iPad Air M1 vs iPad Pro 11-inch M2

iPad Pro 11-inch M2 wins — The iPad Pro 11-inch M2 outperforms the iPad Air M1 with its 120Hz ProMotion display and superior GPU per Apple's specs …

Scores: iPad Air M1 6.5/10 · iPad Pro 11-inch M2 8/10

The iPad Pro 11-inch M2 outperforms the iPad Air M1 with its 120Hz ProMotion display and superior GPU per Apple's specs and RTINGS tablet reviews. It leads in performance and longevity but costs $200 more at launch. The Air M1 remains viable for basic use where value matters most.

iPad Air M1 lists at $599 while iPad Pro 11-inch M2 lists at $799 — iPad Air M1 undercuts iPad Pro 11-inch M2 by $200 (33%).

Spec-by-spec comparison

iPad Air M1iPad Pro 11-inch M2
Display10.9-inch Liquid Retina11-inch Liquid Retina with ProMotion
ChipApple M1 (8-core CPU, 8-core GPU)Apple M2 (8-core CPU, 10-core GPU)
RAM8GB—
Storage Options64GB or 256GB128GB to 2TB

iPad Air M1

What works

  • Lower MSRP of $599 at launch
  • Sufficient performance for everyday tasks and media consumption
  • Lightweight design suitable for portability

What doesn't

  • Discontinued status limits official support longevity
  • No ProMotion display refresh rate

iPad Pro 11-inch M2

What works

  • ProMotion 120Hz display for smoother scrolling and responsiveness
  • Higher storage starting at 128GB with up to 2TB options
  • Current status ensures ongoing software support

What doesn't

  • Higher launch MSRP of $799
  • Slightly thicker and heavier than the Air model

Bottom line

Our pick: iPad Pro 11-inch M2.

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