Apple iPad 2025 Review: Is It Worth the Upgrade?

Apple has just launched the iPad 2025, often referred to as the 11th generation iPad. However, despite the new name, the changes seem minimal at first glance. This article breaks down everything you need to know about the latest iPad model, from its design and performance to pricing and value for money.

A Familiar Design with Minor Tweaks

The iPad 2025 looks strikingly similar to its predecessor. In fact, the design remains almost unchanged from the iPad 10th generation. Apple has retained the same boxy structure, metal build, and overall aesthetics, making it difficult to distinguish between the two models at first sight.

One of the major changes this time is the introduction of a base storage option of 128GB, a much-needed upgrade from the previous 64GB model. For users who store a lot of apps, documents, or media, this change makes the iPad 2025 more practical at a price point of ₹35,000 (or lower with card discounts).

Display: Good But Not Groundbreaking

The iPad 2025 features an 11-inch IPS LCD display with 2K resolution and a standard 60Hz refresh rate. While the display remains crisp and bright, it lacks support for HDR content. If you are accustomed to a 120Hz screen (found in Pro models and higher-end tablets), you might find the refresh rate a little slow in comparison. However, for everyday use, the display quality is more than sufficient.

One downside is that the iPad 2025 still comes with a non-laminated display, which means there is a small gap between the touch panel and the display. This might be noticeable when using an Apple Pencil or when pressing on the screen, causing a slight ‘bubble’ effect. However, this design choice does help keep costs down.

Performance: A Noticeable Upgrade

The biggest improvement in the iPad 2025 is its A16 Bionic chipset, a leap from the A14 Bionic in the previous model. The RAM has also been upgraded from 4GB to 6GB, enhancing multitasking capabilities and overall performance.

For daily tasks like browsing, streaming, and note-taking, the new iPad performs flawlessly. Gamers will also appreciate that it can run demanding titles like BGMI at 60fps smoothly. However, high-end gaming or video editing may still be better suited for the iPad Pro lineup.

Camera and Audio: Small Improvements

The iPad 2025 retains the 12MP rear camera, which can shoot 4K videos at 60fps. While this is not a primary photography device, it does a decent job for scanning documents and casual photo-taking. The front camera supports 1080p recording, making it useful for video calls and online classes.

Audio quality remains solid with stereo speakers, though it does not match the premium sound output of the iPad Pro models.

Apple Pencil and Accessories

One key change is the support for the Apple Pencil (2nd generation), which brings better precision and responsiveness for artists, students, and professionals. However, Apple’s pricing remains high, and budget-conscious users may prefer third-party styluses that offer palm rejection for a fraction of the cost.

The tablet also supports Apple’s Magic Keyboard, making it a great choice for those who want a laptop-like experience. There’s a dedicated keyboard pin on the side, making attachment seamless.

Connectivity and Battery Life

The iPad 2025 supports Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3, ensuring faster connectivity. There is also a 5G variant for users who need on-the-go internet access, but it only supports eSIM (no physical SIM slot).

Battery life remains solid at around 10 hours, making it a reliable device for work, study, and entertainment.

Verdict: Should You Upgrade?

If you already own the iPad 10th generation, the iPad 2025 may not feel like a significant upgrade. However, for users with older models (such as the iPad 9th generation or earlier), this is a compelling option. The A16 chip, 128GB base storage, and Apple Pencil (2nd gen) support make it a great device for students, professionals, and casual users.

For ₹35,000, it offers excellent value, provided you don’t mind the 60Hz display and non-laminated screen. If these aspects don’t bother you, the iPad 2025 is one of the best budget-friendly iPads available today.

Pros: ✔️ 128GB base storage ✔️ Powerful A16 Bionic chip ✔️ Apple Pencil 2nd gen support ✔️ Good battery life ✔️ Affordable pricing

Cons: ❌ 60Hz display ❌ Non-laminated screen ❌ No flash for the rear camera

Would you consider upgrading to the iPad 2025? Let us know your thoughts!