Apple iPad Air M1 vs Apple iPad Pro M4
Verdict: The iPad Pro M4 outperforms the iPad Air M1 with its Tandem OLED display reaching over 1000 nits and M4 chip providing up to 50% faster graphics per Apple benchmarks. The Air M1 remains viable for media and light work at $599 but lacks the Pro's RAM options and current support status. For most users the Pro M4 justifies the $400 premium through superior screen and future-proofing.
Apple iPad Air M1 lists at $599 while Apple iPad Pro M4 lists at $999 — Apple iPad Air M1 undercuts Apple iPad Pro M4 by $400 (67%).
Winner: Apple iPad Pro M4
Apple iPad Air M1: 6.5/10
Apple iPad Pro M4: 8.5/10
Spec-by-spec comparison
| Apple iPad Air M1 | Apple iPad Pro M4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 10.9-inch Liquid Retina | 11-inch or 13-inch Tandem OLED Ultra Retina XDR |
| Chip | Apple M1 (8-core CPU, 8-core GPU) | Apple M4 (9-core or 10-core CPU, 10-core GPU) |
| RAM | — | 8GB or 16GB |
| Camera | 12MP rear, 12MP front with Center Stage | 12MP rear, landscape 12MP front |
Apple iPad Air M1
What works
- Lower price at $599 MSRP
- Still handles everyday tasks and media consumption well
- Compact 10.9-inch form factor
What doesn't
- Discontinued status limits software support longevity
- LCD display lacks the brightness and contrast of OLED
Apple iPad Pro M4
What works
- Superior Tandem OLED display with higher brightness and contrast
- Much faster M4 chip for demanding creative work
- Current model with longer software support
What doesn't
- Higher starting price of $999
- Overkill for basic tasks compared to cheaper options
Bottom line
Our pick: Apple iPad Pro M4. It edges out the alternative on superior tandem oled display with higher brightness and contrast. That said, Apple iPad Air M1 still wins on lower price at $599 msrp — consider it if that single trade matters most for your use.
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