What Size IPad Pro Should You Get? A Detailed Guide

Choosing an iPad Pro can feel a bit overwhelming, especially when you’re faced with the size question. It’s not just about screen real estate; the size impacts everything from portability and how you use it to the accessories you’ll want to buy. I remember when I first started looking at them, I spent hours researching, comparing specs, and trying to figure out which one would be the best fit for my needs. It’s a common experience, and I’m here to help you navigate it.

This guide will break down the different iPad Pro sizes, their features, and how they might fit into your life. Whether you’re a creative professional, a student, or someone who just enjoys consuming content, finding the right size is the first (and perhaps most important) step in getting the most out of your iPad Pro. We’ll explore the pros and cons of each size, helping you make an informed decision that you won’t regret.

The Current iPad Pro Lineup: Sizes and Specs

As of the current generation, the iPad Pro comes in two primary sizes: 11-inch and 13-inch. Both sizes offer incredible performance thanks to the M-series chips (currently M2, but likely to evolve soon), stunning Liquid Retina displays, and support for the Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard. Let’s delve into the specifics of each size.

11-Inch iPad Pro

The 11-inch iPad Pro is the more portable option. It’s ideal if you prioritize ease of carrying and don’t want a device that feels too bulky. Despite its smaller size, it still packs a powerful punch, offering the same processing power and features as its larger sibling. Here’s a closer look:

Display: 11-inch Liquid Retina display with ProMotion technology (adaptive refresh rates up to 120Hz), True Tone, and P3 wide color.
Chip: M2 chip with an 8-core CPU and 10-core GPU.
Storage: Available in various storage options, including 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, and 2TB.
Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, and optional 5G cellular connectivity.
Cameras: 12MP Wide and 10MP Ultra Wide rear cameras, 12MP Ultra Wide front camera with Center Stage.
Audio: Four-speaker audio and five studio-quality microphones.
Accessories: Compatible with Apple Pencil (2nd generation) and Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro (11-inch).
Weight: Approximately 1.04 pounds (Wi-Fi) / 1.05 pounds (Wi-Fi + Cellular).
Dimensions: 9.74 inches (H) x 7.02 inches (W) x 0.23 inch (D).

Who is it for? The 11-inch iPad Pro is perfect for those who want a powerful tablet that’s easy to take everywhere. It’s great for students, professionals who travel frequently, and anyone who values portability.

13-Inch iPad Pro

The 13-inch iPad Pro offers a larger display, providing more screen real estate for creative tasks, multitasking, and content consumption. It’s the ultimate iPad Pro experience for those who need a bigger canvas. Here’s what you should know:

Display: 13-inch Liquid Retina display with ProMotion technology (adaptive refresh rates up to 120Hz), True Tone, and P3 wide color. It offers a larger canvas for creative tasks and immersive content viewing.
Chip: M2 chip with an 8-core CPU and 10-core GPU.
Storage: Available in various storage options, including 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, and 2TB.
Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, and optional 5G cellular connectivity.
Cameras: 12MP Wide and 10MP Ultra Wide rear cameras, 12MP Ultra Wide front camera with Center Stage.
Audio: Four-speaker audio and five studio-quality microphones.
Accessories: Compatible with Apple Pencil (2nd generation) and Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro (12.9-inch).
Weight: Approximately 1.41 pounds (Wi-Fi) / 1.42 pounds (Wi-Fi + Cellular).
Dimensions: 11.09 inches (H) x 8.46 inches (W) x 0.23 inch (D).

Who is it for? The 13-inch iPad Pro is ideal for creative professionals, users who frequently multitask, and anyone who wants the most immersive iPad experience. It’s also excellent for watching movies, reading, and gaming.

Detailed Comparison: 11-Inch vs. 13-Inch iPad Pro

To help you make a more informed decision, let’s compare the two sizes side-by-side. I’ve broken down the key factors to consider: (See Also: Is Applecare Worth It for iPad Pro? A Comprehensive Guide)

Display Quality and Experience

Both iPads have stunning displays, but the 13-inch offers a significantly larger viewing area. This means more space for your work, more immersive gaming, and a better experience when watching movies or editing photos and videos. The ProMotion technology, which dynamically adjusts the refresh rate, is present in both models, making scrolling and animations incredibly smooth.

Portability and Ergonomics

The 11-inch iPad Pro is the clear winner in terms of portability. It’s lighter and more compact, making it easier to carry around in a backpack or even a large purse. The 13-inch, while still portable compared to a laptop, is noticeably larger and heavier. Consider how often you’ll be carrying your iPad Pro and how much weight you’re comfortable with.

Performance and Features

Both models share the same powerful M2 chip, so you’ll get identical performance in terms of processing speed and graphics capabilities. The cameras, audio systems, and connectivity options are also the same. The only difference in features is the physical size of the screen and the dimensions of the device itself.

Accessories and Compatibility

Both sizes support the Apple Pencil (2nd generation) and the Magic Keyboard, but the specific models are designed for each size. The 11-inch iPad Pro uses a smaller Magic Keyboard, while the 13-inch uses a larger one. Make sure you choose the correct accessories for your chosen iPad Pro size. The larger screen of the 13-inch can be beneficial when using the Apple Pencil for drawing or writing, giving you more space to work.

Pricing

Generally, the 13-inch iPad Pro is more expensive than the 11-inch model due to its larger display and increased material costs. The price difference can vary depending on the storage configuration and whether you opt for Wi-Fi only or Wi-Fi + Cellular. Consider your budget and whether the larger screen justifies the higher price.

