"Should I wait for a new iPad model, or is the current model or a used one sufficient?" 2025 is a milestone year, with the release of the 11th-generation iPad (A16) and the full-scale adoption of Apple Intelligence. Meanwhile, prices for older and used iPads have become more stable. Many older models still offer more than enough performance to serve as a secondary device or a tablet for studying.

This article will clarify "who should wait" and "who should buy now" by examining the trends for new iPad models in 2025-2026, the features of the current lineup, and their compatibility with Apple Intelligence. Furthermore, we will delve into how to choose and when to buy a used iPad, focusing on reliability, affordability, and practicality. Finally, we will summarize the key points for purchasing, selling, and renting with PRODIG.

 

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Conclusion | Should I wait for the new iPad in 2025, or buy now?

Let's start with the conclusion. If you're wondering whether to "wait for a new iPad in 2025," the following considerations can help clarify your decision:

• People who want to fully utilize Apple Intelligence
  
  

• People who want to use one device as their main machine for as long as possible
  
  

• People who have some budget flexibility and are aiming for the latest generation Air/Pro class
  
  

For such individuals, it can be said that for some models, it is highly worthwhile to wait for the new models from 2026 onwards. The 12th-generation iPad, expected to be released in the future, is projected to feature the A18 chip and is almost certainly compatible with Apple Intelligence.

On the other hand, the following individuals can go ahead and buy an iPad in 2025:

• Light users primarily focused on video viewing, internet browsing, social media, and note-taking
  
  

• People looking for a device for their children, family sharing, or as a secondary device
  
  

• People prioritizing budget who are fine with older or used models
  
  

• People for whom Apple Intelligence is "nice to have" but not essential
  
  

The 11th-generation iPad (A16) does not support Apple Intelligence, but it offers more than enough performance for everyday use, and its price has decreased. Furthermore, for cost-conscious readers, targeting slightly older generation iPad Air or iPad Pro models used can often provide a superior experience at a price point similar to new entry-level models, making "older models now" a best buy.

Next, after reviewing the new iPad schedule for 2025-2026 and the current lineup in detail, we will categorize "whether to wait or buy now" by usage.

Rough conclusion | If Apple Intelligence is a priority, some models are worth "waiting" for; if cost-effectiveness is a priority, "buy now."

To summarize the content so far in more detail, it can be visualized as follows:

• Apple Intelligence Priority Group
  
  

• If you use your iPad as your main PC and want to use AI functions daily for writing, summarizing, and image generation, it's safer to wait for an iPad Air/Pro with an M-series chip or an A18 (or later) chip.
  
  

• Cost-Effectiveness Priority Group
  
  

• For "video/browsing-centric," "study use," or "for children," the 11th-generation iPad or older iPad Air models offer sufficient perceived performance. Buying a used one when prices drop is usually the most economical option.
  
  

In other words, the conclusion changes depending on whether you prioritize "AI" or "price." This article will explain how to choose based on reliability, affordability, and practicality to meet both needs.

 

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iPad New Model Schedule for 2025-2026 and Apple Intelligence Compatibility

 

You can't decide whether to wait without knowing "when new models will be released." Let's briefly review the trends from 2024 to 2026.

In 2024, a new iPad Pro (M4) with the M4 chip and an OLED display, and 11/13-inch iPad Air models with the M2 chip were introduced. In 2025, the 11th-generation iPad with the A16 chip was added, boosting the performance of the base model.

On the other hand, Apple Intelligence will be fully usable primarily on higher-end models such as iPad Pro M1 and later, and iPad Air M1 and later. In 2026, the 12th-generation iPad, featuring the A18 chip, is expected to be released, bringing Apple Intelligence compatibility to even entry-level models.

Expected differences between 11th-generation iPad (A16) and 12th-generation iPad (A18)

The current 11th-generation iPad is a base model equipped with the A16 chip, a relatively new generation released in 2025. However, the A16 does not meet the requirements for Apple Intelligence compatibility, so AI features cannot be used.

