IPad Air 3 Vs. IPad Pro 11 (2018): Which Should You Buy?

by Jhon Lennon 57 views

Hey guys! Choosing between Apple devices can be tricky, especially when you're looking at iPads. Today, we're diving into a head-to-head comparison between the iPad Air 3 and the 2018 iPad Pro 11-inch. Both are fantastic tablets, but they cater to slightly different needs and budgets. So, let’s break it down and figure out which one is the right fit for you. We'll explore everything from performance and display quality to features and price, making sure you have all the info you need to make a smart decision. Let's get started!

Design and Display: A Visual Showdown

When it comes to design and display, both the iPad Air 3 and the 2018 iPad Pro 11-inch offer a premium experience, but there are some key differences that might sway your preference. Let's dive into the details:

iPad Air 3: Classic and Familiar

The iPad Air 3 sports a classic iPad design with a familiar aesthetic. It features a 10.5-inch Retina display that delivers vibrant colors and sharp details, making it a pleasure to use for everyday tasks like browsing, watching videos, and reading. The screen resolution of 2224 x 1668 pixels ensures that text and images look crisp. The fully laminated display reduces the gap between the glass and the screen, providing a more direct touch experience. While it doesn't have the ProMotion technology found in the iPad Pro, the display is still excellent for most users. The iPad Air 3 also includes a physical Home button with Touch ID for secure authentication, which some users might prefer over Face ID. The bezels around the display are noticeable but don't detract significantly from the overall viewing experience. The iPad Air 3 is lightweight and easy to hold, making it a great portable device for on-the-go use. The aluminum build feels solid and premium, adding to the device's overall appeal. If you appreciate a traditional iPad design with a focus on portability and ease of use, the iPad Air 3 is a strong contender.

2018 iPad Pro 11-inch: Modern and Immersive

The 2018 iPad Pro 11-inch boasts a more modern and immersive design. It features a stunning edge-to-edge Liquid Retina display that maximizes screen real estate while minimizing bezels. The 11-inch display, with a resolution of 2388 x 1668 pixels, offers incredible clarity and detail. What truly sets the iPad Pro apart is its ProMotion technology, which dynamically adjusts the refresh rate up to 120Hz. This results in incredibly smooth scrolling, responsiveness, and overall fluidity, enhancing everything from drawing with the Apple Pencil to playing fast-paced games. The lack of a physical Home button contributes to the streamlined design, with Face ID providing secure and seamless authentication. The thin bezels give the iPad Pro a sleek and modern look, making it feel more like a window into your content. The aluminum build is premium and sturdy, and the device feels remarkably thin and light despite its larger screen. If you prioritize a cutting-edge design with an immersive display and smooth performance, the 2018 iPad Pro 11-inch is the clear winner. The ProMotion technology alone can be a game-changer for many users, especially those who value a fluid and responsive experience. For creative professionals and power users, the design and display of the iPad Pro offer a significant advantage.

Performance and Specs: Under the Hood

Performance is a crucial factor when choosing a tablet, especially if you plan to use it for demanding tasks like video editing, gaming, or graphic design. Let's compare the iPad Air 3 and the 2018 iPad Pro 11-inch in terms of their internal hardware and overall performance.

iPad Air 3: Reliable and Efficient

The iPad Air 3 is powered by Apple’s A12 Bionic chip, which is a significant step up from previous iPad Air models. This chip features a Neural Engine that enhances machine learning tasks, making the iPad Air 3 capable of handling a wide range of applications smoothly. You'll find that the A12 Bionic chip provides excellent performance for everyday tasks like browsing the web, streaming videos, and using productivity apps. It can also handle more demanding tasks such as photo editing and some light video editing without significant lag. The iPad Air 3 comes with 3GB of RAM, which is sufficient for most multitasking needs. While it might not be as robust as the RAM in the iPad Pro, it still allows you to switch between apps and handle multiple browser tabs efficiently. The A12 Bionic chip is also known for its energy efficiency, which translates to good battery life on the iPad Air 3. You can expect to get around 10 hours of usage on a single charge, making it a reliable companion for all-day use. While the iPad Air 3 doesn't offer the absolute top-tier performance of the iPad Pro, it provides a very capable and efficient experience for the majority of users. It’s a great choice if you need a tablet that can handle a variety of tasks without breaking the bank. For students, casual users, and those who need a reliable device for work and play, the iPad Air 3 offers a sweet spot of performance and affordability. It’s a workhorse that won’t let you down, providing a seamless experience for your daily needs. The A12 Bionic chip ensures that the iPad Air 3 remains responsive and quick, even when running multiple apps or handling graphically intensive tasks. This makes it an excellent choice for anyone looking for a dependable tablet that can keep up with their busy lifestyle.

