iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) vs iPad Pro (2021, M1 series)
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iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series)
Starting at
£316.24£669.00 new
iPad Pro (2021, M1 series)
Starting at
£476.53£749.00 newWhat's the difference between the iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) and iPad Pro (2021, M1 series)?
iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) vs iPad Pro (2021, M1 series) comes down to the screen size and weight. Refurbished, the iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) starts at £316.24, £160.29 less than the iPad Pro (2021, M1 series). The iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) is the newer model, released in 2022.
Refurbished from
Screen size
Weight
- Screen size: 10.9 inch on the iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series), 11 inch on the iPad Pro (2021, M1 series).
- Weight: 462 g on the iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series), 470 g on the iPad Pro (2021, M1 series).
iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) vs iPad Pro (2021, M1 series) specs
The iPad Air 5 and iPad Pro 2021 share the same Apple M1 processor and 8 GB of RAM, making both strong performers for everyday tasks and creative work. The iPad Pro offers more storage options, starting at 128 GB and going up to 2 TB, which suits users needing extra space. The Pro's screen is slightly larger and brighter, ideal for those who want a more immersive viewing experience. The iPad Pro also includes Face ID and a LiDAR scanner, features tailored for users interested in advanced security and augmented reality. The iPad Air 5 supports Touch ID and is a little lighter, fitting well for those who prefer fingerprint unlocking and a more portable device. Audio is richer on the iPad Pro thanks to its four speakers compared to the Air's stereo speakers.
iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) vs iPad Pro (2021, M1 series) price
Colour
iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) vs iPad Pro (2021, M1 series) battery life and software updates
Each device offers the same maximum operating system support, so you can expect ongoing software improvements regardless of your choice.
Software Updates
The iPad Air 5 and iPad Pro 2021 both support iPadOS updates up to version 18. This means you get access to the latest features and security patches on either device, keeping your tablet current for years to come.
Battery
Maximum operating system supported
Software updates
Year of release
iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) vs iPad Pro (2021, M1 series) performance
Performance is closely matched between these two iPads, with both using the Apple M1 processor and 8 GB of RAM. Storage options differ, which can influence how much data, apps, or media you can keep on the device.
Processor and RAM
The Apple M1 chip and 8 GB of RAM in both iPads keep apps running smoothly, whether you are multitasking, editing photos, or using creative software. This makes either device suitable for users wanting strong day-to-day performance.
Storage Options
The iPad Air 5 comes with 64 GB or 256 GB storage options, fitting users with moderate storage needs. The iPad Pro 2021 starts at 128 GB and goes up to 2 TB, providing ample space for those who work with large files or extensive media collections.
Processor
RAM
iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) vs iPad Pro (2021, M1 series) screen
Screen differences affect how you view content and interact with the device. The iPad Pro offers a slightly larger and brighter display, which can enhance media consumption and creative work.
Screen Size and Resolution
The iPad Air 5 features a 10.9 inch Liquid Retina display with a resolution of 2360 by 1640 pixels. The iPad Pro 2021 has an 11 inch Liquid Retina display with a resolution of 2388 by 1668 pixels. The Pro's larger screen provides more room for watching videos and working on detailed tasks.
Brightness
With a maximum brightness of 600 nits, the iPad Pro 2021 screen is brighter than the iPad Air 5's 500 nits. This means the Pro's display performs better in brighter environments and offers more vivid visuals.
Brightness
Display glass
Pixel density
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
True tone
iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) vs iPad Pro (2021, M1 series) camera
Both iPads offer strong camera and video features for everyday photography and video calls, but their speaker setups differ, affecting audio quality.
Camera Quality
The front and rear cameras on both iPads have a 12 megapixel resolution, capable of capturing detailed photos and sharp video calls. Both can record video in 4K at 60 frames per second, suitable for high-quality recordings.
Speakers
The iPad Air 5 has stereo speakers, which deliver clear sound for personal use. The iPad Pro 2021 features four-speaker audio, creating a richer and more immersive listening experience, which is useful for watching films or playing music.
Front camera
Front camera definition
Main camera
Rear camera definition
Speakers
Video recording
iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) vs iPad Pro (2021, M1 series) size and design
Several practical differences in features and design may influence your choice depending on how you use the iPad daily.
Biometric Security
The iPad Air 5 uses Touch ID for unlocking and authentication, which works via fingerprint. The iPad Pro 2021 supports Face ID, unlocking your device with facial recognition. Choose the security type that suits your preferences.
Additional Sensors
The iPad Pro 2021 includes a LiDAR scanner, which enhances augmented reality experiences and can assist in 3D scanning apps. This is ideal for users interested in AR or creative applications that use spatial sensing.
Physical Dimensions and Weight
The iPad Air 5 is 6.1 mm deep and weighs 462 g, making it slightly thicker and lighter than the iPad Pro 2021, which is 5.9 mm deep and weighs 470 g. The Air's lighter weight suits users prioritising portability.
Touchscreen and Connectivity
The iPad Air 5 supports touch input, allowing interaction via touch gestures. Both devices use USB Type-C connectors and have Bluetooth 5.0 and Wi-Fi 6 support, ensuring fast connections and compatibility with accessories.
Additional Features
The iPad Pro 2021 includes a promotion feature, which may interest users looking for enhanced display capabilities. Both devices are compatible with the Apple Pencil 2nd generation and the Apple Pencil (USB-C) for drawing and note-taking.
Apple pen compatible
Bluetooth version
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Double sim
Face
Generation number
Headphones connectivity
Height
Lidar scanner
Minimum system requirements mac
Minimum system requirements windows
Promotion
Sim format
Touch
Weight
Width
Wifi technology
iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) or iPad Pro (2021, M1 series): which should you buy?
Buy the iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £316.24, £160.29 less than the iPad Pro (2021, M1 series)
- you want the newer model (2022)
iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) vs iPad Pro (2021, M1 series) FAQs
iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) vs iPad Pro (2021, M1 series) comes down to the screen size and weight. Screen size: 10.9 inch on the iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series), 11 inch on the iPad Pro (2021, M1 series). Weight: 462 g on the iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series), 470 g on the iPad Pro (2021, M1 series).
The iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) is cheaper refurbished, from £316.24 compared with £476.53 for the iPad Pro (2021, M1 series).
The iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) is still supported and can run iPadOS 27. The iPad Pro (2021, M1 series) is still supported and can run iPadOS 27.
The iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) is newer, but the main specs we compare are the same. Refurbished, it costs £160.29 less (from £316.24 vs £476.53).
Refurbished, the iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) comes in 64GB and 256GB, and the iPad Pro (2021, M1 series) in 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB and 2TB.
