iPad Go Pro or stick with the Air

[aunick0308]

Going with the 13" M4 Air with 256 GB and WIFI/Cellular is $1049. The 13" M5 Pro with 256 GB and WIFI/Cellular is $1499. So there is still a $450 difference.

And to be honest, unless you are using apps that really push the system you won't tell the difference between the M3, M4 or M5.

If you plan on using ear buds or head phone primarily then the difference between 2 or 4 speakers is a mute point.

I forgot to mention earlier that my 2018 Pro has 512 GB and my M3 Air has 256 GB. I went with 256 GB on the Air since I never came close to using close to that with the Pro.

Unless you are saving a bunch of music and videos to the iPad then 256 GB will be fine. I don't have a bunch of music or videos saved but do have a lot of photos and e-books.

It is easy to go into analysis paralysis when trying to decide which one to go with. I know I did when upgrading from the Pro to the Air.

The Pro does have a better camera, a better screen (you might not notice the difference), and 4 speakers. Otherwise the specs are pretty much the same for the Pro and Air.

If you do notice the difference in screens and want the better one and/or need a camera with TrueDepth then go with the Pro. If not then the Air will work well and save you $450.

Hopefully the information we gave you helps.

I have always researched the crap out of everything before I purchase, especially if it costs $$$.

I went with 256gb when I got my 3rd gen and it has ~93gbs left so, I was thinking it was safe to go with 256gb storage with this one.

I rarely use the camera on the iPad to take pictures.

When I am buy myself or watching something on it with someone I don’t use earbuds.
However, I do tend to use earbuds more than using the speakers.

I have been thinking about getting a pro off and on for awhile when it was time to upgrade, especially when they weren’t putting the M chips in the Air yet, but the price tag was what stopped me. To be honest, I still want a pro, but again the price tag is makes me hesitant, especially now that the Airs are getting “M” chips.

Do you think they will be supporting the Airs with M chips just as long as they are with the Pro line?

 

[bapegg]

I don't see why Apple would not keep supporting the Air just as long as the Pro.

I was basically where you are at right now when I bought my M3 iPad Air to replace the 2018 Pro. I couldn't justify the extra $450 for the Pro at the time.

I do keep my iPads in a protective case so that does have a small affect on the sound. But I do not notice enough difference between the 2018 Pro and M3 Air speakers.

 

[cmiller4642]

I personally am in love with my 11 inch Pro M5. It is the perfect tablet IMO. I wanted something portable that I could carry around easier (the 13 inch Pro is a bit too large for that).

Is it overkill? Yes. Was it worth it? Yes. The screen is gorgeous and the 120hz Pro Motion display is fluid. The speakers are amazing. The battery lasts forever. I picked up a Magic Keyboard just so I didn't have to haul my MacBook Pro anywhere and it's now my default portable device that I'll take on a trip so I can watch movies in the hotel room. I also take it off the keyboard and use a standard Smart Folio for porch nights in warmer weather to watch TV shows and have a few beers outside. It's super light and easy to hold without fear of dropping it.

 

[Fr. Guido Sarducci]

I had an 11” M2 Air that I found I was using almost exclusively in spite of having a less than 2 year old iMac in my den. So, I decided to give the iPad and the iMac to my wife and buy a 13” M5 Pro. There is nothing I can’t do on this iPad that I did on the iMac, but to be fair, I’m retired so it’s not used for work purposes. Buying direct from Apple, I got a 10% military discount, then by using my Apple Card I got $50 in Apple Cash - so this amounts to $200 off the retail cost. To me, the face ID is far better than the touch, as is the 120hz display. It’s great to travel with, great on my desk, and great in my recliner. I can use my phone as a hot spot so I don’t need the cellular version. For me, it’s the ideal device and I love it.

 

[bapegg]

I do like Face ID but using Touch ID on the Air doesn't bother me one bit. I find the 11" models to be the sweet spot for me. But everyone's preferences and use cases will be different.

The OP wants a 13" with 256 GB of storage. So the decision is down to if he wants the better camera, 4 speakers, Face ID or if he wants to save $450 by getting the Air.

There really is no right or wrong answer here as both models will serve him well for years to come.

 

[Lounge vibes 05]

The Pro does have a better camera, a better screen (you might not notice the difference), and 4 speakers. Otherwise the specs are pretty much the same for the Pro and Air.

