iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) vs iPad Pro (2025, M5 series)
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iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series)
Starting at
£316.24£669.00 new
iPad Pro (2025, M5 series)
Starting at
£921.11£1,098.90 newWhat's the difference between the iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) and iPad Pro (2025, M5 series)?
iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) vs iPad Pro (2025, M5 series) comes down to the RAM, screen size and screen type. Refurbished, the iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) starts at £316.24, £604.87 less than the iPad Pro (2025, M5 series). The iPad Pro (2025, M5 series) is the newer model, released in 2025.
Refurbished from
RAM
Screen size
Screen type
Weight
- The iPad Pro (2025, M5 series) has more RAM: 12 GB vs 8 GB.
- The iPad Pro (2025, M5 series) has a bigger screen: 13 inch vs 10.9 inch.
- Screen type: Liquid Retina display on the iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series), Ultra Retina XDR display on the iPad Pro (2025, M5 series).
iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) vs iPad Pro (2025, M5 series) specs
The iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) and the iPad Pro (2025, M5 series) offer different strengths suited to distinct needs. The iPad Air 5 is lighter and comes with a smaller 10.9 inch Liquid Retina screen, making it easier to carry and comfortable for everyday use and portability. It has 8 GB of RAM and storage starting at 64 GB, which suits typical app use and moderate file storage. The iPad Pro features a larger 13 inch Ultra Retina XDR display with higher resolution, more RAM at 12 GB, and much larger storage options starting at 256 GB, aimed at users who need more screen space, memory, and storage for demanding tasks. The Pro also adds features like Face ID and a lidar scanner, which appeal to creative and professional users.
iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) vs iPad Pro (2025, M5 series) price
Colour
iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) vs iPad Pro (2025, M5 series) battery life and software updates
Their operating systems and update support ensure they stay functional with the latest features and security patches.
Operating System Support
This compatibility means either device can stay up to date with software improvements.
Release Year
The iPad Air 5 was released in 2022, while the iPad Pro came out in 2025. This difference in release years provides context but does not affect the operating system compatibility or durability directly.
Maximum operating system supported
Software updates
Year of release
iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) vs iPad Pro (2025, M5 series) performance
Performance differences show in processing power, memory, and storage capacity. Each device suits different users based on how much multitasking or data storage they need.
Processor Power
The iPad Air 5 runs on the Apple M1 processor, suitable for everyday tasks and smooth multitasking. The iPad Pro uses the Apple M5 chip, which offers more processing power for demanding applications, making it a better fit for professional workloads.
Memory Capacity
With 8 GB of RAM, the iPad Air 5 handles typical apps and multitasking efficiently. The iPad Pro has 12 GB of RAM, allowing it to keep more apps and processes active simultaneously, which benefits users working with complex or multiple applications.
Storage Options
The iPad Air 5 is stocked with 64 GB and 256 GB storage options, covering general use and moderate file storage. The iPad Pro offers a wider range from 256 GB up to 2 TB, which suits users needing large space for media, projects, or extensive app libraries.
Processor
Processor speed ghz
RAM
iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) vs iPad Pro (2025, M5 series) screen
Screen quality differences affect how you view content and work on the device. The size, resolution, and display type cater to different viewing preferences and tasks.
Screen Size and Type
The iPad Air 5 has a 10.9 inch Liquid Retina display, compact for portability and easy handling. The iPad Pro features a larger 13 inch Ultra Retina XDR display, providing more room for video, drawing, and multitasking on screen.
Resolution
The iPad Air 5 offers a resolution of 2360 x 1640, which delivers sharp and clear images for everyday use. The iPad Pro has a higher resolution of 2752 x 2064, delivering more detail and better clarity, beneficial for professional photo and video work.
Display Protection
Both devices use standard display glass with True Tone technology, which adjusts screen colour temperature for comfortable viewing in different lighting conditions.
Brightness
Display glass
Pixel density
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
True tone
iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) vs iPad Pro (2025, M5 series) camera
Audio and camera features affect how you capture and consume media. Both iPads have similarities and differences that suit different user needs.
