Tech head-to-head
Apple iPad mini (6th generation)vsApple iPad Pro 11-inch (3rd generation, M1)
Two Apple models that average 8.4 and 8.5. Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (3rd generation, M1) takes Performance, 9.2 to 8.2.
8.4
The only small iPad with a modern design. Check the screen in person if you notice motion.
Price and availability change constantly, so we don't quote them here — the link opens current listings on eBay. eBay listings come from individual sellers: condition, battery health, and what's in the box differ from one to the next, so read the listing and the return terms before you buy.
The 120Hz screen and Face ID are why you pay more for it than the Air. The M1 is the same.
Price and availability change constantly, so we don't quote them here — the link opens current listings on eBay. eBay listings come from individual sellers: condition, battery health, and what's in the box differ from one to the next, so read the listing and the return terms before you buy.
Where they diverge
The widest gap is Performance, Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (3rd generation, M1) ahead 9.2 to 8.2. They come closest on Durability, 8.4 to 8.2. Left of center is Apple iPad mini (6th generation), right is Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (3rd generation, M1).
Which one to pick
Take the Apple iPad mini (6th generation)
Leads on Value.
- Reading, maps, and notes in one hand or a jacket pocket
- Pilots, nurses, and field workers who need a tablet that fits a cargo pocket
- You want the Pencil 2 without a full-size iPad
Take the Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (3rd generation, M1)
Leads on Performance and Durability.
- Drawing or note-taking where the 120Hz screen makes the Pencil feel immediate
- You move large files and want the Thunderbolt port's speed
- Four speakers and Face ID are worth the premium to you
Ease of use and Design score identically, so those axes can't break the tie.
What each one gets wrong
Apple iPad mini (6th generation)
- You're sensitive to the uneven refresh some reviewers call jelly scrolling
- You want Apple Intelligence; the A15 doesn't run it
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (3rd generation, M1)
- You expected mini-LED; only the 12.9-inch model of this generation has it
- The Air's M1 already covers what you do; the chip is identical
Specs, side by side
| Spec | Apple iPad mini (6th generation) | Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (3rd generation, M1) |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 8.3-inch Liquid Retina (LCD) | 11-inch Liquid Retina (LCD, ProMotion up to 120Hz) |
| Chip | A15 Bionic | Apple M1 |
| Unlock | Touch ID (top button) | Face ID |
| Port | USB-C | Thunderbolt / USB 4 |
| Pencil | Apple Pencil (2nd generation) | Apple Pencil (2nd generation) |
| Storage | 64GB, 256GB | 128GB to 2TB |
| Memory | — | 8GB (16GB on 1TB and 2TB) |
Rankings they both appear in
Questions
- Both are Apple. Which one do I want?
- Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (3rd generation, M1) leads on Performance and Durability. If Value matters more to you, take the Apple iPad mini (6th generation) instead. Apple iPad mini (6th generation) averages 8.4 and Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (3rd generation, M1) averages 8.5, over the 5 axes Tech is scored on.
- Where do the two Apple models actually differ?
- Performance is the widest gap, Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (3rd generation, M1) ahead 9.2 to 8.2. Ease of use and Design come out level, so they won't help you choose.
- Which one ranks higher in "Used iPads on eBay: where M1 pays off and where it doesn't"?
- Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (3rd generation, M1) sits at #2 in "Used iPads on eBay: where M1 pays off and where it doesn't", Apple iPad mini (6th generation) at #3.