iPad Air vs iPad Pro: Which One Should You Buy?
Selection of the right Apple tablet can feel confusing—especially when iPad Air and iPad Pro both look premium, powerful, and very capable. If you’re a student, creative professional, business user, or casual iPad lover, this guide will help you clearly understand the differences so you can make a smart buying decision.
And if you already own an older iPad and are thinking about upgrading, this guide will also help you decide whether it’s time to sell used iPad Air models and move on to something newer.
Let’s break it all down in simple, honest, and user-friendly terms.
Quick Overview: iPad Air vs iPad Pro
iPad Air sits perfectly between Apple’s entry-level iPad and the high-end iPad Pro.
iPad Pro is designed for power users who want top-tier performance, display quality, and professional features.
Both are excellent—but they are built for different needs.
Apple Tablet Lineup Explained
Apple Inc. currently offers:
- iPad (standard) – basic everyday use
- iPad Mini – compact and ultra-portable
- iPad Air – lightweight power with premium design
- iPad Pro – professional-grade performance
This article focuses on iPad Air vs iPad Pro, especially the iPad Air 5th generation, which brought a big performance leap with Apple silicon.
Design & Build Quality
Build Material & Design
- iPad Air: Aluminum body, sleek edges, modern colors
- iPad Pro: Aluminum body with a more premium, professional feel
Both tablets look stylish and durable, but the Pro feels slightly more refined.
Weight & Portability
- iPad Air: Lighter and easier to carry
- iPad Pro: Heavier, especially the 12.9-inch model
👉 If you travel a lot or use your iPad on the go, iPad Air wins for portability.
Screen Size & Resolution
iPad Air Screen Size
- 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display
- Sharp, bright, and color-accurate
- Excellent for reading, streaming, and creative work
iPad Pro Screen Options
- 11-inch or 12.9-inch Retina display
- ProMotion (120Hz refresh rate)
- Better brightness and smoother scrolling
If display quality is your top priority—especially for drawing or video editing—the Pro is better. For most users, the iPad Air screen is more than enough.
Performance: Processor Speed & Power
iPad Air Performance
- Powered by M1 chip (or A14 in older models)
- Handles multitasking, gaming, editing, and apps smoothly
- Huge upgrade from older Air models
iPad Pro Performance
- M1 or M2 chip depending on model
- Designed for heavy workflows like 4K editing, 3D design, and professional apps
Reality check:
Most users will never push the iPad Pro to its full potential. The iPad Air already feels incredibly fast.
Software Experience (iOS / iPadOS)
Both tablets:
- Run the latest iPadOS
- Get long-term software updates
- Access millions of apps on the App Store
Apple provides excellent software support for years, making both devices future-proof.
Battery Life & Charging
iPad Air Battery Life
- Up to 10 hours of normal use
- Reliable for work, study, and entertainment
iPad Pro Battery Life
- Similar usage time despite more power
- Slightly faster charging on some models
There’s no major difference here—both easily last a full day.
Storage Capacity Options
- iPad Air: Limited storage tiers
- iPad Pro: Wider range, including very high storage
If you store large files, videos, or professional projects locally, the Pro gives more flexibility.
Camera Quality
iPad Air
- Solid rear camera
- Front camera with Center Stage (great for video calls)
iPad Pro
- Better camera system
- LiDAR scanner (useful for AR and creative apps)
For casual photography and video calls, iPad Air is more than fine.
Apple Pencil & Accessories Compatibility
Both models support:
- Apple Pencil (2nd generation)
- Magic Keyboard
- Smart Cover and other iPad Air accessories
If you’re into drawing, note-taking, or productivity, both devices work beautifully with accessories.
Price & Value for Money
iPad Air Price
- Significantly more affordable
- Best balance of power and price
iPad Pro Price
- Much more expensive
- Best for professionals who truly need advanced features
Value verdict:
For most people, iPad Air offers the best value for money.
iPad Air Review: Who Should Buy It?
Choose iPad Air if you:
- Want strong performance without Pro pricing
- Need a lightweight Apple tablet
- Use Apple Pencil for notes or art
- Watch content, browse, and multitask
It’s powerful, modern, and practical.
Who Should Buy an iPad Pro?
Choose iPad Pro if you:
- Are a creative professional
- Edit videos or photos heavily
- Want the best display Apple offers
- Replace a laptop with your iPad
Should You Upgrade or Sell Your Old iPad?
If you’re still using an older iPad or an earlier Air model:
- Performance may feel slow
- Battery health may be reduced
- New iPadOS features may be limited
This is a great time to sell used iPad devices and upgrade to a newer model while your old one still holds value.
Many people don’t realize how much their used Apple tablets are worth—even if they’re secondhand or slightly worn.
Smart Tip: Turn Old Electronics Into Cash
Instead of letting old Apple tablets collect dust:
- You can sell working, broken, or used electronics
- Use that cash toward a new iPad upgrade
We Buy Back Electronics is a trusted buyer in the USA that purchases old, used, second-hand, and even broken electronics, making upgrades easier and more affordable.
Selling your old iPad not only gives you instant value—it also supports responsible recycling.
Environmental Benefits of Selling Used Electronics
Selling old electronics:
- Reduces e-waste
- Promotes reuse and recycling
- Helps the environment
When you sell used iPad Air models instead of throwing them away, you contribute to a greener tech ecosystem.
Final Verdict: iPad Air vs iPad Pro
| Feature | iPad Air | iPad Pro |
| Performance | Excellent | Extreme |
| Display | Great | Best |
| Portability | Lightweight | Heavier |
| Price | Affordable | Premium |
| Best For | Most users | Professionals |
- iPad Air is the smartest choice for most people
- iPad Pro is powerful but only worth it if you truly need it
If you’re upgrading, don’t forget to sell your old Apple tablet instead of letting it lose value. Platforms like We Buy Back Electronics make it simple to turn your unused devices into cash and move forward with confidence.
Make a smart choice, get the right iPad for your needs, and turn your old electronics into money today.
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