iPad 2025 Comparison: Pro M5, Air M3 and Mini A17 Pro: What are the differences?
Detailed analysis of performance, display, and features of the iPad Pro, Air, Mini, and standard models. Helps you find the Apple tablet that's right for you.
Apple continues to make a name for itself in the tablet market with a diverse range of iPads, clearly segmented to cater to different user groups. From the affordable standard iPad to the high-performance iPad Pro M5, choosing the right model requires understanding the core differences in hardware and features. This article will analyze each product line in depth to clarify the differences and determine the optimal choice for your needs.
iPad (Generation 11, 2025): The universal choice for every home
The 11th-generation iPad is the most affordable entry-level option in Apple's product portfolio. With an 11-inch screen and the A16 Bionic chip, this device is well-suited for everyday tasks such as web browsing, watching movies, and entertainment apps. It is the only version in the new product line that does not support Apple Intelligence, suitable for users who do not need to use advanced artificial intelligence features.
With its accessible price and solid performance, this is an ideal device for general users, students or as a tablet for children thanks to its balance between features and cost.
iPad Air (2025): M3 power for creativity and learning
The iPad Air (2025) is a significant step up in performance with the Apple M3 chip, similar to the MacBook line. This provides superior graphics processing power and computing tasks, making it an ideal tool for students and creatives. The device comes in two screen size options of 11 inches and 13 inches, providing more spacious workspace.
One of the key upgrades is support for Apple Intelligence, allowing users to tap into advanced AI features. Compatibility with the Apple Pencil Pro also opens up a lot of potential for artists and designers.
iPad Pro (M5, 2025): Unlimited performance for professionals
As the name suggests, the iPad Pro (2025) is aimed at professional users who demand the highest performance. The device is equipped with an extremely powerful Apple M5 chip, optimized for CPU, GPU and AI tasks. This is a mobile device capable of handling complex workflows, from 4K video editing, intensive graphic design to resource-intensive AI applications.
The Tandem OLED display with 120Hz ProMotion technology delivers excellent display quality, high brightness, and accurate colors. Combined with a Thunderbolt 4-enabled USB-C port and up to 2TB of storage options, the iPad Pro is truly a powerful mobile productivity machine.
iPad mini (2024): Small but powerful
The iPad mini (2024) combines a compact design with high-performance hardware. Despite its 8.3-inch size, it is still equipped with the A17 Pro chip and supports Apple Intelligence, putting it on par with the Air line in terms of intelligent processing capabilities. The compact design makes it easy for users to carry, suitable for taking notes, reading books, or using on the go.
Apple Pencil Pro support also turns this tiny tablet into a versatile digital notebook for artists and those who need to quickly sketch out ideas.
Comparison table of technical specifications of iPad models
Below is a detailed comparison of key specs between the four iPad models, based on data updated as of November 2025.
| Parameter | iPad (11th Gen, 2025) | iPad Air (2025) | iPad Pro (M5, 2025) | iPad mini (2024) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Suitable subjects | Basic, entertainment users | Student, creator | Experts, advanced users | People who travel a lot and read books |
| CPU | Apple A16 Bionic | Apple M3 | Apple M5 | Apple A17 Pro |
| Screen size | 11 inches | 11 inches or 13 inches | 13 inch (11 inch option available) | 8.3 inches |
| Display technology | Liquid Retina (60Hz) | Liquid Retina (60Hz) | Tandem OLED (120Hz ProMotion) | Liquid Retina (60Hz) |
| Storage capacity | From 128GB | From 128GB | From 256GB | From 128GB |
| Apple Intelligence Support | Are not | Have | Have | Have |
| Connect | Wi-Fi 6, USB-C (2.0) | Wi-Fi 6E, USB-C (3.0) | Wi-Fi 7, USB-C (Thunderbolt 4) | Wi-Fi 6E, USB-C (3.0), 5G |
| Supporting accessories | Apple Pencil (USB-C/Gen 1) | Apple Pencil Pro | Apple Pencil Pro | Apple Pencil Pro |
Can an iPad replace a laptop?
With the ever-improving iPadOS operating system, the iPad's ability to replace a laptop has become more realistic. iPadOS supports window multitasking, allowing users to open and resize multiple apps at once. The file management system also makes moving data between apps seamless. When combined with accessories like the Magic Keyboard and external displays, the iPad Pro and iPad Air can provide a laptop-like working experience for many professions, especially in the creative field.
The need for accessories
Accessories are important to get the most out of your iPad. The Apple Pencil is an essential tool for note-taking and drawing, with different versions available for each model. The Apple Pencil Pro offers advanced features like rotating the pen barrel, which is especially useful for artists. Keyboards like the Magic Keyboard not only protect the device but also add a trackpad and function keys, making the iPad a more productive work tool. Depending on your needs, investing in the right accessories can significantly enhance the user experience.