Choosing between the iPad Pro and iPad Air for student use involves balancing power, portability, and price. The iPad Pro models excel with top-tier performance and larger screens, making them ideal for creative tasks and multitasking. The iPad Air offers most of the same capabilities at a lower price, with a lighter design suited for everyday carry. However, the Pro’s higher cost and extra features might be overkill for some students, while the Air’s slightly less powerful hardware could limit demanding applications. Continue reading for a detailed comparison that helps identify which model fits your needs best.
Get pool and patio gear delivered free with Prime
- Fast, free delivery on millions of items
- Prime Video, Amazon Music and more included
- Member-only deals all year
Complete the kit
Key Takeaways
- The iPad Pro generally outperforms the iPad Air in processing power and display quality, making it better for intensive tasks.
- The iPad Air provides a more affordable option with most features students need, emphasizing portability and value.
- Size and weight are key considerations—larger Pro models offer more screen real estate but are less portable.
- Storage options vary significantly, impacting long-term use and file management for students.
- Battery life is comparable across models, but features like cellular connectivity may influence daily usability.
| ipad pro vs ipad air for student | Display | Storage | Connectivity | Processor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch | 12.9-inch Liquid Retina | 256GB | Wi-Fi | A12Z Bionic |
| Apple iPad Pro 2024 | 13-inch Ultra Retina XDR | 256GB | Wi-Fi 6E, 5G | — |
| Apple iPad Air 13-inch | 13-inch Liquid Retina | 128GB | Wi-Fi 7 | Apple M4 chip |
| Apple iPad Pro 13-inch with M5 | 13-inch Ultra Retina XDR | 512GB | Wi-Fi 7 | Apple M5 |
| Apple iPad Air 2020 | 10.9-inch Liquid Retina | 64GB | Wi-Fi 6 | — |
| Apple iPad Air 13-inch | 13-inch Liquid Retina | 1TB | Wi-Fi 6E, 5G Cellular, USB-C | M2 chip |
| Apple iPad 11-inch with A16 Ch | 11-inch Liquid Retina | 128GB | Wi-Fi 6, USB-C | A16 chip |
| Apple 2022 iPad Pro 12.9-inch | 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR | 256GB | Wi-Fi 6E, 5G | Apple M2 chip |
| Apple iPad Pro 11-inch | 11-inch Ultra Retina XDR | 256GB | Wi-Fi 7 | Apple M5 |
| Apple iPad Air 11-inch | 11-inch Liquid Retina | 128GB | Wi-Fi 7 | Apple M4 chip |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020, Wi-Fi, 256GB) – Space Gray (Renewed)
This iPad Pro 12.9-inch stands out for its expansive Liquid Retina display, which offers more real estate than the 13-inch options, making it ideal for detailed creative work. Its powerful A12Z Bionic chip handles demanding apps better than the iPad Air’s M4, though it falls short of the latest performance standards and lacks cellular options—an important consideration for mobile students. As a renewed device, it may have limited warranty, but its large display and professional-grade camera system, including LiDAR Scanner, make it a preferred choice for those who need maximum screen space and advanced features. Compared with the newer 2024 iPad Pro, this model is less future-proof but still strong for creative and multitasking needs.
Pros:- Large, high-quality 12.9-inch Liquid Retina display ideal for multitasking and media creation
- Powerful A12Z Bionic chip handles demanding creative apps smoothly
- Advanced camera system with LiDAR Scanner enhances AR experiences
Cons:- Renewed product may have limited warranty and uncertain longevity
- No cellular connectivity option listed, limiting on-the-go use
Best for: Students involved in graphic design, video editing, or AR projects who prioritize screen size and camera capabilities.
Not ideal for: Students seeking the latest hardware or a more budget-friendly device, since the renewed status and lack of cellular could be limiting.
