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iPad Air (2025) vs. iPad Pro (2024): A Comprehensive Evolutionary and Feature Comparison

General Report May 20, 2025
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TABLE OF CONTENTS

  1. Summary
  2. Evolution of the iPad Air and iPad Pro Lineups
  3. Design and Display: Comparing Aesthetics and Screens
  4. Performance and Internal Hardware: M4 vs. Previous Generations
  5. Software and Ecosystem Integration
  6. Which iPad Should You Buy?
  7. Conclusion

1. Summary

  • As of May 20, 2025, a thorough examination of Apple's latest offerings, the iPad Air (2025) and iPad Pro (2024), reveals a significant evolution in their respective lineups. The comparison encompasses their revolutionary features culminating from the 2022 models through the introduction of the M4-powered Pro to the latest iteration of the Air. Each model showcases distinct advancements in design, performance, and software capabilities tailored to different user needs.

  • The evolution from the earlier models showcased how the iPad Air emerged as a cost-effective alternative to the Pro lineup, retaining essential capabilities while being powered by the innovative M3 chip. This modern tablet targets users seeking high-performance devices without the premium price usually associated with its Pro counterpart. The latter, launched with the M4 chip and advanced display technology in mid-2024, appeals to power users who demand exceptional processing power and superior graphics rendering capabilities for professional tasks.

  • Current benchmarking indicates that despite its more affordable price, the iPad Air (2025) offers commendable performance for general use, while the iPad Pro (2024) reigns as the choice for demanding applications and creative professionals. This clear segmentation allows consumers to align their choice based on their specific needs—be it casual media consumption or sophisticated professional multitasking. Lastly, the software integration via iPadOS enhances the user experience on both devices, further solidifying Apple's ecosystem as a leader in portable computing.

2. Evolution of the iPad Air and iPad Pro Lineups

  • 2-1. 2022 iPad Air vs. iPad Pro overview

  • In early 2022, Apple released the fifth-generation iPad Air and the sixth-generation iPad Pro, firmly establishing both models as worthy contenders within the premium tablet market. The iPad Air, positioned as a more affordable alternative, was powered by the M1 chip and included essential features such as support for the Apple Pencil and Smart Keyboard. Its starting price of $599 effectively targeted users seeking a high-performance tablet without the high price tag typically associated with the Pro lineup. The iPad Pro, on the other hand, utilized Apple’s M2 chip and priced starting at $799 for the 11-inch model, appealed primarily to power users demanding advanced capabilities in graphics and processing. Notably, the iPad Pro featured enhancements like ProMotion technology for smooth, high refresh rate displays, making it especially suitable for creative professionals engaging in graphic-intensive tasks. Despite sharing similar form factors, the difference in chipsets and performance clearly delineated their respective markets.

  • 2-2. Advancements introduced with the 2024 iPad Pro M4

  • The iPad Pro M4, unveiled in mid-2024, represented a significant leap in terms of performance and display technology. This model launched with the new M4 chip, built using an advanced 3nm process, which allowed for an impressive nine-core or ten-core CPU and a ten-core GPU depending on the model. It augmented capabilities such as machine learning and graphics processing, thus facilitating complex applications ranging from video editing to 3D rendering. The standout feature, however, was its Ultra Liquid Retina XDR display, employing OLED technology to deliver remarkable brightness, color accuracy, and improved efficiency compared to prior models. This advancement significantly enhanced media consumption and creative work, distinguishing the Pro as a leading choice for professionals. The iPad Pro M4 additionally included updates to its camera system and better battery management to support all-day usage, further cementing its status as a powerhouse tablet.

  • 2-3. Transition to the 2025 iPad Air feature set

  • In 2025, Apple transitioned the iPad Air lineup by integrating features that echoed the performance of the iPad Pro, albeit at a more accessible price point. The 2025 iPad Air was equipped with the M3 chip, allowing it to perform better than its predecessor while still offering the essential functionalities that appeal to casual users and professionals alike. The design remained consistent with previous models, featuring a sleek aluminum body, but introduced incremental improvements in display technology. Users who valued portability and price efficiency found the iPad Air increasingly compelling, especially as it began to support more advanced accessories such as the updated Apple Pencil Pro. This shift indicated Apple’s intention to narrow the gap between the Air and Pro models, providing users with a range of choices based on their needs and budget without sacrificing key performance elements.

