iPad Air 5th Generation vs iPad Pro 11" M4
Verdict: The iPad Pro 11" M4 outperforms the iPad Air 5 in raw performance (Geekbench 6 shows a ~40% GPU boost) and offers a 120 Hz ProMotion display that RTINGS rates as noticeably smoother for scrolling and gaming. However, the Air’s lighter weight, lower entry price, and sufficient performance for everyday tasks make it a more cost‑effective choice for most consumers, as highlighted by Consumer Reports. For creators who need the extra GPU headroom and ProMotion, the Pro is the clear winner; for budget‑focused users, the Air delivers better overall value.
Winner: iPad Pro 11" M4
iPad Air 5th Generation: 6.5/10
iPad Pro 11" M4: 8.5/10
Spec-by-spec comparison
| iPad Air 5th Generation | iPad Pro 11" M4 | |
|---|---|---|
| chip | Apple M1 | Apple M4 |
| storage | 64 GB | 128 GB |
| display | 10.9" Liquid Retina 2360×1640 60 Hz | 11" Liquid Retina 2360×1640 120 Hz ProMotion |
| battery_life | Up to 10 h web browsing | Up to 10 h web browsing |
iPad Air 5th Generation
What works
- Lightweight at 1.0 lb (per Apple)
- Supports Apple Pencil (2nd gen) (per Apple)
- Lower entry price than Pro models (per Consumer Reports)
What doesn't
- Only 60 Hz refresh rate (per RTINGS)
- Base storage limited to 64 GB (per Apple)
iPad Pro 11" M4
What works
- M4 chip offers ~40% higher GPU performance than M1 (per Geekbench 6)
- 120 Hz ProMotion display improves smoothness (per RTINGS)
- Face ID and Thunderbolt/USB‑C port (per Apple)
What doesn't
- Higher price point (per Consumer Reports)
- Heavier at 1.04 lb (per Apple)
Bottom line
Our pick: iPad Pro 11" M4.
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