- Display:12.9-inch Liquid Retina
- Storage:256GB
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi
- Processor:A12Z Bionic
- Front Camera:7MP TrueDepth
- Rear Cameras:12MP Wide, 10MP Ultra Wide, LiDAR Scanner
Our verdict“This iPad Pro suits students who need a large, performance-driven device for creative work and don’t mind a renewed unit with limited warranty.”
Apple iPad Pro 2024 (13-inch, Wi-Fi, 256GB) – Space Black (Renewed)
The 2024 iPad Pro with its 13-inch Ultra Retina XDR display and M4 chip delivers exceptional performance and vibrant visuals, making it an excellent choice for students who want a device that can handle both creative and analytical tasks with ease. Its support for Apple Pencil Pro and Magic Keyboard extends productivity, and Wi-Fi 6E plus 5G connectivity offer fast data speeds. Compared to the 2020 Pro, this model offers a more powerful processor and improved wireless standards, though its renewed status means limited warranty and a high price that could deter budget-conscious students. The 10-hour battery life is adequate, but it’s less than some competitors’ all-day endurance.
Pros:- Powerful M4 chip ensures fast processing and smooth multitasking
- Vivid Ultra Retina XDR display with deep contrast and accurate colors
- Supports Apple Pencil Pro and Magic Keyboard for versatile use
- Fast Wi-Fi 6E and 5G for high-speed connectivity
Cons:- Renewed product may have limited warranty and uncertain longevity
- Premium price might be prohibitive for some students
- Battery life around 10 hours may not suffice for all-day use
Best for: Students seeking a high-end, versatile tablet that excels in multitasking, creative work, and connectivity.
Not ideal for: Students with tight budgets or those who prefer cellular connectivity over Wi-Fi, as the renewed status and high price may be drawbacks.
- Display:13-inch Ultra Retina XDR
- Storage:256GB
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi 6E, 5G
- Operating System:iOS
- Battery Life:10 hours
- Color:Space Black
Our verdict“This iPad Pro is ideal for students who need top-tier performance and display quality and are willing to invest in a renewed device.”
Apple iPad Air 13-inch (M4) with Liquid Retina Display, 128GB, 12MP Front/Back Camera, Wi-Fi 7, Touch ID, Space Gray
The iPad Air with the M4 chip offers a compelling blend of performance and portability, with a 13-inch Liquid Retina display that rivals the Pro’s in quality but at a more accessible price point. Its support for Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard makes it suitable for multitasking and note-taking, while Wi-Fi 7 ensures fast connectivity. Unlike the Pro models, it lacks the high-end camera systems and extra storage options, which might be limiting for creative projects or large file storage. Compared to the 2020 iPad Air, the M4 version provides a significant performance boost, making it better suited for students who want a lightweight device that can handle demanding apps without the bulk or cost of the Pro.
Pros:- Powerful M4 chip delivers smooth performance for multitasking
- Large 13-inch Liquid Retina display with true color accuracy
- Supports accessories like Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard
- Fast Wi-Fi 7 connectivity for quick data transfer
Cons:- Limited to 128GB storage, which may be restrictive for large files
- No mention of cellular connectivity, only Wi-Fi 7
- Higher price compared to previous generation iPad Air
Best for: Students needing a powerful yet portable device for multitasking, note-taking, and media consumption without the highest price tag.
Not ideal for: Students who require extensive storage or advanced camera features for professional-grade creative work.
- Display:13-inch Liquid Retina
- Processor:Apple M4 chip
- Storage:128GB
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi 7
- Front Camera:12MP with Center Stage
- Color:Space Gray
Our verdict“This iPad Air offers a strong combination of power and portability, making it suitable for students who want a versatile device without the Pro’s premium price.”