Why are we being disingenuous? This is just not true.
The Pro is also:
Significantly thinner
Significantly lighter (and trust me you feel it)
FaceID on the Pro compared to the worst implementation of TouchID on the Air
Not just a better display, not just a higher refresh rate display, but also a significantly more efficient display as well.
HDR capable, the air is not.
Stereo speakers in portrait mode (the Air can’t do this)
Significantly bigger battery (as I mentioned before the air tests even worse than the mini, the base or the Pro)
LiDAR built in
Fast charge capable
Compatible with the aluminum backlit version of the Magic Keyboard with ForceTouch trackpad

All these might sound tiny out of context, but they all add up. The Pro is a device that *feels* modern, the Air is basically a worse 2018 Pro that happens to have a newer chip. And given OP is likely to come out of pocket *at least* $1200, they shouldn’t settle for mediocrity.

Going with the 13" M4 Air with 256 GB and WIFI/Cellular is $1049. The 13" M5 Pro with 256 GB and WIFI/Cellular is $1499. So there is still a $450 difference.

Only if buying from Apple direct, I see there are brand new M4 Pro 256 GB cellular for as low as $1200 from third parties, although stock is inconsistent.

 

[bapegg]

Deleted.

 

[Lounge vibes 05]

But is all of that worth the extra money to the OP is the real question. And here we go again when it comes to Air Vs Pro. It's the same for iPads or MacBooks. Not everyone needs or wants the Pro and the Air will suit their needs just fine.

I broke down the differences in easy to understand terms. And it is up to each individual to do their own homework to see which model fits their needs best. It may be the Pro or it may be the Air.

The OP asked for honest opinions which is what I gave him. And I did not put down either model.

You literally left out all the important differences, boiling it down to “screen and speakers”.
You didn’t “break it down”, you just left out everything that you personally don’t care about. Your original post didn’t even mention the biggest user facing feature, FaceID vs power button TouchID.
That’s basically like me saying the only difference between the iPhone 17 and 17 Pro is the battery and RAM, completely ignoring the cameras.
Also…

But is all of that worth the extra money to the OP

Obviously, we can’t know everyone’s needs and wants, but I would say that if the OP is willing to drop (at minimum) $1100 on an iPad including tax, plus the cellular plan they are going to pay for it and whatever accessories they end up getting, “budget” probably isn’t at the top of their concerns. Especially since they have already stated that they won’t even look at Apple‘s own refurbished store, where you can easily find a 256 GB 13 inch iPad Air for $600.
Which leads me back to my original point, if anyone, anywhere, is spending somewhere between $1000 and $2000 on an iPad, not a MacBook, not a phone, but an iPad, there is really only one logical option and it is not the Air. Dumping high-end MacBook money into the worst iPad that Apple makes is just silly.

It's the same for iPads or MacBooks.

No, it’s not. Most people who opt for a MacBook Pro over a MacBook Air are doing it because they actually *need* the extra I/O, processing and graphics power and SSD speed and capacity.
The iPad is not a MacBook, there is nothing you can do on an iPad Pro that you can’t do on the base $249 iPad. Anyone spending $1000+ on an iPad are doing it for one reason and one reason only, because they want a nice iPad. They don’t want a basic iPad, they don’t wanna cut down iPad, they want a very nice, super premium iPad. And once we are talking about dropping four figures on a tablet, there’s only one choice that truly makes sense.

 

[bapegg]

For the sake of not arguing. Here are the specs for each iPad

https://www.apple.com/ipad/compare/?modelList=ipad-pro-13-m5,ipad-air-13-m4,ipad-11th-a16

That way you can compare each one to determine if the higher specs are worth the extra money to you. Only you can make that decision for yourself.

I gave my experiences with the older 2018 Pro vs the M3 Air. Others will have different experiences.

 

[rui no onna]

The iPad is not a MacBook, there is nothing you can do on an iPad Pro that you can’t do on the base $249 iPad. Anyone spending $1000+ on an iPad are doing it for one reason and one reason only, because they want a nice iPad. They don’t want a basic iPad, they don’t wanna cut down iPad, they want a very nice, super premium iPad. And once we are talking about dropping four figures on a tablet, there’s only one choice that truly makes sense.

Actually, there are some games that the M-series iPad Air and iPad Pro models can play but the base iPad cannot. I expect that will change with the release of the new base model (guessing A18 or A19).

Personally, the only feature that I really want to see on the iPad Air is FaceID. I've had ProMotion displays since the 2017 iPad Pro but it's not something I care overmuch about. The thinner and lighter form factor of the M4/M5 iPad Pro is nice but I don't like the Tandem OLED (migraines).

 

[aunick0308]

Actually, there are some games that the M-series iPad Air and iPad Pro models can play but the base iPad cannot. I expect that will change with the release of the new base model (guessing A18 or A19).