On the other hand, the 12th-generation iPad, expected to launch in 2026, is anticipated to feature the A18 chip and 8GB RAM, making it compatible with Apple Intelligence. In terms of performance, it will not only provide more overhead for games and demanding applications but also likely allow for full utilization of AI features like text summarization, image generation, and smart note organization.

Therefore,

• "I want to use AI daily" or "I want to use it as my main device for several years."
  For these individuals, there's a significant benefit to waiting for the 12th-generation iPad. Conversely,
  
  

• "My main use is browsing and videos," "cost is a priority," or "a secondary device is fine."
  For these individuals, the 11th generation offers sufficient performance, and "targeting current price drops rather than waiting" is often more rational.
  
  

iPad Air, Pro, and mini Update Trends

The iPad Air and iPad Pro occupy a "power user and creator-oriented" position within the overall iPad series.

• iPad Air Series
  
  

• Features M2 or M3 class chips, available in 11/13-inch sizes
  
  

• Mid-to-high-end models designed for tasks similar to a laptop
  
  

• iPad Pro Series
  
  

• High-end models with M4 chip and OLED display, fully capable of running Apple Intelligence
  
  

• iPad mini Series
  
  

• Strong popularity for its handheld size, perfect for e-books, games, and on-the-go use
  
  

• Update cycles are somewhat longer, with major advancements often occurring every few years
  
  

The Air/Pro consistently improve with each chip generation in performance, display, camera, and Apple Pencil compatibility, but for everyday use, previous generations are often sufficient. Therefore, unless you need the latest specs for professional use, "targeting a 1-2 generation old Air/Pro in the used market" becomes a very cost-effective choice.

Organizing Apple Intelligence Compatible Models

As of 2025, iPads compatible with Apple Intelligence generally meet the following criteria:

• iPad Pro: M1 or later
  
  

• iPad Air: M1 or later
  
  

• iPad mini: A17 Pro generation
  
  

• Upcoming A18 generation iPad (12th generation)
  
  

Apple Intelligence-compatible iPads will allow for OS-level features such as text summarization/rewriting, image generation, and smart note extraction. However, these features are not essential for everyone; those who handle large volumes of text for work or study, or engage in creative tasks, will benefit the most.

 

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Current Lineup Overview and Spec Comparison | What are the Differences Between iPads?

From here, we'll organize the iPad lineup readily available in 2025 and survey "which series is suitable for which purpose." While it's not necessary to memorize every detailed number, understanding the positioning of each series will help you make a smoother "wait/buy now" decision.

A rough comparison of representative series is as follows:

As the table shows, it's easy to imagine iPad series = entry-level with priority on price, Air = balanced, Pro = for serious work, mini = size-specialized.

iPad Series (Entry-level Model)

The iPad series refers to the base model, often called the "vanilla iPad." The 11th-generation iPad features the A16 chip and storage starting at 128GB, offering sufficient performance for video viewing, browsing, online classes, and other uses.

• Affordable, ideal for a first tablet
  
  

• Combined with a keyboard or Apple Pencil, it's great for report writing and studying
  
  

• Not compatible with Apple Intelligence, but this has little impact on everyday use
  
  

If you want to "try an iPad without making a mistake" or "need a device for family sharing," a new, older, or used iPad from the iPad series is the strongest contender.

iPad Air Series (Balanced Mid-to-High-End Model)

The iPad Air is a mid-to-high-end model that balances performance and lightness. Equipped with Apple silicon like the M2, it comes in 11-inch and 13-inch sizes, making it easy to use as a laptop replacement.

• High CPU/GPU performance with M-series chips, comfortable even with multiple apps open
  
  

• Expected to support Apple Intelligence, offering good future-proofing
  
  

• Good balance of screen size and weight, popular as a "core machine" for business, students, and creators
  
  

For those who want a device that's "less bulky than a PC but still good for work or study," or who "draw illustrations and edit videos," targeting a current-generation or one-generation-old Air in the used market is highly practical.

Click here for a list of used iPad Air series at PRODIG
https://prodig-shop.com/collections/ipad-air

iPad Pro Series (High-end, for Creators)

The iPad Pro series represents the high-end line, featuring the M4 chip and an OLED display.