2018 iPad Pro 11-inch: Powerhouse Performance

The 2018 iPad Pro 11-inch is a true powerhouse, thanks to its A12X Bionic chip. This chip is a step above the A12 Bionic in the iPad Air 3, offering significantly enhanced CPU and GPU performance. The A12X Bionic chip also features a more powerful Neural Engine, which accelerates machine learning tasks even further. This means the iPad Pro can handle demanding tasks like 4K video editing, complex graphic design, and high-end gaming with ease. The 2018 iPad Pro comes with either 4GB or 6GB of RAM, depending on the storage configuration. The extra RAM allows for even smoother multitasking and the ability to handle larger files and more complex projects. Whether you’re editing a multi-layered Photoshop document or running several apps simultaneously, the iPad Pro doesn’t skip a beat. The ProMotion display, with its 120Hz refresh rate, further enhances the perceived performance of the iPad Pro. Everything feels incredibly fluid and responsive, from scrolling through web pages to drawing with the Apple Pencil. The A12X Bionic chip is not only powerful but also energy-efficient, providing excellent battery life despite its performance capabilities. You can expect to get around 10 hours of usage on a single charge, even with heavy use. The 2018 iPad Pro is designed for power users and creative professionals who need a tablet that can keep up with their demanding workflows. If you’re a video editor, graphic designer, photographer, or anyone who needs a high-performance device, the iPad Pro is the clear choice. Its raw power and advanced features make it a true mobile workstation. The combination of the A12X Bionic chip, ample RAM, and ProMotion display makes the iPad Pro a top-tier performer that can handle virtually anything you throw at it. For those who demand the best in performance and capability, the 2018 iPad Pro 11-inch is the ultimate tablet choice. It offers a level of power and responsiveness that sets it apart from the competition, making it an invaluable tool for creative and professional tasks.

Features and Functionality: What Else Do They Offer?

Beyond the core specs, the features and functionality of a tablet play a significant role in the overall user experience. Let’s compare what the iPad Air 3 and the 2018 iPad Pro 11-inch bring to the table in terms of additional features and functionality.

iPad Air 3: Essential Features Done Right

The iPad Air 3 includes several features that make it a versatile and user-friendly device. It supports the first-generation Apple Pencil, which is great for note-taking, sketching, and creative work. The Apple Pencil integrates seamlessly with the iPad Air 3, providing a natural and responsive writing and drawing experience. While it doesn’t support the second-generation Apple Pencil’s magnetic attachment and wireless charging, the first-generation Pencil is still a valuable tool for many users. The iPad Air 3 also supports Apple’s Smart Keyboard, which attaches via the Smart Connector and transforms the tablet into a capable productivity device. The Smart Keyboard is lightweight and easy to use, making it ideal for typing documents, emails, and more. The iPad Air 3 features a single-lens 8MP rear camera and a 7MP front-facing camera. While the camera quality isn’t as advanced as on the iPad Pro, it’s perfectly adequate for video calls, casual photography, and scanning documents. The front-facing camera is especially useful for FaceTime calls and video conferencing. The iPad Air 3 includes a Touch ID sensor in the Home button, providing secure and convenient authentication. Touch ID is reliable and easy to use, and many users appreciate the physical Home button for navigation. The iPad Air 3 also offers excellent battery life, with up to 10 hours of usage on a single charge. This makes it a great device for all-day use, whether you’re working, studying, or simply browsing the web. The iPad Air 3 runs on iPadOS, which is optimized for tablet use and offers a range of features such as multitasking, drag-and-drop, and Apple Pencil support. iPadOS enhances the overall user experience and makes the iPad Air 3 a versatile device for both productivity and entertainment. The iPad Air 3 focuses on providing essential features in a well-rounded package. It’s a great choice for users who want a reliable and capable tablet without the premium price tag of the iPad Pro. The combination of Apple Pencil support, Smart Keyboard compatibility, and excellent battery life makes it a versatile device for a wide range of users.

