In 2025, choosing between iPad Air and iPad Pro is not as simple as it seems. Both offer power, premium design and compatibility with the latest accessories, but there are important differences worth analysing before investing. In this iPad Air vs Pro comparison, we explain what makes them different in design, performance, display, accessories and, of course, price.
iPad vs iPad Air vs iPad Pro: How many iPads are there?
Apple currently maintains six active models in its catalogue: iPad 10th generation, iPad mini 6, iPad Air (11″ and 13″) and iPad Pro (11″ and 13″). Each responds to a different user profile, from students to creative professionals.
iPad Air vs iPad Pro: key differences
- Processor: iPad Air incorporates the M3 chip, while iPad Pro debuts the M4, more efficient and with better graphic performance.
- Display: iPad Air maintains LCD technology, while iPad Pro offers a stunning OLED Ultra Retina XDR panel with ProMotion at 120 Hz.
- Price: iPad Air starts from €599, while iPad Pro starts at €999.
Design and build
- Thickness and weight: iPad Pro is thinner (5.3 mm vs 6.1 mm for the Air) and slightly lighter.
- Colours: iPad Air opts for attractive finishes like blue or pink, while iPad Pro remains in sober tones (silver and space black).
- Cameras: iPad Air integrates a 12 MP rear camera, while iPad Pro adds a dual system with LiDAR, designed for augmented reality and 3D apps.
Performance and M3/M4 chip
- iPad Air with M3 chip: Perfect for multitasking, demanding games and standard photo or video editing. Its balance makes it the ideal ally for students, teachers and professionals seeking power without excess.
- iPad Pro with M4 chip: Aimed at those working with 4K/8K editing, 3D design, animation or AI workflows. The new chip is not only faster but also more efficient and ready for the apps of the future.
Display, refresh rate and visual experience
- iPad Air: Liquid Retina LCD, 500 nits brightness, 60 Hz rate.
- iPad Pro: OLED Ultra Retina XDR with ProMotion (up to 120 Hz), 1,600 nits in HDR and perfect blacks.
Compatible accessories
Both models are compatible with the Apple Pencil USB-C and the new Apple Pencil Pro. The Magic Keyboard adapts to both Air and Pro, although in the latter it offers superior performance thanks to its Thunderbolt port.
Storage, ports and other technical differences
- iPad Air: 128 GB to 1 TB, USB-C 3.1 (10 Gbps), Touch ID on top button.
- iPad Pro: 256 GB to 2 TB, Thunderbolt 4/USB-C 4 (40 Gbps), compatible with 6K monitors, Face ID integrated.
Which iPad to choose according to your profile
- General users and students: iPad Air, balanced in price and power.
- Mobile professionals and teachers: Air with Apple Pencil Pro, perfect for notes and content creation.
- Designers, photographers and video creators: iPad Pro, indispensable for M4 chip, OLED display and greater storage.
- Gamers and cinema lovers: iPad Pro’s ProMotion 120 Hz offers an incomparable immersive experience.
At SETEK we help businesses and professionals get the most out of their Apple ecosystem. Request your free consultation and discover which iPad will boost your productivity.