Apple has unveiled two new iPads the iPad 11th Gen and the iPad Air 7th Gen both running iPadOS 18. While they share some design similarities, they differ significantly in terms of performance and features. If you’re debating whether to go for the more affordable iPad 11th Gen or spend extra for the iPad Air 7th Gen, here’s a quick comparison to help you decide.
Both the iPad 11th Gen and the iPad Air 7th Gen feature an 11-inch Liquid Retina display, making them nearly identical in terms of size and form factor. They also have a USB-C port, a single 12MP rear camera, and flat-edged designs reminiscent of previous-generation iPads. Both tablets support the Apple Pencil, though the Air benefits from better stylus integration due to its enhanced display quality.
The biggest differentiator between these two iPads is their processor. The iPad 11th Gen is powered by the A16 Bionic chip, which is efficient for everyday tasks like browsing, media consumption, and casual gaming. On the other hand, the iPad Air 7th Gen packs the M3 chip, making it significantly more powerful. The M3 chip enables better multitasking, enhanced AI-driven features, and support for demanding apps like professional video editing and 3D rendering. If you plan to use your iPad for heavy workloads, the iPad Air 7th Gen is the better choice.
Both devices offer similar battery life, estimated at around 10 hours of usage. The iPad 11th Gen starts with 64GB of storage, while the iPad Air 7th Gen begins at 128GB, making the latter more future-proof for users who store large files or apps.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly tablet for general use, the iPad 11th Gen is a great choice. However, if you need superior performance for professional or creative work, the iPad Air 7th Gen is well worth the extra cost. Your decision should depend on your workload and long-term needs.
