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Apple continues to develop its tablet lineup, providing devices for various scenarios — from compact assistants to almost full-fledged computers. With the release of the iPad mini and iPad Air, many people were faced with a logical question: which to choose — the lightweight and mobile mini or the universal Air with a more spacious screen? So, let’s talk about how iPads differ, which one to choose (iPad mini 7 или iPad Air 6), and what criteria to pay attention to. By the way, another new product was released in 2025 — the iPad Air with the M3 chip.
Features of iPad mini 7
The seventh-generation miniature model of the tablet is called iPad mini A17 Pro. Its key idea remains the same: maximum capabilities in a case that fits comfortably in a single hand. With a weight of about 300 grams and a screen diagonal of 8.3 inches, it is practically a pocket-sized device.
The main update is the A17 Pro processor, already well-known from the latest iPhone Pro models. When compared to its predecessor from 2021, performance has increased by 30% and graphics are processed 25% faster.
What else has been updated:
- screen with a pixel density of 326 ppi, which provides perfect sharpness and clarity;
- brightness up to 500 nits and True Tone technology, so that the image stays comfortable for the eyes in any light;
- anti-reflective coverage — useful if you work on the go.
Compact size, in this case, is both a major advantage and a compromise. Because of the small screen, long interactions with complex interfaces, video editing, or creating full-fledged illustrations may not always be convenient.
Characteristics of iPad Air 6
In the sixth generation of iPad Air, Apple offered users two diagonal options at once — 11 and 13 inches. On the website, they are listed as iPad Air 11 (M2) and iPad Air 13 (M2). But in reality, they are the same tablet with a different screen area. The main thing that unites them is the M2 processor, familiar to users from the MacBook series.
If you compare with models on the M1 chip, the upgrade is immediately noticeable:
- overall performance increased by 15%;
- graphics are rendered 25% faster;
- neural network on the chip became 40% faster.
When you decide which iPad to choose, keep in mind that the Air series has become a solid workstation that can handle even 3D modeling. The screen is a point of pride. Liquid Retina with brightness up to 600 nits works well both indoors and outdoors. Colors are intense and the response is instant — a huge plus for illustrators, designers, and just aesthetes.
iPad Mini vs iPad Air: Main Specifications
Externally, both tablets kept loyal to Apple’s branded aesthetics: minimalism, neat thin frames, and a matte body, which is pleasant to hold in the hands. Detailed comparison is in the table:
iPad Air 11 | iPad Air 13 | iPad mini 7th generation | |
Display, inches | 11 | 13 | 8,3 |
Chip | M2 (as in a laptop) | A17 Pro chip (as in a Pro-line phone) | |
Display | Liquid Retina, 246 ppi | Liquid Retina, 326 ppi | |
Brightness in SDR mode | 500 cd/m² | 600 cd/m² | 500 cd/m² |
Accessories | Apple Pencil 2nd Gen | Apple Pencil Pro | |
Dimensions, mm | 178,5×247,6×6,1 | 214,9×280,6×6,1 | 134,8×195,4×6,3 |
Weight, g | 462 | 618 | 297 |
In other aspects, the tablets are similar to each other. The battery capacity is enough for 9-10 hours of constant work. Cameras give a good picture, and there is Touch ID and an anti-reflective coating.
Which iPad to Choose in 2025: Selecting a Tablet Individually
Usually, buy an iPad for drawing, which one to pick from the proposed models – we analyze below. In both versions, the manufacturer put the display with an IPS matrix. There is also True Tone technology and protection from protection from fingerprints and marks. Despite the external similarity, the differences are still critical.
The iPad mini 7 provides an excellent pixel density of 326 ppi. But with a diagonal of 8.3 inches, the screen is simply too small for long sessions. You can sketch on it without problems, edit photos, and mark something with a stylus. But working for a few hours in Figma will be more difficult.
iPad Air 13 screen size is only a little bit inferior to a laptop. Its space allows you to work comfortably with full-fledged interfaces: from editing and drawing to building architectural plans.
The iPad Air 11 strikes a balance between compact dimensions and useful options. The display is already comfortable for drawing, and the tablet is still quite light and mobile.
To summarize, iPad mini 7 is a great choice for sketching, taking notes, and editing on the go, iPad Air 11 is a versatile option for work, school, and graphics, and iPad Air 13 is perfect for professional designers and artists.
All models are combined with Apple Pencil. Magic Keyboard can only be connected to the Air series. If you need a keyboard on a mini model, use a Bluetooth device.
Summary: Which iPad to Buy in 2025?
So, there is no clear answer to the question of which iPad to choose for drawing and work. The iPad mini 7 model is perfect for those who value compactness without compromising on functionality. The iPad Air 11 is considered all-purpose: you can take it anywhere, and the display is big enough for different tasks. The iPad Air 13 is a good fit for anyone who needs to see all the details on the screen.
You can order the latest generation tablets in the iSpace store in Armenia. The website lists the products in stock and their detailed descriptions. And if you still have questions or need help with the choice, our managers will be happy to suggest the best solution.
More on the topic
What can you do to make your iPhone, iPad, or MacBook battery last longer?
Comparing iPad Air and iPad Pro: Which is Better for Creativity?
Connecting an iPad as a second monitor for a MacBook or another PC.
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