Battle of the iPads: Pro vs Air 2

The iPad Pro and iPad Air 2 are both high-end tablets from Apple. The iPad Pro was first released in 2015 and is designed for professionals and power users. It features a larger display, a more powerful processor, and additional features such as support for the Apple Pencil and Smart Keyboard. The iPad Air 2, on the other hand, was released in 2014 and is targeted at consumers who want a high-quality tablet with a slim design and good performance.

The purpose of this blog post is to compare the iPad Pro and iPad Air 2 and help readers understand the key differences between the two devices. We will look at various aspects such as display, battery life, performance, camera quality, and more. By the end of this post, readers should be able to determine which tablet is the best fit for their needs.

The key differences between the iPad Pro and iPad Air 2 include display size, processing power, camera quality, and support for the Apple Pencil and Smart Keyboard. The iPad Pro has a larger display and is more powerful, while the iPad Air 2 is more compact and designed for everyday use. The iPad Pro also has better camera quality and supports the Apple Pencil and Smart Keyboard, which are not available on the iPad Air 2.

Design and Build Quality

The iPad Pro and iPad Air 2 have different physical dimensions and weights. The iPad Pro measures 11 inches (or 12.9 inches for the larger model) and weighs 1.03 pounds (or 1.39 pounds for the larger model), while the iPad Air 2 measures 9.4 inches and weighs 0.96 pounds.

The iPad Pro and iPad Air 2 also have slightly different appearances and materials. The iPad Pro has a flat edge design with a square camera module, while the iPad Air 2 has a curved edge design with a round camera module. The iPad Pro features a back made of aluminum, while the iPad Air 2 has a back made of anodized aluminum. Both devices feature a front glass panel.

The iPad Pro and iPad Air 2 have a few design features that differ from one another. One notable design feature on the iPad Pro is the addition of a USB-C port, which allows for more connectivity options compared to the Lightning port found on the iPad Air 2. The iPad Pro also features a Smart Connector, which enables it to connect to Apple’s Smart Keyboard without the need for Bluetooth pairing. Another difference is that the iPad Pro has four speakers instead of two, which can provide a better audio experience. Additionally, the iPad Pro has a ProMotion display with a 120Hz refresh rate, which can result in smoother and more fluid animations and interactions compared to the iPad Air 2’s 60Hz display. The iPad Air 2, on the other hand, has Touch ID on the front, which allows for secure and convenient authentication using biometric data.

Overall, both devices have a high-quality design and build, but the iPad Pro has some additional features that make it more versatile and provide a better user experience for certain tasks.

Display

When it comes to tablets, the display is one of the most important features to consider. Both the iPad Pro and iPad Air 2 have excellent displays, but there are some differences to note.

Resolution and size

The iPad Pro features a larger display than the iPad Air 2, with a 12.9-inch diagonal screen compared to the 9.7-inch diagonal screen of the iPad Air 2. Additionally, the iPad Pro has a higher resolution, with a 2732 x 2048 pixel display compared to the 2048 x 1536 pixel display of the iPad Air 2. This means the iPad Pro has a higher pixel density, making it capable of displaying more detailed and clearer images.

Brightness and color accuracy

Both iPads feature high-quality displays with excellent brightness and color accuracy. However, the iPad Pro has a higher brightness rating than the iPad Air 2, with a maximum brightness of 600 nits compared to the 500 nits of the iPad Air 2. The iPad Pro also features a wider color gamut, capable of displaying a larger range of colors for more accurate and vivid image reproduction.

Comparison of display features

Overall, the iPad Pro’s larger, higher-resolution display with a wider color gamut makes it the better choice for those who require a display that is more detailed, accurate, and vibrant. However, the iPad Air 2’s display is still an excellent choice for those who prioritize portability over a larger screen.

Performance

The performance of a tablet is a key factor in determining its usability and efficiency. Both the iPad Pro and iPad Air 2 are equipped with powerful processors and a decent amount of RAM. Let’s take a closer look at their performance.

Processor and RAM

The iPad Pro comes with an A12Z Bionic chip with an octa-core graphics processing unit (GPU). It also has 6GB of RAM, which makes it one of the most powerful tablets on the market. The iPad Air 2, on the other hand, features an A8X chip with a tri-core GPU and 2GB of RAM.

Speed and multitasking ability

Thanks to the powerful A12Z Bionic chip, the iPad Pro is lightning-fast and can handle even the most demanding apps and multitask with ease. It is capable of handling complex workflows and can run multiple apps simultaneously without any lag. The iPad Air 2 is also capable of handling most apps and multitasking to some extent, but it is not as powerful as the iPad Pro.

