Side by side
iPad (A16) vs iPad Air (M3)
Quick verdict
The iPad (A16) is enough for streaming, notes and school; pick the iPad Air (M3) for drawing, editing or a 13-inch screen.
| Criterion | Winner | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | iPad Air (M3) | M3 chip |
| Apple Intelligence | iPad Air (M3) | Supported on the Air only |
| Display | iPad Air (M3) | Laminated, anti-reflective, P3 |
| Screen size | iPad Air (M3) | 13-inch option |
| Apple Pencil | iPad Air (M3) | Supports Apple Pencil Pro |
| Value | iPad (A16) | Better value for everyday use |
At a glance
| Feature | iPad (A16) | iPad Air (M3) |
|---|---|---|
| Chip | A16 | M3 |
| Apple Intelligence | Not supported | Supported |
| Screen sizes | 11-inch | 11-inch or 13-inch |
| Display quality | Not laminated, sRGB | Laminated, anti-reflective, P3 wide colour |
| Apple Pencil | Apple Pencil (USB-C), 1st gen | Apple Pencil Pro, Apple Pencil (USB-C) |
| Keyboard | Magic Keyboard Folio | Magic Keyboard for iPad Air |
Swipe sideways to see both columns.
Which one should you buy?
Mister Magelo’s verdict
For streaming, browsing, notes and school work the iPad (A16) is enough and the better value. Choose the iPad Air (M3) if you draw, edit photos or video, want a 13-inch screen or care about Apple Intelligence. The Air also has the better display and is likely to stay fast for longer.
Independent recommendation · Retailers can’t pay for rankingChoose iPad (A16) if…
- you mainly watch videos, browse and take notes
- you want the most affordable new iPad
- you are buying a tablet for a child or for school
Choose iPad Air (M3) if…
- you draw or write a lot with the Apple Pencil
- you edit photos or video, or want a 13-inch screen
- you want Apple Intelligence and a tablet that lasts many years