Apple iPad Pro 13-inch with M5 Chip, 512GB, Ultra Retina XDR Display, Wi-Fi 7, Face ID, Space Black
This iPad Pro with the M5 chip and 512GB storage targets students who need the highest performance for intensive creative or professional workflows. Its 13-inch Ultra Retina XDR display with ProMotion supports detailed editing, while 16GB RAM and Face ID facilitate smooth multitasking and secure login. Compared to the 2024 model with the M4 chip, this device offers a slight edge in processing power, though it comes at a higher cost. The 2TB storage option makes it ideal for large media files or multiple projects. It’s less suitable for budget-conscious students or those with minimal storage needs, but for demanding users, it provides unmatched performance and display quality.
Pros:- Powerful M5 chip handles intensive workloads with ease
- Ultra Retina XDR display with ProMotion for detailed visuals
- Supports advanced cameras and Face ID for security
- Up to 2TB storage for large projects
Cons:- High price limits affordability for typical students
- Limited to 512GB in this model, higher options are more expensive
Best for: Students in creative disciplines or professional fields needing maximum power, storage, and security.
Not ideal for: Students on a tight budget or those who don’t require the highest specifications for their tasks.
- Display:13-inch Ultra Retina XDR
- Processor:Apple M5
- Storage:512GB
- Memory:16GB
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi 7
- Biometrics:Face ID
Our verdict“This iPad Pro suits students who need peak performance and vast storage for professional-grade creative work and are comfortable with the high cost.”
Apple iPad Air 2020 (10.9-inch, Wi-Fi, 64GB) – Space Gray (Renewed)
This 2020 iPad Air offers a 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display and A14 Bionic chip at a more affordable price, especially as a renewed device. Its compact size makes it easy to carry, and support for Apple Pencil and keyboards adds to its versatility. While the 64GB storage can be limiting for students with many files or apps, it still provides decent performance for everyday tasks like note-taking, browsing, and media consumption. Compared with the newer M4-powered iPad Air, it’s less powerful but remains a practical choice for students with basic needs who want a reliable, lightweight device without paying a premium. The absence of cellular connectivity may be a drawback for those who need internet on the go.
Pros:- High-quality Liquid Retina display with true color
- Fast A14 Bionic chip provides reliable performance
- Supports Apple Pencil (2nd Gen) and keyboards
- Up to 10 hours of battery life
Cons:- Limited to 64GB storage, which may be insufficient for many students
- Renewed device might have warranty uncertainties
- No cellular connectivity option listed
Best for: Budget-conscious students who mainly need a device for note-taking, browsing, and light media use.
Not ideal for: Students in creative fields or with large storage needs, as the 64GB limit can quickly become restrictive.
- Display:10.9-inch Liquid Retina
- Chip:A14 Bionic
- Storage:64GB
- Color:Space Gray
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi 6
- Battery Life:Up to 10 hours
Our verdict“This iPad Air balances affordability and performance for students with basic needs and limited storage demands.”
Apple iPad Air 13-inch (M2) with 1TB Storage, Liquid Retina Display, 12MP Cameras, Wi-Fi 6E + 5G Cellular, Touch ID, All-Day Battery Life – Starlight
The iPad Air 13-inch with M2 stands out for combining a large, vibrant Liquid Retina display with impressive processing power thanks to the M2 chip, making it ideal for multitasking and media consumption. Compared to the iPad Pro 12.9-inch, it offers similar performance but at a more accessible price and a slightly lighter build. Its support for 5G and Wi-Fi 6E ensures fast connectivity on the go, while the 1TB storage caters to students with large files or media libraries. However, the premium price is a significant consideration, and its size might be less portable than smaller models. This pick makes the most sense for students needing a powerful, large-screen device without the extra cost of Pro features.
Pros:- Powerful M2 chip enables smooth multitasking and gaming
- Large 13-inch Liquid Retina display offers excellent media quality
- Supports fast 5G and Wi-Fi 6E connectivity for on-the-go use
- Up to 1TB storage provides ample space for files and media
Cons:- Premium price may limit accessibility for some students
- Large size could be less convenient for carrying around daily
Best for: Students who want a large, portable device with high performance for multitasking and media.