• Smooth rendering with the high-refresh-rate ProMotion display
  
  

• Large storage and memory capacity, suitable for video editing and 3D production
  
  

• Maximizes the potential of "AI x creativity" when combined with Apple Intelligence
  
  

While the new price is high, choosing a 1-2 generation old iPad Pro used can sometimes offer even higher specs for a price similar to a new Air. If you anticipate high-load tasks, an older Pro model is highly worth considering.

Click here for a list of used iPad Pro series at PRODIG
https://prodig-shop.com/collections/ipad-proseries

iPad mini Series (Compact, Portable-focused)

The iPad mini series is appealing for its compact size, allowing for one-handed use.

• Perfect for e-books, comics, and browsing
  
  

• Doesn't bulk up bags, making it an excellent companion for commuting and school
  
  

• Update cycles are somewhat longer, meaning "the next new model is a bit further away" tends to be the case
  
  

This makes it well-suited for a "buy now, use for a long time" approach. It's also a perfectly realistic choice to get a one-generation-old mini used at a lower price and use it for several years, rather than just the latest generation.

 

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By Use Case | The Right iPad for You. To Wait or to Buy Now.

Even though they're all "iPads," the best choice varies significantly depending on your usage. Here, we'll organize "which series to choose" and "whether to wait for a new model or buy now" using four typical use cases as examples.

For video and browsing-centric use, an older iPad series or Air is sufficient.

If your primary use involves YouTube, Netflix, social media, and web browsing, frankly, the latest high-end models often become overkill. You'll likely experience little difference in performance with an 11th-generation iPad or a 1-2 generation old iPad Air.

• Watching Full HD to 4K videos
  
  

• Social media, news sites, online shopping
  
  

• Light casual gaming
  
  

If these are your main uses, "buying a used model that's currently at a good price" is the most economical option. The benefits of Apple Intelligence aren't that significant for these uses, so in most cases, "there's no need to wait for the 2026 A18 generation."

For those who want "the cheapest possible device that's not sluggish," a used iPad from the iPad series or a slightly more capable used iPad Air (M1/M2 generation) is a good target.

For studying, note-taking, and business use, consider iPad Air or above.

If you're looking to use it for tasks like university class notes, studying for certifications, reviewing work documents, or light document creation – essentially, "laptop-like usage" – then screen size and processing power become important.

• Frequent use of split-screen on a display 11 inches or larger
  
  

• Using Apple Pencil for handwritten notes or annotating PDFs
  
  

• Combining with a keyboard cover to create documents on the go
  
  

For these needs, the iPad Air series or higher is a good fit. Especially, M-series Air models are promising for future Apple Intelligence compatibility, making them perfect for those who "want to use it for a while."

If you "want to use it for studying immediately" or "have reports or presentations due soon," it's recommended to buy a used current-generation Air or a one-generation-old model now. On the other hand, if you're thinking "buying in 6 months to a year is fine" or "I want to fully utilize AI features," then waiting for a new Air or A18 generation model after 2026 is also an option.

For creative uses like illustration and video editing, opt for a Pro or high-spec Air.

If you're considering demanding tasks such as illustration, video editing, or 3D modeling, it's safer to choose an iPad Pro or a high-spec iPad Air.

• iPad Pro with a 120Hz ProMotion display for smooth pen tracking
  
  

• Larger storage capacity (256GB or more)
  
  

• M-series chip for comfortable long drawing and rendering tasks
  
  

Combined with Apple Intelligence, there's also an increased potential to streamline the entire creative workflow, from rough sketches and composition ideas to text brainstorming.

However, the deciding factor here is whether "you need high performance for current work immediately."

• For those already handling professional projects → Buy an older Pro or current Pro now
  
  

• For those looking to seriously explore creative work → Start with a used Air/Pro and upgrade to a higher-end model in a few years
  
  

It's recommended to calmly assess "the specifications you need right now."

For children's use or family sharing, an older or used model is a smart and budget-conscious choice.

