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The M2 iPad Air vs M2 iPad Pro is an intriguing battle in 2024. Both tabs are celebrated for their powerful performance and exceptional versatility. The iPad Pro is good for professionals and power users, delivering top-tier performance and cutting-edge features. Meanwhile, the iPad Air strikes a good balance between performance and price, making it a popular choice among consumers looking for a capable tablet without the highest-end features.
While the iPad Air (M2) is the new kid on the block, its Pro counterpart has been dominating the scene for over a year and a half. This article compares both machines on various aspects to determine the superior option.
Note: Some aspects of this article are subjective and solely reflect the opinions of the writer
M2 iPad Air vs M2 iPad Pro: Specs
We start off this M2 iPad Air vs M2 iPad Pro comparison by checking out the tablets' core configurations so that we can have a general idea of what they bring to the table.
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On paper, the two tablets seem almost identical. I am saying “almost” because there are a few changes that make them stand out from each other.
For instance, have a close look at the processor. Though they are powered by the same M-series silicon, the Pro model comes with an extra GPU core. The difference seems very thin, but the extra core will surely help.
Apart from that, the RAM and storage options on the Air model are fewer compared to its Pro counterpart. They are limited to the 8GB + 1TB option.
Both devices promise a marathon of up to 10 hours, letting you surf the web or watch videos on Wi-Fi without a hitch on a single charge.
M2 iPad Air vs M2 iPad Pro: Design and display
The two tablets look very similar from the front. However, there are a lot of differences if you look at them closely.
In my opinion, the iPad Air will feel better. This is because it is both thinner and lighter than the iPad Pro M2. The 13-inch variant of the Air series is around 0.3 mm thinner and 65g lighter than its competitor. This difference increases if you opt for the 11-inch variant. To my surprise, the weight difference was more than 200g.
The main camera module is also different in the two tabs. The Air model comes only with a single camera, while Apple offers an ultrawide lens and a LiDar sensor (which comes in handy with AR apps) on the iPad Pro M2. You also get a flashlight.
The other difference is that the iPad Pro features a vertical front camera, whereas the new Air model features a landscape one. This means your video calls and conferences will feel more natural on the iPad Air.
In my research for this M2 iPad Air vs M2 iPad Pro comparison, I discovered that while both models share features, like 600 nits max SDR brightness and an anti-reflective coating, the iPad Pro's display excels in many other aspects.
Thanks to the Liquid Retina XDR display (Mini-LED backlit) and 1000 nits max full screen, 1600 nits peak (HDR content only) brightness level, everything on the screen looks super good on the Pro tablet.
The other big difference between their screen is the refresh rate. The latest iPad Air is stuck at 60Hz display compared to 120Hz on the iPad Pro.
The Pro model also outshines its competitor in audio input/output. The sound comes out louder and clearer on the iPad Pro. This is because you get two speakers on both sides. When it comes to the mics, you get five studio-quality microphones on the Pro and two standard microphones on the Air.
M2 iPad Air vs M2 iPad Pro: Performance
While the on-paper specs might suggest that the two tabs offer similar performance, reality tells a different story.
The Pro delivers a slightly better performance. To get more insights, I have listed the Geekbench test numbers of both tablets, sourced from the ZONEofTECH YouTube channel.
In both CPU and GPU performance, the iPad Pro outperforms the iPad Air. When talking about productivity, I feel the Air model is better. This is because the new Air model supports the Apple Pencil Pro, which has some crazy advancements over the previous option.
I am not sure if you consider this as performance or another aspect, but it is very convenient to unlock the iPad Pro, thanks to its FaceID. Looking for the TouchID in the iPad Air M2 feels annoying sometimes, especially when you are using it with the keyboard.
M2 iPad Air vs M2 iPad Pro: Value for money
Typically, Pro models are slightly expensive compared to their Air counterparts. The iPad Air base model without any accessories starts at $599. I tried to check out the price for the Pro model on the Apple website, but I didn't find anything.
Fret not, however, as you will find the M2 iPad Pro on third-party websites with a discount of around $200 to $400.
M2 iPad Air vs M2 iPad Pro: Final Verdict
Considering all the points mentioned above, I would suggest going for the Air model for everyday tasks, drawing, or casual gaming.
However, if you require the absolute best performance, smoother scrolling, Face ID, or Thunderbolt for high-speed data transfer, the Pro model is the way to go.
In the debate of the M2 iPad Air vs M2 iPad Pro, the ultimate choice is uniquely yours.
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