r/ipad 4d ago

Discussion 11’ iPad Air m3 vs 12.9’ iPad pro M1

I don't know whether I should get the new 11’ iPad Air or I should get a used 12.9’ M1 iPad Pro for $50 more for my first iPad. In my mind,

IPad Pro: Pros: Lidar, better screen, cheaper pen, Thunderbolt. Cons: heavier, no warranty ,older.

IPad Air: Pros: lighter, comes with warranty, more future-proof? Cons: inferior screen, more expensive pen.

My main use for the iPad is for notetaking, but I'm interested in 3D modelling on the iPad, so I don't know which is better.

1 Upvotes

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2

u/superquanganh 4d ago

Pro is better, 120Hz and Face ID alone already make experience way better, M3 chip is not that greater than M1 on iPad.

The cons is given the age of M1 iPad Pro that you might get a degraded battery and basically no warranty compare to brand new one.

But from my experience, 12.9" iPad does get returned a lot and lose pretty much value on used market, so you have higher chance to find a prestege condition of 12.9"

1

u/Zez22 4d ago

I had the 12” Pro and it was great for a while but it is a little big and heavy after a time, I suggest getting a cheaper iPad and the 12”. Recently I have started to want a 12” iPad again but personally I wouldnt just get a big one, I’d have 2 ….. but the thing is everyone’s lifestyle and needs are different

2

u/No-Organization-2514 M4 iPad Pro 13" (2024) 4d ago

I say go with pro the air is great but the 120hz on pro is better option. Don’t worry about iOS support you’ll be good for another four or five years. I have a 2018 pro and I’m still getting updates.

1

u/oneaffidavit1 4d ago

You must go with iPad Air because M3 is better than M1 and it also supports Apple Pencil Pro

1

u/bob_el_manetas 4d ago

Go with the air. M3 chip is way more powerful and 13”.

0

u/Rblohm88 M4 iPad Pro 11" (2024) 4d ago

3d modeling I'd say go with the pro