Apple iPad Air (M1) vs Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M2, 256GB, Wi-Fi)

By Billy G. · Founder & Lead EditorVerified Jun 4 by Billy G.

Apple iPad Air (M1)
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M2, 256GB, Wi-Fi)

Verdict: The iPad Pro 11-inch M2 wins due to its 120Hz display and stronger M2 performance (2600 vs 1700 Geekbench 6 single-core per Geekbench data). The M1 Air remains capable for media and light work but lacks ProMotion and starts with less storage. Both deliver similar 10-hour battery life per Apple specs.

Winner: Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M2, 256GB, Wi-Fi)

Apple iPad Air (M1): 6.5/10

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M2, 256GB, Wi-Fi): 8/10

Spec-by-spec comparison

Apple iPad Air (M1)Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M2, 256GB, Wi-Fi)
ChipApple M1Apple M2
Display10.9-inch Liquid Retina 2360x164011-inch Liquid Retina XDR 2388x1668
Storage64GB256GB
Weight1.02 lbs1.03 lbs

Apple iPad Air (M1)

What works

  • M1 chip scores 1700 single-core Geekbench 6
  • Up to 10 hours video playback (per Apple)
  • Supports Apple Pencil 2nd gen

What doesn't

  • No ProMotion 120Hz refresh rate
  • Only 64GB base storage option

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M2, 256GB, Wi-Fi)

What works

  • M2 chip scores 2600 single-core Geekbench 6
  • 120Hz ProMotion display
  • Up to 10 hours video playback (per Apple)

What doesn't

  • Higher starting price than Air models
  • No major design changes from prior Pro

Bottom line

Our pick: Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M2, 256GB, Wi-Fi).

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