iPad Pro Why I Went for the 13" M4 iPad Pro vs the 11" M4 iPad Pro

[DaSal]

the other thing about trying in store is that it has the security tag stuck to it. The 13" really in quite insane to feel in person. Its pretty straightforward for me...if youre actually using it for work in any way or for drawing at a desk 13" all the way. for handheld or media consumption while NOT at a desk then 11"

I can tell you from experience with the 12.9", that it's a wonderfully sized screen, but when using it without the Magic Keyboard you basically always need to have to propped up somehow. Like against your chest when you're laying in bed or propping it up with your legs somehow. Holding it with one hand is basically impossible. Typing on it without a keyboard, so using the on screen keyboard, is also a huge pain. On a normal iPad it's pretty doable by holding it with two hands, or with one hand and typing with the other. But both options don't work on the 12.9". With two hands the center of the keyboard is too far away, and with one hand holding it's too heavy. So basically you have to put it down somehow to type on it.

It's also a lovely big size for handwriting or drawing. However the camera bump is a little unfortunate as it makes the iPad wobble a bit, which is not a huge deal but it's slightly annoying. If you're going to be taking a lot of notes, the folio is nicer than the Magic Keyboard because you can flip it open and get a mostly stable surface.

I've tried both the 11" and the 12.9" and when it comes to size of videos - people say the difference is small, but really it's about 30% larger with 16:9 content. That's quite significant, and you do notice it. Generally you would be holding the iPad pretty close to your face when watching content, and you really notice the size difference a lot. That's not to say the 11" isn't a nice size to watch videos on - but people claiming there's barely a noticeable difference are, in my opinion, wrong.

 

[jterp7]

i agree on the display size difference for sure. I think if i didnt use it in portait mode so much id probably have given the 13" some more thought.

 

[The Cockney Rebel]

I know there's some threads on this topic, and I've participated in them. I thought to write my reasons for why, after many days of going back and forth to the Apple Store and using the 13" M4 iPad Pro and the 11" M4 iPad Pro, I settled on the 13". I was actually close to decided on the 11" but I kept going back to the Apple Store and doing a bunch of things on each. Overall, I've spent several hours at the Apple Store testing both screen sizes. I also realize this is a personal choice, but for many it appears a very difficult choice. I hope my review helps people make a decision.

• Everything is scaled smaller on the 11". Yes, that may be obvious to some, but that includes UI elements, icons on the homescreens, text in Google Search results, etc. You can try and make text larger in Settings but it's not consistent everywhere, and not all Apps will obey that... and icons aren't getting bigger either. Overall, scaled down content causes much more pinching and zooming, which is time consuming and inefficient for the User.
• There is less content on screen, and that also leads to more scrolling which is time consuming and wasteful for the User.
• I tried the "More Content" setting on the 11" to try and fit more on the screen and that just further scaled everything down even smaller than it was to begin with. Text, UI elements, etc. were just too small for my liking.
• The speakers are not as good on the 11" vs. the 13".
• The drawing experience on the 11" with the Apple Pencil isn't as good as the 13" offers a larger canvas. I'm 6'2" and have decent sized hands so this is a factor, especially resting my hand on the screen while drawing. Less screen is covered up with my hand on the 13" when doing this and there is less scrolling around on the 13" to make room for more content in drawing apps compared to the 11".
• As the 13" is now noticeably thinner and lighter than the previous iPad Pro, it makes a big difference when using it as a tablet. This was a pivotal deciding factor for me. I was able to hold it with one hand for several minutes while using the small onscreen keyboard with slide typing. I didn't feel fatigued, but with the old 12.9" iPad, I would have.
• Typing with the MKB on the 13" is materially better than the 11". It's still good on the 11", but it's less cramped on the 13" as the 11" has some reduced size buttons and there is just a very small palmrest on the 11". The trackpad on the 11" is also smaller than the 13". The 13" feels very similar to a MacBook trackpad and keyboard which makes using the iPad in "laptop mode" quite good.
• Multi-tasking with things like Stage Manager is hands down better on the 13" iPad compared to the 11" iPad. The increased screen real estate matters in this regard.
• Being able to now hold the 13" in one hand for longer periods of time because of how thin and light it is and using the small keyboard with the other hand using slide typing won me over as well. I find that the full size keyboard in portrait orientation on the 13"... which is how I like to hold the tablet, is very awkward. But the small keyboard with one-handed slide typing works very well so this was also a deciding factor.
• When the 11" and 13" are folded up in the MKB case, they are both very compact. I don't find the 13" that much less portable than an 11". Compared to my 16" MacBook Pro, the 13" iPad combined with MKB is extremely compact and travel-friendly.
• More Websites render as mobile versions on the 11” whereas they are mostly desktop versions on the 13”. Mobile versions suck on the 11”.