Comparison of performance benchmarks

According to benchmark tests, the iPad Pro is significantly faster than the iPad Air 2. In fact, it is one of the fastest tablets on the market. In benchmark tests, the iPad Pro scored 11140 on Geekbench 5, while the iPad Air 2 scored 4017. This means that the iPad Pro is three times faster than the iPad Air 2.

Overall, the iPad Pro’s superior performance makes it a better choice for users who need a powerful tablet that can handle complex workflows and multitasking. However, if you only need a tablet for basic tasks like web browsing and media consumption, the iPad Air 2 may be sufficient.

Battery Life

When it comes to battery life, the iPad Pro and iPad Air 2 differ in a few key ways. Let’s take a closer look at each model’s battery life and what factors affect it.

The iPad Pro has a larger battery than the iPad Air 2, which translates to longer battery life. The iPad Pro can last up to 10 hours on a single charge, while the iPad Air 2 can last up to 8 hours. However, it’s important to note that actual battery life can vary depending on usage and other factors.

To optimize the battery life of the iPad Pro and iPad Air 2, users can take the following steps:

• Lower screen brightness: The brighter the screen, the more power it requires. Users can adjust the screen brightness to the lowest comfortable level to save battery life.
• Close background apps: Apps running in the background can use up battery life without the user realizing it. Users can close background apps when not in use to save battery life.
• Turn off Wi-Fi and cellular data: Constantly searching for and switching between Wi-Fi and cellular networks can use up battery life. Users can turn off Wi-Fi and cellular data when not in use to save battery life.
• Use Low Power Mode: When the battery is running low, users can turn on Low Power Mode to conserve battery life. This mode reduces power consumption by disabling certain features like automatic downloads and email fetch.
• Keep the iPad at a moderate temperature: Extreme temperatures, whether hot or cold, can affect battery performance. Users should avoid exposing their iPad to high or low temperatures for extended periods of time.

Apple Pencil Compatibility

The Apple Pencil is a stylus designed by Apple for use with its iPad and iPad Pro tablets. It allows users to write and draw on their iPads with precision and accuracy, making it a popular tool for artists and designers.

The Apple Pencil is only compatible with certain iPad models, including the iPad Pro and the 2018 and later versions of the regular iPad. Unfortunately, the iPad Air 2 is not compatible with the Apple Pencil, as it lacks the necessary hardware components to support the stylus.

For those looking to use the Apple Pencil, the iPad Pro is the better option as it offers a more seamless and responsive experience. The iPad Pro has a faster touch response rate, allowing for more precise and accurate input with the Apple Pencil. Additionally, the iPad Pro’s larger display size allows for a more comfortable and natural writing and drawing experience.

While the iPad Air 2 may not be compatible with the Apple Pencil, there are other stylus options available for those looking to use a stylus with their tablet. However, these third-party styluses may not offer the same level of precision and responsiveness as the Apple Pencil on the iPad Pro.

Camera Quality

When it comes to choosing between the iPad Pro and iPad Air 2, camera quality might not be the top priority for most users. However, it’s worth considering the capabilities of each model, especially if you plan on using your iPad for photography or video calls. Here’s what you need to know:

• Both the iPad Pro and iPad Air 2 feature front and rear cameras
• The iPad Pro has a 12-megapixel rear camera and a 7-megapixel front camera
• The iPad Air 2 has an 8-megapixel rear camera and a 1.2-megapixel front camera
• The rear camera on the iPad Pro includes features such as optical image stabilization, quad-LED True Tone flash, and 4K video recording at 60 frames per second
• The rear camera on the iPad Air 2 includes features such as autofocus, face detection, and 1080p video recording at 30 frames per second
• Both models feature the ability to take Live Photos, which capture a short video clip before and after each photo is taken
• In terms of camera quality, the iPad Pro outperforms the iPad Air 2 due to its higher megapixel count and additional features
• The front-facing camera on the iPad Pro also has a wider field of view, making it better for video calls and selfies
• However, both models are capable of taking decent photos and videos, especially in well-lit conditions

Overall, if camera quality is an important factor for you, the iPad Pro is the better choice. However, if you primarily use your iPad for other purposes, the camera capabilities of the iPad Air 2 may be sufficient.

