Apple iPad Air 5th Generation vs Apple iPad Pro 11-inch M2

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch M2 wins — The iPad Pro 11 M2 outperforms the iPad Air 5th Gen with a 120Hz ProMotion display and Thunderbolt support per CNET and …

Scores: Apple iPad Air 5th Generation 7/10 · Apple iPad Pro 11-inch M2 8.5/10

The iPad Pro 11 M2 outperforms the iPad Air 5th Gen with a 120Hz ProMotion display and Thunderbolt support per CNET and RTINGS reviews, scoring higher in features and performance. The Air 5th Gen remains a strong value pick for basic tasks at a lower price point. M2 advantages in GPU tasks make the Pro the clear winner for creative professionals.

Spec-by-spec comparison

Apple iPad Air 5th GenerationApple iPad Pro 11-inch M2
Screen Size10.9-inch Liquid Retina11-inch Liquid Retina XDR
ProcessorApple M1Apple M2
RAM8GB8GB
Storage Options64GB / 256GB128GB / 256GB / 512GB / 1TB / 2TB

Apple iPad Air 5th Generation

What works

  • Affordable entry into M-series performance
  • Lightweight at 1.02 lbs for easy portability
  • Supports Apple Pencil 2 and Magic Keyboard

What doesn't

  • Only 60Hz refresh rate limits smoothness
  • No Thunderbolt or ProMotion display

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch M2

What works

  • 120Hz ProMotion display for fluid scrolling
  • Thunderbolt 4 port for faster transfers
  • Brighter 1600 nits peak HDR brightness

What doesn't

  • Higher starting price than Air models
  • Slightly heavier at 1.03 lbs

Bottom line

Our pick: Apple iPad Pro 11-inch M2. It edges out the alternative on 120hz promotion display for fluid scrolling. That said, Apple iPad Air 5th Generation still wins on affordable entry into m-series performance — consider it if that single trade matters most for your use.

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