Best iPad to Buy in the UK - 2025 Buying Guide

Apple’s iPad lineup in 2025 has never been more exciting or more confusing. With new chips like the M3 and M4, an updated iPad Air, the ultra-portable iPad Mini, and rumours of the upcoming iPad Pro, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming.  

That’s where this iPad buying guide UK comes in. Whether you’re looking for the best iPad for students, the cheapest iPad UK 2025, or a flagship powerhouse with an OLED screen, we’ll walk you through every model, compare specs, and recommend who each one is best for. 

Short on time? View iPads on Box to see the latest models and deals right now. 

How to Choose the Best iPad in 2025 

Before diving into the models, let’s cover what matters most when you’re deciding which iPad is right for you: 

• Screen size: Do you want a compact 8.3" device, a versatile 11", or a big 13" panel for work and movies? 
• Processor power: Apple’s latest chips include the A16, A17 Pro, M3, and M4. Each delivers different levels of performance, and the upcoming M5 is expected to raise the bar even further. 
• Price range: iPads start around £349 for the entry-level model and can climb past £1,299 for top-tier Pros. 
• Battery life: Expect around 10 hours across the lineup, but efficiency varies depending on the chip. 
• Storage: Options from 128GB up to 2TB depending on the model. 
• Connectivity: Choose Wi-Fi only or Wi-Fi + Cellular if you want on-the-go data. 
• Accessory support: Most models now support the Apple Pencil (USB-C, Gen 2) and the Magic Keyboard, making them more versatile. 

Explore our curated list of top Apple tablets available now. 

Best Budget Option – iPad (2025, A16) 

If you’re looking for the cheapest iPad UK 2025, the new standard iPad powered by the A16 chip is the entry point into Apple’s ecosystem. 

• Display: 10.9" Liquid Retina LCD panel, bright, durable, and perfect for everyday tasks. 
• Chip: Apple A16; a proven, efficient processor that balances speed with affordability. 
• Storage: 128GB or 256GB. 
• Price range: starting at ~£349, making it the most affordable iPad of 2025. 
• Battery life: around 10 hours for browsing, streaming, or schoolwork. 

Who it’s best for: 

• Children and families: Ideal as a first iPad for kids, with support for Screen Time and parental controls to keep usage safe. 
• Students on a budget: Great for note-taking, online classes, and research without overspending. 
• Casual users: If you just want Netflix, browsing, emails, or reading, this iPad delivers everything you need at a low cost. 

This is the budget option, affordable, reliable, and versatile enough for most households. Parents might also want to consider models that support strong parental controls. 

Best Compact Option – iPad Mini (A17 Pro) 

For those who want maximum portability, the iPad Mini (A17 Pro) packs incredible power into a small, lightweight slate. 

• Display: 8.3" Liquid Retina display, sharp visuals in a compact size. 
• Chip: A17 Pro, the same powerful chip used in high-end iPhones, making it lightning fast. 
• Storage: 128GB–512GB. 
• Price range: £499–£699. 
• Battery life: ~10 hours, efficient enough for travel and commutes. 

Who it’s best for: 

• Children: Small enough for younger users to handle comfortably, while still offering advanced parental control options. 
• Commuters and travellers: Slip it in your bag and take it anywhere, the ultimate portable iPad. 
• Casual creatives: Despite its size, it handles games, sketching apps, and light productivity with ease. 

Drawbacks: 
The smaller screen makes it less ideal for multitasking or students who need split-screen note-taking. 

Recommended for portability fans who don’t want to sacrifice performance. 

Best Mid-Range Option – iPad Air (M2, 13") 

If you want an iPad that balances power and affordability, the Apple iPad Air 13 A2898 (MPN: MV2N3NF/A) is one of the smartest choices in 2025. It brings many of the premium features of the Pro line into a lighter, more cost-effective package making it the ideal middle ground for most users. 

• Display: A large 13-inch IPS touchscreen that gives you plenty of room for split-screen multitasking, video calls, and studying. 
• Chip: Powered by Apple’s M2 chip, it’s significantly faster than older A-series processors, making it perfect for productivity, multitasking, and creative apps. 
• Storage: With 512GB of storage, there’s more than enough space for apps, assignments, documents, photos, and even larger creative projects. 
• Battery life: Expect up to 10 hours of use on a single charge, so you can comfortably get through classes, work, or streaming without constantly reaching for a charger. 
• Price range: Sitting between £699–£999, depending on configuration, it offers excellent value for the performance. 

Who it’s best for: 

• Students: This is the best iPad for students UK who need a device for note-taking, essays, and online learning. Add the Apple Pencil (USB-C, Gen 2) for precise writing and sketching, and the Air becomes a true study partner. 
• Families: A great all-rounder that can be shared between parents and teens for homework, entertainment, and creative projects. 
• Professionals on a budget: If you want a device powerful enough for office apps, video calls, and creative workflows but don’t want to pay Pro prices, the Air delivers. 

Looking for the best mid-range iPad deal? The Apple iPad Air 13 A2898 (M2, 512GB) is our top recommendation. 

Check out the latest iPad Air deals on Box 

Best High-End Option – iPad Pro (M4) 

At the very top of Apple’s lineup is the iPad Pro (M4), the most advanced and powerful model in 2025. 

• Display: 11" or 13" OLED, deep blacks, incredible colour accuracy, and ideal for creative work. 
• Chip: Apple M4; cutting-edge performance for demanding tasks. 
• Storage: From 256GB up to 2TB for professionals who need space. 
• Price range: £1,099–£1,299+ depending on size and configuration. 
• Battery life: ~10 hours with superb efficiency. 

Who it’s best for: 

• Professionals: Video editors, designers, architects, and digital artists who need unmatched power. 
• Students in creative fields: Perfect for design, art, or engineering students who want a laptop alternative. 
• Tech enthusiasts: Anyone who wants the very best in tablet performance. 

Pair it with the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil (USB-C, Gen 2), and the iPad Pro becomes a true laptop replacement. The OLED display makes a huge difference for creators working with visuals. 

If you’re comparing chip performance, check our breakdown of the M4 vs M2 iPad processors. 

Final Thoughts 

Apple’s 2025 iPad lineup proves there’s a model for every type of user. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly iPad for children, a portable iPad Mini for travel, a student-ready iPad Air for school and university, or the powerful iPad Pro with OLED for professionals, you’ll find the right device to match your lifestyle and budget. 

As you upgrade, remember that iPads also hold their value well. If you ever decide to trade in or hand down your device, don’t forget to clear your data properly; Before reselling, learn how to factory reset your iPad safely. 

 Ready to buy your next iPad? View iPads on Box and explore the latest models, bundles, and the best iPad deals in the UK today.