iPad 9th Generation vs iPad Air (4th Generation) with M1

iPad Air (4th Generation) with M1 wins — The iPad Air M1 outperforms the iPad 9th Gen in raw speed (8,300 vs 4,500 Geekbench points) and offers a superior lamina…

Scores: iPad 9th Generation 6.5/10 · iPad Air (4th Generation) with M1 8.5/10

The iPad Air M1 outperforms the iPad 9th Gen in raw speed (8,300 vs 4,500 Geekbench points) and offers a superior laminated display (per RTINGS). However, the iPad 9th Gen’s $329 price gives it a better value proposition for casual users. For anyone needing desktop‑class performance or 2nd‑gen Pencil features, the Air is the clear winner.

Spec-by-spec comparison

iPad 9th GenerationiPad Air (4th Generation) with M1
Display10.2" Retina 2360×1640 60Hz10.9" Liquid Retina 2360×1640 60Hz
ProcessorApple A13 BionicApple M1
Storage64 GB64 GB
Battery~10 h web browsing (per Apple)~10 h web browsing (per Apple)

iPad 9th Generation

What works

  • Low launch price $329 (per Apple)
  • Supports 1st‑gen Apple Pencil (per Apple)
  • Classic Home button with Touch ID (per Apple)

What doesn't

  • Older A13 chip limits performance (per Geekbench 6)
  • Only 60 Hz display (per RTINGS)

iPad Air (4th Generation) with M1

What works

  • M1 chip delivers desktop‑class performance (per Geekbench 6)
  • Laminated display with True Tone (per RTINGS)
  • Supports 2nd‑gen Apple Pencil (per Apple)

What doesn't

  • Higher price point $599 (per Apple)
  • No expandable storage (per Apple)

Bottom line

Our pick: iPad Air (4th Generation) with M1.

Browse all comparisons | Trending

Built by Golden Consulting Partners