We’ve created diagrams to help you compare the screen sizes of current iPad models. By visualizing the differences, it’s easier to get a real sense of how each iPad compares in size—not just in terms of physical dimensions, but also pixel size. We hope this guide helps you choose the best iPad for your needs.
How iPad Screen Size Impacts Productivity
Before jumping into the comparisons, let’s briefly explain how different screen sizes can affect your experience. Some people might think, “A bigger screen just means larger, more immersive images or games.” That’s true, but that’s not all.
For apps with a fixed layout (such as many games), the content stays exactly the same—the only difference is everything appears larger. But for adaptive (responsive) layout apps, what you see can actually change depending on the screen size.
For example, in web browsers like Safari, a larger screen means you can view more of a webpage at once. Illustration software, like CLIP STUDIO PAINT, ibisPaint X, or MediBang Paint, can display more panels or tools on bigger screens. Especially for illustration apps with lots of panels, a bigger screen can noticeably improve your workflow and efficiency.
Teoh Yi Chie’s video shows a comparison between the iPad Pro 11-inch and iPad Pro 12.9-inch using illustration apps. In the latter part of the video, you’ll notice that apps like MediBang Paint can display more panels and tools on the larger model.
This isn’t just limited to illustration software. Video editing, music production, and most creative or business apps also benefit from a larger screen. In short, almost every type of task can be affected by the display size.
Effects of Screen Size
- Fixed-layout apps: Only the apparent size changes; the content stays the same.
- Flexible-layout apps: The display area expands with screen size, showing more content at once.
- Split View: Using two apps side by side is much easier and more comfortable on a larger screen.
Physical Size Comparison
Let’s look at the actual screen sizes of each model. Seeing them together, especially next to the smallest iPad mini, will give you a clear sense of the differences.
Apple uses simple names like “iPad Air 11-inch,” but be aware that the actual display size can sometimes be slightly different from the name (for example, 10.86 inches). Always check the detailed specs!
Key Points
- The iPad Air 11-inch and iPad Pro 11-inch have slightly different screen sizes.
- The iPad Air 13-inch and iPad Pro 13-inch also have small differences in screen size.
- The iPad (A16) and iPad Air 11-inch share the same screen size.
Physical Screen Sizes
- iPad mini (A17 Pro): 8.3 inches
- iPad (A16): 10.86 inches
- iPad Air 11-inch (M3): 10.86 inches
- iPad Air 13-inch (M3): 12.9 inches
- iPad Pro 11-inch (M4): 11.1 inches
- iPad Pro 13-inch (M4): 13 inches
Pixel Size Comparison
Now let’s compare the pixel dimensions of each screen. The iPad mini stands out with a 326 ppi (pixels per inch) pixel density, while all other current models have 264 ppi. This means the iPad mini’s screen is sharper and more detailed.
So, when comparing by pixel size instead of just physical size, the difference between the iPad mini and other models is less noticeable.
Key Points
- In terms of pixel dimensions, the iPad mini isn’t that different from the iPad (A16) or iPad Air 11-inch/iPad Pro 11-inch.
- All iPads except the iPad mini use the same 264 ppi, so physical screen size matches pixel size.
Pixel Sizes
- iPad mini (A17 Pro): 2,266 × 1,488 pixels (326 ppi)
- iPad (A16): 2,360 × 1,640 pixels (264 ppi)
- iPad Air 11-inch (M3): 2,360 × 1,640 pixels (264 ppi)
- iPad Air 13-inch (M3): 2,732 × 2,048 pixels (264 ppi)
- iPad Pro 11-inch (M4): 2,420 × 1,668 pixels (264 ppi)
- iPad Pro 13-inch (M4): 2,752 × 2,064 pixels (264 ppi)
Conclusion
It’s clear that larger iPad screens generally improve productivity. However, bigger devices are less portable. Which is more important to you will depend on how you use your iPad.
Also, thanks to its higher pixel density, the iPad mini can display nearly as much detail as other models, just in a more compact space. However, its smaller, sharper screen might make precise touch operations a bit more challenging for some people.
Take a look at the diagrams in this article and consider these points to find the iPad that best fits your needs.
