The iPad Pro is a freakin cool product.
Every iPad Pro owner has asked themselves an important question at some point: "does size matter?"
I think it does. Everybody has different needs.
You might be thinking, "why does an inch or two make a big difference?"
You'd be surprised. Here's why.
Multitasking 👮♀️👷♂️🕵️♂️🧑✈️💂♂️
If you're the type to have 50 windows open, size matters.
The 12.9" iPad Pro gives you a ton of screen space.
I can comfortably fit a note-taking app alongside a textbook on my 12.9" iPad. I've tried multitasking with smaller iPads, but it just doesn't feel the same.
You can multitask with an 11" iPad. It's just not as comfortable.
Keyboard ⌨️
If you're typing all day, the 12.9" iPad Pro is slightly better (emphasis on slightly).
The keyboard on the 11" iPad Pro is more than usable. It's just that the keyboard for the 12.9" iPad Pro is more comfortable.
I also have huge hands though. That's probably why I love my 12.9" keyboard.
You should test out the keyboards in-person if you can.
Weight 🏋️♂️
If you're planning to carry around your iPad, weight is a big thing to consider.
Here are some important weights:
11" iPad Pro: 1.03 pounds (0.467 kg)
12.9" iPad Pro: 1.50 pounds (0.682 kg)
11" iPad Pro + Magic Keyboard: 2.53 pounds (1.148 kg)
12.9" iPad Pro + Magic Keyboard: 3.07 pounds (1.390 kg)
The 12.9" is only around half a pound heavier.
But if you're lugging it around all day, that could make a big difference.
My backpack barely has anything in it, so I don't mind. If you carry around rocks on the other hand, the added weight might be annoying.
Useability 👨💻
My university has a ton of problems.
I hate how cramped our lecture hall desks are. At 6 foot 2, it's a nightmare.
The desk space itself is tiny. I can barely fit a phone on some of them.
If you're constantly traveling, an 11" iPad Pro might be better. It fits way better on airplane tray tables, college lecture halls desks, and coffee shop counters.
Battery Life 🪫
Battery life is also a factor to consider.
I've heard the 11" iPad Pro has the better battery life (likely due to the 12.9" iPad Pro's bigger screen).
If you're constantly running out of battery on your iPhone, be careful.
My 3.5 year old 12.9" iPad Pro doesn't last nearly as long as I wish it did. If that's a big concern for you, the 11" iPad Pro or even the iPad Air may be better choices.
Apple Penciling ✏️
For artists, note-takers, and anyone else who loves using the Apple Pencil, having a bigger canvas is amazing.
For me, there's something about the bigger screen that makes note-taking more enjoyable. Maybe it's because you don't have to constantly use your fingers to move around.
Laptop? 💻
In 2020, I was stuck between the 11" iPad Pro and 12.9" iPad Pro.
I had no idea which one to get. I saw the pros and cons of both and I was equally interested in them.
But there was one question that helped me make my mind: "Do you want to use your iPad as a computer or as a tablet?"
If you don't have a laptop and you know you want an iPad, you should probably get the 12.9" model. If you already have a laptop, you should probably get the 11" model (or the iPad Air).
Final Thoughts
"I don't think there is one size that fits all"—Steve Ballmer
Thanks for reading!
Adi
Concepts is a fantastic "unlimited canvas" note-taking app I've used for years (if you don't believe me, check my post history). I've used it to take notes, brainstorm article ideas, and even design a science fair project.
It's one of the few apps I highly recommend for every iPad user out there. And I genuinely believe this (again, check my post history if you wanna verify this claim).
It has an amazing free plan. I used it for years.
And if you want more, Concepts is offering a free 30-day trial. No credit card required.
Thanks Concepts for supporting the blog!