13' iPad Pro vs 11' iPad Pro - Same, but Very Different

We can’t ignore that this is the first generation where the 11” and the 13” iPad Pros are finally sharing the same specs, where before hand, you’d be compromising by purchasing the smaller iPad Pro.

On the surface the two don’t seem to different, but as soon as you see them side by side, it’s very clear that Apple took a different approach when designing these. The 11” is a true tablet, the true embodiment of Steve Job’s original philosophy of the iPad, where it’s superior at a handful of things, and really bad at other things. Remember, the gen 1 iPad had a 9.7” display, which is smaller than every current iPad except the mini.

I share my thoughts on why this has and always will be a big dilemma for many of us.

#ipadpro

[FranciscoCruzx]

If someone already has a MacBook they should go with the 11 inch one. If someone wants to have an iPad to be a laptop replacement (they don’t have one) then they should go for the 13 inch one.

[qwertyzxaszc]

Ive owned both, and thought i would use the 12.9 size far more than I do, but i found i rarely use it and mostly pick up the 11. I bought them for drawing and light CAD work on the go, or on the couch or bed and find the 11 easier to manage. I found that if i am going to sit at a desk with the Magic Keyboard, my desktop computer is far nore comfortable and powerful.

[dic]

I don’t fully agree with the conclusion or advice to be honest - I’ve also owned both 13 and 11, and ended up loving and using the 11” more. It does the same and the smaller form factor is just very convenient. The smaller screen size is really relative and I’ve never felt it’s too small or cramped, not in the slightest. While I do own a laptop, I can do lots of work on the 11” . Email, simple word or excel stuff all really no problem at all.

For me the small form factor with these incredible (over the top?) specs makes this my favorite apple device. I’ve owned all 11” generations and just picked up the new one
. Couldn’t be happier.

[chipgross]

I’ve had the 13 in each evolution. I rarely have used it on the Magic Keyboard. I love the bigger screen and watching videos/reading on it is awesome. The fact that it’s lighter now is a big bonus.

[Regantdarcy]

Even tho I’m an artist, I prefer the 11” size. Not only is it more portable & easier to hold…but it is equivalent in size to a standard 8x11” sketchbook. I know the 13” has more screen space for drawing, but it’s not enough for me to choose it over the 11” which is a true tablet to me.

[jeromescott]

The 13” being thinner and lighter this year actually makes it feel way more manageable when not connected to the Magic Keyboard.

I had the 11” for the 2018 iPad, but I upgraded to the 12.9” iPad with the M2 model. While the 12.9” felt too bulky, the 13” feels perfect to me.

[savinayn]

Great summary. I was struggling with this too but your analysis helped a ton. With my 16” M1 MBP, a 11” makes sense. So happy to have OLED on it.

[DaphneLowe]

Good diagram. I don't think this is a hard decision. You've summarized it well. For folks that will mostly be using an iPad as a laptop, a 13" (whether Pro or Air) is the best choice. For folks who already have a device that serves as a computer (whether MacBook or 13" iPad) for demanding tasks, get a smaller iPad (whether Mini, regular, or Air) forgo the keyboard since you already have a computer device, and it's highly portable and inexpensive.

[Ken-dmxt]

Great comparison between the two iPad sizes. No BS, no reading of spec sheets, thoughtful, and brilliant venn diagram. Curious to hear your thoughts on the iPad mini 8.3” size!

[SLTX]

Really good video, well made! I’m struggling between these 2 sizes as well but probably going to go with the 11”. You summed up the pros and cons amazingly. Keep it up!

[ashleyirenner]

Brilliant overview. I have both and you hit the nail in the head. I use the 11 as mobile/travel device and the 13 at home to consume information.

[hummersd]

Agree! Such a struggle. I had the iPad Pro 10.5”, and more recently the 12.9”, but with the OS not having an easy file UI, got a MacBook Air (Midnight!) and it became my go-to device. But with these new iPad Pro’s, wanted to get an updated iPad, but couldn’t decide as I love the screen real estate of the larger one, but it’s so close to my laptop and not comfortable to hold for long periods, so going back to the 11”. I’m actually thinking I’ll skip the keyboard this time. It’ll save some bulk and $. When I carry my work laptop I won’t carry a MacBook Air AND and iPad, so having a smaller device is probably the best situation for personal use and luggage. Whew! So many Apple products.

[jimbuckets]

Great video. I’m leaning towards the 13” since I don’t have a laptop and I plan on using it for drawing. It’ll be easier to do side by side multitasking as well. Plus the larger screen will make it easier to read.

[mananparekh_]

Currently been feeling the same way about the products filling two different holes. Great diagram!

[laieauxdaims]

Congrats,
There are so many videos about these out there. But somehow you managed to be exactly in people minds. Exactly answering the right questions. Keep up the good work.

[garettw]

I have always had the 11 in iPad Pro. The 2018 and m1 model. Because of how thin and light the m4 lineup is, I decided to get the 13 inch. I travel a lot for work. Flying out of state 50 percent of the year. I can say that the bigger 13” is way better. The new lighter iPad is much easier to carry around even with the Magic Keyboard. I may not use it at home as much with the bigger size. But at the same time, I have a tv, and I don’t need to be on my devices as much when I am home. I will be keeping my 13 inch. Why? Lighter device makes the 13” more manageable, easier to type on the Magic Keyboard compared to the 11”. Does not hurt my hand compared to the older 12.9 inch. Bigger screen. Now, if you have weak muscles and brittle hands, go with the 11”. Me personally, I am tired of the small tablet

[ryu_da_bear]

I got the 11inch but had to exchange it for the 13inch .. I rather have a bigger screen if am already spending so much .. love the OLED on a larger display to watch shows

[Travellereleven]

I lean towards 11-inch and total weight 1024g instead of total weight 1247g. Although intrigued by the 13-inch, but afraid its too big and heavy. Well done comparing these and great story telling! 🎉 watched twice to support the channel!

[ghas]

The 13” excels as a laptop replacement/digital art pad while the 11” is a great tablet.

[malinaivey]

Thank you! Got the 13" bc I want something that works as both a laptop replacement but I can also use as a tablet when I travel.