If the primary use is for children's learning apps, YouTube Kids, educational content, or family photo viewing and video watching, the latest chips and Apple Intelligence are often overkill.

• Install a screen protector and case to prepare for minor drops
  
  

• A screen size of around 10-11 inches is sufficient
  
  

• 64-128GB of storage is usually enough for daily use
  
  

Under these conditions, choosing a used iPad series or iPad Air from a few generations ago is the most practical approach. This keeps the cost down, while still offering smooth enough performance, and alleviates the psychological burden of worrying about "what if it breaks."

PRODIG offers used iPads with clear condition rankings and operational checks, making it easy for first-time used buyers to choose from their lineup.

Click here for a list of used iPad series at PRODIG
https://prodig-shop.com/collections/ipadseries

 

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Why older and used iPads are a prime target for cost-effectiveness.

From here, we'll discuss "older and used iPads," a topic of particular interest to the "buy now rather than wait" group. We'll outline the pros and cons compared to new products and address concerns about used items as concretely as possible.

Why older models are still sufficient: Performance, OS support, and practical aspects.

Compared to smartphones, iPads have longer model update cycles, and many models from one or two generations ago still offer perfectly adequate performance.

• Even A12-A14 generations are comfortable for video viewing, browsing, and learning apps
  
  

• M1/M2 generation iPad Air/Pro models offer performance that will last comfortably for several years
  
  

• iPadOS support periods are long, so the risk of it suddenly becoming unusable is low
  
  

Of course, if you're playing the latest games or doing heavy video editing, you might feel a lack of specs, but for most people, "1-2 generations old = just the right balance" is often the case.

Especially for light to mid-range users for whom "Apple Intelligence is not essential," "buying an older model at a discount now" often leads to higher overall satisfaction.

Reduce anxiety by understanding condition ranks | Differences between S/A/B/C

When buying a used iPad for the first time, the biggest concern is "how much wear and tear it has." This is where condition ranks come in handy. For example, items are often categorized like this, and PRODIG also manages conditions based on a similar approach:

• S rank: New, unopened item.
  
  

• A rank: Very good condition. Very minor scratches or signs of use, but generally clean.
  
  

• B rank: Good condition. Visible scratches or minor dents from general use, but no issues with operation.
  
  

• C rank: Fair condition. Noticeable scratches or paint chips, but no impact on functionality.
  
  

The rank you should choose depends on "how much you care about appearance."

• For gifts or business use where "cleanliness" is important → S/A rank
  
  

• For home use or children's use where cost-effectiveness is a priority → B/C rank is still perfectly practical
  
  

The important thing is to consider "external scratches" and "internal operation" separately. With a shop like PRODIG, which clearly states operational checks and warranties in addition to ranks, it becomes easier to choose by thinking, "I don't mind a few scratches if it means a lower price."

Benefits of choosing a used iPad at PRODIG | Reliability, Affordability, and Practicality

When considered across the three axes of reliability, affordability, and practicality, PRODIG's used iPads offer the following advantages:

• Reliability
  
  

• Functionality checked and cleaned by expert staff
  
  

• Clear indication of condition rank and defect information to minimize "it wasn't what I expected"
  
  

• Affordability
  
  

• Wide selection of affordable options, including older models and items with minor flaws
  
  

• You can aim for a higher-grade series within the same budget compared to the new price.
  
  

• Practical
  
  

• Also meets corporate demand for work, study, and rental, making business-use consultations easy.
  
  

Even if you're new to used items, by checking the condition rank, warranty details, and return policy, you can easily acquire an iPad that's "more affordable than new, yet reliable."

Click here for the PRODIG Used iPad series lineup
https://prodig-shop.com/collections/ipadseries

 

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2025-2026 Buying Calendar and Lucky Bags

The price you pay varies greatly depending on "when you buy." Here, we'll cover the main events and price fluctuation timings for 2025-2026, and organize the "best deals," including lucky bags.

Understand New Product Announcements and Sale Trends

Not just for iPads, but for Apple products in general, the prices of older models tend to fluctuate before and after new product announcements.