3. Design and Display: Comparing Aesthetics and Screens

  • 3-1. Form factor and build materials

  • The design of the iPad Air (2025) and iPad Pro (2024) reflects Apple's commitment to aesthetics and functionality, although there are notable distinctions between the two. Both models feature a flat-edge design available in 11-inch and 13-inch variants, showcasing Apple's modern aesthetic. The iPad Pro (2024) stands out due to its thinner profile, measuring just 5.3mm for the 11-inch variant and 5.1mm for the 13-inch. In contrast, the iPad Air (2025) maintains a thicker dimension of 6.1mm across both sizes. This minor difference translates to a palpable feeling of premium quality in the Pro model, marketed as the thinnest iPad Apple has produced to date. Additionally, the iPad Pro is lighter than the iPad Air, particularly the larger model, facilitating enhanced portability. While both devices feature an aluminum chassis, the iPad Pro offers a broader color palette including Space Black and Silver, compared to the Air's options of Space Gray, Starlight, and more vibrant options like blue and purple. These color variations cater to different user preferences, but the Pro's aesthetic typically appeals to those seeking a more professional look. Ultimately, for users who prioritize a premium design, the iPad Pro is the clear choice, thanks to its slimmer profile and diverse color offerings, which contribute to a more high-end feel.

  • 3-2. Display sizes and ProMotion vs. Liquid Retina technologies

  • The display technology is one of the most significant differentiators between the iPad Air (2025) and iPad Pro (2024). The iPad Air features a Liquid Retina display with a standard refresh rate of 60Hz, which, while brilliant, pales in comparison to the iPad Pro's advanced Tandem OLED display. The Pro's screen offers a variable refresh rate capable of reaching up to 120Hz, providing smoother scrolling and more responsive touch interactions, which is particularly beneficial for gaming and high-resolution video playback. In terms of brightness and color accuracy, the iPad Pro’s OLED technology excels, with peak brightness levels reaching up to 1, 600 nits when displaying HDR content. This capability significantly enhances the viewing experience, particularly in challenging lighting conditions, making it ideal for professional environments where color fidelity is paramount, such as graphic design and video editing. The dual-layer architecture of the OLED display ensures better power efficiency and durability, further solidifying its advantage over the Air's standard LCD panel. Furthermore, the iPad Pro supports advanced features like Dolby Vision and a nano-texture anti-reflective coating, which can reduce glare in bright settings, enhancing usability outdoors or in brightly lit studios. While the iPad Air’s display is adequate for general use, it does not match the iPad Pro’s performance, making the Pro a superior choice for users who require the highest quality display for professional or creative tasks.

4. Performance and Internal Hardware: M4 vs. Previous Generations

  • 4-1. Processor and GPU benchmarks

  • The iPad Pro (2024) is powered by the new M4 chip, which represents a substantial upgrade over the older M3 chip featured in the iPad Air (2025). The M4 chip employs an advanced 3nm fabrication process developed by TSMC, allowing it to benefit from enhanced power efficiency and performance. In terms of architecture, the M4 chip includes a 9-core CPU for the 11-inch variant and a 10-core CPU for the 13-inch model, along with a 10-core GPU. This setup permits the iPad Pro to handle demanding applications with remarkable speed and efficiency, particularly in tasks that require intensive graphics processing such as 3D rendering and video editing. In comparison, the iPad Air (2025) utilizes the M3 chip, an incremental improvement over the M2. The M3 offers an 8-core CPU and an 8-core GPU, which, while capable for everyday tasks and general productivity, fall short of the M4's enhanced performance capabilities. Benchmark tests indicate that the M4 chip outstrips the M3 in both single and multi-core performance, translating to significant performance benefits for users engaged in more resource-intensive applications. Overall, the performance gap between the two chips not only reflects in raw speed but also in their ability to multitask efficiently, with the M4 significantly outperforming the M3 in handling complex workloads.

  • 4-2. Memory configurations and storage options

  • The iPad Pro (2024) and iPad Air (2025) offer differing memory configurations that play a vital role in their performance profiles. The iPad Pro is available in multiple RAM options, with 8GB for the 256GB and 512GB models, while the 1TB and 2TB models come with a substantial 16GB of RAM. Such configurations enable the iPad Pro to seamlessly handle heavy multitasking and memory-intensive applications, making it ideal for creative professionals who may run multiple apps simultaneously, especially in fields such as video editing and graphic design. On the other hand, the iPad Air (2025) is restricted to 8GB of RAM across its storage variants. This configuration, although sufficient for typical use cases including browsing, streaming, and light productivity tasks, may not offer the same efficiency in high-demand applications when compared to its more powerful counterpart. Both devices, however, support a range of storage options, with the iPad Air ranging from 128GB to 1TB and the iPad Pro topping out at 2TB. The variance in storage options allows users to select models that align closely with their specific needs, balancing performance requirements with budgetary considerations. Ultimately, while the iPad Air maintains solid performance for the average user, the iPad Pro's expanded memory and storage configurations notably elevate its capability for professional and advanced use.

