The iPad lineup from Apple has come a long way since the launch of the first-generation iPad back in 2010. Today, the company offers several different models with varying specifications and price points.
The iPad Air and iPad Pro are two popular options for consumers looking for a high-end tablet experience. But what exactly sets these devices apart?
In this article, we’ll compare iPad Air vs iPad Pro and highlight the key differences between the two.
Design and Display
One of the most noticeable differences between the iPad Air and iPad Pro is their design.
The iPad Air has a more traditional tablet design with slightly rounded edges and thicker bezels around the display. On the other hand, the iPad Pro has a more modern design with squared-off edges and slim bezels around the display. The iPad Pro also has a larger display size, ranging from 11 inches to 12.9 inches, compared to the iPad Air’s 10.9-inch display.
In terms of display technology, both devices feature Apple’s high-quality Retina displays with True Tone technology. The iPad Pro’s display is slightly brighter and offers a higher refresh rate of 120Hz compared to the iPad Air’s 60Hz. The iPad Pro also supports ProMotion technology, which dynamically adjusts the refresh rate based on the content being displayed.
Performance and Power
Another significant difference between the iPad Air and iPad Pro is their performance and power. The iPad Pro is powered by Apple’s latest and most powerful processor, the M1 chip, which is also used in the latest MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, and Mac Mini models. This chip offers incredible performance, making the iPad Pro one of the most powerful tablets available on the market.
In comparison, the iPad Air is powered by the A14 Bionic chip, which is also used in the latest iPhone models. While the A14 Bionic is still a powerful chip, it is not quite as capable as the M1 chip in the iPad Pro.
Cameras and Audio
If you plan to use your iPad for photography and videography, the iPad Pro is the clear winner. It has a more advanced camera system with a 12MP wide camera and a 10MP ultra-wide camera, compared to the iPad Air’s 12MP wide camera only. The iPad Pro also features a LiDAR scanner, which allows for more accurate depth sensing and augmented reality experiences.
When it comes to audio, both devices have stereo speakers, but the iPad Pro’s speakers are more powerful and offer a wider soundstage. The iPad Pro also has five studio-quality microphones compared to the iPad Air’s three. It can be beneficial for video conferencing or recording high-quality audio.
Accessories
Both the iPad Air and iPad Pro are compatible with several accessories that can enhance your user experience. For example, both devices work with Apple’s Smart Keyboard Folio, which attaches to the iPad magnetically and provides a comfortable typing experience. They also both support the Apple Pencil, a digital stylus that is great for note-taking, drawing, and creative tasks.
However, the iPad Pro has one key advantage in terms of accessories: it supports the new Magic Keyboard. This keyboard has a built-in trackpad and provides a more traditional laptop-like experience. The Magic Keyboard is not compatible with the iPad Air.
Price
Perhaps the most significant difference between the iPad Air vs iPad Pro is their price. The iPad Air starts at $599 for the base model with 64GB of storage, while the iPad Pro starts at $799 for the base model with 128GB of storage. If you opt for the top-of-the-line 12.9-inch iPad Pro with cellular connectivity and 2TB of storage, you’re looking at a price tag of over $2,000.
Repairs
When it comes to repairs, the iPad Air and iPad Pro are similar in many ways. Both devices are covered by Apple’s standard one-year warranty, which includes free repairs for manufacturing defects or other hardware issues. Apple also offers extended warranties called AppleCare+ that can extend your coverage for up to two years and cover accidental damage.
The cost of repairs will depend on several factors, including the nature of the issue and whether or not you have AppleCare+. In general, repairs for the iPad Pro may be more expensive due to its more advanced components and features. But, both devices can be repaired by Apple at a reasonable cost.
To repair an iPad screen, you can take your iPad to an Apple Store or authorized service provider. Alternatively, you can mail your iPad to Apple for repair, or use the company’s online support resources to troubleshoot the issue on your own.
It’s worth noting that there are also third-party repair options available for iPad screens, but these may void your warranty and should be approached with caution. If you choose to use a third-party repair service, be sure to research the company thoroughly and check their reviews to ensure they are reputable and provide quality service.
Which iPad is Right for You?
So, which iPad should you choose? It ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget.
If you’re looking for a powerful tablet with a large display and advanced camera system, the iPad Pro is the obvious choice. It’s also the best option for creative professionals who need a device that can handle demanding tasks like video editing, graphic design, and 3D modeling.
However, if you don’t need the most powerful tablet available and don’t want to spend a premium price, the iPad Air is still an excellent option. It has a fast processor, high-quality display, and works with a variety of accessories that can enhance your user experience.
It’s worth noting that both the iPad Air and iPad Pro are compatible with the latest version of iPadOS, which includes several new features like App Library, redesigned widgets, and improved multi-tasking capabilities.
iPad Air vs iPad Pro: Final Thoughts
The iPad Air and Pro models have quite a few differences in terms of portability, performance, and features. If you are looking for an iPad for entertainment, the Air would be the better option. However, if you are going to be relying on an iPad for business, the Pro is the way to go.
Go online to compare iPad Air vs iPad Pro models to find which one suits your needs best.
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