What is the Optimal iPad Screen Size: Should You Choose 11-inch or 13-inch?

      The Apple iPad lineup has expanded significantly. In the past, selecting an iPad Air involved considering storage and cellular options alone. Now, similar to the iPad Pro, buyers can choose from two screen sizes. I've received emails from readers wondering if the 13-inch model is a superior choice for movie watching. The simple answer? No. A larger iPad doesn't automatically provide a better screen for video viewing.

      I recently switched from my 11-inch iPad Air (2020) to the 13-inch iPad Air (2025), which highlighted that the two tablets cater to different needs. If you're uncertain about which screen size to choose for your next iPad Air or iPad Pro, here's a summary based on my experience.

      Focus on the aspect ratio rather than the display size

      The 13-inch iPad Air and iPad Pro feature a 4:3 aspect ratio, while the 11-inch models have a 16:11 screen. Consequently, the added size on the larger iPads doesn’t translate to an improved movie-watching experience.

      Most films are formatted in 21:9, while standard videos on platforms like YouTube typically use 16:9. These formats are better suited for a 16:11 display, resulting in less letterboxing (the thick black borders at the top and bottom) when compared to a 4:3 display.

      If you're considering a 13-inch iPad Air or iPad Pro mainly for watching movies or videos, I would suggest opting for the 11-inch model instead. The larger iPads excel at productivity and creative tasks, but for watching videos, they result in more black bars rather than providing a larger area for content. Therefore, the effective screen size for videos is not noticeably different between the two iPad screen sizes.

      When to choose a 13-inch iPad Air or iPad Pro?

      The 13-inch iPads are perfect for creatives who require a larger workspace. If you’re a digital artist using the Apple Pencil Pro, the larger screens offer more space for in-app tools (like in Lightroom or Final Cut Pro) and provide ample room for photo or video editing. The extra screen space enhances comfort and convenience for creative workflows.

      They also integrate well with the Magic Keyboard. Additionally, features in iPadOS 18, like Stage Manager and split-screen multitasking, are easier to handle on a larger display. If you use Stage Manager to juggle tasks while monitoring Slack or Teams messages, the bigger screen will be more advantageous.

      The 13-inch iPads can also serve as excellent secondary displays for your Mac. You can easily transport this external display and continue working while on the move, as it operates a fully functional system. While it’s not a replacement for a laptop, if you wish to engage in laptop-like work on your iPad, the 13-inch variant is ideal.

      Additionally, the 13-inch iPad Air boasts a brighter screen at 600 nits, making it preferable for working in cafes or co-working spaces.

      When to choose an 11-inch iPad Air or iPad Pro?

      The 11-inch model is more suitable for video viewing and tablet-oriented tasks such as browsing, online shopping, and reading. Essentially, anything you would typically do on your iPhone but prefer a larger screen for ease, the 11-inch iPad handles it well.

      It is also great for creatives seeking portability. Although the 13-inch model isn’t overly bulky, if you already travel with a laptop and want an additional device for your creative work, the 11-inch iPad is the ideal compromise.

      Personally, I prefer traveling with the 8-inch iPad Mini alongside my laptop for reading and browsing. However, if you prioritize video content, the 11-inch models are your best option. You can combine them with a Magic Keyboard for word processing, but the experience won’t be quite as seamless as with the larger model.

      When to consider the 8-inch iPad Mini?

      The iPad Mini features an aspect ratio close to 3:2 (specifically 1.52:1). It’s my favorite tablet, representing the perfect mix of portability and functionality. If your primary activities include web browsing, emails, or reading ebooks, the iPad Mini is the optimal tablet for you.

      While we have been discussing video-centric iPads and comparing movie watching on 13-inch vs. 11-inch displays, the iPad Mini is designed for a different audience—those who seek a reading-first tablet. I also utilize it for photo editing in Lightroom, and it performs admirably for most tasks. Additionally, it supports the Apple Pencil Pro, making it a compact yet effective canvas for creatives.

      The 8-inch size is exceedingly travel-friendly and doesn’t add weight to my gear. I take it on trips loaded with Kindle books, saved Chrome pages, and more to read during commutes or flights. If you’re looking for the most portable