Based on our overall comparison score, Apple iPad Air 13 M3 rates higher at 58/100 versus 51/100 for Apple iPad Air 11 M2 — a 7-point lead. Apple iPad Air 13 M3 is the stronger overall pick, though the right choice still depends on which specs matter most to you; the full spec table above breaks down every difference.
Apple iPad Air 13 M3 vs Apple iPad Air 11 M2
Verdict
Our overall take, at a glance
Key takeaways
- Apple iPad Air 13 M3 and Apple iPad Air 11 M2 are closely matched overall (within 4 points).
- Apple iPad Air 13 M3 stands out on Display Size: 13 in, Performance Antutu score: 2,262,674, Battery Capacity: 9,705 mAh.
- Apple iPad Air 11 M2 counters with Build Weight: 462 g.
- Best value: Apple iPad Air 11 M2 (from $599) — the strongest score-per-dollar of the two.
Apple iPad Air 13 M3 and Apple iPad Air 11 M2 are closely matched
Apple iPad Air 13 M3
81
Apple iPad Air 11 M2
77
Where Apple iPad Air 13 M3 stands out
- Display Size: 13 in
- Performance Antutu score: 2,262,674
- Battery Capacity: 9,705 mAh
Where Apple iPad Air 11 M2 stands out
- Build Weight: 462 g
In-depth analysisAI
AI-generated from the cited sources — may be incomplete or inaccurate; verify important details before deciding · generated Jun 2026.
Apple iPad Air 13 M3
AI analysis isn't ready yet
We haven't generated an in-depth write-up for Apple iPad Air 13 M3 yet. The specs, scores and strengths profile above still cover it — check back later for the AI summary.
Apple iPad Air 11 M2
The Apple iPad Air 11-inch (M2) is a portable tablet designed for users who require high performance without moving up to the premium Pro line. It is powered by the Apple M2 processor and features an 11-inch Liquid Retina display alongside a baseline storage capacity of 128 GB.
Best for Landscape-oriented video conferencing and virtual meetingsBest for Digital illustration and handwriting tasks utilizing the Apple Pencil ProBest for High-speed external accessory and display workflows using the fast USB-C interfa
Pros
- Strong system performance powered by the Apple M2 chip, which features 8 CPU cores and 9 GPU cores
- High-speed USB-C port supporting 10 Gbit/s data transfers and external monitor connections via DisplayPort
- Landscape-oriented 12 MP front-facing camera that provides a more natural orientation during video calls
- Compatibility with the Apple Pencil Pro for advanced digital input
Cons
- Cellular configurations completely lack a physical SIM tray, limiting connectivity options strictly to eSIM
- The 11-inch display is limited to 500 nits of brightness, which is dimmer than the 600 nits offered on the larger 13-inch version
Value for Money
Which is the better deal for the price
Pre-filled with launch prices where known — enter today's price for an up-to-date check. Use the same currency for both.
Apple iPad Air 13 M3
Apple iPad Air 11 M2
Performance
Higher benchmark score = faster
Apple iPad Air 13 M32,262,674
Apple iPad Air 11 M21,400,000
Benchmark score — a measured indicator of raw performance, not a guarantee of real-world speed.
Battery capacity
Larger cell — a hardware spec, not battery life
Apple iPad Air 13 M39,705 mAh
Apple iPad Air 11 M27,606 mAh
Capacity is the raw battery size. Real-world battery life depends just as much on the processor, software and display.
Physical Comparison
Weigh them up, then compare real dimensions in 3D
Apple iPad Air 13 M3Apple iPad Air 11 M2
Apple iPad Air 13 M3 is 154 g (33%) heavier than Apple iPad Air 11 M2.
Review Videos
Hand-picked expert reviews for each product
Detailed Specifications
The full spec sheet, side by side
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Apple iPad Air 13 M3 vs Apple iPad Air 11 M2 comparison
Apple iPad Air 13 M3 and Apple iPad Air 11 M2 are compared side by side above across every spec in the tablets category — including performance, features and design — each scored 0–100 so you can see exactly where one leads the other. Our overall scores are 58/100 for Apple iPad Air 13 M3 and 51/100 for Apple iPad Air 11 M2.
At launch, Apple iPad Air 11 M2 was the more affordable option ($599) versus Apple iPad Air 13 M3 ($799). Weigh that against the overall scores (58/100 vs 51/100) and the value-for-money meter above to judge whether the higher-rated model justifies its price for your needs. Current retail prices vary — check the retailer.
If you want the higher-rated tablets option overall, Apple iPad Air 13 M3 (58/100) edges out Apple iPad Air 11 M2 (51/100). But if Apple iPad Air 11 M2 is cheaper or stronger on the specific specs you care about, it can still be the better buy — use the spec table and strengths profile above to decide.