You’re in the market for a new tablet, and you want something versatile that can handle both work and play. You’ve narrowed it down to the iPad Pro and the iPad Air, but you’re stuck. Which one really gives you the best bang for your buck?
| Feature | iPad Pro | iPad Air |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 11″ or 12.9″ | 10.9″ |
| Chip | M1 or M2 | M1 |
| Storage Options | 128GB to 2TB | 64GB to 256GB |
| 5G Capability | ✓ | ✗ |
| Face ID | ✓ | ✗ |
| Price | From $799 | From $599 |
✅ ipad pro Pros
- Top-notch performance with M1 or M2 chip
- Stunning display quality, especially the 12.9″ model with Liquid Retina XDR
- Wide range of storage options up to 2TB
❌ ipad pro Cons
- Premium price point
- No significant upgrades in design from previous models
✅ ipad air Pros
- Excellent balance of performance and price
- Lightweight and ultra-portable
- Supports Apple Pencil 2 and Magic Keyboard
❌ ipad air Cons
- Limited storage options
- No Face ID, only Touch ID
Performance: Power Under the Hood
The iPad Pro is a beast when it comes to performance, thanks to the M1 or M2 chip, making it unbeatable for multitasking and demanding apps. If you’re a creative professional working with graphics-heavy applications or a user who loves to game, this is your guy. The iPad Air, armed with the M1 chip, isn’t a slouch either and is more than capable for everyday tasks, video editing, and casual gaming. But when you push it to the limits, the Pro definitely shows why it costs more.
Build Quality: Design and Display
The iPad Pro sports a luxurious design with a stunning Liquid Retina XDR display (on the 12.9″ model) that is perfect for media consumption and creative work. The iPad Air, while slightly more modest in its display tech, still offers a sharp and vibrant screen that’s perfect for most users. Both are lightweight and portable, but the Pro feels a tad more premium in hand, which aligns with its higher price.
Value: What You Get for the Money
The iPad Air is the clear frontrunner for those looking for value. It offers a great balance between performance and price, making it an excellent choice for students and casual users. The iPad Pro, on the other hand, is for those who need the very best and are willing to pay for it. Its additional features like 5G support and Face ID, along with superior display options, justify the price for power users.
The iPad Pro is overkill for most people who aren’t professionals in need of high-end specs. Storage on the iPad Air can be limiting if you’re planning to do heavy video editing or store tons of media. Make sure you assess your actual needs before splurging.
Our Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
If you’re a creative professional or a power user who demands nothing short of the best performance and display, the iPad Pro is your go-to. It’s perfect for those who can make use of its advanced features. However, if you’re a student, a casual user, or someone who wants excellent performance at a reasonable price, the iPad Air is unbeatable in its value proposition. Don’t buy more than you need.
Can the iPad Air handle professional apps like the iPad Pro?
Yes, the iPad Air can handle professional apps, but it may not be as snappy as the iPad Pro, especially with very demanding applications.
Is the display difference noticeable between the two?
The display on the iPad Pro, especially the 12.9″ model, is significantly better for high-end graphics work or watching HDR content.
Is the price difference justified between the iPad Pro and Air?
For high-end users, yes. The iPad Pro offers features and performance that justify the extra cost. For average users, the iPad Air offers plenty of power for the price.
