Apple has officially introduced its highly anticipated 2025 iPad lineup, bringing notable upgrades to the iPad Air and standard iPad to create a more versatile selection for all types of users. Whether you're a professional needing high-powered performance, a student looking for a budget-friendly device, or just someone who loves the iPad for everyday tasks, the latest models offer something for everyone. With improved power, efficiency, and features tailored for work, creativity, and entertainment, Apple continues to refine the iPad experience to fit a wide range of needs.
But is it time to upgrade? In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences between the iPad Pro M4, iPad Air M3, and iPad (A16) to help you decide which model is the best fit for you.
Apple iPads Lineup. From left to right: iPad A16, iPad Air M3 11”, iPad Pro M4 11”, iPad Pro M4 13”, iPad Air M3 13”+ with MAGEASY iPad accessories
Apple’s 2025 iPad Lineup at a Glance
Apple’s 2025 iPad series introduces 2 new models, refining its tablet lineup into 3 distinct tiers:
1. iPad Pro M4 – The Ultimate Powerhouse
Apple iPad Pro M4. Image from Apple
The iPad Pro M4, launched in 2024, remains the most advanced tablet on the market. Available in 11-inch and 13-inch sizes, it caters to professionals, creatives, and power users who demand top-tier performance.
- Best for: Designers, video editors, photographers, and professionals
- Processor: M4 chip for ultra-fast performance
- Display: 11-inch and 13-inch Liquid Retina XDR with ProMotion
- Camera: 12MP Wide, 10MP Ultra-Wide, LiDAR Scanner
- Apple Pencil Support: Apple Pencil Pro & USB-C
-
Magic Keyboard Compatibility: Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro
2. iPad Air M3 – A Perfect Balance of Performance and Price
Apple iPad Air M3 Launched in 2025. Image from Apple
The new iPad Air M3 delivers Pro-level power without the Pro-level price tag. It supports Apple Intelligence and handles graphically demanding tasks with ease. If you're looking for a more affordable alternative to the iPad Pro with comparable performance, this is the go-to option for you.
- Best for: College and higher education students, creators, office workers, and casual users who want excellent performance at a more reasonable price.
- Processor: M3 chip with Apple Intelligence support
- Display: 11-inch and 13-inch Liquid Retina
- Camera: 12MP Wide camera for everyday use
- Apple Pencil Support: Apple Pencil Pro & USB-C
-
Magic Keyboard Compatibility: Magic Keyboard for iPad Air
3. iPad (A16) – The Most Budget-Friendly Option
Apple iPad 11(A16) launched in 2025. Image from Apple
For those who need a reliable tablet for everyday tasks, the iPad (A16) delivers essential features at an affordable price.
- Best for: Students, casual users, and those on a budget but still want to enjoy the best product.
- Processor: A16 chip for smooth everyday performance
- Display: 11-inch Liquid Retina display
- Camera: 8MP rear camera, ideal for basic photography and video calls
- Apple Pencil Support: 1st generation Apple Pencil
- Magic Keyboard Compatibility: Compatible with Magic Keyboard Folio
New Accessory Comes Along - Keyboard Compatibility Update
Apple has now released a dedicated Magic Keyboard for each product line.
Apple has also refreshed its iPad keyboard collection for 2025, with each model thoughtfully designed to enhance your typing experience.
The Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro ($299) delivers premium comfort with backlit keys that make typing effortless regardless of lighting conditions. The large trackpad offers fluid navigation, while haptic feedback provides satisfying precision with every tap. For iPad Air users, the Magic Keyboard ($269) maintains the reliable scissor mechanism for responsive typing. Though it doesn't include backlighting, it still offers a comfortable typing experience that won't disappoint. Those seeking simplicity will appreciate the Magic Keyboard Folio ($249), which focuses on core functionality—perfect for handling everyday tasks without unnecessary frills.
Comparison Table: iPad Pro M4 vs. iPad Air M3 vs. iPad (A16)
iPad Pro, iPad Air and iPad 11(A16) Comparison Chart
Which iPad Should You Buy in 2025?
Now that we’ve covered the specs, the real question is—which iPad is the best fit for your needs? Choosing the right iPad depends on how you plan to use it. Are you looking for a laptop replacement? Do you need a tablet for professional creative work or just a device for everyday entertainment? Understanding your usage will help you make the best choice—ensuring you don’t overspend on unnecessary features or end up with an underpowered device that doesn’t meet your needs.
Choose the iPad Pro M4 if:
MAGEASY’s CoverBuddy a 100% Magic Keyboard-compatible iPad case.