• Immediately after a new product announcement
  
  

• Clearance sales and price reductions for older models are likely to occur.
  
  

• In the used market, older models are sold all at once, leading to abundant stock.
  
  

• Year-end Black Friday and Holiday Sales
  
  

• iPad-related sales (lucky bags) are often held at electronics retailers and online stores.
  
  

• New Life Season (February - April)
  
  

• Campaigns for students and businesses increase, making iPads, along with laptops, a good target.
  
  

Looking at 2025, one good target is when the prices of older Air and Pro models become more reasonable after the 11th generation iPad and M2/M4 generation Air/Pro models have all been released.

Timing When Used Market Prices Tend to Fall

In the used market, prices follow new product movements with a slight delay.

• Before and after new model releases, large quantities of older models are released due to trade-ins.
  
  

• At year-end and fiscal year-end, "bulk sales" increase, leading to thicker stock.
  
  

• Demand for "upgrading from older models" increases around major iPadOS updates.
  
  

During these periods, it's not uncommon for prices of even the same rank and generation to fluctuate by several thousand to over 10,000 yen. If you want to maximize cost-effectiveness with used items, a stance of "checking new product announcements and sale information, then waiting a few weeks to a month" is effective.

How to Utilize New Year's Sales, Lucky Bags, and Outlets

Many people aim for lucky bags with the feeling of "it would be lucky if an iPad was inside," but there are also points to soberly consider.

• "Spoiler lucky bags" where the contents are revealed in advance make it easy to calculate cost performance.
  
  

• Theme-based lucky bags like "tablet lucky bags" or "Apple product lucky bags" are realistic for those aiming for an iPad.
  
  

• For outlet items or items with minor defects (scratches, missing accessories, etc.), always check the condition and warranty.
  
  

Some used shops and online stores offer advantageous bundled sales during New Year's sales periods, often as part of inventory clearance. If you're aiming for lucky bags or outlet items, checking the "price," "condition rank," "warranty," and "match with your intended use" together will help you avoid failure.

 

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Alternatives to Purchasing | Use an iPad "Without Waste" Through Rental, Buyback, and Corporate Introduction

Between "buying now or waiting a while," there are actually various options. PRODIG also offers rental, buyback, and corporate services, allowing you to utilize an iPad for "only the necessary period, only the necessary number, and at a reduced cost."

For Short-Term Use, Rental is Also an Option for "Trial"

• Need dozens of iPads for training, events, or exhibitions
  
  

• Want to use an iPad for a few months to test a new business system
  
  

• "Want to try out an iPad work style before committing to a purchase"
  
  

In such cases, by utilizing PRODIG Rental, you can use an iPad for the necessary period while keeping initial costs low.

• Flexible rental periods, from 7 days to several years
  
  

• Optimal model proposals (Air/Pro/standard) also available according to business content
  
  

• Plans with setup代理 and spare devices, such as exhibition packs, are also available.
  
  

For corporate managers who "don't want to fail after suddenly purchasing dozens of units" or "want to use it as a stopgap until the new models in 2026," rental is a very realistic option.

PRODIG Rental Official Website here
https://prodig-rental.com/

Smartly Upgrade with Buyback | Get a Bulk Appraisal at Akihabara Store

If you already own an iPad or smartphone, trading it in through buyback before purchasing a new iPad can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket expense.

PRODIG's Akihabara store offers buyback services for iPhones, iPads, Android tablets, and more, allowing you to get a bulk appraisal on the spot.

• Bring in old iPads and smartphones gathering dust at home for a bulk assessment.
  
  

• Confirm the buyback price on the spot and use it towards the purchase of a new iPad.
  
  

• "Just an appraisal" is also fine, making it a valuable consideration for upgrading.
  
  

For those who think, "My current iPad still works, but its performance is getting tough," or "I have too many old tablets and it's hard to manage," it's recommended to utilize a buyback appraisal to organize your current devices.

PRODIG's iPad Buyback Website here
https://prodig-kaitori.com/

For Corporations Introducing in Bulk, Consult the B2B Window

When introducing dozens to hundreds of iPads within a company, consulting the corporate window often offers greater benefits in terms of model selection, cost, and support compared to individual purchases.

