Apple iPad Dimensions – The Complete Comparison

Back in 2010, Apple launched the first-ever iPad, and a tech revolution was born. These super sleek, tactile, and user-friendly devices shifted us from our laptops and phones into a world of technological convenience, and we never looked back.

The original iPad and those that followed in those early days all ran the same software as a regular iPhone. Many e-book fans began using their iPad to read e-books, removing the need to buy a Kindle or other e-reader. Suddenly, reading digital books was easier than ever, and that’s still the case today.

But long gone are the days where there were only one or two iPad versions to choose from. Now, over a decade later, we’re drowning in options when it comes to Apple iPads, and these devices are more powerful than ever. With so many models out there that all vary in their dimensions, design, and specs, choosing the right one can feel like a minefield.

To help you figure out the best iPad for your needs, here are some easy-to-follow size comparison charts, so you can see how each one measures up.

The Basic iPad Dimensions

Here are the dimensions of every basic iPad since its first inception back in 2010. As you can see, up until 2019, the basic iPads all had a screen size of 9.7” inches. With the release of the 7th and 8th generation iPads from 2019 onwards, the screen size has increased slightly to 10.2”.

The Apple iPad Mini Dimensions

The iPad mini packs all of the power of an iPad into a smaller, more compact device. As you can see, the screen size hasn’t changed since its first incarnation in 2012, but the 4th and 5th generation models are somewhat slimmer.

Personally, the iPad mini is my favorite iPad to use as an e-reader. Its size makes it easier to carry around compared with other models, the screen size is very similar to many standard e-readers, and it still offers the power and convenience of a standard size iPad.
If you’re thinking of going down the iPad mini route and you plan on using it as an e-reader, you should check out my guide to the best iPad mini stands for book lovers.

The Apple iPad Air Dimensions

When the iPad Air first hit the shelves in 2013, it boasted slimmer dimensions, a noticeably better screen, and a more powerful and faster performance overall. But with these improvements came a higher price tag.

While the iPad Air has consistently been a fantastic device throughout all four generations, if you are looking for an iPad for general web browsing that doubles up as an e-reader, you’re unlikely to need this level of performance. I’d recommend opting for a cheaper model.

The Apple iPad Pro

The iPad Pro is the reigning champion of all iPads when it comes to power, performance, and speed. The first iPad Pro hit the shelves in 2015 and won the hearts of Apple fans worldwide, at least, those who could afford it.

The original iPad Pro had a large 12.9-inch screen, and even the latest 5th generation model boasts the same meaty dimensions. But Apple has also released a line of smaller iPad Pros, which began in 2016, and they are noticeably more portable and compact. For the last few generations, this smaller version of the iPad Pro has had an 11inch screen.

For ease, I’ll separate these two versions of the iPad Pro into Big and Little.

1. The Big iPad Pro Dimensions (12.9 inches)

The latest 12.9 inch iPad Pro is the 5th generation, which was released in 2021. This is considered to be the big daddy of all iPads, so if you’re looking for the ultimate in power and performance, and the high price tag isn’t an issue, then this is the model for you.

Thanks to the updated Liquid Retina XDR display, the screen offers more high definition and true-to-life details than any previous model.

It’s important to bear in mind that while most of the new 5th generation dimensions are identical to the 4th generation, it’s 0.5mm thicker than its predecessor, so your old case is unlikely to fit.

2. The Little iPad Pro Dimensions

This smaller version of the iPad Pro started out at a petite 9.7”, but over the years, its screen size has increased to 11″. That being said, it still remains comparatively smaller than the bigger version.

Unlike the 12.9 inch iPad Pro, the latest incarnation of the iPad Pro 11 has not deviated from its predecessors’ dimensions. What has changed is the position of the speakers, meaning that your old 2nd generation case may block them partially and affect the sound quality.

Whichever version of the iPad Pro you opt for, you’re probably going to want to invest in a protective case to keep it safe. Have a look at my guide to the best iPad Pro cases for book lovers. There’s a selection of cases designed to fit the latest generations of both the little and the big iPad pros, and they are all hand-picked specifically for people who use their iPad as an e-reader.

Which iPad Is Best Suited to Reading?

No matter what type of iPad you choose, it will allow you to read endless e-books with ease. But which one is best when it comes to reading? The answer to that will depend on your own preferences.

Personally, as I mentioned earlier in this guide, I prefer the iPad mini when it comes to reading e-books. I find its compact size is much easier to hold for longer periods of time, and it’s also more lightweight than other iPads, leading to less strain on my wrists.

But that’s just me, and I know many other e-book fans who disagree. Some people swear by the old basic iPad, as even the earliest generations can function perfectly well as an e-reader, and they come with a much lower price tag.

Those with a higher budget who prefer to read on a bigger screen should consider the latest iPad Air. It’s has a super-powerful Wide color display (P3) with True Tone, which adjusts to adapt to the lighting and time of day, leading to less eye strain. It also features an anti-reflective coating which even the latest basic iPad doesn’t have.

As for the iPad Pro, if you are just looking for a device to use as an e-reader, along with basic web browsing and other regular use, then I personally don’t think it warrants shelling out the extra cash. That being said, if you are in the market for a top-of-the-range, ultra-powerful device that can handle pretty much anything you throw at it, then the iPad Pro is well worth a look if your purse strings will allow it.

Conclusion

With so many different models and generations of iPad over the years, all with varying dimensions, it’s hard to know which one to choose. I hope this guide has helped to clear up the various size differences between each one so that you can choose the best iPad for your needs.