2018 iPad Pro 11-inch: Advanced Features for Professionals

The 2018 iPad Pro 11-inch is packed with advanced features that cater to professionals and power users. One of the standout features is its support for the second-generation Apple Pencil. This Pencil attaches magnetically to the iPad Pro, charges wirelessly, and offers improved latency and responsiveness. The second-generation Apple Pencil also includes a customizable double-tap gesture, which can be used to switch between tools or perform other actions. The iPad Pro supports the Smart Keyboard Folio, which attaches magnetically and provides a full-size keyboard for comfortable typing. The Smart Keyboard Folio also doubles as a protective cover for the iPad Pro. The 2018 iPad Pro features a more advanced camera system compared to the iPad Air 3. It includes a 12MP rear camera with Smart HDR and 4K video recording, as well as a 7MP TrueDepth front-facing camera with Face ID. Face ID provides secure and seamless authentication, and the TrueDepth camera enables features like Animoji and Memoji. The iPad Pro also boasts a USB-C port, which allows for faster charging and connectivity to external devices such as displays, cameras, and storage drives. This makes it easier to integrate the iPad Pro into a professional workflow. The 2018 iPad Pro features a four-speaker audio system that delivers immersive and high-quality sound. Whether you’re watching movies, listening to music, or editing videos, the audio experience on the iPad Pro is exceptional. Like the iPad Air 3, the iPad Pro runs on iPadOS, but its more powerful hardware allows it to take full advantage of the operating system’s features. Multitasking, drag-and-drop, and Apple Pencil support are even more fluid and responsive on the iPad Pro. The 2018 iPad Pro 11-inch is designed for users who demand the best in terms of features and functionality. The combination of second-generation Apple Pencil support, advanced camera system, USB-C port, and high-quality audio makes it a versatile tool for creative and professional tasks. If you need a tablet that can handle demanding workflows and provide a premium user experience, the iPad Pro is the clear choice. Its advanced features and capabilities set it apart from the competition, making it an invaluable device for professionals and power users.

Price and Value: What's Your Budget?

Price is always a significant factor when making a purchase decision. Let's compare the pricing and overall value proposition of the iPad Air 3 and the 2018 iPad Pro 11-inch to help you determine which one offers the best bang for your buck.

iPad Air 3: Affordable and Accessible

The iPad Air 3 is positioned as a mid-range tablet, offering a balance of performance and features at a more affordable price point. When it was first released, the iPad Air 3 was priced competitively, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. While prices may vary depending on the retailer and any ongoing promotions, the iPad Air 3 generally costs less than the 2018 iPad Pro 11-inch. This makes it a great choice for students, casual users, and anyone who wants a capable iPad without breaking the bank. The iPad Air 3 comes in different storage configurations, which affects the price. The base model typically offers 64GB of storage, which is sufficient for most users, while a higher-capacity model with 256GB is also available. Keep in mind that you can't expand the storage with a microSD card, so it's essential to choose the right capacity for your needs. In terms of value, the iPad Air 3 offers a lot for its price. It provides excellent performance for everyday tasks, supports the first-generation Apple Pencil, and has a bright and vibrant Retina display. It’s a versatile device that can handle everything from browsing the web and watching videos to taking notes and creating presentations. The iPad Air 3 is a great option if you’re looking for an iPad that offers a solid set of features without the premium price tag. It’s a reliable and capable tablet that can handle a wide range of tasks, making it an excellent value for the money. For users who don’t need the absolute top-tier performance and features of the iPad Pro, the iPad Air 3 is a smart choice that provides a great user experience at a more accessible price. Its affordability makes it a popular option for families, students, and anyone who wants a dependable tablet for work and play. The iPad Air 3 strikes a sweet spot between price and performance, making it a compelling choice in the iPad lineup.

