Which should you choose: the 2024 iPad Pro or iPad Air? What's the dif – NIMASO

Introduction

On May 15, 2024, Apple released the iPad Pro (M4) and iPad Air (M2). The new features and changes of the new iPad are of interest, but before that, it is important to first consider whether you really need an iPad and whether you should choose the iPad Pro or the iPad Air if you are going to buy one. This chapter uses popular iPad models recommended for those considering purchasing an iPad as examples to explain the differences between the iPad Pro and iPad Air, how to choose, and the best deals.

We're here to help you find the iPad that's right for you. Let's get started!

Clickable Table of Contents

What is the difference between the iPad Pro and the iPad Air?

Consider the release date
Consider the chip/specs
Consider from the appearance

Should you buy an iPad Pro or Air?

Should I buy an iPad Pro? What model do you recommend?
Should I buy an iPad Air? What model do you recommend?

For price reference, click here ( Price list of new models released in 2024 )

Recommended for those who are planning to buy an iPad

If price isn't a concern and you want your iPad to last longer:

Best performance → New iPad Pro (11/13 inch) (released in May 2024)

For reading PDFs, videos, and books → New iPad Air (11/13 inch) (released in May 2024)

For those who value both cost performance and functionality:

For those who want to do heavy work, hobbies, or study → 2022 iPad Pro "M2" (6th generation)

*The iPad Air 5 currently on sale is becoming an older model, so if you are considering purchasing an iPad Air, we recommend the 2024 model. If you value convenience and cost performance, we recommend the iPad mini (6th generation), and if you value screen size and cost performance, we recommend the iPad (10th generation).

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What is the difference between the iPad Pro and the iPad Air?

*There are four types of iPad series currently on sale at the Apple Store: iPad Pro, iPad Air, iPad, and iPad mini.

The iPad and iPad mini were released at the same time, but this time we will explain the features and differences between the iPad Pro and iPad Air models.

・Consider from the release date

iPad Pro release schedule

(Here is a list of iPad Pro release dates)

iPad Air release dates

(Here is a list of iPad Air release dates)

Looking at past iPad models, we can see that while one iPad Air model was released each year, two iPad Pro models with different chips and sizes were released in the same year.

However, rumors suggest that unlike previous years, the new iPad Pro and new iPad Air may be released at the same time in 2024. In addition, the new iPad Air (6th generation) is expected to have a new 12.9-inch model in addition to the current 10.9-inch model.

*Latest news: The new iPad Pro and new iPad Air were released simultaneously on May 15, 2024. The new iPad Air comes in both 11-inch and 13-inch screen sizes.

・Consider from the chip/specs

Image: time-space

Just like the iPhone and MacBook, each new iPad model has upgraded performance over the previous model and is equipped with the latest chips and specifications.

Also, the Pro model released in the same year has a more functional chip than the Air model, allowing for smoother operation.

For example, the iPad Pro released in 2021 is equipped with the "M2" chip, but the iPad Air released in 2022 is equipped with the "M1" chip, so the iPad Pro released in 2021 has better performance. Even if the iPad Air scheduled for release in 2024 is equipped with the "M2" chip, it will not be able to compete with the iPad Pro released in 2024.

Features of the iPad Pro: Allows for more demanding tasks, for advanced users

Features of iPad Air: Easy to carry and can be used for a wide range of hobbies, study, and work

Consider the appearance

1.Size and weight:

The iPad Pro is generally large and heavy. On the other hand, the iPad Air is more compact and lightweight. However, the newly released iPad Pro is equipped with an M4 chip, so the new iPad Pro is only 5.1mm thick, making it the thinnest model ever.

2.Display:

The iPad Pro is available in models with larger screen sizes.

Additionally, some iPad Pro models feature ProMotion technology and support a 120Hz refresh rate, something that 2023 and newer iPad Air models won't have.

*The 2024 new iPad Air will have a maximum screen speed of 60Hz, while the new iPad Pro will have a maximum screen speed of 120Hz.

3.Design:

The iPad Pro typically has a more angular design and flat edges, while the iPad Air has more rounded edges and a thinner design.

*Latest specifications for the 2024 new iPad Pro & iPad Air:

	iPad Pro (2024)	iPad Air (2024)
display	11-inch/13-inch OLED (up to 120Hz)	11-inch/13-inch IPS LCD (up to 60Hz)
weight	444g/579g (Wi-Fi model)	462g/614g (Wi-Fi model)
Tips	Apple M4 chip	Apple M2 chip
Storage	256GB to 2TB	128GB to 1TB
Battery life	Up to 10 hours	Up to 10 hours
camera	12MP wide-angle (4K, ProRes), 12MP ultra-wide-angle landscape	12MP wide-angle (4K), 12MP ultra-wide-angle landscape
Apple Intelligence	Japanese support will be available from April 2025 onwards	Japanese support will be available from April 2025 onwards
Compatible accessories	Magic Keyboard, Apple Pencil Pro/USB-C	Magic Keyboard, Apple Pencil Pro/USB-C
price	From 168,800 yen	From 98,800 yen

Should you buy an iPad Pro or Air?

Should I buy an iPad Pro? What model do you recommend?

Quote: macrumors

The iPad Pro is a high-level model equipped with the same "M" series chip as the MacBook. The iPad Pro is also expected to provide high-performance features for creators and professionals, and therefore focuses on a large screen, a fast processor, and accessories such as the Apple Pencil. However, you can't expect the same specs from the iPad Pro as the MacBook. If you want high performance, you'll be more satisfied if you buy a more functional MacBook.

About the new iPad Pro: Rumor has it that Apple is planning to release a new iPad Pro and Air in April or June 2024. The new iPad Pro models are expected to have thinner bezels, a larger screen, and use OLED technology, which is expected to make the display screen more than 1mm thinner and more vivid.

*Latest news: The new iPad Pro will be released on May 15, 2024! Equipped with the M4 chip, it is the thinnest Apple product ever. Available in 11-inch and 13-inch screen sizes, it uses OLED technology to achieve a thinner, more vivid image.

* Click here for recommended glass films and cases for iPad Pro (M4)

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・Should I buy an iPad Air? Which model do you recommend?

Quote: macrumors

iPad Air is designed to be a powerful, compact and lightweight device for consumers and students.

The iPad Air, announced in March 2022, is a relatively old iPad in Apple's iPad lineup. Therefore, it is not appropriate to buy an iPad Air at this time. According to rumors, the new iPad Air is likely to be released in April or June of 2024, and it will be equipped with an "M3" or "M2" chip.

If you want to buy an iPad Air, we recommend the new iPad Air, scheduled for release in 2024. If you prefer the latest technology, you should wait for the new model to be released or the price to be reduced!

*Latest information: The iPad Air will be released at the same time as the iPad Pro on May 15, 2024, equipped with the M2 chip and available in the same 11-inch and 13-inch sizes.

* Click here for recommended glass films and cases for iPad Ari (M2)