Like so many others, I was struggling to decide between the 11” and 13” M4 iPad Pro. I was upgrading my 12.9” M1 iPad Pro and ordered both new sizes to test after reading all the discussion threads.
A lot of people seem to be going with the 11” and making the case that it offers the best balance of function and portability. I respect the 11” lifestyle and was tempted myself by the compact size and light weight. But in the end, I realized that I couldn’t resist the pull of the 13”.
Both are great products, and those who have a clear affinity for the 11” will be very happy with their choice. That said, I think that those who are on the fence should take the plunge on the 13” and that the trade offs are well worth it for most people.
Here’s why I think the 13” is still the king of iPads and the best choice for most people:
- Thinner & lighter form factor - When Apple removed the bezels from the 12.9” in 2018, it become a much better general purpose device. The 2024 model takes another leap in this direction, making the 13” easier to hold in your hands. With the new 13”, you gain a much bigger screen compared to the 11” without adding much weight. Even those who only use the iPad as a handheld tablet for media consumption now arguably have a better experience with the 13”
- More immersive screen & speakers - for watching shows or movies in bed, the 13” is simply more immersive and just as easy to rest on your chest or a pillow for long periods. The speakers are noticeably louder and clearer than the 11”. The 11” just seemed small after getting used to the 12.9” for the last 5 or so years.
- Full-size keyboard - I’m typing this on the 13” Magic Keyboard and it feels fantastic. I found the 11” Magic Keyboard very usable but not as comfortable for long form writing.
- More portable than you think - neither iPad Pro fits into your pocket. Both fit easily into most backpacks, messenger bags or slings. With the Magic Keyboard case, I can easily carry my iPad Pro around the neighborhood one-handed just like a professional leather folio. The matte black exterior is less obtrusive than carrying shiny aluminum MacBook and makes it feasible to carry without a bag.
- Better Pro Max companion - with the iPhone 15 Pro Max, which is also lighter than the previous generation, I can now use my phone comfortably to read books, do email and get light work done. As phones get larger and take on more tablet use cases, it makes sense for tablets to get larger and take on more laptop use cases. Whether or not you also have a laptop or desktop, the 13” iPad makes more sense in a world of larger phones.
- Sticker shock is temporary - yes, the extra $300 for the larger iPad and the extra $50 for the larger Magic does sting, but the life of your iPad will far outlast the hole in your wallet. It’s worth it to get the one that will give you the best and most immersive experience.
- 13” FOMO will haunt your dreams - deep down, you know you want the 13”. You tell yourself that the 11” keyboard is good enough; that the “More Space” mode makes up for lack of screen estate; that you don’t mind squinting a bit when multi-tasking; that the speakers sound ok for the size; that Apple won’t announce more pro features at WWDC that take advantage of the 13” screen. But when you’re laying in bed at night, you’ll picture the glorious 13” OLED canvas and know in your heart that you deserve the top of the line iPad Pro.
I’m happy with my choice to stick with the larger size and think it’s a good move for anyone who is on the fence. The new 13” reduces the downsides of the larger size while keeping all the upsides. Anyone else happy with their choice to stick with or move to the 13”?
