Which Is Better: iPad or iPad Air (2024)?
Choosing between 2024’s iPad or iPad Air can seem like splitting hairs. Both models boast impressive features and specifications, but the choice will likely depend on the tablet’s use case.
Whether you’re a student, professional, or casual user, understanding the differences between these two popular Apple products requires a clear understanding of what each model brings to the table(t).
In this article, we'll dive deep into the specifics of the 2024 iPad and iPad Air, comparing everything from design and performance to battery life and connectivity options for those always on the go. Our goal is to help you determine which device best suits your needs so you can confidently invest in the right tool for your digital lifestyle. By the end of this comparison, you'll have a comprehensive understanding of each model's pros, cons, and price, making your choice easier and more straightforward.
Source: Pexels
Our iPad Spec Comparison Methodology
To ensure a transparent and trustworthy comparison between the 2024 iPad and iPad Air, we'll clearly evaluate several key aspects side-by-side. We'll start by examining design and build quality, focusing on aesthetics, materials, and portability. Next, we'll compare display specs, including screen size, resolution, and brightness. Performance will be assessed through processors, RAM, and real-world usage.
We'll also look at battery life under high usage, software features, camera capabilities, and audio quality. Connectivity options and price will be reviewed. Finally, we’ll wrap all of this together by considering the benefits of each tablet for different user profiles, such as students, professionals, and casual users.
iPad versus iPad Air Comparison Table
Source: Apple.com official website
Related: iPad Air M2 vs iPad Pro M4: Which One Should You Buy?
Similarities between the iPad and iPad Air in 2024
Let’s get the similarities out of the way first. Both of these latest-generation tablets have an enclosure made from 100% recycled materials and are ENERGY STAR-certified. While the larger iPad Air screen boasts a higher resolution, the smaller screen has the same resolution as the iPad — and all sport a 264 pixels-per-inch liquid retina display.
When it comes to media capture and playback, the two also live in the same wheelhouse. Users can find a 12MP rear-facing camera and 4k resolution recording capabilities — making both tablets equally useful for taking video calls, live-streaming, or attending virtual lectures. These specs are rounded out by the same landscape stereo speakers on both, ensuring crisp sound playback alongside their dual built-in microphones.
Both tablets also offer WiFi with simultaneous dual-band and Bluetooth connectivity, which means users will be able to rely on their connections when they’re needed most.
Finally, both tablets run the efficient Mac “iPadOS 17” and have access to dozens of downloadable apps, letting users customize their iPads for whatever their needs are. The sleek Apple design that we’ve come to expect from all of their top-quality tech is also present as standard. Not only are these latest editions excellent to use, but they look good doing it, too!
iPad and iPad Air Specs Main Differences
Now onto the differences between these two tablets. This is where you should start to get a better feel for which piece of technology is going to fit better with your needs.
Which Is Heavier?
While not the most pronounced difference, there is some variation in weight. While the smaller iPad Air is slightly lighter than the iPad (462 vs 481 grams respectively), the larger 13” iPad Air weighs in at an additional 137 grams (618). This is an impressively small difference for the additional 2” screen size.
Screen Size and Resolution
This brings us to one of the main differences — while the iPad Air does come in two sizes, it’s the only tablet type that offers a 13” screen. So for users who prefer a little more real estate (especially those using the tablet for multimedia purposes), this could become the deciding factor. The larger screen also enables a greater resolution of 2732 x 2048 rather than the standard 2360 x 1640. It’s important to note that all of the tablet variations listed in this article work with a standard 264 PPI.
Connectivity
Users who need telecom capabilities should note that while the iPad Air allows the use of eSIMs, there’s no opportunity to use a physical SIM card (e.g., a Nano SIM) — unlike the iPad 2024 edition, which allows for both. This is unlikely to be a deciding factor in which tablet will work best for you, but it is particularly important to know in advance if the tablet is being purchased as a replacement for another telecom-capable device.
Storage Capacity
The iPad Air offers four storage capacities, while the iPad allows for only two. While the 64BG iPad option should be sufficient for casual use — or for users who tend to store everything in the cloud — these tablets come into their own with 256GB storage. For those expecting to be more media-heavy (such as designers, editors, etc.), only the iPad Air offers 512GB and a 1TB option at the higher end of storage capacity.