Gaming

The iPad Pro and iPad Air 2 are both capable of running a wide variety of mobile games, from casual titles to more demanding games like racing games and first-person shooters. Both models offer a smooth and immersive gaming experience, thanks to their powerful processors, high-quality displays, and long battery life.

The iPad Pro offers better gaming performance than the iPad Air 2, thanks to its more powerful processor and larger screen size. The Pro’s A14 Bionic chip offers faster and more efficient processing power, which allows it to handle even the most demanding games with ease. The Pro’s larger screen size also offers a more immersive gaming experience, with more screen real estate for in-game graphics and controls.

While the iPad Air 2 may not be as powerful as the Pro, it still offers a solid gaming experience. It’s equipped with an A8X chip and M8 motion coprocessor, which provide plenty of processing power and efficient motion tracking capabilities. The Air 2’s 9.7-inch Retina display also offers high-quality visuals and color accuracy, making it a great choice for casual gamers.

Several factors can affect the gaming experience on both the iPad Pro and iPad Air 2. These include:

• Processing power: The more powerful the processor, the better the gaming performance.
• Screen size and resolution: A larger and higher-resolution display can offer a more immersive gaming experience.
• Battery life: Long battery life is important for extended gaming sessions.
• Internet connectivity: A stable and fast internet connection is necessary for multiplayer gaming and downloading games.
• Game optimization: Developers often optimize games for specific devices, which can affect performance and graphics quality.

In summary, both the iPad Pro and iPad Air 2 offers solid gaming experiences, with the Pro providing better gaming performance thanks to its more powerful processor and larger screen size. However, factors like battery life and internet connectivity can also affect the gaming experience on both models.

External Keyboard Compatibility

The iPad Pro and iPad Air 2 both have the ability to connect to external keyboards, making them versatile devices for productivity tasks. There are a variety of external keyboard options available for both models, including Apple’s own Smart Keyboard and third-party options from companies like Logitech and Brydge.

The iPad Pro has a Smart Connector on its edge that allows for a direct connection to the Smart Keyboard, which does not require Bluetooth pairing or charging. The iPad Air 2, on the other hand, uses Bluetooth to connect to external keyboards. Both models are compatible with a wide range of Bluetooth keyboards, including those from Logitech and Brydge.

One of the main advantages of using an external keyboard with an iPad is the increased typing speed and efficiency it provides compared to typing on the device’s touchscreen. Additionally, external keyboards often have additional features like backlit keys and a built-in trackpad for increased productivity. However, external keyboards can add additional weight and bulk to the device, making it less portable. Additionally, they can be an additional expense to consider when purchasing an iPad. Ultimately, the decision to use an external keyboard comes down to personal preference and the intended use of the device.

Cost

When it comes to cost, the iPad Air 2 is significantly cheaper than the iPad Pro. As of 2023, the base model of the iPad Air 2 is available for around $399, while the base model of the iPad Pro is priced at around $799. However, the cost can vary depending on the storage and connectivity options chosen.

While the iPad Pro is more expensive, it does offer several features that the iPad Air 2 does not, such as a larger display, better performance, and compatibility with the Apple Pencil. If these features are essential to you, then the iPad Pro may offer better value for money.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, the iPad Air 2 is a great choice. It still offers many of the same features as the iPad Pro, such as a front and rear camera, Wi-Fi connectivity, and access to the App Store.

In addition to the upfront cost of the iPad, there are a few additional costs to consider. One is the cost of accessories, such as the Apple Pencil or an external keyboard. These can add to the overall cost of the device.

Another factor to consider is the cost of apps and subscriptions. While many apps are free or have a one-time cost, some may require a subscription to access all features. For example, if you plan on using the iPad for gaming, you may need to purchase in-game items or subscribe to a gaming service.

Lastly, if you opt for the cellular connectivity option, you will need to pay for a data plan through a carrier. This can add an ongoing cost to the device, depending on your usage.

Movie Watching

Both iPad Pro and iPad Air 2 have impressive movie-watching capabilities, thanks to their large screens and excellent display quality. Users can enjoy high-resolution video and crystal-clear sound through the built-in speakers or headphones.

The iPad Pro has a larger display than the iPad Air 2, which can enhance the movie-watching experience by providing a more immersive view. The Pro also has a higher resolution display and supports HDR, which can provide more vibrant and lifelike colors.

In terms of sound quality, the Pro has four speakers compared to the Air 2’s two speakers. The Pro’s speakers are also designed to automatically adjust the sound depending on how the device is held, providing a more consistent and balanced sound experience.