Camera Resolution
Both iPads have 12 megapixel front and rear cameras, capable of capturing detailed photos and videos. They also support 4K video recording at 60 frames per second, making them suitable for high-quality video calls and content creation.
Speaker Setup
The iPad Air 5 comes with stereo speakers, adequate for general audio use. The iPad Pro features four speaker audio, which produces richer and more immersive sound, ideal for media consumption and creative work.
Front camera definition
Rear camera definition
Speakers
Video recording
iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) vs iPad Pro (2025, M5 series) size and design
Additional features influence ease of use, connectivity, and special capabilities. These differences help identify which iPad fits specific user preferences and workflows.
Biometric Authentication
The iPad Pro includes Face ID, allowing secure unlocking and authentication using facial recognition. The iPad Air 5 does not have Face ID but supports Touch ID for fingerprint unlocking, suiting users who prefer fingerprint access.
Size and Weight
The iPad Air 5 weighs 462 g, making it lighter and potentially easier to hold for long periods. The iPad Pro weighs 579 g, reflecting its larger size and additional features, which may be preferable for users prioritising screen space over portability.
Connectivity and Ports
Both devices use USB Type-C connectors and support headphone connectivity via USB Type-C. The iPad Air 5 is unlocked and supports Nano SIM cards, which allows mobile data use with compatible carriers. The iPad Pro does not have a SIM port, so it relies on WiFi or other connectivity options.
Additional Features
The iPad Pro includes a lidar scanner, enhancing augmented reality and spatial mapping applications.
Touch and Display Interaction
The iPad Air 5 supports touch input, suitable for direct screen interaction.
Apple pen compatible
Bluetooth version
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
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 (2025, M5 series): which should you buy?
Buy the iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £316.24, £604.87 less than the iPad Pro (2025, M5 series)
- you want a lighter build (462 g vs 579 g)
Buy the iPad Pro (2025, M5 series) if
- you want more RAM (12 GB vs 8 GB)
- you want a bigger screen (13 inch vs 10.9 inch)
What our customers say
Customers who chose the iPad Air 5 appreciate its almost new condition and solid performance. Many mention the M1 chip runs smoothly even with multiple apps open, and the Liquid Retina display provides sharp video streaming. Battery life is generally good for daily use, and the device feels light, which suits users who carry their iPad frequently. Some users recommend pairing it with an Apple Pencil for notes and light drawing. A few note minor issues related to region-specific restrictions on features like Apple Intelligence and FaceTime audio, but overall the device meets expectations for productivity and general use.
The iPad Pro draws praise for its like-new condition and excellent battery health, with customers noting it feels almost brand new with few signs of wear. The larger screen and smooth performance meet the needs of users who want more space and power for demanding apps. Customers highlight the device's reliability, screen brightness, and long battery life, which supports extended use. Some mention the lack of a included charger but find the device's quality and value compelling. The iPad Pro suits users looking for a high-performance tablet with advanced features and spacious storage.
Both iPads receive positive reviews for their condition and performance. The iPad Air 5 appeals to those seeking a lighter, lower-priced device for everyday tasks, while the iPad Pro fits users who need more memory, storage, and screen size for professional or creative work.
iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) vs iPad Pro (2025, M5 series) FAQs
iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) vs iPad Pro (2025, M5 series) comes down to the RAM, screen size and screen type. The iPad Pro (2025, M5 series) has more RAM: 12 GB vs 8 GB. The iPad Pro (2025, M5 series) has a bigger screen: 13 inch vs 10.9 inch.
The iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) is cheaper refurbished, from £316.24 compared with £921.11 for the iPad Pro (2025, M5 series).
The iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) is still supported and can run iPadOS 27. The iPad Pro (2025, M5 series) is still supported and can run iPadOS 27.
The iPad Pro (2025, M5 series) adds more RAM (12 GB vs 8 GB) and a bigger screen (13 inch vs 10.9 inch). Refurbished, it costs £604.87 more (from £921.11 vs £316.24).
Refurbished, the iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) comes in 64GB and 256GB, and the iPad Pro (2025, M5 series) in 256GB, 512GB, 1TB and 2TB.
