iPad Air M3 vs iPad (A16): Which One Should You Buy right in 2025?

Hello Apple fans! Today we’re putting the spotlight on two of Apple’s finest tablets for 2025: the iPad Air M3 and the iPad (A16). Whether you’re a digital artist craving raw power or a student looking for a dependable everyday device, this friendly comparison will help you land with the perfect iPad. Let’s jump right in!

Table of Contents

Design & Display: Modern Edge vs. Familiar Charm

iPad Air M3

Apple’s Air M3 brings a fresh, premium look to the lineup. Its ultra‑slim aluminum body comes in vibrant color options, and you can choose between an 11‑inch or 13‑inch Liquid Retina display. With True Tone, P3 wide‑color support, and up to 600 nits of brightness on the larger model, your content will pop—indoors or out.

iPad (A16)

The standard iPad sticks to Apple’s classic formula. Its 11‑inch Liquid Retina screen (2360 × 1640 at 264 ppi) hits 500 nits of brightness, delivering crisp visuals for reading, browsing, or streaming. The lightweight aluminum chassis feels familiar in hand, making it a breeze to carry everywhere.

Under the Hood: M3 Power vs. A16 Efficiency

iPad Air M3

M3 Chip: 8‑core CPU, 9‑core GPU, 16‑core Neural Engine
8 GB Unified RAM for seamless multitasking
Best for high‑end gaming, video editing, digital art, and heavy multitasking

iPad (A16)

A16 Chip: 5‑core CPU, 4‑core GPU
Energy‑saving design keeps battery life up without sacrificing speed
Ideal for web surfing, streaming, note‑taking, and light photo or video edits

The Air M3 shines when you push your iPad to the limit. The iPad A16 model focuses on smooth everyday performance and longer run time.

Software & Accessories: Productivity Perfected

Both tablets run the latest iPadOS, giving you Split View, Slide Over, and seamless iCloud syncing.

iPad Air M3
Unlocks Apple Intelligence features like smart handwriting and AI‑powered image tweaks. Pair it with the Apple Pencil Pro (advanced tilt and pressure sensitivity) or Apple Pencil USB-C and the new Magic Keyboard for a mini workstation setup.

iPad (A16)
Supports the first‑generation Apple Pencil or Apple Pencil USB-C and the Magic Keyboard Folio. It covers all the basics—note‑taking, sketching, and typing—without the pro‑level extras.

Camera & Media: Snap, Record, and Stream

Both iPads sport a 12 MP rear wide camera for sharp photos and 4K video, plus a 12 MP Ultra Wide front camera with Center Stage for video calls that keep you perfectly framed.

Air M3 Advantage: The M3 chip’s enhanced image processing delivers cleaner low‑light shots and faster AI effects for quick edits.

A16 Strength: Dependable, consistent visuals for selfies, FaceTimes, and spontaneous photo moments.

Battery & Connectivity: Power When You Need It

Battery Life: Up to 10 hours of mixed use on both models, depending on your activities.

iPad Air M3
Fast‑charge via USB‑C, Wi‑Fi 6E for the latest wireless speeds, and optional 5G keep creatives connected wherever inspiration strikes.

iPad (A16)
USB‑C charging, Wi‑Fi 6, and optional 5G deliver solid connectivity for browsing, streaming, and remote learning.

If you need every last bit of wireless speed, the Air M3’s Wi‑Fi 6E support gives it the edge.

Price & Value: Pick Your Perfect Fit

iPad Air M3
Starting around INR 59,900 ₹ for the 11‑inch model, it’s geared toward pros and power users who want top‑tier performance, larger display options, and pro‑grade accessories.

iPad (A16)
Available at a more wallet‑friendly price point of 34900 ₹, it’s perfect for students, families, and anyone who needs a reliable tablet for daily tasks without splurging on high‑end specs.

Final Verdict: Which One Wins?

Choose the iPad Air M3 if you
- Are a creative professional or heavy multitasker.
- Want the brightest screen, fastest chip, and best accessory support.
- Value Wi‑Fi 6E and 13‑inch display options for a true laptop alternative.

Choose the iPad (A16) if you
- Need a sturdy, everyday tablet for browsing, streaming, and note‑taking.
- Prefer a compact 11‑inch form factor at a lower cost.
- Appreciate great battery life and solid performance without the premium extras.

No matter which tablet you pick, you’ll enjoy that unmistakable Apple experience: smooth software, gorgeous displays, and a hardware‑software synergy that just works. Which iPad will you make yours? Let us know in the comments below—and happy exploring! ✨

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