I have a 16" MacBook Pro which is big and heavy and just sits on a desk plugged into monitors. I have a 15" M3 MacBook Air that I use on the couch and for personal business and travel. I have an iPhone Pro Max. So the idea that somehow because I have larger screened Apple devices I should opt for the 11" doesn't make sense. I want to use the iPad on a recliner to do long-form reading, some light work, art, some other content creation and travel with it when I can with the MKB. In the end, while the 11" is nice to hold in the hands, there are just too many compromises with it such that you can't cheat reality: all of the content and UI elements are scaled noticeably smaller than the 13" and that causes endless and repetitive pinching and zooming and scrolling which is much less necessary on the 13". Trying to fiddle with the 11" screen settings to make text larger, etc. is not consistent and a poor experience.

13" it is.

View attachment 2382951

That looks like a massive difference to me.

I'm currently debating on sizes, to upgrade my 2018 11" iPad Pro.

I'm only buying a new iPad, because of the AI features, in iOS18.

I have ZERO interest in the MKB. I will be solely using it as a tablet, with a Smart Folio, and will be using it in landscape orientation, held with one hand, whilst interacting with the other.

I'm going to visit my local Apple Store in the next few days, to try them in person. Then, I'll make my decision and buy one.

 

[Surfsalot]

AI would be the last reason I would be upgrading for lol

 

[DeepSix]

I'm upgrading for the box.

 

[Surfsalot]

That looks like a massive difference to me.

I'm currently debating on sizes, to upgrade my 2018 11" iPad Pro.

I'm only buying a new iPad, because of the AI features, in iOS18.

I have ZERO interest in the MKB. I will be solely using it as a tablet, with a Smart Folio, and will be using it in landscape orientation, held with one hand, whilst interacting with the other.

I'm going to visit my local Apple Store in the next few days, to try them in person. Then, I'll make my decision and buy one.

11" is better for that

 

[roguefury]

An angle that I’ve taken in this debate is that, with Stage Manager and 2nd screen support, the 11” makes more sense. Obviously, this is subjective. For me, for example, I have a Studio display at home, and Dell Ultra wide at work. When I need more real estate, I can just connect. When on the move the 11” is nominally more portable and easier to use on planes.

 

[DaSal]

11" is better for that

Can confirm from my experience with the M1 12.9” that holding that in landscape with one hand and typing with the other is basically impossible. It’s far too heavy and large to hold that way. If that’s your main usage, definitely go for the 11”.

 

[Rafterman]

Can confirm from my experience with the M1 12.9” that holding that in landscape with one hand and typing with the other is basically impossible. It’s far too heavy and large to hold that way. If that’s your main usage, definitely go for the 11”.

My own two cents...I had a M2 12.9 and recently a 13. Its not "impossible," but it 's not something you can do for long. And the size can make it a bit wobbly and hard to get a good grip on, with the thin bezels. The 13 is a little better, but it's still a little awkward.

I "downgraded" to an 11, and it felt more like using a Mini in terms of ergonomics. It's lighter and not so unwieldily. The first time I used it as a tablet, I thought "this is so comfortable and the tech between the two is the same now, so I am all in with the 11."

