If you’re looking for a larger screen to boost your productivity or enjoy your favorite entertainment, Apple’s biggest iPad might be just what you need.
The size, power, and design of the largest iPad make it stand out from every other model in the lineup.
The biggest iPad available today is the 12.9‑inch iPad Pro, offering the most display space and performance of any iPad Apple has ever made.
You can use its large screen for sketching, multitasking, watching movies, or making presentations. It’s built for people who want desktop‑level performance in a portable form.
With advanced display technology and support for accessories like the Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard, it becomes far more than just a tablet.
What Is the Biggest iPad Available?
The largest iPad you can buy is the 12.9‑inch iPad Pro, which offers a large display built for working, drawing, and watching content.
It combines a powerful chip, advanced screen technology, and support for premium accessories to handle tasks that go beyond what smaller iPads can do.
12.9-Inch iPad Pro Overview
The 12.9‑inch iPad Pro stands as Apple’s biggest tablet. Its display measures 12.9 inches diagonally, providing a wide workspace for editing photos, designing, or reading documents without constant zooming.
The screen uses Apple’s Liquid Retina XDR technology, delivering accurate colors and strong brightness levels. This model supports ProMotion technology, which adapts the refresh rate up to 120Hz for smooth scrolling, writing, and gaming.
You’ll notice the difference when using the Apple Pencil (2nd generation) because lines appear instantly as you draw or take notes.
Inside, it’s powered by Apple’s M4 chip, giving you desktop‑class performance. You can open large files, render 4K videos, and switch between apps with ease. Its thin, lightweight build makes it portable even with its large screen.
Key Features of the Largest iPad
The table below shows key features that make the 12.9‑inch iPad Pro unique:
|
Feature |
Description |
|
Display |
12.9‑inch Liquid Retina XDR screen |
|
Refresh Rate |
Up to 120Hz with ProMotion |
|
Chip |
Apple M4 processor |
|
Storage Options |
128GB to 1TB |
|
Connectivity |
Wi‑Fi 6E, 5G on cellular models |
|
Ports |
USB‑C with Thunderbolt support |
|
Accessories |
Apple Pencil, Magic Keyboard |
The vivid display helps when color accuracy matters, while ProMotion technology keeps animations and writing fluid. The Thunderbolt port supports fast data transfer and external monitors, turning your iPad into a capable workstation.
Who Should Choose the Biggest iPad
You should choose the 12.9‑inch iPad Pro if you need a large display and high performance for demanding tasks.
It’s well‑suited for designers, video editors, photographers, and students who handle visual projects or multitask often.
If you often draw or take handwritten notes, the Apple Pencil experience feels more natural on this bigger screen. It also works well as a laptop replacement when paired with the Magic Keyboard, especially if you prefer a touchscreen workflow.
However, if you mainly browse the web, stream videos, or manage light tasks, a smaller iPad might be easier to carry and more cost‑effective.
The 12.9‑inch iPad Pro focuses on users who want top performance and extra screen space for serious creative or professional use.
Explore the iPad Pro M4 13 Inch Case for premium protection and style.
Comparing iPad Screen Sizes
Apple offers several iPad sizes to fit different needs.
You can choose between compact options built for portability or larger models made for creative work, study, and entertainment.
Each display size affects comfort, image clarity, and how much space you have for apps and multitasking.
iPad Pro Screen Size Options
The iPad Pro line gives you two main choices: 11 inches and 13 inches. The 11‑inch iPad Pro is more portable and easy to hold, while the 13‑inch version provides the largest iPad display currently available.
Both models use Liquid Retina technology, but the 13‑inch version steps up to an Ultra Retina XDR screen for sharper contrast and brightness.
You’ll notice the difference when drawing, editing photos, or watching movies. The extra screen space makes the 13‑inch model better for side‑by‑side app use.
The 11‑inch size, on the other hand, fits better in smaller bags and feels closer to a notebook in weight and handling. If you care about portability, the 11‑inch iPad Pro strikes a strong balance between power and size.
If you do design or video work, the 13‑inch version gives you more workspace without losing image quality.
iPad Air and iPad mini Dimensions
The iPad Air sits between the standard iPad and the Pro series. You can get it in 11‑inch and 13‑inch sizes, both thin and lightweight.
These screens make the iPad Air appealing if you want a big display similar to the Pro but at a lower price. In contrast, the iPad mini stays small at 8.3 inches, which is its main advantage. You can hold it in one hand, making it practical for travel or reading.
Even with its small footprint, the mini keeps bright colors and sharp text on its Liquid Retina display.
If you often move between places or use your tablet for quick notes and reading, the iPad mini fits your lifestyle better than any larger model.
If you want more screen room for drawing or multitasking, the 11‑inch or 13‑inch iPad Air gives you that extra space.