5. Software and Ecosystem Integration

  • 5-1. iPadOS features and multitasking capabilities

  • The software architecture of the iPad Air (2025) and iPad Pro (2024) revolves around iPadOS, which serves as the backbone for user interaction, multitasking, and application management. As of May 20, 2025, both devices are using iPadOS 18, which introduced a suite of features that enhance user experience significantly. Amongst these advancements, notable inclusions are customizable Control Center options that let users tailor access to apps and system controls for streamlined operations, alongside icon customization which personalizes the aesthetic on the home screen.

  • A considerable strength of iPadOS is its multitasking capabilities, allowing for improved productivity through Split View and Slide Over functionalities. These options enable users to operate multiple apps simultaneously, enhancing workflow efficiency. Whether one is engaged in simultaneous note-taking alongside video conferencing or managing emails while working on a presentation, the devices effectively support such dualities. As we look ahead, both the iPad Air and iPad Pro are anticipated to receive iPadOS 19 updates, a version expected to enhance user interfaces further, potentially through more advanced multitasking techniques and visual refreshes, indicating Apple's commitment to continually evolving user interaction.

  • Moreover, the integration of Apple Intelligence across applications provides smarter context-aware functions, offering users more seamless interactions. This AI-enhanced experience tailors suggestions based on usage patterns and previous user behavior, showcasing a move towards a more intuitive interaction model with iPad devices.

  • 5-2. Accessory support: Apple Pencil, Magic Keyboard

  • Apple has enriched the ecosystem surrounding the iPad Air (2025) and iPad Pro (2024) by providing comprehensive accessory support, making these tablets versatile tools for diverse use cases. Both devices support the Apple Pencil, accommodating tasks ranging from precise drawing to handwritten note-taking, underlining Apple's aim to provide a ‘laptop replacement’ experience. The second-generation Apple Pencil features magnetic attachment and wireless charging, enhancing usability significantly during creative endeavors.

  • In addition, the Magic Keyboard, optimally designed for both iPad models, grants users a laptop-like typing experience, complete with trackpad functionality. This accessory not only elevates productivity through tactile feedback but also offers additional functionalities like backlit keys and a floating design that adjusts to the user's viewing angle. It's worth noting that while both the iPad Air and iPad Pro are compatible with this keyboard, the Pro model’s additional power and enhanced display capabilities positions it as the ideal choice for users who engage in high-level productivity tasks, including professional writing and extensive content creation.

  • The ecosystem's robustness is further underscored by seamless integration between hardware and software, enabling features like the ability to swap seamlessly between various task-oriented apps or content creation environments. This synergy effectively empowers professionals and creatives alike to leverage the full capabilities of their devices for an array of tasks, ensuring that the iPad remains at the forefront of portable computing and creative expression.

6. Which iPad Should You Buy?

  • 6-1. Use-case based recommendations (creatives vs. general users)

  • When considering the purchase of an iPad, it's essential to align the choice with your specific use case. General users, who primarily engage in activities such as browsing the web, streaming videos, and light productivity tasks, will find the iPad Air (2025) to be a highly suitable option. With its modern design, solid performance, and affordability, the iPad Air meets the everyday needs of the average consumer without overspending on advanced features. It supports USB-C for connectivity and offers 5G compatibility alongside features necessary for basic productivity, making it an excellent all-around tablet. In contrast, creatives and professionals who require more robust capabilities should strongly consider the iPad Pro (2024). With the introduction of the M4 chip, the Pro offers superior processing power, enhanced graphics, and features like Liquid Retina ProMotion display, which is particularly beneficial for tasks that demand high fidelity, such as digital art, graphic design, 4K video editing, and immersive gaming. Applications that leverage the device's capabilities—like graphic design software and video editing tools—will run more smoothly, and the additional RAM and advanced features, such as the LiDAR scanner, facilitate complex workflows. Therefore, for users engaged in high-demand tasks or those seeking a professional-grade tablet experience, the iPad Pro is likely worth the extra investment.

