iPad vs. iPad Air – A Comparison of Features and Performance
When searching for an iPad, many shoppers find it difficult to decide between the iPad and iPad Air models. It's important to understand the differences between the two models before making a purchase to ensure you get the device that best fits your needs.
Let’s compare the iPad and iPad Air to identify the features, performance, and prices that differentiate them.
The first difference to note is the size—the iPad Air is 25% thinner and 28% lighter than the standard iPad. Both models feature Gigabit-class LTE, Wi-Fi, and a Retina display. However, the iPad Air has a larger 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display than the iPad’s 10.2-inch display. This makes the iPad Air easier to use when doing work-related tasks that require more screen real estate.
In terms of performance, the iPad Air is more powerful than the iPad, with the A14 Bionic chip compared to the A12 Bionic chip. Powering the iPad Air is also a 9th generation Apple A12Z Bionic chip, while the standard iPad is powered by an 8th generation A10 Fusion chip. With the more powerful chip, the iPad Air offers faster performance, allowing it to handle more intensive tasks. The iPad Air also comes with 4 GB of RAM, whereas the iPad comes with only 2 GB.
The iPad Air also has a few features that set it apart from the standard iPad. It supports second-generation Apple Pencil, which offers improved accuracy and responsiveness. Additionally, the iPad Air is equipped with a USB-C port for faster data transfer, allowing you to quickly back up photos and videos or connect to a monitor or other devices.
The biggest difference between the two models is the price. The iPad is much more affordable, with prices starting at $329 USD. The iPad Air is pricier, starting at $599 USD. Ultimately, the decision to buy an iPad or iPad Air should be based on your budget and needs. If you need faster performance and better connectivity options, then the iPad Air may be worth the extra cost. However, if you don’t need the performance or features, then the iPad is likely the better choice.