Screen Size Chart by Generation
The table below lists key screen sizes from older to newer iPads so you can easily see how they have changed over time.
|
Model |
Screen Size |
Typical Use |
|
iPad mini (1st–6th gen) |
7.9–8.3 in |
Reading, note‑taking |
|
Standard iPad (9th–10th gen) |
10.2–10.9 in |
Everyday tasks |
|
iPad Air (4th–6th gen) |
10.9–13.0 in |
Balanced use |
|
iPad Pro (1st–7th gen) |
11.0–13.0 in |
Creative and pro work |
You can see how screens have gradually become larger while keeping similar weight and thickness. This means you get more workspace without sacrificing portability.
When comparing models side by side, even one extra inch can noticeably change how you type, draw, and view content.
Display Technology and Performance
The largest iPad, the 12.9‑inch iPad Pro, delivers strong visual performance supported by high-end display technology.
You get advanced brightness control, fast refresh rates, and consistent color accuracy that make work and entertainment look crisp and smooth.
Liquid Retina XDR Explained
The Liquid Retina XDR display uses mini‑LED backlighting to achieve high contrast and deep blacks.
Thousands of small LEDs grouped into local dimming zones let the screen adjust brightness levels precisely. This design helps you see more detail in both light and dark parts of an image.
With a peak brightness of up to 1000 nits for full-screen and 1600 nits for HDR content, you can comfortably view photos or videos even under bright light.
The display supports wide color (P3) and True Tone, which automatically balances white tones based on your environment.
If you use your iPad for photo editing, design, or watching movies, you’ll notice consistent highlights and controlled blooming. The XDR display performs closely to professional monitors used for color‑critical tasks.
ProMotion Technology Benefits
ProMotion technology gives the iPad Pro a refresh rate that adjusts up to 120 Hz. This means the screen refreshes images twice as fast as standard 60 Hz displays.
You’ll feel the difference when scrolling web pages, drawing with Apple Pencil, or gaming. Motion looks smoother, and touch response feels more natural. For artists, ProMotion helps the Apple Pencil track closer to your hand movements.
The lower latency makes writing and sketching feel more like working on paper. You can also enjoy faster transitions between apps and animations that look fluid instead of jerky.
Refresh Rate Comparison
|
Mode |
Typical Refresh Rate |
Benefit |
|
Standard |
60 Hz |
Normal motion, basic browsing |
|
ProMotion |
Up to 120 Hz |
Smoother scrolling, better stylus input |
Brightness and Color Accuracy
The 12.9‑inch model offers excellent brightness uniformity. Evenness across the screen helps when reviewing photos or working with detailed graphics.
You’ll see balanced highlights without sudden dim spots near the edges. Apple calibrates each display at the factory to ensure color accuracy within tight tolerances. This means reds, blues, and skin tones appear realistic without oversaturation.
The True Tone sensor adapts the color temperature of the screen to your surroundings, reducing eye strain.
When you view HDR content, the iPad Pro expands its contrast range while keeping neutral tones stable. Whether you work indoors or outside, the display maintains sharp visibility and consistent color across angles.
By reading our guide, Best Writing Tablet: Choose Yours Today, find the perfect tablet size for your needs.
Accessories for the Biggest iPad
Adding the right tools can make your large iPad more useful for work, study, and creative tasks. These accessories help you write, draw, and type more comfortably while keeping your setup portable and organized.
Apple Pencil Compatibility
The Apple Pencil gives you precise control for drawing, note-taking, and editing. The 13‑inch iPad Pro works with the Apple Pencil Pro, while the iPad Air 13‑inch pairs with the Apple Pencil (USB‑C).
Both versions attach magnetically to the side for charging and storage. You can use pressure sensitivity and tilt detection to shade or adjust line thickness.
Artists benefit from almost no delay between the Pencil tip and the display. Writers and students appreciate how natural it feels when taking notes or marking PDFs.
If you often sketch, annotate, or design, the Pencil’s low latency and palm rejection make it a dependable tool. You can also use gestures—like double‑tapping the Pencil barrel—to switch tools quickly.
|
Model |
Supported Pencil |
Magnetic Charging |
Key Feature |
|
iPad Pro 13-inch (M4) |
Apple Pencil Pro |
Yes |
Pressure, tilt, and barrel gestures |
|
iPad Air 13-inch (M3) |
Apple Pencil (USB‑C) |
Yes |
Smooth input without lag |
Magic Keyboard Experience
The Magic Keyboard transforms your big iPad into a laptop-style device. It connects magnetically, so you don’t have to pair or charge it separately. The floating design lets you adjust the viewing angle easily, which helps when typing or watching videos.
Its keys feel similar to those on a MacBook. The built‑in trackpad supports gestures, making navigation simple.
You can click, swipe, and scroll with the same ease as a touchpad on a laptop. You’ll also find a USB‑C port on the hinge, useful for charging while keeping the iPad’s own port free for accessories.
If you type reports, manage spreadsheets, or write emails often, this keyboard helps you stay efficient. With backlit keys, you can work comfortably even in low light.
Productivity and Creative Features
The largest iPad models, such as the 12.9‑inch iPad Pro, give you more space to work with advanced tools built for multitasking and creativity.
You can manage multiple tasks at once, use Apple Pencil for precise input, and connect accessories that turn your tablet into a portable workstation.
Multitasking: Split View and Slide Over
You can multitask efficiently using Split View and Slide Over. Split View lets you open two apps side by side, like Safari and Notes, making it easier to research while writing.
