The Best iPad to Buy (and Some to Avoid) in 2026 — Key Details

The Apple iPad lineup has seen significant updates and new software in 2026, making it both an exciting and complex time for prospective buyers. With the iPad Air refreshed with the powerful M4 chip, the base iPad receiving a long-awaited A16 update, and a major overhaul to iPadOS 27 focused on artificial intelligence, discerning the right tablet for your needs requires careful consideration of performance, price, and feature compatibility.

Consumers in 2026 face a diverse selection, ranging from the budget-friendly base iPad to the premium iPad Pro. Understanding the nuances between these models, their accessory support, and their ability to harness Apple's latest software innovations like Apple Intelligence, is crucial for making an informed purchase.

Evolving Software and AI Capabilities

Apple's latest software, iPadOS 27, launched officially this fall after a public beta in July, bringing a suite of new AI features centered around a significantly enhanced Siri. This includes a dedicated Siri AI app, drawing on Google Gemini's world knowledge, and deeper integration across core applications like Camera, Mail, and Messages. A standout feature is the new Shortcuts, enabling users to automate complex tasks through natural language commands.

Building on last year's iPadOS 26, which introduced a groundbreaking windowed multitasking experience, iPadOS 27 also refines the Liquid Glass redesign with adjustable transparency. iPadOS 26 transformed the iPad into a more desktop-like device, allowing resizable app windows, native tiling, and a macOS-inspired menu bar, making it more capable than ever for productivity. However, not all iPads will enjoy these advanced features equally.

Apple Intelligence: Which iPads are Compatible?

The highly anticipated Apple Intelligence suite, offering advanced AI features across Apple's ecosystem, is unfortunately not available on all iPad models. Compatibility hinges on the device's processing power, specifically requiring an M-series chip or the A17 Pro. The base iPad (2025, A16) is notably excluded due to insufficient RAM.

Supported models include the iPad Mini (A17 Pro), iPad Air (M1, M2, M3, M4), and iPad Pro (M1, M2, M4, M5). This distinction is a key factor for users prioritizing the latest AI-driven functionalities in their tablet experience.

Choosing Your Ideal iPad

The Best iPad for Most People: iPad (2025, A16)

Launched in March 2025, the 11th-generation iPad (A16) remains the top recommendation for general users. Priced at $349, it offers a modern design, an 11-inch LCD, USB-C, Touch ID, and improved cameras. Powered by the A16 chip, it's adept at gaming, streaming, and light work. While it doesn't support the second-gen Apple Pencil or Apple Intelligence, its affordability and comprehensive feature set make it an excellent choice for entertainment and everyday tasks.

For Work and School: iPad Air (2026, M4)

The iPad Air received a significant upgrade in March 2026, now featuring the powerful M4 chip. Available in both 11-inch and 13-inch variants, starting at $599, it's designed for users needing more horsepower for productivity, creative tasks, and academic work. With M4 performance, support for the second-gen Apple Pencil, and full Apple Intelligence capabilities, the Air bridges the gap between the base iPad and the high-end Pro model.

The Best Small iPad: iPad Mini (2024, A17 Pro)

The iPad Mini (7th generation, A17 Pro), last updated in late 2024, remains Apple's compact powerhouse. At $489, it offers a premium experience in a portable form factor and supports Apple Intelligence. While it's currently the oldest model in the lineup, reports suggest a significant update later in 2026, potentially bringing an OLED display for the first time.

The Overkill Tablet: iPad Pro (2025, M5)

The iPad Pro (2025, M5), launched in October 2025, is Apple's most advanced tablet, starting at $999 for the 11-inch model. Featuring the M5 chip and tandem OLED displays, it's engineered for professional content creators and users with demanding workflows. Its immense power, faster ports, and specialized display cater to a niche audience for whom its premium features justify the higher price.

iPads to Avoid in 2026

To preserve your sanity and ensure a decent user experience, steer clear of older iPad models. Any iPad released before 2020 is likely to suffer from slow performance, lack of modern software updates, and outdated display technology. Specifically, avoid the iPad Mini 1 through 6, and the iPad 1 through 10 (pre-2025 A16 model). The 2014 iPad Air 1 and 2015 Air 2 are also far too old.

When considering older iPad Pro models (M4, M2, M1), they remain powerful and capable, but only if found at a significant discount. If the price approaches that of a new M5 iPad Pro, it's generally not a worthwhile investment. Models like the 2018 or 2020 iPad Pros are considered too aged for current demands.

Is Now a Good Time to Buy?

Yes, for most. The iPad Air, base iPad, and iPad Pro have all received recent refreshes in 2025 or early 2026, making them excellent choices. The primary exception is the iPad Mini, which, despite its capabilities, is the oldest model. Waiting for its rumored OLED upgrade later in 2026 could be beneficial for those prioritizing the compact form factor.

iPad or MacBook?

The choice between an iPad and a MacBook largely depends on your primary use case. iPads, particularly the standard and Mini models, excel as entertainment and content consumption devices. MacBooks are fundamentally designed for work, school, and intensive content creation. While the iPad Pro blurs these lines with its powerful M-series chips and multitasking capabilities, the core distinction remains: an iPad is a highly versatile tablet, while a MacBook is a traditional desktop-class computer.

FAQ

Q: Which iPads support Apple Intelligence?

A: Apple Intelligence is supported on the iPad Mini (A17 Pro), iPad Air (M1, M2, M3, M4), and iPad Pro (M1, M2, M4, M5) models. The base iPad (A16) does not support it due to insufficient RAM.

Q: When was the latest iPad Air released?

A: The latest iPad Air, featuring the M4 chip, was released in March of 2026, available in both 11-inch and 13-inch sizes.

Q: Should I buy an older iPad Pro?

A: Older iPad Pro models (M4, M2, M1) can still be great options if found at a significant discount. However, avoid paying prices close to a new M5 iPad Pro. Models from 2018 or 2020 are generally not recommended due to their age.