An apparatus and a method are provided for separating first and second flat objects from a stack in which the flat objects are provided substantially in pairs and differ from one another in terms of weight per unit area and/or flexibility. The apparatus includes at least one suction element for attracting the objects by suction, a drive apparatus for moving the suction element, and a control apparatus for controlling the drive apparatus. The control apparatus drives the drive apparatus such that the suction element is moved to a first position, in which the first object that has a lower weight per unit area and/or a greater flexibility than the second object is attracted by the suction of the suction element. The first position is at a minimum distance from a stack surface.