Highlights

• iPad Pro boasts new Ultra Retina XDR display and advanced M4 chip.
• iPad Air offers vibrant color options and a capable M2 processor.
• Both models support the new Apple Pencil Pro and high-resolution displays.
• iPad Pro optimized for power users with enhanced speakers and processing power.

Apple has finally updated its iPad lineup with the much-awaited iPad Pro and iPad Air models.

The wait was long and there’s plenty to talk about.

While both tablets share some similarities, they diverge in several key aspects, catering to different user needs and budgets.

In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll dive deep into the nuances that set these devices apart, helping you make an informed decision.

However, no matter the verdict in the end, these two machines are going to rule the tablet space for years to come.

iPad Pro (2024) vs iPad Air (2024): Key Specs

iPad Pro vs iPad Air Design and Display: Sleek Elegance Meets Stunning Visuals

The iPad Pro undoubtedly steals the show with its remarkably thin and lightweight design, weighing even less than the iPad Air.

However, the Air strikes back with a more vibrant colour palette, offering options like dark gray, starlight gold, light purple, and light blue, in contrast to the Pro’s monochromatic black and silver hues.

If that is something that interests you.

Where the iPad Pro truly shines is its display technology.

It boasts Apple’s Ultra Retina XDR display, which combines two OLED panels for unparalleled brightness, reaching up to 1,600 nits peak for HDR content.

This is the first time OLEDs have hit an Apple product outside of the iPhone and Apple Watch.

What this means is deeper blacks, superior contrast, and reduced blooming, ensuring a truly immersive visual experience.

Additionally, the Pro models continue to support Apple’s ProMotion technology and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, enhancing scrolling as well as responsiveness when drawing with the Apple Pencil.

iPad Pro vs iPad Air Processing Power: M4 vs M2 – The Battle for Supremacy

So who’s running the show?

Well at the heart of the iPad Pro lies Apple’s cutting-edge M4 chip, delivering what Apple claims as 50% faster CPU performance compared to the M2-powered iPad Air.

The M4 model also boasts a more powerful Neural Engine and GPU, offering hardware-accelerated ray tracing, mesh shading, and Dynamic Caching technology for improved performance in professional apps and games.

While the iPad Air may fall behind in raw power, it still packs a punch with the M2 processor, providing ample performance for most tasks.

However, for demanding users who require the absolute best processing capabilities, the iPad Pro’s M4 chip is of course a clear winner.

Although as you can see, it will cost you an arm and a limb to purchase the Pro moniker.

iPad Pro vs iPad Air Accessories: Productivity and Creativity

Both tablets support the latest Apple Pencil (USB-C) and the forthcoming Apple Pencil Pro, enabling users to take advantage of features like haptic feedback, squeeze gestures, and the hover feature for previewing line strokes.

However, the iPad Pro gains an edge with its compatibility with the all-new Magic Keyboard, which boasts a thinner and lighter aluminum design, a larger trackpad, and a dedicated function key row.

iPad Pro vs iPad Air Speakers and Cameras: Audio and Imaging Prowess

For multimedia enthusiasts, the iPad Pro’s quad-speaker system and four microphones promise a superior audio experience, delivering louder and fuller sound compared to the iPad Air’s stereo speakers and dual mics.

Additionally, the Pro models feature an adaptive True Tone flash for improved document scanning capabilities.

Both tablets sport 12MP front-facing cameras, but only the iPad Pro’s rear camera features adaptive True Tone flash for removing shadows from scanned documents.

All-in-all you might never be using the cameras on either iPad, but if you do then the Pro one has marginally better capabilities.

iPad Pro vs iPad Air: Pricing and Value Proposition

Undoubtedly, the iPad Pro commands a premium price, with the 11-inch model starting at Rs 99,900 for the Wi-Fi variant and Rs 119,900 for the Wi-Fi + Cellular option.

The larger 13-inch model demands an even higher investment, starting at Rs 129,900 for the Wi-Fi version and Rs 149,900 for the Wi-Fi + Cellular configuration.

In contrast, the iPad Air offers a more budget-friendly alternative, with the 11-inch model priced at Rs 59,900 for the Wi-Fi variant and Rs 79,900 for the Wi-Fi + Cellular option.

The larger 13-inch model starts at Rs 74,900 for the Wi-Fi version and Rs 94,900 for the Wi-Fi + Cellular configuration.

iPad Pro vs iPad Air: Final Verdict

The iPad Pro represents an absolute leader for pros, creators, and power users who need nothing less than the best in performance, display quality, and productivity features.

It is a real powerhouse with its next-generation M4 chip, stunning OLED display, and compatibility with the latest accessories.

But for a casual user who wants to have a flexible tablet for entertainment, light productivity, and general use, an iPad Air is an excellent value.

Its capable M2 processor, bright display, and compatibility with the Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard make for a balanced device in performance and price.

Ultimately, the decision comes down to your specific needs, budget, and preferences.

Whether you opt for the cutting-edge iPad Pro or the versatile iPad Air, Apple’s latest tablet offerings are poised to redefine the tablet experience for years to come.

FAQs

What are the key differences in display technology between the iPad Pro and iPad Air?

The iPad Pro features an Ultra Retina XDR display with OLED technology, offering higher brightness and sharper contrast, whereas the iPad Air uses a Liquid Retina display which, while high-quality, does not support OLED’s superior black levels and contrast.

How do the processors in the iPad Pro and iPad Air compare?

The iPad Pro is equipped with Apple’s latest M4 chip, providing up to 50% faster CPU performance than the iPad Air’s M2 processor, making it better suited for intensive tasks and professional applications.

What options are available for storage across the iPad Pro and iPad Air models?

The iPad Pro offers more extensive storage options, ranging from 256GB to 2TB, while the iPad Air’s storage capabilities are capped at 1TB, catering to less demanding storage needs.

Can you explain the accessory compatibility differences between the two models?

Both models are compatible with the Apple Pencil Pro, but the iPad Pro pairs with a newer Magic Keyboard that features a larger trackpad and additional function keys, not supported by the iPad Air.

Which iPad model offers better value for money?

While the iPad Pro offers higher performance and advanced features, the iPad Air provides substantial functionality at a lower price point, making it an excellent value for more casual users or those with moderate computing needs.

Also Read: Apple Launches New iPad Pro and iPad Air Models With OLED Display, M4 Chipset, Apple Pencil Pro, and, More: Price in India, Features, Specs

Also Read: iPad Pro (2024): Design, Processor, Cameras, Display, and, What To Expect

Also Read: iPad Pro Series Surpasses iPhone in Latest Antutu Benchmark Scores