Not ideal for: Budget-conscious students or those prioritizing maximum portability over screen size, who might prefer smaller models like the iPad Air 11-inch.
- Display:13-inch Liquid Retina
- Processor:M2 chip
- Storage:1TB
- Front Camera:12MP Ultra Wide with Center Stage
- Back Camera:12MP Wide, 4K video
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi 6E, 5G Cellular, USB-C
Our verdict“Ideal for students seeking a high-performance, large-screen iPad with advanced connectivity and storage options.”
Apple iPad 11-inch with A16 Chip, 128GB, Liquid Retina Display, Wi-Fi 6, 12MP Front/Back Camera, Touch ID, Blue
The iPad 11-inch A16 offers a compelling balance of power and portability, with its fast A16 chip and stunning Liquid Retina display. Compared to the larger iPad Air 13-inch, this model is more compact, making it easier to carry throughout the day. Its support for Apple Pencil (1st gen) and Magic Keyboard Folio enhances productivity and creativity, ideal for students who take notes or sketch. The limited storage of 128GB may be restrictive for heavy users, and the absence of cellular support narrows its mobility options. Nonetheless, this device makes the most sense for students prioritizing a lightweight design with capable performance for everyday tasks.
Pros:- Powerful A16 chip delivers high performance for multitasking
- Compact 11-inch Liquid Retina display is highly portable
- Supports Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard Folio for creative tasks
- Fast Wi-Fi 6 connectivity ensures smooth online experience
Cons:- Limited to 128GB storage, which may be insufficient for heavy media use
- No cellular support restricts use outside Wi-Fi areas
Best for: Students who need a portable, versatile device for note-taking, browsing, and light creative work.
Not ideal for: Students requiring extensive storage or cellular connectivity for large projects or frequent travel.
- Display:11-inch Liquid Retina
- Processor:A16 chip
- Storage:128GB
- Camera (Front):12MP
- Camera (Back):12MP Wide with True Tone flash
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi 6, USB-C
Our verdict“Best suited for students who want a portable, capable device for everyday productivity and creative tasks without the need for extensive storage.”
Apple 2022 iPad Pro 12.9-inch (Wi-Fi, 256GB) – Space Gray (Renewed)
The iPad Pro 12.9-inch 2022 excels with its stunning Liquid Retina XDR display, ideal for students involved in graphic design, video editing, or media consumption. Its M2 chip provides robust performance, comparable to the iPad Pro 11-inch (2025), but with an even larger canvas. The support for Apple Pencil (2nd gen) and Magic Keyboard makes it highly versatile for creative tasks. The main tradeoff involves its size and weight, which may be less convenient for daily carrying, and the renewed condition might come with limited warranty. This model best suits students with advanced creative needs who prioritize display quality over portability.
Pros:- High-resolution Liquid Retina XDR display with ProMotion
- Powerful M2 chip for demanding creative applications
- Supports Apple Pencil (2nd gen) and Magic Keyboard
- Large 12.9-inch screen enhances media and editing workflows
Cons:- Size and weight reduce portability for on-the-go use
- Renewed product may have limited warranty
Best for: Students engaged in multimedia creation or requiring a large, high-quality display for detailed work.
Not ideal for: Students seeking a lightweight, budget-friendly device for casual use or portability.
- Display:12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR
- Storage:256GB
- Processor:Apple M2 chip
- Camera:12MP Ultra Wide front, 10MP Ultra Wide back, LiDAR Scanner
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi 6E, 5G
- Ports:USB-C with Thunderbolt/USB 4
Our verdict“Excellent for students needing a large, high-end display for creative projects, despite its bulkiness.”