Table Comparison: Key Specs at a Glance

Here’s a table to help you quickly compare the key specifications of the 11-inch and 13-inch iPad Pro:

Feature	11-inch iPad Pro	13-inch iPad Pro
Display Size	11 inches	13 inches
Chip	M2	M2
Storage Options	128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB	128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB
Connectivity	Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, 5G (optional)	Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, 5G (optional)
Cameras	12MP Wide, 10MP Ultra Wide (rear); 12MP Ultra Wide (front)	12MP Wide, 10MP Ultra Wide (rear); 12MP Ultra Wide (front)
Audio	Four-speaker audio	Four-speaker audio
Weight (Wi-Fi)	Approx. 1.04 pounds	Approx. 1.41 pounds
Dimensions	9.74 x 7.02 x 0.23 inches	11.09 x 8.46 x 0.23 inches
Price (Starting)	Varies	Varies

Factors to Consider When Choosing Your iPad Pro Size

Beyond the raw specifications, several factors can influence your decision. Think about how you plan to use your iPad Pro to make the best choice. (See Also: How Do I Find Archived Emails on My iPad? A Step-by-Step Guide)

Your Primary Use Cases

Creative Professionals: If you’re a graphic designer, video editor, or artist, the 13-inch iPad Pro’s larger screen will be a significant advantage. It gives you more space to work, allowing you to see more of your project at once and making detailed work easier. However, if you travel often and need to work on the go, the 11-inch might still be a good choice.

Students: For students, portability is often key. The 11-inch iPad Pro is easier to carry around in a backpack and is perfect for taking notes, reading textbooks, and completing assignments. However, if you plan to use your iPad Pro for research or writing long papers, the extra screen real estate of the 13-inch could be beneficial.

Content Consumption: If you primarily use your iPad Pro for watching movies, streaming videos, and browsing the web, the 13-inch will provide a more immersive experience. The larger display makes it feel more like a portable TV. If portability is a higher priority, the 11-inch still provides a great viewing experience.

Everyday Users: If you use your iPad Pro for a mix of tasks, such as browsing the web, checking email, and light productivity, the 11-inch could be a great fit. It offers a balance of power and portability. The 13-inch is also a good option if you want the best possible experience for media consumption and multitasking.

Portability Needs

Consider how often you’ll be carrying your iPad Pro. If you frequently travel, commute, or move around during the day, the 11-inch model will be more convenient. It’s lighter and takes up less space in a bag. The 13-inch is still portable, but it’s noticeably larger and heavier. Think about whether you’ll primarily use your iPad Pro at home or on the go.

Budget Constraints

The 13-inch iPad Pro is generally more expensive than the 11-inch. The price difference can be significant, especially when you factor in storage upgrades and optional cellular connectivity. Determine your budget and whether the larger screen is worth the extra cost. Remember to also factor in the cost of accessories, such as the Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard, when making your decision.

Accessories and Ecosystem

The Apple Pencil (2nd generation) works with both sizes, but the Magic Keyboard is size-specific. The 11-inch uses a smaller Magic Keyboard, while the 13-inch uses a larger one. Think about which accessories you plan to use and how they will fit into your workflow. The larger screen of the 13-inch can be advantageous when using the Apple Pencil for drawing or writing, giving you more space to work. (See Also: Can T Turn Off Find My iPad: Why Can’t You Turn Off Find My…)

Future-Proofing

Both iPad Pro sizes offer top-of-the-line performance and features, so you can expect them to remain relevant for years to come. However, the larger screen of the 13-inch might provide a slightly better experience as apps and content become more visually complex in the future. Nevertheless, the 11-inch model is still a powerful device that will handle demanding tasks with ease.

Tips for Making Your Decision

Here are some additional tips to help you choose the right iPad Pro size:

Visit an Apple Store or Retailer: If possible, visit an Apple Store or a retailer that carries the iPad Pro. This will allow you to see both sizes in person and get a feel for their size and weight.
Try Using the Magic Keyboard: If you plan to use the Magic Keyboard, try it out with both sizes to see which one you prefer.
Consider Your Desk Setup: Think about your typical workspace. If you have limited desk space, the 11-inch might be a better fit.
Read Reviews: Read reviews from other users to get a sense of their experiences with each size.
Think Long-Term: Consider your needs and how they might change over time. Will your work or hobbies require more screen real estate in the future?

Where to Buy Your iPad Pro

Once you’ve decided on the size, it’s time to purchase your iPad Pro. You can buy it directly from Apple’s website or at an Apple Store. You can also find it at major retailers like Best Buy, Amazon, and other electronics stores. Consider checking for sales and promotions to save money. Remember to compare prices and ensure you’re getting the best deal. Also, consider the warranty and return policies offered by different retailers.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the best iPad Pro size for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. The 11-inch iPad Pro offers the perfect balance of power and portability, making it ideal for those who value convenience and mobility. The 13-inch iPad Pro provides a larger, more immersive experience, perfect for creative tasks, multitasking, and content consumption.

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Take some time to consider your primary use cases, portability needs, and budget before making your decision. Both sizes offer exceptional performance and features, so you can’t go wrong with either one. I hope this guide helps you choose the perfect iPad Pro to enhance your productivity and enjoyment.

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What Size iPad Pro Should You Get? A Detailed Guide