Personally, the only feature that I really want to see on the iPad Air is FaceID. I've had ProMotion displays since the 2017 iPad Pro but it's not something I care overmuch about. The thinner and lighter form factor of the M4/M5 iPad Pro is nice but I don't like the Tandem OLED (migraines).

You just brought up something that I was not thinking about. I have a history of dealing with migraine variant headaches (doctor diagnosed). How does the Tandem OLED affect migraines?

 

[rui no onna]

You just brought up something that I was not thinking about. I have a history of dealing with migraine variant headaches (doctor diagnosed). How does the Tandem OLED affect migraines?

I feel like my head is getting squeezed when I use the M4 Pro for more than 15 minutes. I'm still within the 90-day Costco return period so it might be going back. It's such a good deal though so I'm hoping I can acclimatize. OLED-based iPhones seem to have stopped giving me migraines.

 

[snipr125]

I feel like my head is getting squeezed when I use the M4 Pro for more than 15 minutes. I'm still within the 90-day Costco return period so it might be going back. It's such a good deal though so I'm hoping I can acclimatize. OLED-based iPhones seem to have stopped giving me migraines.

Yes I'm the same, I have to keep the display at 45-50% with Truetone, night shift and auto brightness OFF to be able to use mine without PWM induced migraines. Basically any form of dimming and I get that head squeezing feeling like you said. Apart from this, the display is just amazing. OP you should take this into consideration when deciding.

 

[bapegg]

I'm glad that you all mentioned getting headaches with certain types of displays. That is good information and goes along with what I said about how everyone's eyes are different and they will have a different experience than others when it comes to monitors and displays.

I know I get that way if I play X Box too long on my 4K TV. Some of that is from all of the movement when playing certain games though.

 

[Greenmeenie]

I’m an artist, and I only own iPads, no laptops or computers. My main iPad is an 11” iPad Pro. I do all my content creation & media consumption on it. I also own an iPad mini for when i wanna travel light. But i did just add a 13” iPad Air for when i crave a larger drawing area. To me the Air is a great deal. The M4 iPad Airs come with as much ram as the iPad Pros now & you do save a lot of money. Having said that, the audio on the iPad Pro with it’s Quad speakers is A LOT better. And watching movies on the OLED screen are the best of any tablet with it’s true blacks, vibrant colors & high contrast. So if you really enjoy that, i’d go with the Pro. It’ll last you forever. I had my last iPad Pro for 8 years! That works out to pennies a day. So it’s worth the extra money for the audio & video improvements you’ll get. But watching movies on my ipad mini or ipad air are also fine. The iPad Pro just takes it to a higher level with the OLED screen & Quad speakers.

 

[zoga]

I had an 11” M2 Air that I found I was using almost exclusively in spite of having a less than 2 year old iMac in my den. So, I decided to give the iPad and the iMac to my wife and buy a 13” M5 Pro. There is nothing I can’t do on this iPad that I did on the iMac, but to be fair, I’m retired so it’s not used for work purposes. Buying direct from Apple, I got a 10% military discount, then by using my Apple Card I got $50 in Apple Cash - so this amounts to $200 off the retail cost. To me, the face ID is far better than the touch, as is the 120hz display. It’s great to travel with, great on my desk, and great in my recliner. I can use my phone as a hot spot so I don’t need the cellular version. For me, it’s the ideal device and I love it.

Sound exactly like my scenario :—)

 

[aunick0308]

I want to thank everyone for their input!

I made my purchase tonight. I went ahead and bit the bullet and went with a M5 Pro. I have been wanting one off and on for several years now. Best Buy had it for $1449 and I got an extra $50 off for joining their total membership, which comes with Apple Care. The Total membership actually paid for itself as I was able to get the data transferred by the Geek squad for $0 instead of having to pay $100.

I also was able to get another $125 off by trading in my 3rd Gen Air.

 

[techmuscle]

I don’t know if I would be able to get air pods due to my ear sensitivity. My ear starts hurting after a short amount of time with most in ear earbuds. I have been able to wear the ones with the over the ear support loop longer. Is there other brands you would recommend I look into if I go that route?

I just purchased the AeroFit 2 open ear buds from Anker. Been very happy with them and can be connected to two devices simultaneously. I have them connected to both my iPad and iPhone (connected, not just paired). They are on sale at Amazon for $90.

 

[1BadManVan]

I end up selling my ipad pro m1 a couple years ago. Went and grabbed a legion go, quickly realized it wasn't for me and end up picking up an ipad air m1 with the magic keyboard used for cheap. I generally use it at work as i travel to a bunkhouse so its basic a mini laptop replacement that fits in my lunch bag. I really dont miss the pro much, the air is perfectly fine and being that i got an air with the magic keyboard for cheaper than a pro, it was a worthwhile trade off

 

[aunick0308]

I just purchased the AeroFit 2 open ear buds from Anker. Been very happy with them and can be connected to two devices simultaneously. I have them connected to both my iPad and iPhone (connected, not just paired). They are on sale at Amazon for $90.

