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What Is the Difference Between iPad and iPad Air

Written by: Emma Morris

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What Is the Difference Between iPad and iPad Air?

Are you curious about the difference between an iPad and an iPad Air?

 

Simply put, the iPad Air is lighter, packed with more features, and has a higher price tag.


But wait, there's more to this tale.


Stick around to learn about the differences between these Apple devices with UR.co.uk.

Key Takeaways

  • iPad Air is a bit of a showoff with its advanced processor.
  • iPad gives you more bang for your buck.
  • Both devices stand out in their own leagues.

The Core Processors

The iPad's Processor

Let's dig into the nitty-gritty—the processors driving these two Apple tablets.

 

In general, the processing power of an Apple iPad and an iPad Air varies across different series and models.


But when stripping down systems down to the basics, the processing power of iPad Air outweighs that of a standard Apple tablet.


Take, for example, the 10th-generation Dynamo iPad. This nifty device comes fuelled with an A14 Bionic processor, which is the same engine powering the iPhone 12 series.


It is perfectly fine for casual users looking to complete their everyday tasks, from web browsing to video streaming.

The iPad Air Processor

On the other side, tablets like the 5th-gen iPad Air packs more power.


It boasts the M1 chip, which also fires up a large majority of Apple's MacBook Air and MacBook Pro devices.


The main difference here? The M1 chip gives the iPad Air some serious muscle, making it a more powerful tablet for hefty tasks like video editing or gaming.


The choice boils down to how demanding your workload is.


The iPad Air is a more premium device in terms of processing power, while the iPad still offers solid performance at a friendlier price point.

Cost Considerations

The Budget Friendly Standard iPad

If you're looking to get a tablet on a budget, it's best to place the iPad Air and the standard iPad alongside it's fellow Apple products.


After scoping out the Apple tablet scene, you'll notice a clear price gap.


As a general rule, the basic, entry-level iPad is your wallet's best pal.


It gives you all the essential functions expected of an Apple iPad without breaking the bank, making it perfect for those working on a budget.

The More Luxurious iPad Air

Move up a notch, and you're in iPad Air territory.


Sure, it's a more premium device, and the price reflects that. You're splurging a bit but also getting extra features and capabilities absent in the regular iPad, such as a larger processor.


Now, if you're going all-in and eyeing the iPad Pro lineup, get ready for a price tag that matches its high-octane performance.


Designed for the most demanding users, it's a powerful tablet almost in a league of its own, making the iPad Air the more cost-effective alternative.


So, in short, the basic iPad is for the casual user, and the iPad Air is for those who want a few more features for their money but don't want to splurge on the luxury of a tablet in the iPad Pro line.


By the way, if you're looking to keep all your Apple gadgets in sync, check out this handy guide on how to sync iPhone and iPad. It's a lifesaver!

Design & Aesthetics

Classic and Functional Standard iPad

Ah, the iPad, the original trendsetter.

 

It sticks to what works; there is no need for flashy stuff like ultra-thin bezels or a gigantic display.


 Instead, it's got a dependable design that's weathered many Apple generations.


And let's not forget, older iPads up to the 10th generation also support first-generation Apple Pencil. So, yes, you can still doodle and jot to your heart's content.


Plus, Whether you're into popping pinks or more of a subdued space grey, there's an iPad hue to match your whatever the occasion.

The Slim and Trim New iPad Air

The iPad Air is the one for you if style is what matters.

 

Borrowing that high-end, minimalist vibe from the iPad Pro lineup, this tablet's a showstopper. You'll appreciate the roomier screen size and that anti-reflective coating, making it eye-friendly for long-term viewing.


But it's not all about the looks; it's got the brains, too.


The Air is up-to-speed with a Magic Keyboard and is even compatible with the second-generation Apple Pencil. Perfect for the creative souls or anyone needing laser-sharp accuracy for their tasks.


Note: the iPad Air doesn't support the first-generation Apple Pencil - Just something worth considering before you pull the trigger on that purchase.

Interface and Additional Features

Feature on the Standard iPad

When you're thinking iPad, you're getting a device that loves its roots. Although features for the standard iPad change depending on different generations, most iPads will have the following:

 

  • Touching Screens: All iPads feature a multi-touch display, letting your fingers do the talking with a variety of gestures.
  • Wi-Fi and More: Standard iPads all stay connected by boasting Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Some even step it up with cellular connectivity.
  • A Camera: Whether you're a selfie lover or a candid camera buff, most iPads equip you with both front and rear-facing cameras.
  • Hold the Memory: Storage options on these tablets have a varied range from a modest 16GB to a roomy 256GB.
  • Retina Display: Most come fitted with a high-resolution Retina display, making every pixel pop.

Note: Both the Air and the 10th generation iPad have around 10 hours of battery life, depending tablet usage.

iPad Air Features

Ready to take it up a notch? The Air comes loaded with features on the standard iPad but with extra bells and whistles. Alongside its advanced processor, the Air also has the following:

 

  • Faster Data Transfer: While both the classic iPad and its Air sibling sport USB-C ports, the Air takes the cake in data transfer speed, making it a speedster in the file-moving game.
  • A Wider Range of Colours: iPad Air offers a kaleidoscope of colours like Space Gray, Starlight, Pink, Purple, and Blue.
  • Anti-glare: The iPad Air's anti-reflective coating makes it a sunny day hero, something the standard iPad skips out on.
  • A Magnetic Connector: The Air also comes with a magnetic connector, making it a perfect match for Apple's Magic Keyboard.

This all stacks up to make the iPad Air a heavyweight in the tablet arena, offering a premium experience that might tip the scales when deciding which iPad to bring into your tech life.


But before you hit "buy," you might want to check out how do I get my emails back on my iPad. It'll help you make the most of whichever iPad you choose.

Final Thoughts

Still unsure about the differences between both tablets?

 

If you're all about the simple pleasures—scrolling through social media, catching the latest binge-worthy series—the basic iPad's got your back.

 

But if you're hungry for more, like high-quality photo editing or boss-level multitasking, the Air is the showstopper you've been waiting for.

 

Think of it as the iPad Pro's younger, yet just as talented, sibling—only without emptying your wallet.

 

So go on, make your choice and dive right into the Apple universe!

 

Are you also looking for a worry-free purchase? Explore our refurbished Apple phones and iPads! Each gem comes with a one-year warranty and 12 months of insurance, so you can buy with ultimate confidence.

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Emma Morris


Emma crafts insightful and informative articles about refurbished iPads for ur.co.uk. Her expertise guides readers in making the smartest choices for their tech needs.