What is the Difference Between iPad Air and iPad Pro
The iPad lineup offers a variety of choices for users looking for portability, power, and premium features. Among the most popular models are the iPad Air and iPad Pro—both known for their high-performance capabilities and sleek design. While they may look similar at first glance, they cater to different user needs and price points.
In this blog, we’ll break down the key differences between iPad Air and iPad Pro, helping you determine which one suits your needs best.
Design and Build Quality
Both the iPad Air and iPad Pro share a similar design language, featuring an edge-to-edge display, thin bezels, and flat edges. However, there are some notable differences in their displays and overall build.
| Feature | iPad Air | iPad Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display with slim bezels | 11-inch or 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR display (12.9-inch model) for superior brightness and contrast |
| Design | Aluminum unibody, lightweight and portable | Aluminum body with a refined design for a premium feel |
| Colors | Space Gray, Starlight, Purple, Blue | Standard Apple color options (varies by model) |
| Biometric Authentication | Touch ID (integrated into the power button) | Face ID for secure and convenient unlocking |
Display and Screen Technology
The display is a crucial factor when comparing these two iPads. The iPad Air has a high-quality display suited for general use, while the iPad Pro offers advanced screen technology, catering to professionals who need top-tier visual performance.
| Feature | iPad Air | iPad Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 10.9-inch Liquid Retina | 11-inch and 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR |
| Resolution | 2360 x 1640 | 2732 x 2048 (12.9-inch model) |
| Color Accuracy | Supports True Tone and P3 wide color | Supports True Tone and P3 wide color |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz (ProMotion technology) |
| Brightness & HDR | Standard brightness | Higher peak brightness and HDR support (12.9-inch XDR model) |
| Best For | General use, media consumption, and casual drawing | Photo and video editing, professional workflows, and Apple Pencil users |
Performance and Processing Power
The performance difference between the iPad Air and iPad Pro comes down to the chip inside. While the iPad Air is powerful enough for everyday tasks, the iPad Pro takes performance to the next level with its more advanced processor and higher RAM capacity
| Feature | iPad Air | iPad Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | M1 chip | M2 chip |
| Performance | Great for everyday tasks and light professional use | Superior speed and efficiency, ideal for demanding applications |
| RAM | 8GB RAM | 8GB RAM (11-inch), 16GB RAM (1TB/2TB storage variants) |
| Best For | Students, casual users, and light creative work | Video editing, graphic design, and gaming |
| Apple Pencil Support | Standard Apple Pencil support | Supports Apple Pencil hover feature for enhanced precision |
Camera System and LiDAR Scanner
Cameras on iPads may not be as crucial as they are on iPhones, but for users who rely on their tablet for photography, videography, or augmented reality (AR), the iPad Pro offers a more advanced setup.
| Feature | iPad Air | iPad Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Rear Camera | 12MP wide with Smart HDR 3 | 12MP wide + 10MP ultra-wide for enhanced photography |
| Front Camera | 12MP Ultra Wide with Center Stage | TrueDepth camera system with Face ID |
| LiDAR Scanner | Not available | Available, enhancing AR applications |
| AR Capabilities | Limited due to the absence of a LiDAR scanner | Advanced AR support with LiDAR scanner |
| Video Recording | Standard video recording | Supports ProRes video recording for content creators |
Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard Compatibility
Accessories play a key role in productivity, and both iPads support essential Apple accessories. However, the iPad Pro provides a slightly enhanced experience with additional Apple Pencil features.
Both iPads support Apple Pencil (2nd generation) and Magic Keyboard, making them excellent for note-taking, sketching, and professional productivity.
However, the iPad Pro offers an improved Apple Pencil hover feature, allowing users to see where the pencil will touch before making contact—beneficial for artists and designers.
Software and Features
Software is an essential consideration when comparing these two iPads. While both run iPadOS, the iPad Pro benefits from more power, enabling better multitasking and the ability to handle professional-grade applications with ease.
Both models run iPadOS, which includes Stage Manager, Split View, and Slide Over for multitasking. However, iPad Pro has more power to handle professional-grade applications like Final Cut Pro and Logic Pro.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life is an important consideration for portable devices. Both iPads offer long-lasting battery performance, but the iPad Pro features faster charging and a more advanced connectivity port.
Both models offer all-day battery life, but the iPad Pro’s Thunderbolt 4 port allows faster data transfer and connectivity with high-end accessories.
Which One Should You Choose?
Choose iPad Air if:
- You need a powerful but affordable tablet for everyday tasks.
- You don’t require ProMotion (120Hz) or a LiDAR scanner.
- You want a lightweight, versatile device for school, work, and entertainment.
Choose iPad Pro if:
- You’re a professional or power user who needs top-tier performance.
- You work with graphic design, video editing, or AR applications.
- You want the best display, camera system, and Face ID.
Looking to rent an iPad for your event or business? Explore iPad rental options to find the right device for your needs.
Question/Answer
We’ve addressed the most common questions about the iPad Air and iPad Pro. If you have any additional inquiries or need help choosing the right iPad for your needs, feel free to reach out to our experts today.
Yes, but the iPad Pro is better suited for intensive tasks like video editing, 3D rendering, and professional design work due to its M2 chip and higher RAM.
Yes, both iPads support the Apple Pencil (2nd Gen) and the Magic Keyboard, offering versatility for work and creativity.
The iPad Pro provides better graphics performance and a higher refresh rate, making it a superior choice for gaming.
Yes, the ProMotion technology in the iPad Pro allows for smoother scrolling and a more responsive Apple Pencil experience, ideal for artists and professionals.