Updated on 2025/12/19
Apple has officially introduced its highly anticipated 2025 iPad lineup, bringing major performance upgrades to the 2025 iPad Pro (M5) while continuing to support the powerful ecosystem established by its predecessor, the M4 iPad Pro. Whether you're a professional debating between the latest M5 and the capable M4, or a student looking for a device for note-taking and video editing, the new iPad models deliver improved power, efficiency, and features tailored for work, creativity, and entertainment. Apple continues to refine the iPad experience to meet a wide range of user needs.
But is it time to upgrade? In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences between the new iPad Pro M5, the proven iPad Pro M4, 2025 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, 2025iPad Air 2025 ( M3) 11”, iPad Pro M5 11”, iPad Pro M5 13”,2025 iPad Air (M3) 13” with MAGEASY iPad cases
Apple’s 2025 iPad Lineup at a Glance
Apple’s 2025 iPad series introduces 3 new models, including the iPad Air and iPad A16 launched earlier this year, refining its tablet lineup into 3 distinct tiers,
1. 2025 iPad Pro M5 – The Ultimate Powerhouse
Apple iPad Pro M5. Image from Apple
The iPad Pro M5, launched in Oct 2025, takes the crown as the most powerful iPad on the market, building on the ultra-thin design and OLED excellence of the M4 iPad Pro. While the M4 model remains a top-tier choice for heavy workflows, the M5 pushes the boundaries even further.
M5 vs. M4: What’s New? Compared to the M4 iPad Pro, the M5 chip delivers significantly faster neural engine processing for AI-driven tasks and improved energy efficiency for longer creative sessions. If you are coming from an M1 or M2, the leap is massive. For M4 users, the M5 offers even smoother rendering speeds in complex 3D environments and video editing suites.
- Best for: Designers, video editors, photographers, and professionals
- Processor: M5 chip (Upgraded from the M4’s already impressive architecture) for ultra-fast performance
- Display: 11-inch and 13-inch Ultra Retina XDR with ProMotion
- Camera: 12MP Wide, Panorama up to 63MP,Digital zoom up to 5x
- 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 M5 vs. iPad Air M3 vs. iPad (A16)
iPad Pro, iPad Air and iPad 11(A16) Comparison Chart
Choosing the Right iPad 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.
For Professionals & Creators: iPad Pro M5 + CoverBuddy
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 M5 is the ultimate choice for professionals who need exceptional performance, advanced graphics, and seamless multitasking. With the M5 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.
For Students & Multi-Purpose Users: 2025 iPad Air M3 + Facet Folio or Lift Stand
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.
For Budget & Everyday Use: iPad A16 + Facet Case (Coming Soon)
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 M5, 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.