iPad Pro M3 Model 2025

The iPad Air lineup has seen a significant shift recently, most notably with the release of the iPad Air (M3) in March 2025. It now serves as a powerful “pro-lite” option, bridging the gap between the standard iPad and the high-end iPad Pro.

iPad Pro M3 Model 2025

The current generation is available in two sizes for the first time, mirroring the Pro lineup but at a more accessible price point.

• Feature 11-inch Model 13-inch Model
• Processor Apple M3 Chip Apple M3 Chip
• Display Liquid Retina (500 nits) Liquid Retina (600 nits)
• Storage 128GB to 1TB 128GB to 1TB
• Camera 12MP Landscape Front 12MP Landscape Front

Key Improvements

1. The M3 Chip: Offers roughly 35% faster CPU and 40% faster GPU performance compared to the previous M1 model. It also introduces hardware-accelerated ray tracing for high-end gaming.
2. Apple Intelligence: Fully supports Apple’s AI suite, including Writing Tools, Image Wand, and Clean Up in Photos.
3. Landscape Camera: The front-facing camera is now located on the long edge, making video calls feel much more natural when the iPad is in a keyboard case.
4. Pencil Pro Support: Compatible with the Apple Pencil Pro, which features “Squeeze” gestures, haptic feedback, and “Barrel Roll” for artists.

iPad Air (M3) vs. iPad Air (M2)

If you are looking at older models (the 2024 M2 version), here is how they stack up:

• Performance: The M3 is about 15-20% faster than the M2 in day-to-day tasks.
• Design: Physically, they are nearly identical. Both use Touch ID in the top button (not Face ID) and come in the same colors: Space Gray, Starlight, Purple, and Blue.
• Display: Both use LCD panels. Only the iPad Pro features the 120Hz ProMotion or OLED technology.

Which one should you get?

• The 11-inch is best for portability, students, and general note-taking.
• The 13-inch is ideal for multitaskers using Split View or artists who want more canvas space without paying the “Pro” premium.