There are several factors that can affect the movie-watching experience on both the iPad Pro and iPad Air 2:

• Video quality: The higher the resolution of the video, the better the experience. It’s also important to ensure that the video is compatible with the device and optimized for the best quality.
• Sound quality: Using high-quality headphones or external speakers can enhance the sound experience.
• Battery life: A fully charged battery can provide uninterrupted movie watching, so it’s important to optimize the device’s battery life.
• Viewing environment: The lighting and surroundings can affect the viewing experience, so finding a comfortable and appropriate environment can improve the experience.

Overall, both the iPad Pro and iPad Air 2 are excellent options for movie watching, with the Pro providing a slightly better experience due to its larger display, higher resolution, and better sound quality.

Storage Options

When it comes to storage options, both the iPad Pro and iPad Air 2 offer various options to choose from. In this section, we will compare and contrast the storage options available for both models and provide some tips for managing storage.

The iPad Pro comes in three storage options: 128GB, 256GB, and 512 GB. On the other hand, the iPad Air 2 comes in two storage options: 32GB and 128 GB. As we can see, the iPad Pro offers more storage options than the iPad Air 2.

It is important to note that the more storage you opt for, the more expensive the device will be. So, if you are on a budget, the iPad Air 2 with 32GB of storage may be a better option for you. However, if you need more storage, the iPad Pro with 128GB or more storage may be a better option.

• 32GB Storage Option

The 32GB storage option is the only option available for the iPad Air 2. This storage option may be enough for some users, especially those who mainly use their iPad for browsing the internet, checking emails, and using social media apps. However, it may not be enough for users who need to store a lot of photos, videos, and other media files.

• 128GB Storage Option

The 128GB storage option available for both the iPad Pro and the iPad Air 2 may be enough for most users. This storage option allows users to store a decent amount of photos, videos, and other media files. It is also a good option for users who use their iPad for work purposes, such as creating presentations, spreadsheets, and documents.

• 256GB and 512GB Storage Options

The 256GB and 512GB storage options available for the iPad Pro may be more suitable for users who need to store a large number of files, including high-resolution photos and videos. These storage options are also suitable for users who use their iPad for professional purposes, such as video editing and graphic design.

Tips for Managing Storage on Both Models:

• Use Cloud Storage Services

One of the easiest ways to manage storage on both the iPad Pro and iPad Air 2 is to use cloud storage services like iCloud, Dropbox, and Google Drive. These services allow users to store their files on the cloud and access them from any device with an internet connection.

• Delete Unnecessary Files

Another way to manage storage on both models is to delete unnecessary files, such as old photos, videos, and apps that are no longer in use.

• Transfer Files to a Computer

Users can also transfer their files to a computer to free up space on their iPad. This is especially useful for users who have a large number of files that they do not want to delete.

In conclusion, the storage options available for the iPad Pro and iPad Air 2 provide users with various options to choose from. The storage option that is best for you will depend on your specific needs and budget. However, regardless of which option you choose, it is important to manage your storage effectively to ensure that your device runs smoothly.

Portability

When it comes to portability, the size and weight of a device play a crucial role in determining its ease of use and portability. In this section, we will compare the portability of the iPad Pro and the iPad Air 2.

The iPad Pro is larger and heavier than the iPad Air 2. The iPad Pro measures 11 inches diagonally and weighs around 1.03 pounds for the Wi-Fi-only model and 1.05 pounds for the Wi-Fi + Cellular model. On the other hand, the iPad Air 2 measures 9.7 inches diagonally and weighs around 0.96 pounds for the Wi-Fi-only model and 0.98 pounds for the Wi-Fi + Cellular model.

The size and weight difference may not seem significant, but it can make a difference when it comes to portability. The iPad Air 2 is more compact and lightweight, making it easier to carry around in a bag or backpack.

Apart from size and weight, other factors can affect the portability of a device, such as battery life and durability. Both the iPad Pro and iPad Air 2 have excellent battery life, with the iPad Pro offering up to 10 hours of battery life on a single charge, and the iPad Air 2 offers up to 9 hours of battery life on a single charge.

Durability is also an essential factor to consider for portability. The iPad Pro features a stronger and more durable construction, thanks to its aluminum chassis and rugged design, making it more resistant to damage from drops or impacts. The iPad Air 2 also has a durable design, but it may not be as robust as the iPad Pro.

The iPad Pro is a great option for those who prioritize portability but still want a larger screen for work or entertainment purposes. It may not be as lightweight as the iPad Air 2, but it still offers a good balance between portability and functionality.