I tried on a pair of Shokz Openfit 2+ at my local Best Buy and they seemed to fit my ears well (I am a girl that is blessed/cursed with small sensitive ears) However, I just can’t justify paying so much on ear buds right now so, I just ordered the AeroFit 2 off of Amazon. Keeping my fingers crossed that they will work.

Thanks for your input!

 

[Pepsi123]

I went for the iPad Pro M5 this time. I have owned iPad A16, Mini 7 and Air M3, but this time I wanted Pro motion and Face ID. Worth it? probably not, but for me....its a gamechanger.

 

[Pepsi123]

I've had the Ipad Pro M5 for a while now, and honestly, I love Face ID and ProMotion. BUT, this ipad doesn't give me more than what a base model could do. So I'm struggling to justify the price. I use it for web surfing, netflix, youtube and social media. Checking email and taking notes. No heavy applications. I'm 99% sure I'll choose to return it. Costs more than it's worth. I'll probably just keep my Mini A17 pro and MB Air M3 in a nice combination.

 

[zoga]

I've had the Ipad Pro M5 for a while now, and honestly, I love Face ID and ProMotion. BUT, this ipad doesn't give me more than what a base model could do. So I'm struggling to justify the price. I use it for web surfing, netflix, youtube and social media. Checking email and taking notes. No heavy applications. I'm 99% sure I'll choose to return it. Costs more than it's worth. I'll probably just keep my Mini A17 pro and MB Air M3 in a nice combination.

I would keep it personally. I enjoy my M5 13” iPP every single day as well as Mini A17 Pro. It’s a perfect combo IMO. I had the 11” M1 iPP and sold it because it wasn’t good at anything — too big to hold it in your hands and too small to do anything serious on it. That’s just my opinion. I guess the same thing goes for macbooks. Both NEO and Pro run the same powerful desktop OS but they differ substantially in terms of power, battery life, sustained workload, screen technology, speakers, build quality (to a somewhat lesser extent as we see in recent reviews of NEO) etc. I would argue that the question itself is twofold — it’s not only about whether you need it or not but also if you appreciate the hardware quality/innovation. If your answer is an absolute no to both of these questions then probably iPP might be overkill and buyer’s remorse might kick in after some time. But, if you like/enjoy at least one or two of features of the product you may end up regretting not keeping the Pro because it could ruin the whole experience of iPadOS which — in the end — is the whole point of buying an iPad in the first place. Wish you all the best in deciding what works for you.

 

[Miltz]

I currently have a 3rd gen IPad Air that I bought when it first came out in 2019. After a long contemplation I have decided that it is time to upgrade.
What I can’t decide on is whether or not to stick with the Air line or go all in and get a Pro.

On my current iPad I mainly use it to read on via the Kindle App, internet/social media browsing, and I also use it to stream movies/tv shows as well as listen to music while I am working late.
When I am trying to watch something or listen to music I have to either turn the volume way up or utilize earbuds to easily hear what I am streaming. Due to this, I was thinking it would be better to get an IPad Pro instead of another Air.

For those of you who want to watch things on the iPad without using earbuds or Bluetooth speakers, did you get an IPad Pro for the better speakers?

I recently was in your situation. I was comparing the air with the pro and after considering everything I chose a pro and it was the best decision that I made. I think it’s worth the price difference, especially if you factor in that the pro comes with double the base storage better screen, lighter, more powerful faster SSD. I got the 11 inch though the 13 inch is just too big to hold for a long period of time for me. The other thing to consider is that the only part you interact with is the screen and the screen is phenomenal on the pro. It’s the best screen I’ve ever seen and to have that kind of power in such a thin device. Also, it’s future proof, the M5 is gonna be powerful for the next 6 to 7 years easy. I’m not sure if you care about graphics performance, but there is a substantial difference between the M4 and M5 for graphics and overtime as they add stuff to iPadOS that’s graphic related the M5 will perform much better even if they perform similarly, even if we’re not playing games. Definitely go to the store and see them in person before you decide.

 

[Miltz]

You just brought up something that I was not thinking about. I have a history of dealing with migraine variant headaches (doctor diagnosed). How does the Tandem OLED affect migraines?

I’m also get really bad migraines after using the iPad Pro for the last two weeks. I haven’t had any so this device does not trigger migraines for me at all.