What iPads Are Not Outdated in 2025
Introduction: Which iPads Still Hold Up in 2025?
In 2025, not all iPads are created equal. With Apple continuing to release new iOS updates and gradually phasing out older hardware, many iPad models have become outdated—either losing full iOS support or falling off Apple’s security update list. If you're shopping for a used or refurbished iPad this year, it’s important to know which models are still worth buying and which ones you should avoid.
Whether you're buying for school, streaming, or productivity, choosing a model that still receives updates will ensure better performance, app compatibility, and long-term value.
How Apple Determines iPad Support Lifespan
Apple typically provides major iOS updates for about 5 to 7 years after an iPad is released. After that, some models may continue to receive security-only updates, while others are phased out completely.
There are three key tiers of iPad support:
- Fully Supported – Still receiving the latest iOS version (like iOS 26).
- Security Updates Only – No longer gets new iOS features but still receives critical patches.
- Outdated – No longer gets any updates from Apple and should be avoided.
Understanding which tier your iPad falls into is crucial when evaluating if it’s still worth using or buying.
Understanding Security Updates
Just because an iPad doesn’t run the latest iOS doesn’t mean it’s completely obsolete. Apple often continues to push security updates to older models for a few years after dropping full iOS support.
These updates help patch vulnerabilities and keep the device relatively safe to use for light web browsing, email, or media consumption.
However, once a device stops receiving both iOS and security updates, it becomes increasingly risky to use—especially for tasks involving personal data or online transactions. In 2025, it’s better to choose a model that’s either fully supported or at least still receiving security patches.
Outdated iPads in 2025: Models You Should Avoid
These iPad models are no longer supported by Apple as of 2025. They stopped receiving both iOS updates and security patches, which makes them risky for daily use—especially if you rely on apps that need current software or security protections. Avoid buying or using these models unless for offline or extremely limited tasks.
| Model | Release Date | iOS/iPadOS End Date | Final iOS/iPadOS Version | Last Security Update |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| iPad 1st Gen | Apr 2010 | Sep 2012 | iOS 5.1.1 | May 2012 |
| iPad 2nd Gen | Mar 2011 | Sep 2016 | iOS 9.3.5 | Jul 2019 |
| iPad 3rd Gen | Mar 2012 | Sep 2016 | iOS 9.3.5 | Jul 2019 |
| iPad 4th Gen | Nov 2012 | Sep 2017 | iOS 10.3.4 | Jul 2019 |
| iPad Air 1st Gen | Nov 2013 | Sep 2019 | iOS 12.5.7 | Jan 2023 |
| iPad Mini 1st Gen | Nov 2012 | Sep 2016 | iOS 9.3.5 | Jul 2019 |
| iPad Mini 2nd Gen | Nov 2013 | Sep 2019 | iOS 12.5.7 | Jan 2023 |
| iPad Mini 3rd Gen | Oct 2014 | Sep 2019 | iOS 12.5.7 | Jan 2023 |
⚠️ These models are now considered fully outdated. They no longer support modern apps, security features, or web standards, making them unsuitable for most users in 2025.
iPads Receiving Security Updates Only in 2025 (But don’t support the latest iPadOS 26)
These iPad models no longer support the latest iPadOS 26, but Apple continues to provide critical security updates for now. While still usable for light tasks, their time is limited—most won’t be supported beyond 2025–2026. These should only be considered if you're on a tight budget and understand their limitations.
| Model | Release Date | iOS/iPadOS End Date | Last iOS/iPadOS Version | Last Security Update |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| iPad 5th Gen | Mar 2017 | Sep 2023 | iPadOS 16.7.11 | Mar 2025 |
| iPad 6th Gen | Mar 2018 | Sep 2024 | iPadOS 17.7.5 | Feb 2025 |
| iPad 7th Gen | Sep 2019 | Sep 2025 | iPadOS 18.3 | Jan 2025 |
| iPad Air 2nd Gen | Oct 2014 | Sep 2022 | iPadOS 15.8.4 | Mar 2025 |
| iPad Mini 4th Gen | Sep 2015 | Sep 2022 | iPadOS 15.8.4 | Mar 2025 |
| iPad Pro 9.7-inch | Mar 2016 | Sep 2023 | iPadOS 16.7.11 | Mar 2025 |
| iPad Pro 10.5-inch | Jun 2017 | Sep 2024 | iPadOS 17.7.5 | Feb 2025 |
| iPad Pro 12.9-inch 1st Gen | Nov 2015 | Sep 2023 | iPadOS 16.7.11 | Mar 2025 |
| iPad Pro 12.9-inch 2nd Gen | Jun 2017 | Sep 2024 | iPadOS 17.7.5 | Feb 2025 |
⚠️ These models still work in 2025, but they’re nearing the end of the line and don’t support the latest iPadOS. Apple may stop security updates in next 12–24 months.
iPads Fully Supported by iPadOS 26 in 2025
These iPads are fully compatible with iPadOS 26 and continue to receive new features, security updates, and app support. If you're buying a used or refurbished iPad in 2025, models on this list are your safest and most future-proof options.
