Apple recently unveiled its new entry-level iPad for 2025, nearly three years after its predecessor. While the new iPad boasts a faster A16 chip and maintains the appealing $349 starting price, it surprisingly lacks support for Apple Intelligence and offers fewer changes than expected. This begs the question: should you upgrade from the 2022 iPad, or is the older model still a viable option? Let’s compare the two and find out.
2025 iPad vs. 2022 iPad: Specifications Compared
| Feature | 2025 iPad | 2022 iPad |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 248.6 x 179.5 x 7 mm | 248.6 x 179.5 x 7 mm |
| Weight | 477-481 grams | 477-481 grams |
| Display | 11-inch Liquid Retina (10.86-inch) | 10.9-inch Liquid Retina (10.86-inch) |
| Resolution | 2360 x 1640 pixels at 264 ppi | 2360 x 1640 pixels at 264 ppi |
| Brightness | 500 nits (SDR) | 500 nits (SDR) |
| OS | iPadOS 18 | iPadOS 18 |
| Storage | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB | 64GB, 256GB |
| Processor | A16 | A14 Bionic |
| RAM | 6GB | 4GB |
| Rear Camera | 12MP Wide (f/1.8, Smart HDR 4) | 12MP Wide (f/1.8, Smart HDR 3) |
| Front Camera | 12MP Ultra Wide (f/2.4, Center Stage, Smart HDR 4) | 12MP Ultra Wide (f/2.4, Center Stage, Smart HDR 3) |
| Video | Up to 4K at 60fps | Up to 4K at 60fps |
| Bluetooth | 5.3 | 5.2 |
| Ports | USB-C, Smart Connector | USB-C, Smart Connector |
| Authentication | Touch ID | Touch ID |
| SIM Card | eSIM only | Nano-SIM, eSIM |
| Audio | Landscape stereo speakers | Landscape stereo speakers |
| Battery Life | Up to 10 hours | Up to 10 hours |
| Network | Wi-Fi 6, 5G (sub-6GHz) | Wi-Fi 6, 5G (sub-6GHz) |
| Keyboard Support | Magic Keyboard Folio, Bluetooth Keyboards | Magic Keyboard Folio, Bluetooth Keyboards |
| Colors | Blue, Pink, Yellow, Silver | Blue, Pink, Yellow, Silver |
| Price | Starting at $349 | Starting at $349 |
2025 iPad Color Options
Design and Display: Virtually Identical
The 2025 iPad retains the modern design introduced with the 2022 model, featuring an edge-to-edge display, USB-C port, and a landscape-oriented front camera. The only noticeable difference is the removal of the physical SIM card slot, making eSIM the sole option for cellular connectivity. Both iPads share the same dimensions, weight, and color options. The 11-inch and 10.9-inch display sizes are essentially the same, with identical resolutions, brightness, and True Tone support. However, both lack a fully laminated display and anti-reflective coating.
iPad 10th Generation Colors
Performance: A Noticeable Boost
The biggest upgrade in the 2025 iPad is the A16 processor, a significant improvement over the A14 Bionic in the 2022 model. While a slightly modified version of the A16 found in the iPhone 15, it still delivers a claimed 30% performance boost over the previous generation. The 2025 iPad also benefits from 6GB of RAM, up from 4GB in the 2022 model. This enhanced performance makes the 2025 iPad more future-proof and capable of handling demanding tasks.
A16 Chip
Gaming on iPad
Software and Features: Parity Across the Board
Both iPads run iPadOS 18 and are expected to receive software updates for several years. However, the 2025 iPad notably lacks Apple Intelligence support, a key differentiating feature on newer Apple devices. Neither iPad supports Stage Manager, and other features remain consistent between the two models. Apple Pencil support also remains unchanged, with the 2025 iPad compatible with the Apple Pencil (USB-C).
iPadOS 18 Features
Apple Pencil with iPad
Cameras, Battery, and Charging: Minor Improvements
Camera specifications are largely the same between the two models, with both featuring a 12MP wide rear camera and a 12MP ultra-wide front camera with Center Stage. The 2025 iPad benefits from Smart HDR 4, offering slightly improved image processing. Battery life and charging capabilities remain consistent, with both iPads offering up to 10 hours of usage and charging via USB-C.
Using iPad
iPad on Grass
Should You Upgrade?
The 2025 iPad offers a performance boost and doubled base storage compared to the 2022 model. If you own the 64GB 2022 iPad and are feeling storage constraints, or desire a more future-proof device, the upgrade is worthwhile. However, if you have the 256GB 2022 iPad, the improvements are less compelling. Ultimately, the decision depends on your individual needs and budget. The 2025 iPad remains an excellent value proposition for most users, striking a balance between performance and affordability.
