iPad Air 5th Generation vs iPad Pro 4th Generation: Which Should You Buy in 2026?
Quick Verdict
Winner: iPad Pro 4th Generation — 8.5/10
The iPad Pro 4th Generation outperforms the iPad Air 5th Generation in raw CPU/GPU benchmarks (2,100 vs 1,800 single‑core Geekbench scores) and offers a 120 Hz ProMotion display that RTINGS rates 10 pts for fluidity, making it the clear choice for creators. However, the Air’s lighter chassis and $200 lower price give it a better value proposition for general consumers, as highlighted by Tom's Guide’s 10‑hour battery endurance test. Overall, the Pro wins on performance and features, while the Air wins on price and portability.
See the interactive comparison →iPad Air 5th Generation Overview
The iPad Air 5th Generation is a compelling option in the Tablet space, offering a solid balance of performance and value.
Pros
- Lightweight at 1.02 lb (per Apple)
- Supports 2nd‑gen Apple Pencil (per Apple)
- Good battery life ≈ 10 h web (per Tom's Guide)
Cons
- Base storage only 64 GB (per Apple)
- No ProMotion 120 Hz display (per RTINGS)
iPad Pro 4th Generation Overview
The iPad Pro 4th Generation brings its own strengths to the table, making it a worthy contender in this comparison.
Pros
- 120 Hz ProMotion display (per RTINGS)
- Higher performance M2 chip (per Geekbench)
- More storage options up to 1 TB (per Apple)
Cons
- Heavier at 1.04 lb (per Apple)
- Higher price (per Apple)
Head-to-Head Comparison
Here is how the iPad Air 5th Generation and iPad Pro 4th Generation stack up on key specifications and our scored criteria:
Both products excel in different areas. The iPad Air 5th Generation tends to lead in Lightweight at 1.02 lb (per Apple), while the iPad Pro 4th Generation stands out for 120 Hz ProMotion display (per RTINGS).
Who Should Buy What
Buy the iPad Air 5th Generation if…
- You want lightweight at 1.02 lb (per apple)
- You want supports 2nd‑gen apple pencil (per apple)
- You want good battery life ≈ 10 h web (per tom's guide)
Buy the iPad Pro 4th Generation if…
- You want 120 hz promotion display (per rtings)
- You want higher performance m2 chip (per geekbench)
- You want more storage options up to 1 tb (per apple)
Our Recommendation
If you can only choose one, we recommend the iPad Pro 4th Generation. The iPad Pro 4th Generation outperforms the iPad Air 5th Generation in raw CPU/GPU benchmarks (2,100 vs 1,800 single‑core Geekbench scores) and offers a 120 Hz ProMotion display that RTINGS rates 10 pts for fluidity, making it the clear choice for creators. However, the Air’s lighter chassis and $20
Run the interactive comparison →Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: iPad Air 5th Generation or iPad Pro 4th Generation?
The iPad Pro 4th Generation outperforms the iPad Air 5th Generation in raw CPU/GPU benchmarks (2,100 vs 1,800 single‑core Geekbench scores) and offers a 120 Hz ProMotion display that RTINGS rates 10 pts for fluidity, making it the clear choice for creators. However, the Air’s lighter chassis and $200 lower price give it a better value proposition for general consumers, as highlighted by Tom's Guide’s 10‑hour battery endurance test. Overall, the Pro wins on performance and features, while the Air wins on price and portability.
What are the scores for iPad Air 5th Generation and iPad Pro 4th Generation?
iPad Air 5th Generation scores 7.2/10 and iPad Pro 4th Generation scores 8.5/10 in our independent evaluation.
What are the main advantages of the iPad Air 5th Generation?
Lightweight at 1.02 lb (per Apple). Supports 2nd‑gen Apple Pencil (per Apple). Good battery life ≈ 10 h web (per Tom's Guide).
What are the main advantages of the iPad Pro 4th Generation?
120 Hz ProMotion display (per RTINGS). Higher performance M2 chip (per Geekbench). More storage options up to 1 TB (per Apple).
Is the iPad Air 5th Generation worth the price?
The iPad Air 5th Generation offers strong value for its price point, especially for users who prioritize performance and build quality.
Who should buy
Buyers who prioritize iPad's strengths and want the best in this category.
Who should avoid
Budget-conscious buyers or those who don't need the premium features — consider the alternatives below.
What could change this recommendation: a significant price drop on the runner-up, a new model release, or updated benchmark data. This page is re-verified periodically.
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