| Model | Release Date | iOS/iPadOS Version at Launch | Support Latest iPadOS | Receiving Security Updates |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| iPad 8th Gen | Sep 2020 | iPadOS 14 | Yes | Yes |
| iPad 9th Gen | Sep 2021 | iPadOS 15 | Yes | Yes |
| iPad 10th Gen | Oct 2022 | iPadOS 16 | Yes | Yes |
| iPad Air 3rd Gen | Mar 2019 | iOS 12 | Yes | Yes |
| iPad Air 4th Gen | Oct 2020 | iPadOS 14 | Yes | Yes |
| iPad Air 5th Gen | Mar 2022 | iPadOS 15 | Yes | Yes |
| iPad Mini 5th Gen | Mar 2019 | iOS 12 | Yes | Yes |
| iPad Mini 6th Gen | Sep 2021 | iPadOS 15 | Yes | Yes |
| iPad Pro 11-inch 1st Gen | Nov 2018 | iOS 12 | Yes | Yes |
| iPad Pro 11-inch 2nd Gen | Mar 2020 | iPadOS 13.4 | Yes | Yes |
| iPad Pro 11-inch 3rd Gen | May 2021 | iPadOS 14.5 | Yes | Yes |
| iPad Pro 11-inch 4th Gen | Oct 2022 | iPadOS 16 | Yes | Yes |
| iPad Pro 12.9-inch 3rd Gen | Nov 2018 | iOS 12 | Yes | Yes |
| iPad Pro 12.9-inch 4th Gen | Mar 2020 | iPadOS 13.4 | Yes | Yes |
| iPad Pro 12.9-inch 5th Gen | May 2021 | iPadOS 14.5 | Yes | Yes |
| iPad Pro 12.9-inch 6th Gen | Oct 2022 | iPadOS 16 | Yes | Yes |
✅ All of these models support iPadOS 26 and are expected to receive updates for several more years.
Reference:
1) Apple iPadOS https://www.apple.com/os/ipados/
2) Apple Security Releases https://support.apple.com/en-us/100100
Recommendations: Certified Used / Refurbished iPads Recommended Based on Budget and Use Case
Based on our UpTrade Price Tracker, here are the top picks for different needs and budgets:
Best for Kids: iPad 8th Gen or iPad Mini 5th Gen ($150 - $200)
Both available for under $200, these models offer great performance for educational apps, games, and streaming while staying affordable.
Best for Students: iPad 9th Gen ($200+)
Starting around $200+, it includes Apple Pencil support, a reliable A13 chip, and a 10.2" display—perfect for note-taking, reading, and assignments.
Best for Casual Use / Browsing: iPad 9th Gen ($200+)
This is also ideal for web browsing, watching videos, and everyday tasks at a low cost. If you can afford $50 to $80 more in your budget, you can also consider the iPad 10th Gen, which is priced around $300.
Best for Creatives and Power Users: iPad Pro 12.9-inch 3rd Gen ($300+)
Priced from $300+, it has the biggest screen and features a powerful A12X Bionic chip, large display, and support for advanced accessories like the Apple Pencil 2 and Smart Keyboard.
How UpTrade Can Help
Finding the right iPad in 2025 can be tricky, especially with so many outdated models still circulating online. That’s where UpTrade comes in.
- ✅ Real-Time Price Tracking – Instantly compare the best deals on Certified Used and Refurbished iPads from trusted sellers like Amazon, BestBuy, and Apple.
- ✅ Trusted Sellers Only – We only list certified resellers, helping you avoid scams, bad batteries, or unsupported models.
- ✅ Optimized for Every Budget – Whether you're shopping for a kid, a student, or a professional, UpTrade makes it easy to find the best iPad for your needs and budget.
FAQ: Buying an iPad in 2025
Are security updates enough if an iPad doesn’t get iPadOS 26?
Security updates are helpful, but without full iPadOS support, you'll miss out on new features, better app compatibility, and long-term software support.
Is it safe to buy a 2015 or older iPad?
No. These models are considered completely outdated. They no longer receive software or security updates and may struggle with modern apps or websites.
Which iPads still receive iPadOS 26?
As of 2025, supported models include:
- iPad 8th Gen and newer
- iPad Air 3rd Gen and newer
- iPad Mini 5th Gen and newer
- iPad Pro (2018 and newer)
Read the article above for more information.
Where can I find a good deal on a refurbished iPad?
Use UpTrade to find and compare the best certified refurbished deals from major retailers—all in one place.
Should You Buy a Used or Refurbished iPad in 2025?
Yes—as long as it's from a certified seller and supports at least security updates. Refurbished iPads from trusted sources like Apple, BestBuy, or Amazon Renewed are tested, cleaned, and often come with a limited warranty. They're a great way to save money without sacrificing reliability.
What’s the difference between “Used” and “Refurbished” iPads?
Used iPads are typically sold as-is by individuals. They may have unknown issues, no warranty, and no quality checks.
Refurbished iPads are professionally inspected, repaired if needed, cleaned, and resold by certified vendors. They’re more reliable and usually include some form of warranty.
Can I still use an iPad that doesn’t support the latest iPadOS?
Technically yes, but it’s not recommended unless it still receives security updates. Without full iPadOS support, your device may struggle with app compatibility and performance, and it becomes increasingly risky from a security standpoint.
What’s the best iPad to buy under $200?
We recommend the iPad 8th Gen or iPad Mini 5th Gen. Both support the latest iPadOS and offer excellent performance for basic tasks.