You can adjust the divider to control how much screen space each app gets. Slide Over keeps a secondary app floating in a narrow panel over your main app.
For example, you can check messages or email without leaving your design workspace.
On the large 12.9‑inch display, both Split View and Slide Over feel smooth and natural because of the extra room and high resolution.
|
Feature |
Split View |
Slide Over |
|
App count |
Two apps at once |
One floating app |
|
Layout |
Side‑by‑side |
Overlay panel |
|
Best for |
Research, editing, reference |
Quick tasks, checking messages |
Best Uses for Professionals and Creatives
If you work in design, video editing, illustration, or content creation, the big screen gives you more space for tools, controls, and fine detail. Paired with the Apple Pencil Pro, you can sketch, retouch photos, or annotate documents with accuracy.
The M4 chip in the iPad Pro delivers fast performance for tasks like 3D rendering, large photo editing, or multitasking with many apps open. You can also connect external displays or keyboards to create a setup that feels close to a laptop.
For music producers, the extra screen space fits full mixer controls. For digital artists, the laminated and anti‑reflective display helps color accuracy.
You get a responsive, detailed view that supports serious creative work without tying you to a desk.
Protect your large iPad with the iPad Pro M4 Case, built for the biggest screens.
Choosing the Right iPad for Your Needs
Finding the best iPad depends on how you plan to use it. Screen size, weight, and cost all affect your experience, whether you need a compact device for travel or a larger one for creative or work tasks.
Portability Versus Screen Space
If you move around a lot, the iPad mini might fit you best. Its 7.9-inch display and light weight make it easy to hold in one hand and slip into small bags. It’s ideal for reading, note-taking, or quick browsing.
However, its smaller screen can feel tight if you often multitask or edit documents. The iPad Air offers a middle ground. The 11-inch model gives you more display space for sketching or typing without feeling bulky.
At about one pound, it balances comfort and function for most daily tasks. For the largest displays, the 13-inch iPad Pro stands out.
You get a bright Ultra Retina XDR screen that’s great for editing photos, watching videos, or using multiple apps side by side. But portability drops a bit—it’s heavier and takes up more space in your bag. Think about where you’ll use your iPad most before deciding.
|
Model |
Screen Size |
Best Use |
Portability |
|
iPad mini |
7.9 in |
Travel, reading |
★★★★★ |
|
iPad Air |
11–13 in |
Everyday use |
★★★★☆ |
|
iPad Pro |
11–13 in |
Creative work, multitasking |
★★★☆☆ |
Budget Considerations
Price can vary widely between models. The standard iPad stays the most affordable, often under half the cost of a Pro model.
It handles web browsing, media, and schoolwork smoothly without premium features. The iPad Air sits in the middle price range. It shares some Pro-level features, like support for the Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard, but costs less.
You get strong performance from the M2 or M3 chip without paying the top-tier price. If you want the best display, fastest processor, and most storage, the iPad Pro (11-inch or 13-inch) delivers.
Expect to pay significantly more for its M4 chip, higher refresh rate, and better display brightness. Your budget should match how heavily you plan to use those upgraded features.
Wrap Up
The biggest iPad currently available is the iPad Pro 12.9-inch model. It offers the largest display in Apple’s lineup, providing an immersive screen perfect for creative work, multitasking, and media consumption.
Its size makes it ideal for professionals and power users who want maximum screen real estate without sacrificing portability. Knowing the biggest iPad helps you choose the right device for your needs.
Check out Best iPad Pro Apps to Power Up Your Device to maximize your big iPad’s potential.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the latest iPad Pro screen sizes available?
You can choose between the 13-inch iPad Pro and the 11-inch iPad Pro, both introduced in 2024. These models replaced the old 12.9-inch size, offering a slightly larger display area and thinner design.
How does the iPad's largest model compare to a laptop-sized screen?
The 13-inch iPad Pro is similar in size to many compact laptops. You can comfortably use it for writing, drawing, and multitasking. When attached to a keyboard, it feels close to using a small notebook computer.
What are the storage options for the largest iPad currently on the market?
The 13-inch iPad Pro offers several storage tiers, typically starting around 256 GB and reaching up to 2 TB. This wide range gives you space for creating videos, saving large photo libraries, or using demanding creative apps.
Can you tell me about the resolution and display features of the biggest iPad?
The 13-inch iPad Pro features a Tandem OLED display with a sharp 2732‑by‑2048 pixel resolution. It provides deep contrast, accurate color, and up to 1000 nits of brightness for SDR content. These features make it excellent for watching, editing, or drawing.
What are the capabilities of the most powerful iPad currently out there?
The newest iPad Pro models use Apple’s M4 chip, which delivers fast performance and efficient power use. You can easily run multitasking apps, edit 4K videos, or play graphics-heavy games without lag.
Could you highlight the differences between the biggest iPad and smaller models?
You’ll notice that the largest iPad offers more screen space and higher brightness. It also provides better performance. Smaller models, like the iPad Air or iPad mini, are lighter and easier to carry. They often cost less.
