iPads are super versatile, and incredibly popular. In 2026, they make up more than half of the tablets sold in the UK.
The 11” iPad Air (2025) is our overall tablet choice. With the M3 Chip on board, it has all the power you need to run apps like Microsoft 365, Adobe Photoshop and graphics‑intensive games. You might start by using it for streaming and browsing, then progress to photo editing or more serious projects later on.
The 11-inch size is another reason it’s our top choice. It gives you enough space to watch your favourite TV shows, or work on two apps side by side - but it’s still portable enough to pop in a bag when you’re heading out. Invest in an Apple Pencil and it becomes even more useful for jotting down notes or sketching out ideas.
Best iPad for creators and power users: iPad Pro
If you’re planning on getting creative and doing more complex tasks, go for the 11” iPad Pro (2025). It uses the same powerful M3 chip as the iPad Air, but features better graphics, more memory, and advanced display technology. This makes a real difference when you’re editing videos or using more advanced creative apps.
Best iPad for productivity: 13-inch iPad Air
A bigger screen can help you get more done, and that’s exactly what the 13” iPad Air (2025) does. The extra space makes your documents easier to read, and you can keep more information visible without constantly zooming in and out.
The M3 chip keeps everything feeling fast and responsive – even when you’ve got way too many browser tabs open at once. If you add the Magic Keyboard, it's comfortable enough for long writing sessions. Plus, the Apple Pencil Pro is brilliant for circling feedback, jotting ideas in the margins or sketching out a rough plan before you get started.
Best value iPad: 11-inch iPad (2025)
The 11” iPad (2025) is our best value pick because it gives you a great all-round iPad experience. The A16 chip helps demanding games run better and can handle bigger apps. It also includes a Neural Engine designed to handle AI tasks more efficiently. This helps features like visual search and photo editing tools work more smoothly.
Best compact iPad for travel: iPad mini
If you want an iPad you can take almost anywhere, the iPad mini (2024) makes a lot of sense. The 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display gives you enough room for reading, browsing, watching videos and playing games. Plus, it makes the iPad comfortable to hold. It’s not the size you’d choose for bigger creative projects, but it works well for everyday tasks on the go. The A17 Pro chip also means it can handle a lot of features powered by Apple Intelligence. For example, you can use Writing Tools to help rewrite, proofread or summarise text.
What size, storage and accessories should you choose?
Once you’ve picked your iPad model, there are a few other choices to think about.
11-inch vs 13-inch
An 11-inch iPad is the most convenient size for normal use. It gives you plenty of room for everyday tasks while staying light enough to carry around the house, to work or on trips.
A 13-inch iPad makes more sense if you spend lots of time reading, writing, studying or working across several things at once. That extra screen space is something you notice every day.
128GB vs 256GB or more
For everyday use, 128GB is usually enough. Streaming services, cloud storage and online apps mean you don’t need to keep everything saved directly on your iPad.
If you download lots of films and games, store a big photo library or work with larger creative files, it’s worth stepping up to 256GB or more. It gives you more freedom and means you won’t be constantly clearing space.
Apple Pencil or keyboard?
The Apple Pencil is a great addition if you like writing notes by hand, sketching, signing documents or highlighting information. It makes an iPad feel much more like a digital notebook.
A keyboard is worth considering if your iPad is part of your work or studies. It makes writing longer email and documents easier, and it basically turns your iPad into something closer to a lightweight laptop.
Need more help?
Still need a hand finding the best iPad for you? Then go and check out our tablet buying guide. It’s got everything you need to know about Apple’s tablets. From the latest iPad, right down to some of their slightly older models. Or, if you want to get the most out of your new iPad, we’ve put together the best iPad tips for beginners right here. And of course, you’ll find all the best iPad deals over on our website!
FAQs
Which iPad is best for most people in 2026?
The iPad Air is the strongest all-round choice because it works for everyday use, study and light work. It handles switching between apps smoothly and fits naturally into a busy day. So, if you’re wondering which iPad to buy, this is a great shout.
What’s the difference between iPad, iPad Air, iPad mini and iPad Pro?
Each model suits different types of users. The standard iPad covers everyday tasks. The iPad Air is faster and has enough power for more demanding work. The iPad mini focuses on portability. And the iPad Pro can handle complex design and creative projects.
Is iPad Air worth paying more for than the standard iPad?
If you mainly stream and browse, a standard iPad is the best choice. The iPad Air is worth it if you’re studying or multitasking regularly. It’s powerful enough to keep up when you’re switching between tasks throughout the day.
Which iPad is best for students?
The iPad Air is perfect for students. You can quickly jot down notes, search the web, and keep project files organised and accessible in folders. And with the Apple Pencil, you can write or sketch straight onto the screen.
Which iPad is best for drawing and creative work?
The iPad Pro is the best option for creative work with its bright display and lightning-fast processor. It includes Apple Pencil Pro support, which help when working on detailed illustrations and designs.
Is the iPad mini too small for everyday use?
No, the iPad mini isn't too small for everyday use - especially if portability is one of your priorities. The iPad mini is brilliant for commuting and carrying around because it's so compact and light. And despite its small size, it’s got plenty of power for streaming and gaming.
How much storage do I need on an iPad?
For most people, 128GB is enough storage. It gives you plenty of space for apps, photos, downloads and offline entertainment, especially if you use cloud storage too. If you edit videos, download lots of games or keep large files on your iPad, 256GB or more is worth considering.