Performance (Processor and RAM)
The 2024 iPad and iPad Air both pack a punch when it comes to processing power, but they do so in slightly different ways. The iPad Air features the M2 chip with a 6-core CPU and 4-core graphics, along with a 16-core Neural Engine. In comparison, the iPad is equipped with the A14 Bionic chip, which boasts an 8-core CPU with 4 performance cores and 4 efficiency cores, a 16-core Neural Engine, and 8GB of RAM.
In real terms, the M2 chip in the iPad Air is designed to handle more demanding tasks. This means smoother multitasking, faster app launches, and better performance in graphics-intensive applications like gaming and video editing. The A14 Bionic chip in the iPad, while also highly capable, is optimized for a balance between performance and energy efficiency. This makes it great for everyday tasks like web browsing, streaming, and light productivity work. However, it might not be as swift in handling the most demanding apps and tasks as the M2 chip in the iPad Air.
Price
The price differential is likely to be a top deciding factor for many users — especially since the difference in the starting price between the two tablets is $250. Ultimately, it’s up to each user to decide whether the slightly more powerful iPad Air is worth the additional investment. But, for users who need higher performance for tasks like video editing, gaming, or professional work, the iPad Air is likely worth the extra cost due to saved time and peace of mind. The standard iPad is likely more than sufficient for casual use.
Source: Pexels
The Best Tablet for Different Types of Users in 2024
Is the iPad Air 2024 Better for Gamers than the iPad?
Yes, the iPad Air, with its more powerful processor and better display, is generally better suited for gaming compared to the standard iPad. The M2 chip in the iPad Air features a 6-core CPU and 4-core graphics, delivering superior performance and graphics capabilities. This means smoother gameplay, faster load times, and the ability to handle graphically intense games at higher settings without compromising performance. Gamers will appreciate the richer, more detailed visuals and the seamless experience, especially in demanding games and augmented reality (AR) applications.
Casual gamers and those on a budget might still find the standard iPad sufficient for their needs, but the iPad Air stands out as the better gaming device.
Which Is the Best Tablet for Professionals?
While the iPad Air comes at a higher price point, it offers more storage options, faster connectivity features, and can fully leverage the latest iPadOS updates. This makes it a valuable tool for professionals who need reliable, high-performance devices for their work. In contrast, the standard iPad is more suited for casual use and less demanding professional tasks. For those who rely heavily on their tablet for work, the iPad Air's enhanced efficiency and capabilities justify the investment.
So, if you're a power user needing top-tier performance, the iPad Air is the way to go. For those seeking a more balanced, cost-effective option with solid performance, the iPad is an excellent choice.
Which Device Is Better for Students, the iPad or iPad Air 2024?
For students, the choice depends on their needs and budget. The standard iPad is a great, cost-effective option for general schoolwork, while the iPad Air offers more power and features for demanding tasks like graphic design or video editing.
Which Should I Buy for General Use?
The iPad should be more than sufficient for casual everyday use, and at a price point starting at $250 less than its Air counterpart, there will be more than sufficient budget left over to purchase one of the best iPad cases and screen protectors available.
Related: Unveiling the New iPad Air 11/13 (M2): Who Should Consider Upgrading?
iPad Vs iPad Air (2024) Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Can the iPad 2024 and iPad Air 2024 use the same accessories?
Yes, both models can use many of the same accessories, such as the Apple Pencil (2nd generation) and the Magic Keyboard, though it's always best to check compatibility for specific accessories.
Q. Which is more portable, the iPad or iPad Air 2024?
Both models are highly portable, but the iPad Air is lighter and thinner, making it slightly more convenient for travel and on-the-go use.
Q. Can the iPad and iPad Air 2024 run the same apps?
Yes, both models run on iPadOS and can run the same apps available on the Apple App Store. Performance may vary based on the app's requirements and the device's specifications.
Q. Where can you buy the best iPad and iPad Air cases?
Right here — on the ZUGU website! Choose from our range of superior iPad cases, reliable screen protectors, and ZUGU tablet accessories.
Whichever tablet you decide on, make sure it’s well-protected with a case that doesn’t sacrifice quality design for functionality. Our iPad cases are made from the highest-quality materials and will give you peace of mind.