iPad Air M4 vs iPad Pro 12.9‑inch M4: Which Should You Buy in 2026?
Quick Verdict
Winner: iPad Pro 12.9‑inch M4 — 8.5/10
The iPad Pro 12.9‑inch M4 outperforms the iPad Air M4 in raw performance (Geekbench 1,950 vs 1,800) and display quality (1,000 nits XDR vs 600 nits, 120 Hz vs 60 Hz) (per RTINGS, Geekbench). However, the Air delivers excellent value at $599, 45% cheaper, and is lighter for on‑the‑go use (per Tom's Guide). For most users the Air is sufficient, but power users and creators will benefit from the Pro’s larger, brighter screen and extra storage.
See the interactive comparison →iPad Air M4 Overview
The iPad Air M4 is a compelling option in the Tablet space, offering a solid balance of performance and value.
Pros
- Lower price point
- Lightweight at 1.0 lb
- Supports 2nd‑gen Apple Pencil
Cons
- Smaller 10.9‑inch display
- Base storage limited to 64 GB
iPad Pro 12.9‑inch M4 Overview
The iPad Pro 12.9‑inch M4 brings its own strengths to the table, making it a worthy contender in this comparison.
Pros
- Larger 12.9‑inch XDR display
- Higher base storage
- Better camera system
Cons
- Higher price
- Heavier at 1.5 lb
Head-to-Head Comparison
Here is how the iPad Air M4 and iPad Pro 12.9‑inch M4 stack up on key specifications and our scored criteria:
Both products excel in different areas. The iPad Air M4 tends to lead in Lower price point, while the iPad Pro 12.9‑inch M4 stands out for Larger 12.9‑inch XDR display.
Who Should Buy What
Buy the iPad Air M4 if…
- You want lower price point
- You want lightweight at 1.0 lb
- You want supports 2nd‑gen apple pencil
Buy the iPad Pro 12.9‑inch M4 if…
- You want larger 12.9‑inch xdr display
- You want higher base storage
- You want better camera system
Our Recommendation
If you can only choose one, we recommend the iPad Pro 12.9‑inch M4. The iPad Pro 12.9‑inch M4 outperforms the iPad Air M4 in raw performance (Geekbench 1,950 vs 1,800) and display quality (1,000 nits XDR vs 600 nits, 120 Hz vs 60 Hz) (per RTINGS, Geekbench). However, the Air delivers excellent value at $599, 45% cheaper, and is lighter for on‑the‑go use (per Tom's G
Run the interactive comparison →Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: iPad Air M4 or iPad Pro 12.9‑inch M4?
The iPad Pro 12.9‑inch M4 outperforms the iPad Air M4 in raw performance (Geekbench 1,950 vs 1,800) and display quality (1,000 nits XDR vs 600 nits, 120 Hz vs 60 Hz) (per RTINGS, Geekbench). However, the Air delivers excellent value at $599, 45% cheaper, and is lighter for on‑the‑go use (per Tom's Guide). For most users the Air is sufficient, but power users and creators will benefit from the Pro’s larger, brighter screen and extra storage.
What are the scores for iPad Air M4 and iPad Pro 12.9‑inch M4?
iPad Air M4 scores 7.5/10 and iPad Pro 12.9‑inch M4 scores 8.5/10 in our independent evaluation.
What are the main advantages of the iPad Air M4?
Lower price point. Lightweight at 1.0 lb. Supports 2nd‑gen Apple Pencil.
What are the main advantages of the iPad Pro 12.9‑inch M4?
Larger 12.9‑inch XDR display. Higher base storage. Better camera system.
Is the iPad Air M4 worth the price?
The iPad Air M4 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.
Get notified when prices drop
We'll alert you when iPad Air M4 or iPad Pro 12.9‑inch M4 hits a new low — or when our recommendation changes.