The iPad Air with M3 and the iPad Pro with M3 (if it were to be released) would likely have several key differences based on Apple's typical distinctions between these models and the rumored specifications for the M3 iPad Pro.
Display
- iPad Air M3: The iPad Air M3 features an 11-inch or 13-inch Liquid Retina display with a resolution of 2360 x 1640 for the 11-inch model and 2732 x 2048 for the 13-inch model. Both models have a 60Hz refresh rate and a maximum brightness of 500 nits for the 11-inch and 600 nits for the 13-inch model[7].- iPad Pro M3: The M3 iPad Pro is rumored to feature an OLED display, which would offer deeper blacks, higher contrast ratios, and potentially improved viewing angles compared to the LCD displays in the iPad Air[2].
Processor and Performance
- iPad Air M3: The iPad Air M3 is powered by the M3 chip, which includes an 8-core CPU and a 9-core GPU. This provides significant performance improvements over the M1 model, with up to a 35% boost in CPU tasks and a 40% increase in graphics performance[6][7].- iPad Pro M3: While the M3 chip in the iPad Pro would likely offer similar performance improvements, the Pro series often includes additional features that enhance performance for demanding tasks, such as more advanced cooling systems or higher memory configurations.
Design and Build
- iPad Air M3: The iPad Air M3 retains a similar design to its predecessors, with a focus on portability and a slightly thicker build compared to the iPad Pro[9].- iPad Pro M3: The iPad Pro is expected to have a thinner design with minimal bezels, maintaining its premium feel and aesthetic[2].
Cameras and Features
- iPad Air M3: The iPad Air M3 features a 12MP rear camera and a 12MP front camera, which is suitable for general use but not as advanced as what might be expected in the Pro series[7].- iPad Pro M3: The M3 iPad Pro is rumored to have a camera setup similar to the iPhone 15, potentially including features like a TrueDepth front camera for enhanced video calls[2].
Accessories and Connectivity
- iPad Air M3: The iPad Air M3 supports the new Magic Keyboard with a larger trackpad and additional function keys, enhancing productivity. It also supports Apple Pencil Pro and USB-C connectivity[4][6].- iPad Pro M3: The Pro series might see further enhancements to accessories, such as a larger and more responsive trackpad in the Magic Keyboard and improved Apple Pencil functionality[2].
Price
- iPad Air M3: The iPad Air M3 starts at $599 for the 11-inch model and $799 for the 13-inch model[4][6].- iPad Pro M3: The price for the M3 iPad Pro is speculated to start around $1,199 for the base model, reflecting its premium features and capabilities[2].
Overall, while both devices would offer powerful M3 processors, the iPad Pro would likely focus on more advanced features, a superior display, and a premium design, making it more suitable for professional users.
Citations:[1] https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2025/03/apple-introduces-ipad-air-with-powerful-m3-chip-and-new-magic-keyboard/
[2] https://www.sportskeeda.com/gaming-tech/m3-ipad-pro-expected-features-specs-price
[3] https://www.whathifi.com/smartphones-tablets/tablets/ipad-air-m3-vs-ipad-pro-m4-whats-the-difference
[4] https://www.theshortcut.com/p/ipad-air-m3-ipad-a16-tablets-apple-in-the-air
[5] https://support.apple.com/en-us/111897
[6] https://www.digitaltrends.com/mobile/apple-launch-ipad-air-m3-processor-specs-price-features/
[7] https://www.simplymac.com/ipad/ipad-air-technical-specifications
[8] https://support.apple.com/en-us/111979
[9] https://gizmodo.com/the-new-ipad-air-is-faster-with-m3-but-its-still-not-as-thin-as-the-ipad-pro-2000571347