If you’re shopping for an iPad in 2025, you’re likely comparing the iPad Air (7th Gen) and the iPad (11th Gen). With the iPad Air costing at least $250 more, many wonder: Is it really worth the upgrade? In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences to help you choose the right iPad for your needs.
iPad 11th Gen: Budget-Friendly and Great for Everyday Use
The 11th-generation iPad is Apple’s entry-level tablet, designed for light daily tasks like:
- Web browsing
- Watching videos on YouTube or Netflix
- Messaging and social media
- Basic schoolwork or casual gaming
It features the A16 Bionic chip, which is still powerful for most everyday activities. It supports Apple Pencil (1st gen and USB-C), making it good for casual note-taking and sketching. However, its display is not laminated and lacks anti-reflective coating, which can affect visibility and writing precision in bright environments.
This iPad is ideal for students, families, or anyone looking for a reliable tablet at a budget-friendly price. Starting at just $349, it offers excellent value for casual users.
iPad Air (7th Gen): Power, Precision, and Future-Proof Features
The iPad Air is built for users who need more performance and flexibility. Powered by the M3 chip, it offers:
- Faster processing and graphics for creative apps and multitasking
- Support for Apple Intelligence (AI features like Genmoji and smart writing tools)
- Stage Manager for desktop-like multitasking and external display support
- Apple Pencil Pro compatibility with hover, haptics, and barrel roll features
Its fully laminated display and anti-reflective coating make it much better for artists, creatives, and professionals. You can even opt for a larger 13-inch screen, perfect for multitasking or content creation.
If you plan to use your iPad for photo/video editing, coding, graphic design, or high-end gaming, the Air is a smart long-term investment. It starts at $599 (11″) or $799 (13″).
iPad Air vs. iPad (2025) – Feature Comparison Table
| Feature | iPad (11th Gen) | iPad Air (7th Gen) |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 11-inch | 11-inch or 13-inch |
| Brightness | 500 nits | 500 nits (11”), 600 nits (13”) |
| Chip | A16 Bionic | M3 |
| Memory | 6GB | 8GB |
| Storage Options | 128GB–512GB | 128GB–1TB |
| Apple Pencil Support | USB-C, 1st Gen | USB-C, Pro |
| Display | Non-laminated | Fully laminated with anti-reflective coating |
| Camera | 12MP Center Stage | 12MP Center Stage (ƒ/2.0 aperture) |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6E |
| Weight | 477g | 460g (11”) / 616g (13”) |
| Starting Price | $349 | $599 (11”) / $799 (13”) |
Final Verdict: Which iPad Should You Buy?
- Choose the iPad (11th Gen) if you want an affordable, capable tablet for everyday tasks and casual use.
- Go for the iPad Air if you need a more powerful, versatile device for creative work, multitasking, or future AI features.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to your budget and how you plan to use your iPad. For basic needs, the entry-level iPad delivers great value. But if you want a more powerful and future-proof experience, the iPad Air is well worth the extra investment.