Both versions are great, and the argument which version "better" is a little ridiculous, comparing pixels and web page layouts and such, as each has its strengths and weaknesses. It's truly just a personal decision. But the general rule for me was "13 for mostly desktop use, 11 mostly for tablet use." And I found that when I had the 12.9/13, it stayed mostly docked in its keyboard, while the 11 I was more likely to grab and use.

But if you use it equally as tablet and desktop...good luck

 

[richpjr]

My own two cents...I had a M2 12.9 and recently a 13. Its not "impossible," but it 's not something you can do for long. And the size can make it a bit wobbly and hard to get a good grip on, with the thin bezels. The 13 is a little better, but it's still a little awkward.

I "downgraded" to an 11, and it felt more like using a Mini in terms of ergonomics. It's lighter and not so unwieldily. The first time I used it as a tablet, I thought "this is so comfortable and the tech between the two is the same now, so I am all in with the 11."

Both versions are great, and the argument which version "better" is a little ridiculous, comparing pixels and web page layouts and such, as each has its strengths and weaknesses. It's truly just a personal decision. But the general rule for me was "13 for mostly desktop use, 11 mostly for tablet use." And I found that when I had the 12.9/13, it stayed mostly docked in its keyboard, while the 11 I was more likely to grab and use.

But if you use it equally as tablet and desktop...good luck

I was all set to upgrade my M1 12.9 and stick with my M2 11 as I use both for very different things (media consumption vs photo/video editing). I have bigger hands and a MKB on the 11 is a bit cramped for me. However, I do have a Mac Studio with a 32" monitor and an MX Master 3S and MX Keys that I could use to alleviate that, though it would mean I'd have to use it at my desk (not the end of the world). Gotta think about this one...

 

[prospervic]

I was all set to upgrade my M1 12.9 and stick with my M2 11 as I use both for very different things (media consumption vs photo/video editing). I have bigger hands and a MKB on the 11 is a bit cramped for me. However, I do have a Mac Studio with a 32" monitor and an MX Master 3S and MX Keys that I could use to alleviate that, though it would mean I'd have to use it at my desk (not the end of the world). Gotta think about this one...

I finally decided NOT to upgrade my M1 12.9 as it would be ridiculously expensive to purchase a new 1TB, cellular iPad and re-buy keyboards (Magic and Smart Foiio KB - which I greatly prefer), folios and Apple Pencil. Instead I’m going to get the M4 11inch as I would like that size for travel — the base 256gb model (no Magic Keyboard, just a Smart Folio to be used with my Logitech Keys-to-Go) would be just fine for that purpose.

This way I get the still get the new tech without have to disturb my current setup.

 

[erasr]

An angle that I’ve taken in this debate is that, with Stage Manager and 2nd screen support, the 11” makes more sense. Obviously, this is subjective. For me, for example, I have a Studio display at home, and Dell Ultra wide at work. When I need more real estate, I can just connect. When on the move the 11” is nominally more portable and easier to use on planes.

Just as a side note, would you recommend the ASD? I keep buying cheap monitors that I get sick of.

 

[erasr]

Sounds like more and more people are realising that the 11” is the best choice generally.

 

[prospervic]

Just as a side note, would you recommend the ASD? I keep buying cheap monitors that I get sick of.

I think you’ve just answered your own question. The 5K Retina experience (whether Studio Display, 27 inch iMac or even the LG UltraFine) is awesome, and after that nothing else looks good.

 

[Rafterman]

Just as a side note, would you recommend the ASD? I keep buying cheap monitors that I get sick of.

I have an ASD ($1599) and Samsung ViewFinity S9 27" 5K Thunderbolt 4 monitor. They are both great, with 220dpi, but the Samsung I got on sale for $699 (original price $1599 to $899 sale price to $699 with educational discount.) Unlike the ASD, the Samsung has a second input (mini displayport) and can elevate and even rotate 90 degrees (really Apple, all that extra money for that?). It also has a matte display.

But the ASD works best with a Mac, it incorporates very well with the Mac and does things like waking up instantly from sleep, as if it were a MacBook display. You can also control volume and such from the desktop. Little things like that. The Samsung can rotate land elevate, doubles as a SmartTV and even has a remote for switching settings, no need to reach behind the monitor for buttons you can't see. And the camera can be completely removed from its magnet base.

