Which iPad is really right for you?
You're standing in the store. Five different iPads lie before you. Big, small, thin, thick. The salesperson rattles off the specs. Millimeters here, inches there. You nod politely, but think: which one is really right for me?
Yet this whole size obsession is largely nonsense. Because it's not about those few millimeters of difference or that half-ounce weight. It's about what you do with it . That compact iPad mini that fits perfectly in your handbag? Useless if you want to create presentations on it. That imposing 12.9-inch Pro with all the accessories ? Overkill for Netflix on the couch.
The truth isn't in the specs, but in your daily routine. Do you work a lot on the go? Do you draw professionally? Or do you mainly scroll through social media? That's what determines which iPad is right for you. Not the millimeters.
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The most important iPad dimensions in one overview
Let's start with the hard numbers. Apple currently offers five different iPad sizes, each with unique dimensions that determine how the device fits into your daily life:
- iPad Pro 12.9-inch: 280.6 x 214.9 x 5.9 mm – the largest canvas for professionals
- iPad Pro 11-inch: 247.6 x 178.5 x 5.9 mm - the balance between large screen and portability
- iPad Air 10.9-inch: 247.6 x 178.5 x 6.1 mm - almost identical to the 11-inch Pro in size
- iPad 10.2-inch: 250.6 x 174.1 x 7.5 mm - the entry-level model with classic proportions
- iPad mini 8.3-inch: 195.4 x 134.8 x 6.3 mm - compact size for on the go
More than millimeters: what do these measurements mean in practice?
The numbers only tell half the story. A difference of a few millimeters seems negligible, but in practice, the size determines how you use the device. The mini, for example, fits in almost any handbag or even a large coat pocket. Perfect for those who travel a lot on public transport. The largest Pro model, on the other hand, requires a sturdy bag or backpack, but offers the work surface of a small laptop.
Important detail: the thickness ranges from 5.9 to 7.5 mm. The extra millimeters on the base model are due to the traditional home button and older technology. The Pro models are the thinnest, which keeps them surprisingly light despite their larger screen area.
Which size suits your usage situation?
For the mobile professional
Do you work a lot on the go and want to replace a full-fledged laptop? Then the 11-inch Pro or Air are your best bet. These models offer ample screen real estate for productive work, while still fitting easily in a work bag. With a keyboard, you can transform the device into a compact workstation you can set up anywhere.
For the creative person
Do you draw digitally or edit photos professionally? The 12.9-inch Pro isn't overkill, it's a necessity. The large screen gives you the space you need for detailed work. Yes, its size makes it less portable, but that's no problem for studio or home use.
For families and entertainment
The standard 10.2-inch iPad or the Air are ideal family devices. Big enough to watch a movie together, sturdy enough to withstand a knock, and affordable enough that you won't panic if the kids play with it. The slightly thicker design of the base model is even a plus—easier for small hands to hold.
For the reader and note taker
The mini is unbeatable for those primarily reading, studying, or taking notes. Its size is similar to a traditional paperback, making it comfortable to hold for hours. Students appreciate its compact size during lectures, where desk space is often limited.
Weight: the forgotten factor
Size is important, but weight often determines everyday usability. The mini weighs about 295 grams (Wi-Fi model), while the large Pro is closer to 685 grams. You'll especially notice this difference when holding the device for extended periods—for example, while reading in bed or taking notes during a meeting.
A practical tip: consider the weight of accessories. A sturdy keyboard cover can double the total weight. For the large Pro, you'll quickly exceed a kilo in weight – still lighter than most laptops, but heavier than you might expect.
Screen ratio and usable area
All modern iPads have roughly the same screen ratio, but the usable area varies enormously. The 12.9-inch Pro offers almost twice the screen real estate of the mini. This makes a world of difference for multitasking. On the large Pro, you can comfortably use two apps side by side. On the mini, it's a bit cramped.
Interesting fact: the Air and 11-inch Pro have exactly the same body dimensions, but the Pro has a fraction more screen real estate thanks to thinner bezels. A minimal difference, but it demonstrates how Apple utilizes every millimeter.
Future-proofing and dimensions
When purchasing a refurbished model, it's wise to consider more recent generations. This isn't just for performance reasons, but also because newer models are often more compact with the same screen size. A refurbished Air from the latest generation, for example, is thinner and lighter than an older Pro with a comparable screen.
Also important: accessory compatibility. Apple regularly adjusts the exact dimensions between generations. A case for a 2018 Pro might not fit a 2021 model, despite having the same screen size. Check this beforehand if you already have accessories.
Making the practical choice
Ultimately, the choice comes down to three key questions. Where will you primarily use the device? How much will you need to carry? And what is your budget? A refurbished Air or older Pro can be a smart compromise—you get a larger screen without the price of the latest model.
Also, remember that bigger isn't always better. For many users, the standard iPad or Air offers the perfect compromise between screen real estate and portability. The extreme sizes—mini and 12.9" Pro—are especially interesting if you have specific needs that the standard models can't meet.
The right choice for your situation
There's no such thing as the perfect iPad size—only the right choice for your situation . Whether you choose the compact mini for on-the-go, the versatile Air for everyday use, or the impressive 12.9-inch Pro for professional work, let what you do with it guide you, not what the specs say.
A refurbished model can be a smart option – the same functionality at a more competitive price. Don't forget to find the right accessories , because a well-chosen case or keyboard makes the difference between a tablet and a full-fledged workstation.
