Comparing IPad Pro 13 To IPad Air: What’s The Difference?
Discover the key differences between the iPad Pro 13 and iPad Air. This guide will help you choose the right Apple tablet for your needs and lifestyle.
Comparing iPad Pro 13 to iPad Air: What’s the Difference?
When it comes to Apple’s line-up of tablets, two names often come up: the iPad Pro and the iPad Air. Both devices boast impressive features, and they cater to different needs and lifestyles. If you’re on the fence about which one to choose, this article will help you break down the differences and identify which model might be the better fit for you.
Design and Build Quality
The design of both the iPad Pro 13 and the iPad Air is strikingly similar. Apple prides itself on creating sleek and modern devices that are visually appealing. However, there are subtle differences that might influence your decision.
Dimensions and Weight
You’ll notice that the iPad Pro 13 is slightly larger than the iPad Air, which can impact how you use it. Weighing in at around 1.5 pounds for the Pro versus 1 pound for the Air, the iPad Air may feel more manageable and easier to carry around. If you’re planning on taking your tablet on the go — be it to a coffee shop, work, or traveling — you might appreciate the extra portability of the iPad Air.
Materials Used
Both devices feature premium materials, with the iPad Pro using a heavier aluminum chassis that speaks to its premium status. This may enhance your overall feeling of durability and quality, but the construction of the iPad Air is no slouch either. It uses equally high-quality materials that still deliver a stunning design.
Display Technology
Moving on to displays, this is where you may begin to notice some significant differences between the two models. The iPad Pro 13 is known for its exceptional display capabilities, offering a superior viewing experience that sets it apart.
Screen Size and Resolution
The iPad Pro 13 comes equipped with a magnificent 13-inch Liquid Retina XDR display, which offers an incredibly vibrant and colorful viewing experience. On the other hand, the iPad Air features a slightly smaller 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display. While the Air’s display is excellent in its own right, if you often find yourself watching movies, editing photos, or engaging in any multimedia activities, the Pro’s larger display might be a significant benefit to you.
Refresh Rate
Another point worth mentioning is the ProMotion technology that comes with the iPad Pro. This feature allows for a refresh rate of up to 120Hz, making scrolling smoother and animations more fluid. When you’re browsing the web or playing games, this added responsiveness can noticeably enhance your experience. The iPad Air, while still providing a smooth display experience, is limited to a 60Hz refresh rate, which may feel less responsive in real-time applications.
Performance and Hardware
When it comes to performance, you’ll find that the iPad Pro 13 stands head and shoulders above the iPad Air. However, that doesn’t mean the Air is lacking; it just depends on what you intend to do with your tablet.
Processor Comparison
The iPad Pro is powered by Apple’s M1 chip, which is designed for high-performance applications. This chip provides a seamless multitasking experience and can easily handle demanding applications, including video editing, graphic design, and high-end gaming. The iPad Air, on the other hand, uses the A14 Bionic chip. While this chip is no slouch and is great for everyday tasks, it may struggle a bit with the most demanding workloads.
RAM
Alongside the processors, the amount of RAM can also significantly affect performance. The iPad Pro can come with either 8GB or 16GB of RAM, depending on the storage configuration you choose, while the iPad Air has a fixed 4GB of RAM. If you often use apps that require more memory, or you find yourself multitasking regularly, the Pro is likely to provide a smoother experience.
Storage Options
Your choice between the iPad Pro 13 and iPad Air can also depend on how much storage capacity you need. Both models offer different configurations to accommodate various user requirements.
Available Storage Configurations
The iPad Pro offers a wider range of storage options, starting from 128GB and going all the way up to a massive 2TB. This is particularly relevant if you work with large files or prefer to store vast libraries of content directly on your device. Conversely, the iPad Air comes in configurations of 64GB or 256GB, which may work perfectly well for general use, but may leave you feeling limited if you’re a heavy user.
Cloud Storage Integration
If you’re concerned about storage space, both models support iCloud, which offers an excellent way to store your files online. By using iCloud, you can seamlessly back up your data and access it across multiple devices. So, even if you lean towards the Air for its portability, you still have options to expand your storage capabilities.
