Deciding Between the iPad Pro and iPad Air: Which One Should You Choose?

Key Takeaway:

The new iPad lineup offers a plethora of choices, including the iPad Pro and iPad Air, each with distinct features and benefits. Understanding the differences between these models is crucial in making the right decision for your needs.


The recent release of the new iPad Pro and iPad Air has expanded Apple’s tablet lineup, offering users more choices than ever before. With various models boasting different features and price points, selecting the right iPad can be a daunting task. But fear not, as we dive into the major differences between the iPad Pro and iPad Air to help you make an informed decision.

Design and Dimensions

Display Sizes

  • iPad Air: Offers 11-inch and 13-inch models, but the advertised sizes are slightly misleading due to rounding.
  • iPad Pro: Also available in 11-inch and 13-inch variants, with accurate display measurements.

Weight and Thickness

  • Contrary to expectations, the iPad Air is not lighter than the iPad Pro.
  • The iPad Pro boasts a thinner profile compared to the iPad Air, making it the slimmest Apple product ever.

Color Options

  • The iPad Pro comes in space black and silver, while the iPad Air offers a wider range of color choices, including space gray, starlight, blue, and purple.

Display Differences

iPad Air

  • Utilizes an LCD display with 60 Hz refresh rate and 600 nits brightness, suitable for everyday use.

iPad Pro

  • Features a groundbreaking OLED display, delivering superior brightness of up to 1,000 nits for standard content and 1,600 nits for HDR content.
  • Offers a smoother user experience with a 120 Hz promotion display, ideal for gaming and creative tasks.
  • Introduces nano-texture glass option for reduced glare in bright environments, available on select models.

Verdict:

The iPad Pro’s OLED display is a significant upgrade over the iPad Air, offering unparalleled brightness and vibrancy, particularly for multimedia and creative professionals.

Performance: M4 vs M2 Chip

iPad Air

  • Equipped with the M2 chip, providing sufficient power for everyday tasks and casual gaming.

iPad Pro

  • Boasts the latest M4 chip, delivering enhanced CPU and GPU performance, along with advanced AI capabilities.
  • Offers variants with different CPU configurations based on storage capacity.

Verdict:

While the M2 chip in the iPad Air is sufficient for most users, the M4 chip in the iPad Pro offers superior performance, especially for demanding tasks and future-proofing.

Cameras, Speakers, and Battery Life

  • Both models feature a single 12-megapixel wide-angle camera, but the iPad Pro includes additional features like Face ID and a LiDAR scanner for augmented reality.
  • The iPad Pro boasts a four-speaker system for immersive audio, while the iPad Air has a two-speaker setup.
  • Battery life remains consistent across both models, rated at approximately 10 hours of usage.

Accessories and Pricing

  • Compatible accessories, such as the Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard, are available for both models, with some differences in functionality.
  • The iPad Air offers a more affordable starting price compared to the iPad Pro, making it a compelling option for budget-conscious consumers.

Verdict:

Consider your budget and accessory preferences when choosing between the iPad Pro and iPad Air, as both models offer compatible accessories but at different price points.

Final Considerations

  • Value Proposition: The iPad Air offers excellent value for its price, while the iPad Pro justifies its higher cost with advanced features and performance.
  • Personal Preferences: Evaluate your specific needs and preferences, such as display quality, performance, and budget, to determine the most suitable option.

In conclusion, both the iPad Pro and iPad Air are exceptional tablets, each catering to different user preferences and requirements. Whether you prioritize cutting-edge technology or affordability, there’s an iPad model tailored to meet your needs. Evaluate the key differences outlined above to make an informed decision and embark on your iPad journey with confidence.