPad Pro too large for use on public transport for example – in fact, many designers actually prefer to use the iPad mini when they're working remotely since it's so portable and easy to use on the go. 

As for value, the best iPad is probably still the 'standard' iPad, although there's nothing standard about the 10th generation (2022) of this 10.2 tablet. It's very affordable and still offers a superb experience.

Should you buy an older iPad?

Apple wants you to buy its latest iPads, and there are some good reasons to go along with it. Unlike with the products from many other brands, the price of Apple products doesn't tend to drop hugely even a long time after release. The latest iPad generations tend to go on sale at a very similar price to the generation before, and they tend to retain that price throughout their life. 

You may find an older iPad at a cheaper price in a sale, but the latest model offers such a boost in performance that we'd generally recommend paying a couple hundred dollars more to get more longevity from your device.

Having said that, the previous iPads models are still great tablets, and many users won't notice the small differences in loading times. Ultimately, if you want an iPad to use for several years before you next upgrade, it probably makes sense to get the most recent iPad generation. But if budget is the primary factor in your decision making, going back one, or even two, iterations makes total sense if you spot a particularly good deal.

Which iPad generations support the Apple Pencil?

Apple announced its Apple Pencil stylus alongside the first iPad Pro back in 2015. The firm since released a second generation of the Apple Pencil with magnetic charging and tap controls. More recently, in October 2023, Apple brought out a cheaper USB-C edition of the Apple Pencil. Compatibility for each one is as follows:

Apple Pencil (1st Gen) aka Apple Pencil 1: iPad mini (5th generation), iPad (6th, 7th, 8th and 9th generation), iPad (10th generation), iPad Air (3rd generation), iPad Pro 12.9-inch (1st and 2nd generation), iPad Pro 10.5-inch, iPad Pro 9.7-inch.

Apple Pencil (2nd Gen) aka Apple Pencil 2: iPad mini (6th generation), iPad Air (4th generation and later), iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd generation and later), iPad Pro 11-inch (all generations)

Apple Pencil (USB-C) aka Apple Pencil 3: iPad (10th generation), iPad mini (6th generation), iPad Air (4th generation and later), iPad Pro 11-inch (all generations), iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd generation and later).

Bear in mind that in some cases, an adapter may be required to ensure Pencil compatibility.

How do I know which iPad generation I have?

Since all iPads look pretty alike, it can be confusing to figure out which one you have, especially if you were gifted one second-hand. A reliable way to check is find your iPad's model number – you can do this either by looking on the back, or by navigating to 'Settings', then 'General', then 'About'. The model number should be listed near the top. 

What does 'generation' mean for iPads?

Generations are very simply just the way Apple keeps track of different iterations of the same model. Apple releases new iPads very regularly, but doesn't tend to reinvent the wheel very often – it has released five iPad Air models, for instance. In that case, 5th Gen is the newest, and 1st Gen is the oldest. 

How to choose iPad generations

To choose the right iPad generation for you, you need to consider what you want to use the tablet for. In terms of raw specs, the latest iPad generation (currently the 2022 range), is always going to be the most up-to-date, although how powerful the device is will depend on which particular model you look at since the Pro devices from the previous generation will still be more powerful than the standard device in the newest generation.

If you're only looking for a tablet to use for general internet browsing, checking emails and docs, and watching entertainment, you really don't need an iPad from the latest generation, and you might want to save money by going for an earlier model. However, if you're looking for a more powerful device for work, you'll probably want to consider the latest or at least the second-to-latest generation.

If you want an iPad for drawing, then you'll want Apple Pencil support, and ideally the Apple Pencil 2, which has a more practical matte finish and flat sides and a magnetic attachment with wireless charging. That means going for at least the 4th generation iPad Air (2020), first-generation 11-inch iPad Pro (2018), third-generation iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2018) or later.

How we test iPad generations

We test and review all the latest Apple products here at Creative Bloq, as well as tablets from other companies, so you can trust our guide is objective and unbiassed. Our testers are experts in their field and have years of experience reviewing iPad and other tablets. (For more on this, see How we test and review on Creative Bloq.) 

We spend several weeks testing each iPad on a range of different tasks, ranging from general productivity and entertainment to creative work such as photo and video editing. We'll test each iPad's capabilities as a drawing tablet, using the Apple Pencil or Apple Pencil 2 depending on the tablet's compatibility. And we'll compare each tablet in terms of screen size and resolution, RAM size and storage size, how long the battery lasts, and whether it offers value for money overall. You'll find links to our full in-depth reviews in the entries above.

Beren Neale
Ecom Editor

Beren has worked on creative titles at Future Publishing for over 13 years. Cutting his teeth as Staff Writer on the digital art magazine ImagineFX, he moved on to edit several creative titles, and is currently the Ecommerce Editor on the most effective creative website in the world. When he's not testing and reviewing the best ergonomic office chairs, phones, laptops, TVs, monitors and various types of storage, he can be found finding and comparing the best deals on the tech that creatives value the most.