• The optimal series and generation differ by department.
  
  

• Want to decide on a model while considering compatibility with existing PCs and business systems.
  
  

• Want to consider budgets and combinations with leasing/rentals.
  
  

PRODIG offers a corporate window where you can consult on introduction plans that combine iPad purchase, used utilization, rental, and trade-in.

PRODIG's Corporate Window here
https://prodig-shop.com/pages/b2b-reception

 

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) | Storage, Wi-Fi/Cellular, Apple Pencil, etc.

Finally, we've summarized common questions from those wondering "should I wait for the new iPad 2025" in a Q&A format. Let's review the content of this article and resolve any minor doubts.

Q1. Is 64GB enough? How much storage should I consider?

A. If you mainly stream video content, 64GB is often sufficient. However,

• Downloading a large amount of video for offline viewing
  
  

• Installing multiple large-capacity game apps
  
  

• Storing photos and videos on the iPad itself
  
  

If you use it in such ways, it's safer to choose 128GB or more. Especially for those using Air/Pro for work, starting with 256GB is a storage amount where you'll "regret it less."

Q2. Which should I choose, Wi-Fi model or cellular model?

A. If you have a Wi-Fi environment at home or work, and smartphone tethering is sufficient when you're out, a Wi-Fi model is fine.

On the other hand, if:

• You always carry an iPad for sales calls.
  
  

• You frequently use cloud services in cafes or while commuting.
  
  

• You find it troublesome to set up smartphone tethering every time you hand it to a child.
  
  

In such cases, a cellular model is often more stress-free to use. For used models, the price difference for cellular models may not be significant, so compare them while imagining your usage scenarios.

Q3. Can Apple Pencil be used with any model?

A. There are multiple generations of Apple Pencil, and "which iPad supports which Pencil" varies by model.

• Base iPad series: Compatible with 1st generation Pencil and USB-C version Pencil
  
  

• iPad Air/Pro: Many models are compatible with 2nd generation Pencil and Apple Pencil Pro
  
  

For basic note-taking and PDF annotations, any Pencil is sufficiently practical. However, if you want to utilize pressure sensitivity and tilt functions for illustration or similar tasks, consider the Air/Pro + 2nd generation Pencil/Apple Pencil Pro combination.

Q4. If buying in 2025, which is recommended, new or used?

A. Unless you absolutely need the latest model or want to fully utilize Apple Intelligence, for most people, used or previous-generation models offer the best balance.

• New → For those who prioritize the latest features and warranty.
  
  

• Used → For those who value the balance of price and performance, and can check the condition rank and warranty.
  
  

Especially with a shop like PRODIG that clearly states condition ranks, operational checks, and warranty details, it's easy to satisfy the three axes of "reliable, affordable, and practical," making it easier to feel that "used is perfectly sufficient."

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Lastly

The 2025 iPads, with the 11th generation iPad (A16) and M2/M4 generation Air/Pro models all released, have already reached a level of performance that is "more than sufficient for everyday use." However, in 2026, the 12th generation iPad with the A18 chip is expected to appear, and Apple Intelligence support will expand to entry-level models.

• For those who prioritize AI features and want to use one device for a long time → Consider "waiting" for some models.
  
  

• For those who prioritize price and mainly use it for videos, browsing, and studying → "Current older models / used models" are a good target.
  
  

By organizing your usage and priorities in this way, the answer to "should I wait or buy now" will naturally become clear.

PRODIG offers a wide range of models in various conditions and generations, including the used iPad series, iPad Air, and iPad Pro. By also utilizing rental, buyback, and corporate services, you can easily introduce the best device (or multiple devices) for yourself or your company without unnecessary costs.

• First, check out the older models and used lineup to get an idea of the budget and performance balance.
  
  

• Combine with rental or buyback as needed to create a "reliable, affordable, and practical" operation plan.
  
  

With these steps, let's turn the dilemma of "should I wait for the new iPad 2025" into a positive choice.