By Ellite Times Team 
Apple maintains its top position in the tablet industry by constantly updating their product lines to provide users the best experience possible. With the new launches of the iPad (A16) and iPad Air (M3), the question is which one works best for you? Although these changes may appear insignificant, they are built on an already remarkable structure. Let us help you decide which iPad is best catered to your requirements by breaking down what’s new.
The Accessible Option: iPad (A16)
The standard iPad (A16) still remains the most convenient and useful tablet from Apple’s lineup. While the company has abandoned spearing numbering systems, it is, for all intents and purposes, the 11th edition of iPad. This iteration has been fitted with an A16 Bionic chip.
The 2024 Best Tablet Specs Available:
Performance Improvement: The new A16 chip provides much faster processing speed, making the iPad responsive when it comes to gaming, task multitasking, and media consumption. Enhanced Efficiency: Basic model now commences at 128GB instead of the old 64GB which allows more space for apps, photos, and videos.
Stunning Display Retained: The 10.9-inch Liquid Retina screen is still present, meaning superior color and clarity as always.
Pencil Capable: Use Apple Pencils (USB-C) for note featuring and more.
Cellular Option Available: Customers can select to use a cellular plan on this device for an additional $149.
What’s Missing?
No Apple Intelligence: Unlike the M3 iPad Air, this variant does not have access to Apple’s most recent AI features.
No Face ID: The device is still using Touch ID for signing in through the button on the side.
Who Should Buy the iPad (A16)?
This remains unmatched when it comes to everyday users, learners, and other light users of tablets. It is powerful to tackle quite a number of activities and comes at an unbeatable price of $349, an incredible value considering it has additional storage now offered at no extra charge. If AI powered tools aren’t needed, this is the model recommended.
The iPad Air (M3): A Step Up for Power Users
The iPad Air (M3) is for those who require a bit more power, but turns out this does not provide much over the basic iPad, serving as an incremental update rather than transform the experience.
Key Features and Upgrades:
M3 Chip for Enhanced Performance: Upgrading from M2 to M3 gives far better efficiency and faster speeds even if only slightly, for pro tasks like video editing or 3D gaming.
Two Size Options: Now offered in 11 and 13 inch models increases the amount of screen space available for creative professionals.
Apple Intelligence Support: The Air (M3) model supports Apple’s new AI features, unlike the iPad (A16).
Better Display Coating: Features an anti-reflective coating for better visibility in bright light.
Apple Pencil Pro Compatibility: Supports Pro Pencil features such as squeeze gestures and rotation recognition.
Faster Wi-Fi: Ensures enhanced streaming and download speeds over Wi-Fi 6E.
For Downsides:
No Major Design Changes: The iPad Air remains virtually unchanged from its predecessor aside from the new processor.
Still No Face ID: Face ID security features are not available, so Touch ID will still be the only option.
Higher Price: Starts at $599 for the 11 inch and $799 for the 13 inch – significantly more expensive than the iPad (A16).
Who Should Purchase the iPad Air (M3)?
The port features AI powered tools, a larger screen, and additional display-saving features, which makes purchasing the iPad Air (M3) reasonable. For everyone else, the standard iPad is a more cost-effective deal.
What About the iPad Pro and iPad Mini?
Apple has yet to refresh the iPad Pro and iPad Mini, intended for a more niche audience, but they still serve specific audiences.
iPad Pro: Best used in professional settings due to high-end performance, but comes at a steep price tag of $999+.
The iPad Mini is easily the most portable one on the market, however, it does have a small 499 dollar price tag.
Overall: Which iPad is most suitable for your needs?
Best Overall: A16 iPad – This user gets the best bang for their buck as the model best mixes price, performance, and storage.
Best Power User gear: iPad Air (M3) – Excellent choice for those interested in AI tools, additional display scripting options, and premium styluses.
Best for Professionals: iPad Pro—Used by most tablet wielding people these days, it’s frankly overkill. No other tablet saves a creative or intensive workload worker’s life as much as this does.
Best Portability: Mini – Best niche for someone looking for a compact design.
In the end, most people will find the A16 iPad to be the most versatile option. Those looking for added power along with capabilities for advanced AI in the future would be better suited by the Air (M3). No matter what your requirements are, Apple’s 2025 lineup guarantees a tablet for everyone.