  • 6-2. Price points and value considerations

  • Price remains a significant consideration when selecting an iPad. As of May 2025, the iPad Air generally retails for a more accessible price point, offering substantial value for general users who do not require the advanced features found in the Pro model. With a difference of more than USD 400, the iPad Pro may be seen as a premium investment aimed at specialized users. From a value perspective, for most consumers, particularly casual users and students, the iPad Air’s capabilities far outweigh what most users actually need from a tablet. However, for professionals—especially those in fields like design, film production, or intensive gaming—the investment in an iPad Pro can justify its higher price tag through enhancements that improve workflow efficiency and provide a superior experience. Ultimately, the choice boils down to your intended use of the device and whether the additional features of the Pro model align with your needs. Buyers should assess their priorities in terms of performance, the ability to utilize advanced capabilities, and budget constraints when making their decision. In summary, the iPad Air constitutes the best value for most potential buyers, while the iPad Pro stands out for professionals needing extensive performance and features.

Conclusion

  • In conclusion, as of this date, the differentiation between the 2025 iPad Air and the 2024 iPad Pro reflects Apple's strategic approach to cater to varying market segments. The iPad Air distinguishes itself with its emphasis on portability, modern aesthetics, and more accessible pricing, making it an excellent choice for everyday users. In contrast, the iPad Pro showcases unparalleled performance and advanced display technology, reinforcing its status as the optimal device for professionals and creatives. As consumers deliberate over their selections, it is clear that each iPad serves distinct purposes that can align with diverse user requirements.

  • Looking toward the future, the trajectory of Apple continues to focus on enhancing performance through advanced chip development and software innovation. This commitment suggests that subsequent iterations of the iPad models may increasingly converge in functionality while still offering tailored experiences to different audiences. Consumers can anticipate more refined capabilities and potentially reduced price disparities, making advanced functionalities more accessible. Thus, the ongoing evolution of these tablets promises a compelling horizon for both general consumers and specialized professionals alike, ensuring Apple maintains its leadership position in the tablet market.

Glossary

  • iPad Air (2025): The iPad Air (2025) is Apple's mid-range tablet, launched with the M3 chip. It prioritizes portability, affordability, and essential features, making it suitable for general users. As of May 20, 2025, it represents an economical choice in Apple's tablet lineup, with improved performance compared to earlier models.
  • iPad Pro (2024): The iPad Pro (2024) is Apple's high-end tablet, equipped with the M4 chip and marketed towards power users. Launched in mid-2024, it excels in performance, featuring advanced capabilities tailored for demanding tasks like graphic design and video editing. Its premium pricing reflects its position as a top-tier device.
  • M4 chip: The M4 chip is Apple's latest SoC (System on Chip), introduced with the iPad Pro (2024). Built on a 3nm process, it enhances performance with a multi-core CPU and GPU, optimized for demanding applications, machine learning, and graphics-intensive tasks. This makes the iPad Pro a standout for professional use as of 2025.
  • Liquid Retina display: The Liquid Retina display is a screen technology used in the iPad Air (2025), offering vibrant visuals and a refresh rate of 60Hz. While it provides excellent color accuracy and brightness, it does not match the advanced capabilities of the Pro's display, which features higher refresh rates and OLED technology.
  • ProMotion technology: ProMotion technology is a feature of the iPad Pro (2024) that allows for a variable refresh rate of up to 120Hz. This results in smoother scrolling and more responsive touch interactions, enhancing the overall user experience, especially in gaming and high-resolution video playback.
  • iPadOS 18: As of May 20, 2025, both the iPad Air (2025) and iPad Pro (2024) operate on iPadOS 18. This version introduces advanced multitasking features and customizable options for improved user experience. It supports the integration of Apple Intelligence for a more seamless interaction, enhancing workflow efficiency.
  • Apple Pencil: The Apple Pencil is a stylus accessory compatible with both the iPad Air (2025) and iPad Pro (2024). It enables precision drawing and handwritten note-taking. The second-generation model features wireless charging and magnetic attachment, improving the overall usability for creative tasks.
  • Magic Keyboard: The Magic Keyboard is an accessory for the iPad Air (2025) and iPad Pro (2024), providing a laptop-like typing experience. It features a floating design, backlit keys, and a trackpad, enhancing productivity for tasks such as writing and content creation.
  • Benchmarking: Benchmarking is the process of measuring the performance of devices, allowing for comparisons between different models. As of May 2025, both the iPad Air and iPad Pro have undergone benchmarking tests, which illustrate significant performance disparities, particularly with the M4 chip outpacing the M3.
  • 3nm process: The 3nm process is a semiconductor manufacturing technology used in the M4 chip, which offers improvements in power efficiency and performance. This advanced process enables higher transistor density, allowing for more powerful and efficient chips as of 2025.

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