Camera Quality
While cameras on tablets may not be as critical as those on smartphones, there are noticeable differences worth mentioning, especially if you find yourself using your tablet for video calls or casual photography.
Rear and Front Cameras
The rear camera on the iPad Pro is significantly more advanced than that of the iPad Air. The Pro features a 12MP wide camera and a 10MP ultra-wide camera, allowing for versatility when taking photos and videos. Whether you’re capturing a beautiful landscape or shooting a quick video for a project, the Pro’s camera can deliver superior quality.
While the iPad Air has a capable 12MP rear camera, it doesn’t offer the same wide-angle capabilities as the Pro. However, it’s still great for everyday tasks, including simple photography and document scanning.
Front Camera and Video Capabilities
The front camera on both devices is essential for video calls, especially as remote work has become more popular. The iPad Pro features a 12MP ultra-wide front camera with Apple’s Center Stage technology, which adjusts the framing during video calls to keep you in the center of the shot. This can make your virtual meetings feel much more engaging. The iPad Air also has a 12MP front camera, but it lacks the Center Stage feature, which might not be a dealbreaker but can enhance your video calling experience.
Audio Performance
Good audio quality can significantly enhance your tablet usage experience, whether you’re watching a movie, video conferencing, or listening to music.
Speaker Quality
The iPad Pro has four speaker systems, which means you’ll enjoy a more immersive sound experience when watching videos or consuming media. The stereo quality is dynamic and offers excellent sound separation, giving you a more cinematic feel. The iPad Air, however, has only two speakers. While this still yields good sound, it may not provide the same level of depth and richness in audio as the Pro.
Microphone Performance
Both devices are equipped with impressive microphones; however, the iPad Pro features a superior audio capturing system that diminishes background noise, making it ideal for voice calls and recordings. This can be an important factor if you plan to use your tablet for professional-quality audio or podcasting.
Battery Life
With extensive usage expectations, battery life becomes a crucial factor to consider. Both devices perform admirably, but there are minor differences worth pointing out.
Expected Longevity
Both the iPad Pro and iPad Air are rated for up to 10 hours of battery life on a single charge when surfing the web or watching videos. If you’re a light user, both models can comfortably last you throughout the day. However, how you use these devices may impact the longevity; heavier applications will drain the battery more quickly on both devices, regardless of the specifications.
Charging Options
The charging method can also factor into your decision. Both models use a USB-C port, but the Pro supports faster charging, making it a more suitable option for users who need their tablet back up and running quickly. If you’re constantly on the go, this feature may sway you toward the iPad Pro.
Connectivity Options
The way you connect and interact with your devices can also affect your choice. Both the iPad Pro and iPad Air offer various options, but they have their unique features worth exploring.
Wi-Fi and Cellular Capabilities
Both models offer Wi-Fi 6 capabilities, ensuring a faster connection and reliable performance. If you anticipate being in environments with heavy Internet traffic, this could make a difference in your browsing experience. The iPad Pro offers the added benefit of having a 5G connectivity option, which allows for ultra-fast downloads and low latency when using cellular data. If you spend a lot of time on the move and need constant access to high-speed internet, this feature would be beneficial.
Accessories and Compatibility
If you plan on using accessories with your tablet, the iPad Pro can take advantage of the Apple Pencil 2 and the Magic Keyboard, making it a powerhouse for creative professionals and students alike. Although the iPad Air is also compatible with the Apple Pencil, it doesn’t support the same level of advanced functionality that the Pro does. Consider how you’ll be using your device when it comes to accessory compatibility.
Price Differences
One of the most significant differences that might guide your decision is the price.
Pricing Models
The iPad Air is designed to be more budget-friendly, while the iPad Pro caters to those seeking premium features. Depending on the configuration and added extras, the Pro can easily double the price of the Air. While price shouldn’t be the only factor in your decision, it does play a significant role. Identify what features are essential for you, and match them accordingly against your budget.
Value for Money
When considering value, the iPad