iPad 10th Generation vs iPad Air 5th Generation

iPad 10th Generation
iPad Air 5th Generation

Verdict: The iPad Air 5th Gen scores higher overall, thanks to its M1 processor (Geekbench 6 multi‑core 7,500 pts vs 5,200 pts for the iPad 10) and 8 GB of RAM, which translates to smoother multitasking (per Notebookcheck). Battery life is comparable at around 10‑11 hours (per Apple), but the Air’s support for the 2nd‑gen Apple Pencil adds creative flexibility. For users on a tight budget, the iPad 10 still delivers solid everyday performance at a lower price.

iPad 10th Generation lists at $449 while iPad Air 5th Generation lists at $599 — iPad 10th Generation undercuts iPad Air 5th Generation by $150 (33%).

Winner: iPad Air 5th Generation

iPad 10th Generation: 6.5/10

iPad Air 5th Generation: 8.5/10

Spec-by-spec comparison

iPad 10th GenerationiPad Air 5th Generation
ProcessorA14 BionicApple M1
RAM4 GB8 GB
Storage64 GB64 GB
Display10.9‑inch Liquid Retina 2360×164010.9‑inch Liquid Retina 2360×1640

iPad 10th Generation

What works

  • Supports Apple Pencil (1st gen)
  • Decent battery life (up to 10.9 h web browsing per Apple)

What doesn't

  • Only 4 GB RAM limits multitasking
  • A14 chip lags behind M1 performance (Geekbench single‑core 1,500 vs 1,800)

iPad Air 5th Generation

What works

  • M1 chip delivers desktop‑class performance (Geekbench multi‑core 7,500)
  • 8 GB RAM for smoother multitasking
  • Supports 2nd‑gen Apple Pencil

What doesn't

  • No 120 Hz ProMotion display

Bottom line

Our pick: iPad Air 5th Generation.

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