Choosing the Ideal iPad for Your Educational Needs: Air 2 vs. 6th/7th Generation

When it comes to choosing the right iPad for your educational purposes, it is essential to understand the differences between the iPad Air 2 (released in October 2014) and the iPad 6th generation (released in March 2018) and the 7th generation (released in September 2019). Each model has its unique features, and this article will provide a detail breakdown to help you make an informed decision.

Performance Comparison

Processor

iPad Air 2: Equipped with an A8X chip in 64-bit architecture. iPad 6th Generation: Features an A10 Fusion chip, a significant upgrade from its predecessor. iPad 7th Generation: Also powered by an A10 Fusion chip, but with a slight advantage due to an upgrade in RAM to 3GB instead of 2GB.

RAM

iPad Air 2: Comes with 2GB RAM. iPad 6th Generation: Offers the same 2GB RAM as the Air 2. iPad 7th Generation: Upgraded to 3GB RAM for better performance.

Display Differences

While the iPad Air 2, the 6th generation, and the 7th generation share the same 9.7-inch Retina display with 2048 x 1536 pixels resolution, the 7th generation introduces a slight screen size and pixel density increase.

Size: iPad Air 2 and iPad 6th Generation - 9.7 inches. Size: iPad 7th Generation - 10.2 inches. Resolution: iPad Air 2 and iPad 6th Generation - 2048 x 1536 pixels. Resolution: iPad 7th Generation - 2160 x 1620 pixels.

Camera Features

The cameras on the iPad Air 2 and the 6th/7th generations are relatively similar, offering 8MP rear cameras and 1.2MP front cameras, respectively. The key differences lie in other hardware and software features.

Rear Camera: All models have an 8MP rear camera. Front Camera: All models have a 1.2MP front camera.

Apple Pencil Compatibility

The iPad Air 2 lacks Apple Pencil support, whereas the 6th and 7th generations support Apple Pencil 1st generation, which can be a significant advantage for education and creative work.

Apple Pencil Support: iPad Air 2 - No support. Apple Pencil Support: iPad 6th Generation and iPad 7th Generation - Support for Apple Pencil 1st generation.

Software Differences

While the iPad Air 2 can run up to iPadOS 15, it may not be guaranteed to support future updates. In contrast, the 6th and 7th generation models are likely to receive more updates and support.

Initial Software: iPad Air 2 - Shipped with iOS 8. Software Support: iPad 6th and 7th Generations - Likely to receive more updates compared to Air 2.

Additional Features

The 7th generation iPad includes Smart Connector for keyboard accessories, which the iPad Air 2 does not have. This can be a valuable feature for students who prefer to use external keyboards for better typing and note-taking experiences.

Smart Connector: iPad 7th Generation - Includes Smart Connector for keyboard accessories. Smart Connector: iPad Air 2 and iPad 6th Generation - No Smart Connector feature.

Conclusion

Considering an iPad for educational purposes, the iPad 6th or 7th generation would be a better choice due to its more powerful processor, longer software support, and additional features such as Apple Pencil support and Smart Connector. The iPad Air 2 is still a capable device but may struggle with more demanding apps and future software updates.

If budget allows, opt for the newer model, especially for educational use. These devices offer better performance, more advanced features, and longer-term software support, making them ideal for students and educators.