IPad Air 5 (M1) Vs. IPad Pro (2018): Which Should You Choose?

by Jhon Lennon 62 views

So, you're in the market for a new iPad, huh? Awesome! But now you're stuck trying to decide between the sleek and powerful iPad Air 5 with the M1 chip and the still-capable iPad Pro from 2018. Don't sweat it, guys! This is a common dilemma, and we're here to break it down for you in plain English, covering everything from performance and display to features and overall value. By the end of this article, you'll be armed with all the info you need to make the right choice for your needs and budget. Let's dive in!

Performance: M1 Magic vs. A12X Bionic

When it comes to performance, the iPad Air 5 boasts Apple's M1 chip, the same silicon found in the MacBook Air and entry-level MacBook Pro. This chip is a beast, offering a massive leap in performance compared to previous iPad Air models. We're talking smoother multitasking, faster app loading, and the ability to handle demanding tasks like video editing and gaming with ease. The M1's 8-core CPU and 8-core GPU deliver a significant performance boost, making the iPad Air 5 incredibly responsive and capable.

Now, let's not count out the 2018 iPad Pro just yet. It's powered by Apple's A12X Bionic chip, which was a powerhouse in its own right when it was released. The A12X Bionic features an 8-core CPU and a 7-core GPU, providing excellent performance for most tasks. While it's not quite as blazing fast as the M1, it's still more than capable of handling everyday tasks like browsing the web, streaming videos, and running productivity apps. However, when it comes to more demanding tasks like video editing, 3D modeling, or playing graphically intensive games, the M1 chip in the iPad Air 5 definitely has the edge.

In a nutshell: The iPad Air 5 with the M1 chip offers significantly faster performance than the 2018 iPad Pro with the A12X Bionic. If you need the absolute best performance for demanding tasks, the iPad Air 5 is the clear winner. But if you're primarily using your iPad for everyday tasks, the 2018 iPad Pro is still a very capable device.

Display: Liquid Retina vs. Liquid Retina with ProMotion

Moving on to the display, both the iPad Air 5 and the 2018 iPad Pro feature Apple's Liquid Retina display technology, known for its vibrant colors, sharp details, and excellent viewing angles. However, there's one key difference: the 2018 iPad Pro boasts ProMotion technology, which dynamically adjusts the display's refresh rate up to 120Hz. This results in smoother scrolling, more fluid animations, and a more responsive Apple Pencil experience. It's a subtle but noticeable difference that can enhance the overall user experience.

The iPad Air 5, on the other hand, has a standard 60Hz refresh rate. While the display is still excellent, it lacks the buttery smoothness of ProMotion. For most users, this won't be a deal-breaker, but if you're a creative professional who relies heavily on the Apple Pencil or someone who's particularly sensitive to display refresh rates, the 2018 iPad Pro might be a better choice.

Another factor to consider is size. The 2018 iPad Pro comes in two sizes: 11-inch and 12.9-inch. The iPad Air 5, meanwhile, is only available in a 10.9-inch size. If you prefer a larger display for multitasking or creative work, the 12.9-inch iPad Pro might be more appealing. However, the smaller size of the iPad Air 5 makes it more portable and easier to hold for extended periods.

In summary: The 2018 iPad Pro has a slight edge in terms of display technology, thanks to its ProMotion display. However, the iPad Air 5 still offers a fantastic viewing experience. Consider your display size preferences and whether you value the smoother scrolling and responsiveness of ProMotion.

Features: What Else Matters?

Beyond performance and display, there are several other features to consider when choosing between the iPad Air 5 and the 2018 iPad Pro.

  • Apple Pencil Support: Both iPads support the 2nd generation Apple Pencil, which magnetically attaches to the side of the iPad for charging and storage. However, as mentioned earlier, the 2018 iPad Pro's ProMotion display provides a more responsive and natural Apple Pencil experience.
  • Cameras: The iPad Air 5 has a 12MP Ultra Wide front camera with Center Stage, which automatically adjusts the frame to keep you in view during video calls. The 2018 iPad Pro has a 7MP TrueDepth front camera with Face ID for secure authentication. Both iPads have a 12MP rear camera.
  • Storage: The iPad Air 5 is available in 64GB and 256GB storage options. The 2018 iPad Pro comes in a wider range of storage options, from 64GB to 1TB. If you plan on storing a lot of files, photos, or videos on your iPad, the 2018 iPad Pro might be a better choice.
  • Ports: The iPad Air 5 has a USB-C port for charging and data transfer. The 2018 iPad Pro also has a USB-C port, but it supports Thunderbolt/USB 4, which allows for faster data transfer speeds and connectivity to external displays and other accessories.
  • Speakers: The 2018 iPad Pro has a quad-speaker audio system, which provides a more immersive and balanced sound experience compared to the iPad Air 5's stereo speakers.
  • Design: The iPad Air 5 has a more modern design with flat edges and a variety of color options. The 2018 iPad Pro has a similar design, but it's only available in silver and space gray.

Price and Value: Bang for Your Buck

Price is always a crucial factor, isn't it? Generally, the iPad Air 5 starts at a lower price point than the 2018 iPad Pro, especially if you're looking at the base storage configurations. However, the price of a used 2018 iPad Pro might be competitive, depending on its condition and storage capacity.

When considering value, think about what you need from your iPad. If you prioritize performance and a modern design, the iPad Air 5 is an excellent choice. If you value features like ProMotion, Face ID, Thunderbolt/USB 4, and a quad-speaker audio system, the 2018 iPad Pro might be worth the extra investment, especially if you can find a good deal on a used model.

Conclusion: Which iPad Should You Choose?

Alright, guys, let's wrap things up! Choosing between the iPad Air 5 and the 2018 iPad Pro ultimately depends on your individual needs and priorities.

Here's a quick recap:

  • Choose the iPad Air 5 if:
    • You want the best possible performance for demanding tasks.
    • You prefer a more modern design and a wider range of color options.
    • You're on a tighter budget.
  • Choose the 2018 iPad Pro if:
    • You value the smoother scrolling and responsiveness of ProMotion.
    • You need features like Face ID, Thunderbolt/USB 4, and a quad-speaker audio system.
    • You can find a good deal on a used model.

No matter which iPad you choose, you're getting a fantastic device that can enhance your productivity, creativity, and entertainment. Happy shopping!