- You need top-tier performance for professional work.
- You want the best display and camera system available.
- You’re a creative professional using graphic-intensive apps.
- Budget is not a concern.
The iPad Pro M4 is the ultimate choice for professionals who need exceptional performance, advanced graphics, and seamless multitasking. With the M4 chip and Magic Keyboard, it delivers desktop-class computing in a sleek, portable design. Whether you're a graphic designer, video editor, programmer, or business executive, this device handles intensive workloads with ease.
For seamless transitions between tablet and keyboard modes, MAGEASY's CoverBuddy—Amazon's best-selling Magic Keyboard-compatible iPad case—offers premium protection without the hassle. Keep your iPad secure when using it standalone, and easily snap it onto the Magic Keyboard without removing the case, ensuring protection throughout your workday.
Pick the iPad Air M3 if:
MAGEASY’s Lift & Facet iPad Folio Case is designed for diverse user scenarios and is now available in multiple colors.
- You want a powerful device at a more affordable price.
- You need a tablet for work, studying, or casual creative tasks.
- Apple Intelligence and M3 performance are appealing.
- You want Magic Keyboard compatibility without the Pro price.
The iPad Air M3 brings serious power without the hefty Pro price tag, making it a solid choice for students, professionals, and everyday users. With the M3 chip, it’s ready for Apple Intelligence, simple creative projects, and work tasks, all while keeping things budget-friendly. Whether you're sketching ideas, editing videos, or tackling assignments, it’s built to handle it all.
To make the most of your iPad, MAGEASY’s Facet case offers five adjustable viewing angles, so you can find the perfect setup—whether you're taking notes, watching tutorials, or working on a creative project. Need an even better way to prop up your screen? The Lift Stand Case is designed to elevate your iPad experience, making it perfect for virtual meetings, gaming, and binge-watching your favorite shows.
Get the iPad (A16) if:
MAGEASY has expanded its Facet iPad case lineup to meet the needs of the iPad 11 (A16). And it’s coming soon!
- You’re a student or casual user needing a budget-friendly iPad.
- You mostly browse the web, take notes, and watch videos.
- You don’t require advanced features like ProMotion, high-end cameras, or Apple Intelligence.
- Affordability is your top priority.
The iPad (A16) is the perfect budget-friendly choice for students and casual users, offering smooth performance for productivity, web browsing, and media consumption. While it lacks high-end features like ProMotion and Apple Intelligence, its A16 chip ensures reliable everyday use.
Even though the iPad is a budget-friendly option, that doesn’t mean you should skimp on protection, the protection for the device is just as important. MAGEASY’s Facet Collection will soon expand to offer dedicated protection for iPad (A16) users.
Boost your iPad's Protection and Productivity – Screen Protectors
EasyPaper Screen Protector (better drawing) provides an exceptional, smooth drawing experience for users.
As portable devices, iPads are highly susceptible to scratches, drops, and everyday wear. While a protective case is essential, a screen protector is just as crucial to preserving your device’s longevity and display quality.
MAGEASY’s EasyPaper screen protector series is designed to elevate your iPad experience, offering tailored solutions for different needs. If you’re looking for the best writing feel, EasyPaper Note is the perfect choice. For digital artists, EasyPaper ensures an ultra-responsive and seamless drawing experience. Need versatility? EasyPaper Pro's magnetic design lets you seamlessly switch between a textured, paper-like surface for writing and crystal-clear HD for media consumption.
EasyPaper Pro 2-in-1, on the other hand, comes with an additional layer of protection that attaches to the screen, ensuring your device stays protected even after removing the magnetic screen protector. Coming soon for iPad (A16) users, MAGEASY is expanding its lineup to bring high-quality, budget-friendly screen protection to even more users.
Choosing the Right iPad and Protection for Your Needs
After reading the detailed analysis above, you should have a clearer understanding of which iPad is right for you. Whether you’re looking for top-tier performance with the iPad Pro M4, an affordable powerhouse with the iPad Air M3, or a reliable and budget-friendly option with the iPad (A16), Apple has a device to fit every need.
While enjoying the convenience and performance of your new iPad, don’t forget to add an extra layer of protection. Repairing a scratched iPad screen can be costly, but don’t worry—no matter which iPad model you choose, MAGEASY has the perfect case for you. From CoverBuddy Magnetic iPad Case, Facet Folding Folio, and Lift iPad Case to our EasyPaper screen protector series, we’ve got you covered to keep your device safe and make your life easier.