As students gear up for the 2025 academic year, selecting the right technology is crucial for success. The latest iterations of Apple’s iPads have emerged as versatile devices that can effectively support various student needs, from notetaking and essay writing to video calls and leisure activities. By combining these tablets with accessories such as the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil, many students find that they can easily replace traditional laptops.
Best iPads for Students in 2025
The selection of iPads available this year caters to different budgets and preferences, ensuring that students can find the right device to enhance their educational experience.
11-inch iPad Air (M3, 2025): Best All-Round iPad
The 11-inch iPad Air powered by the M3 chip stands out as a balanced choice for students. Weighing only 462 grams, it is portable and comes in a variety of colors. This model features a 12MP rear camera and a 12MP Ultra-Wide front camera equipped with Center Stage, making it ideal for online classes and video communication.
The M3 chip provides ample power for multitasking, creative projects, and productivity tasks. While it may not include some of the advanced features found in Pro models, the iPad Air meets most students’ requirements effectively. When paired with the Magic Keyboard, it becomes an excellent alternative to a laptop for writing essays and conducting research. For those who prefer a larger display, the 13-inch iPad Air (M2) starts at $799/£799.
iPad (A16, 2025): Best Budget Option
For students seeking a more affordable option, the iPad (A16) offers an appealing combination of modern design and functionality. It features a large display, Touch ID on the power button, and a 12MP rear camera capable of recording 4K video at 60 frames per second. The 12MP Ultra-Wide front camera with Center Stage enhances the quality of video calls.
Powered by the A16 Bionic chip, this model efficiently handles tasks such as notetaking and coding while offering entertainment options. Its USB-C port allows for the connection of various peripherals and external displays, making it a versatile tool for study and leisure. With a base storage of 128GB and options extending to 512GB, students can also expand their storage via iCloud.
iPad mini (A17 Pro, 2024): Best for Portability and Note-Taking
The iPad mini, equipped with the A17 Pro chip, is perfect for students who prioritize portability. Its 8.3-inch display and lightweight design at 293 grams make it an excellent choice for reading and on-the-go productivity. Despite its small size, the iPad mini delivers impressive performance for various applications, games, and creative tasks.
Students can use the Apple Pencil with this model, making it an ideal device for annotations and sketching, particularly in courses requiring diagram-heavy notes. The iPad mini includes a 12MP rear camera and an Ultra-Wide front camera for strong connectivity options, including Wi-Fi 6E and optional 5G capabilities. While it only supports Bluetooth keyboards, it remains a capable and compact study tool.
Student Discounts and Offers
Apple recognizes the financial constraints students face and provides education pricing for those in higher education. During the summer months, particularly for “Back to School” events, students often receive attractive offers, including free accessories like AirPods or an Apple Pencil with select iPad purchases. Additionally, Apple Music is available at half price, and many subscription plans come with complimentary access to Apple TV+.
Choosing the right device can significantly impact a student’s academic experience. With the latest iPads, students can find the right balance of performance, portability, and affordability to support their educational journey in 2025.
