Apple just announced the new fourth-generation iPad Air in September, but the new tablets have now started shipping out to customers as of last Friday. MacRumors picked one up and thought we’d do a hands-on comparison with the iPad Pro, which was last updated in March.
When it comes to design, the 11-inch iPad Pro and the 10.9-inch iPad Air look quite similar with flat edges like the iPhone 12, a camera bump at the back, and an edge-to-edge display with no Home button. Note that in the video, we’re comparing the iPad Air to a 12.9-inch iPad Pro because we don’t have an 11-inch model on hand, but aside from size, it too is identical to the iPad Air.
The iPad Air is just a bit smaller than the 11-inch iPad Pro, and the bezels around the display are a bit thicker. It’s not a huge difference, but with both tablets side by side, it’s noticeable. Other than that, display quality is similar, with one notable exception: the iPad Pro supports 120Hz ProMotion refresh rates for smoother scrolling and a better overall experience.
MacDailyNews Take: If you can wait for Apple’s third generation iPad Pro to get the A14, wait for the Pro. If you’re buying today, the choice between the iPad Air and the iPad Pro is more difficult, so use Apple’s iPad comparison tool to make the best choice for you.
Not cool Apple. Why put a faster chip in a non pro machine. WTF
Less cores, less RAM, fewer speakers, worse screen, no Face ID, worse camera, the choice is obvious, get an iPad Pro. The Air is only “cheaper” if you get the embarrassing 64GB of storage in the base $599 model, I wouldn’t wish that on my worst enemy. Apple’s reality distortion is on full blast with all of the tech media hacks proclaiming the Air as equal to or better than the Air. It’s only better for Apples bottom line and people obsessed with colors. And who the hell compares the 12.9″ Pro to a 10.9″ Air anyway?
I can make a similar comparison. I have 2 iPads now. One is iPad mini (5th gen) with A12, current model with 7.9-inch screen. The other is 10.5-inch iPad Pro with A10X, 2017 model.
A12 is newer, but the X is important. Both have 6 cores. Pro has 4GB RAM, mini has 3GB. Pro has ProMotion display, mini does not. Pro has a much better built-in speakers. Pro has 12MP camera versus 8MP for mini. I like them both and use them about equally. In no way does the Pro feel slower. Its screen is noticeably better (not just bigger), it’s the one I use to watch Netflix and tv, no headphones needed.
If you can find good holiday deal on current A12X iPad Pro, consider it versus latest iPad Air OR waiting and paying full retail for next model. It’ll serve you well for many years.