But, both are only 60hz. The doesn't bother me, but for some, it does.

 

[UltimateSyn]

They're both so good.

 

[roguefury]

Just as a side note, would you recommend the ASD? I keep buying cheap monitors that I get sick of.

I do. It's an amazing monitor, although very expensive. Full disclosure, a relative works at Apple, so he was able to secure a decent discount when I bought it.

I've had no issues with the monitor, and the only real complaint I have is that I am not able to find a decent KVM setup to switch between my Mac mini and iPadPro

 

[rkuo]

I have an ASD ($1599) and Samsung ViewFinity S9 27" 5K Thunderbolt 4 monitor. They are both great, with 220dpi, but the Samsung I got on sale for $699 (original price $1599 to $899 sale price to $699 with educational discount.) Unlike the ASD, the Samsung has a second input (mini displayport) and can elevate and even rotate 90 degrees (really Apple, all that extra money for that?). It also has a matte display.

But the ASD works best with a Mac, it incorporates very well with the Mac and does things like waking up instantly from sleep, as if it were a MacBook display. You can also control volume and such from the desktop. Little things like that. The Samsung can rotate land elevate, doubles as a SmartTV and even has a remote for switching settings, no need to reach behind the monitor for buttons you can't see. And the camera can be completely removed from its magnet base.

But, both are only 60hz. The doesn't bother me, but for some, it does.

I have a friend who got the Samsung 5k Monitor and said it felt very cheap and the image wasn't good. Do you have similar opinions or is he just being unrealistic?

 

[The Cockney Rebel]

Bought my larger sized iPad today (using it now.)

I think it’s already grown on me (no pun intended.)

My 11” looks like a mini, now.

 

[nepalisherpa]

After four flights this past week, I am very happy that I decided to switch to 11" after using 12.9" for few years.

 

[Surfsalot]

After four flights this past week, I am very happy that I decided to switch to 11" after using 12.9" for few years.

We’re using the keyboard or just folio?

 

[Rafterman]

I have a friend who got the Samsung 5k Monitor and said it felt very cheap and the image wasn't good. Do you have similar opinions or is he just being unrealistic?

Its plastic vs metal on the ASD, but certainly not "cheap."The image on mine was just as good as the ASD.

 

[AppleTech22]

I have an ASD ($1599) and Samsung ViewFinity S9 27" 5K Thunderbolt 4 monitor. They are both great, with 220dpi, but the Samsung I got on sale for $699 (original price $1599 to $899 sale price to $699 with educational discount.) Unlike the ASD, the Samsung has a second input (mini displayport) and can elevate and even rotate 90 degrees (really Apple, all that extra money for that?). It also has a matte display.

But the ASD works best with a Mac, it incorporates very well with the Mac and does things like waking up instantly from sleep, as if it were a MacBook display. You can also control volume and such from the desktop. Little things like that. The Samsung can rotate land elevate, doubles as a SmartTV and even has a remote for switching settings, no need to reach behind the monitor for buttons you can't see. And the camera can be completely removed from its magnet base.

But, both are only 60hz. The doesn't bother me, but for some, it does.

Their quality control has been in question, but tossing in a recommendation here for the Dough Spectrum monitor. 4K glossy at 144Hz. I came from an ASD that I loved, but wanted a monitor with HDMI and higher refresh rate for PS5. I honestly think the pairing of glossy with 4K is enough to not be noticed by many ASD users. Side-by-side you will notice the difference, but now only using the Spectrum for a few months - I don’t miss the ASD’s retina resolution.

I do miss the consistency in UX, lack of annoying menus, and overall design of the ASD though. Can’t win em all.

 

[nepalisherpa]

We’re using the keyboard or just folio?

No keyboard…just a folio case.

 

[Surfsalot]

No keyboard…just a folio case.

don't think a 13" with folio wouldn't of been much diff, with a keyboard yes