2018 iPad Pro 11-inch: Premium Price for Premium Features

The 2018 iPad Pro 11-inch is a premium tablet with a price tag to match. It’s positioned as a high-end device for professionals and power users who need the best possible performance and features. When it was first released, the iPad Pro 11-inch was significantly more expensive than the iPad Air 3. While prices may have come down since then, it still commands a premium due to its advanced features and capabilities. The 2018 iPad Pro 11-inch comes in various storage configurations, ranging from 64GB to 1TB. The price increases significantly as you move up the storage tiers, so it’s important to consider how much storage you need before making a purchase. The iPad Pro's higher price is justified by its superior performance, advanced features, and premium design. It offers a faster processor, more RAM, a ProMotion display, Face ID, a USB-C port, and support for the second-generation Apple Pencil. These features make it a more versatile and powerful device for demanding tasks like video editing, graphic design, and gaming. The 2018 iPad Pro 11-inch is a worthwhile investment if you’re a creative professional, power user, or anyone who needs a tablet that can handle the most demanding tasks. Its performance and features make it a true mobile workstation, capable of replacing a laptop for many users. The iPad Pro offers excellent value for those who can take full advantage of its capabilities. While it’s not the most budget-friendly option, its premium features and performance make it a top-tier tablet that can enhance productivity and creativity. If you’re willing to invest in a high-end tablet, the iPad Pro 11-inch is a clear choice that delivers a superior user experience. Its advanced features and powerful performance justify its premium price, making it a valuable tool for professionals and power users alike. The 2018 iPad Pro 11-inch represents the pinnacle of iPad technology, offering a level of performance and capability that sets it apart from the competition.

Final Verdict: Which iPad is Right for You?

Okay, guys, we've covered a lot of ground, so let's bring it all together. Deciding between the iPad Air 3 and the 2018 iPad Pro 11-inch really boils down to your specific needs and budget. Both are fantastic tablets, but they cater to different users.

Choose the iPad Air 3 If:

  • You're on a budget: The iPad Air 3 offers excellent performance and features at a more affordable price point.
  • You need a reliable tablet for everyday tasks: It's perfect for browsing, streaming, note-taking, and light productivity work.
  • You prefer a traditional iPad design: The physical Home button and familiar aesthetics might appeal to some users.
  • You want good battery life: The iPad Air 3 provides around 10 hours of usage on a single charge.

If you're a student, casual user, or someone who needs a dependable tablet for work and play without breaking the bank, the iPad Air 3 is an excellent choice. It offers a great balance of performance, features, and price.

Choose the 2018 iPad Pro 11-inch If:

  • You need top-tier performance: The A12X Bionic chip can handle demanding tasks like video editing and graphic design with ease.
  • You value a cutting-edge display: The ProMotion technology and edge-to-edge design offer an immersive viewing experience.
  • You want advanced features: Face ID, USB-C, and support for the second-generation Apple Pencil make it a versatile tool for professionals.
  • You need a mobile workstation: The iPad Pro can replace a laptop for many users, thanks to its power and capabilities.

If you're a creative professional, power user, or someone who needs the best possible performance and features, the 2018 iPad Pro 11-inch is the clear winner. It's a premium device that delivers a premium experience.

Ultimately, the best iPad for you depends on your individual needs and how you plan to use it. Consider your budget, the types of tasks you'll be performing, and the features that are most important to you. Whichever you choose, you're getting a fantastic tablet that will provide years of reliable performance.

So, what do you guys think? Which iPad would you choose? Let me know in the comments below! And if you found this comparison helpful, give it a share. Happy tablet hunting!