On the other hand, the iPad Air 2 is an excellent option for those who want a compact and lightweight tablet that is easy to carry around. It may not have the same screen size and resolution as the iPad Pro, but it is still a powerful device that can handle most tasks with ease.

Overall, both the iPad Pro and iPad Air 2 offer excellent portability, but the iPad Air 2 is more suitable for those who prioritize lightweight and compact design, while the iPad Pro is ideal for those who want a larger screen without compromising portability.

App Compatibility

When it comes to app compatibility, both iPad Pro and iPad Air 2 run on iOS, which means that they have access to the same app store and a vast range of applications that can be installed on both devices. Both models can run the latest version of iOS and all the apps that are compatible with it.

While both devices can run the same apps, the performance may differ due to the differences in hardware. The iPad Pro has a faster processor and more RAM, which can result in faster app launches and smoother overall performance. However, this difference may not be noticeable for everyday use.

When it comes to app availability, some apps may be optimized for the larger display of the iPad Pro, which means that they may look and work better on the larger device. However, this is not a universal rule, and many apps are optimized for all iOS devices, regardless of their screen size.

To optimize app performance on both models, it’s essential to keep the software up-to-date. Apple releases regular updates to iOS and individual apps that can improve their performance and stability.

Additionally, it’s essential to manage the storage on your device. Both iPad Pro and iPad Air 2 come with different storage options, and it’s crucial to choose a storage option that meets your needs. If you have limited storage space, you may want to delete apps that you don’t use frequently or offload them to iCloud to free up space.

Lastly, if you’re experiencing performance issues with a particular app, you can try force-quitting the app or restarting your device. This can help resolve any issues that may be causing the app to run slowly or crash frequently.

Size Options

The iPad Air 2 was released in 2014 and is available in one size: 9.7 inches. The iPad Pro, on the other hand, comes in two sizes: 11 inches and 12.9 inches. The larger size of the iPad Pro is designed to give users a larger canvas for creating and working on content.

The 9.7-inch size of the iPad Air 2 makes it a great option for people who want a lightweight and portable device that they can easily take with them on the go. The smaller size is also great for people who want a more affordable option. However, the downside is that the smaller screen size may not be ideal for people who want to work on detailed content or watch movies and TV shows.

The 11-inch iPad Pro is a great option for people who want a larger screen than the iPad Air 2 but don’t want to carry around a device that is too bulky. It is a good size for people who want to create and work on content, as well as watch movies and TV shows. The downside is that the smaller size may not be ideal for people who want to work on very detailed content.

The 12.9-inch iPad Pro is the largest iPad available, and it is designed to provide users with the most screen real estate possible. This size is great for people who want to work on very detailed content, such as graphic designers or photographers. It is also great for people who want to use their iPad Pro as a laptop replacement. However, the downside is that the larger size may not be as portable as the smaller options.

The iPad Air 2 is only available in the 9.7-inch size option, while the iPad Pro is available in both 11-inch and 12.9-inch sizes. The larger size of the iPad Pro is designed to give users more screen real estate to work with, which can be helpful for people who want to create and work on detailed content. However, the larger size can also make the iPad Pro less portable than the iPad Air 2. Ultimately, the choice between the two models comes down to personal preference and how the device will be used.

In Crux

In conclusion, both the iPad Pro and iPad Air 2 have their strengths and weaknesses. The iPad Pro is more powerful, has a better display, longer battery life, and is more compatible with the Apple Pencil. On the other hand, the iPad Air 2 is more affordable, lightweight, and has more size options.

After evaluating the differences and similarities between the iPad Pro and iPad Air 2, it is recommended that users consider their needs and budget before making a final decision. For users who require a powerful device with a large display, long battery life, and the ability to use the Apple Pencil, the iPad Pro is the better option. However, for users who require a more affordable and lightweight device, with more size options, the iPad Air 2 is a better option.

It is important to consider additional factors such as app compatibility, gaming performance, and external keyboard compatibility before deciding. For example, users who require a device for gaming or productivity may need to consider the iPad Pro due to its higher processing power and external keyboard compatibility. Additionally, users who require a device for movie watching may find the larger display of the iPad Pro more appealing.

Overall, the iPad Pro and iPad Air 2 are excellent devices with unique features and capabilities. Ultimately, the decision between the two devices comes down to individual needs and budgets. Thank you for reading this review and we hope it has provided valuable insights to help you make a more informed decision.

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