What is the difference between the iPad Pro, iPad Air, iPad and iPad mini?

If you're looking for an iPad, there are many different models to choose from. At first glance, all these models might look quite similar. But how do you know which iPad to buy? You can choose from four different categories:  iPad Pro, iPad Air, iPad, and iPad mini. In this blog article, we’ll explain the differences to help you decide.

The four different categories are each designed with a different use case in mind. So before you make a purchase, consider how you will use your iPad and what you need it for. The specifications of each of the four categories can be compared in the table below.

iPad Pro

The iPad Pro is, of course, the most powerful model of the four. This iPad is designed with photo and video editing as a focus, making it particularly suitable for graphic use. You can also see this in the size options you get with the iPad Pro. Compared to the rest of the iPad family, the iPad Pro has by far the best screen and the fastest processor. You can easily switch between different apps on this device, and games look spectacular.

With the launch of the iPad Pro in 2015, the 1st generation Apple Pencil was also introduced. In 2018, the iPad Pro received a makeover: the home button was removed, and the rounded edges were replaced with flat edges. At the same time, the Apple Pencil was also upgraded to the 2nd generation Apple Pencil.

iPad Air

The iPad Air is also a very powerful model. This iPad is ideal for work, studying, or taking notes. You can easily connect a keyboard to this iPad, making it perfect for working. The processor is slower than that of the iPad Pro, but you can still run demanding programs on an iPad Air. Additionally, it has less memory. Not all generations of the iPad Air are compatible with the Apple Pencil. The iPad Air 3 (1st gen Pencil) and 4 (2nd gen Pencil) are compatible, allowing you to create beautiful notes or artwork! Although the home button has disappeared from the iPad Air 4, it doesn’t have Face ID. The fingerprint sensor is now hidden in the power button.

iPad

The iPad is the standard model in the iPad family. This standard model is ideal for home and family use. The iPad isn’t very powerful, but that also makes it an affordable option. The advantage is that for everyday use, you don’t need a more powerful iPad. The design has remained unchanged over the past few years, and it still uses Touch ID in the home button. Starting with the iPad 2019, this standard model is also compatible with the 1st generation Apple Pencil.

iPad mini

The iPad mini is, as the name suggests, the smallest iPad. This iPad has also been around for many generations and remains a favorite for on-the-go use. With its compact size, it fits in any bag and is perfect for reading a book on the train. The iPad mini is less suitable for running multiple programs at the same time due to the small screen. However, it is great for entertainment use. 

All iPads are suitable for browsing the internet, reading and replying to emails, and watching Netflix. If you opt for a refurbished iPad, there can, of course, be differences between earlier and later models. So, make sure to pay attention to the product’s specifications. Specifications like the processor, camera, and screen vary by generation.

Model	iPad Pro	iPad Air	iPad	iPad mini
Size	12.9, 11, 10.5, 9.7 inch	10.9, 10.5, 9.7 inch	10.2, 9.7 inch	8.3, 7.9 inch
Unlocking	Face or Touch ID	Touch ID	Touch ID	Touch ID
Storage	32GB to 1TB	16 to 256GB	32 to 256GB	16 to 256GB