Should You Buy the iPad Air or Pro for Your Needs?

When deciding whether to purchase the iPad Pro or the iPad Air, it is important to consider your personal needs and budget. Each device has its own set of features and price points that make them more suitable for certain users. In this article, we will explore the advantages and disadvantages of each model and provide guidance on which one might be the best fit for you.

Pricing and Performance

Generally, the iPad Air is less expensive than the iPad Pro, making it a more budget-friendly option for those who do not require the advanced hardware features of the Pro. The iPad Air, introduced in the Fall of 2020, offers a full-screen display and supports the Magic Keyboard, which gives it a competitive edge over older iPad models.

However, if you are in the market for the most up-to-date iPad, it’s worth waiting for the new lineup of iPad Pros, which feature the latest A14 chipset. The iPad Pro, especially the models released in 2020 and 2021, includes an upgraded processor and a 120 Hz display, making it an excellent choice for those needing top-notch performance and faster refresh rates for gaming and graphics-intensive applications.

Versatility Across Tasks

While the iPad Air is more than sufficient for most general-purpose tablet users, it may not be ideal for those who use their device to its full potential, such as professionals who require specialized software for sketching and art work. For such users, the iPad Pro is a better choice, offering a higher-quality screen, a LIDAR sensor, and a more powerful processor, especially when it comes to performance and graphics handling.

However, if you are looking for a high-quality screen without the additional features, consider the Samsung Tab S7, which offers a better display and better battery life than both the iPad Air and Pro. This makes it a strong contender for users who prioritize a premium display and battery endurance.

Second-Hand and New Options

If you are considering a second-hand model, it is important to note that the iPad Pro 2018 is very close in performance to the 2020 model. The main difference lies in the camera module and the addition of the LIDAR sensor in the 2020 model. While the 2018 iPad Pro is a solid choice, it is important to balance the cost with the additional features of the 2020 model. The base models of the 2020 iPad Pro come with 128GB of storage, which can be a significant improvement over the 64GB available in the 2018 model.

The iPad Air, despite having a newer A14 processor, is still slower than the A12X and A12Z processors found in the 2020 and 2021 iPad Pros. The Pros also feature ProMotion technology, which offers a smoother 120 Hz display and better performance in gaming and other graphics-intensive tasks. The storage capacity is another critical factor, with the base models of the 2020 iPad Pro starting at 128GB, which is more than sufficient for most users.

Therefore, if you need a device with larger storage capacity, such as 256GB, you should look into purchasing a 2020 iPad Pro. This can be a good option if you want to enhance the capacity without spending heavily on the newer models. You can find the iPad Pro 2020 on Amazon for around $750, which makes it a more budget-friendly choice.

Conclusion

The choice between the iPad Air and iPad Pro ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. The iPad Air is a more affordable option with excellent performance for basic tasks, while the iPad Pro offers a superior experience for advanced users. By considering the latest features, storage capacity, and performance, you can make an informed decision that best suits your requirements. Whether you choose the iPad Air or the iPad Pro, both devices offer a top-notch Apple experience, but they cater to different user needs.

iPad Air Features

Main Features: Full-screen display, Magic Keyboard compatibility, A14 Bionic chipset, 128GB base model, LIDAR sensor (2020 model).

iPad Pro Advantages

Main Features: A12X and A12Z processors, ProMotion 120 Hz display, LIDAR sensor, more storage capacity, better performance for graphics and gaming.