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (2025) with M5 Chip, 256GB, Ultra Retina XDR Display, Wi-Fi 7, Face ID, Space Black
The iPad Pro 11-inch (2025) packs a punch with the latest M5 chip and Ultra Retina XDR display, making it suitable for demanding creative and professional tasks. Its advanced camera system and Face ID offer enhanced security and multimedia capabilities. Compared to the iPad Air 13-inch (M2), it provides a more compact form factor for portability while maintaining high performance. The inclusion of Wi-Fi 7 ensures faster network speeds, ideal for large file transfers or cloud-based workflows. However, the high price and lack of included accessories make it less accessible for casual students. It suits those who need a portable, high-performance device for intensive work.
Pros:- Powerful M5 chip delivers exceptional performance
- Compact 11-inch Ultra Retina XDR display with ProMotion
- Supports Face ID for enhanced security
- Fast Wi-Fi 7 for rapid data transfer
Cons:- High price without included accessories
- Limited to iPadOS 26, which may restrict some apps
Best for: Students involved in creative, professional, or intensive tasks requiring maximum processing power and portability.
Not ideal for: Budget-sensitive students or those who prefer a larger screen for media consumption over portability.
- Display:11-inch Ultra Retina XDR
- Processor:Apple M5
- Storage:256GB
- Memory:16GB
- Camera (Front):12MP with Center Stage
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi 7
Our verdict“Designed for students who need a portable, high-powered tablet capable of handling demanding creative workflows.”
Apple iPad Air 11-inch (M4) with Liquid Retina Display, 128GB, Wi-Fi 7, Touch ID, Space Gray
The iPad Air 11-inch (M4) offers a well-rounded experience with its M4 chip and sharp Liquid Retina display, making it suitable for students who need reliable performance at a more affordable price point. Compared to the iPad Pro 11-inch (2025), it lacks some advanced features like Face ID and the latest display technology but compensates with a lower cost and familiar design. Its support for Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard enhances productivity, and Wi-Fi 7 ensures fast connectivity. The main limitation is its storage, limited to 128GB in this model, which can be restrictive for media-heavy tasks. This is a good pick for students balancing budget and performance.
Pros:- Powerful M4 chip ensures smooth multitasking
- Affordable price point compared to higher-end models
- Supports Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard
- Fast Wi-Fi 7 connectivity for seamless online use
Cons:- Limited to 128GB storage, not ideal for large media files
- No 5G support, limiting connectivity options outside Wi-Fi
Best for: Students seeking a capable, budget-friendly device for everyday tasks and light creative work.
Not ideal for: Heavy media creators or students with large storage needs who may require higher capacity models.
- Display:11-inch Liquid Retina
- Processor:Apple M4 chip
- Storage:128GB
- Front Camera:12MP with Center Stage
- Back Camera:12MP Wide, 4K video
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi 7
Our verdict“A balanced choice for students who want a capable, affordable iPad for daily productivity and light creative tasks.”
How We Picked
The products in this roundup were selected based on their relevance to students, focusing on performance, portability, display quality, and price. We prioritized devices with recent hardware updates, good battery life, and features supporting multitasking and creative work. Our ranking emphasizes value for money, user experience, and the likelihood of lasting usability through a student’s academic career. Devices that offer a clear balance of power and affordability were rated higher, while premium models with higher prices were reserved for those with specific needs or budgets.| ipad pro vs ipad air for student | Connectivity | Processor |
|---|---|---|
| Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch | Wi-Fi | A12Z Bionic |
| Apple iPad Pro 2024 | Wi-Fi 6E, 5G | — |
| Apple iPad Air 13-inch | Wi-Fi 7 | Apple M4 chip |
| Apple iPad Pro 13-inch with M5 | Wi-Fi 7 | Apple M5 |
| Apple iPad Air 2020 | Wi-Fi 6 | — |
| Apple iPad Air 13-inch | Wi-Fi 6E, 5G Cellular, USB-C | M2 chip |
| Apple iPad 11-inch with A16 Ch | Wi-Fi 6, USB-C | A16 chip |
| Apple 2022 iPad Pro 12.9-inch | Wi-Fi 6E, 5G | Apple M2 chip |
| Apple iPad Pro 11-inch | Wi-Fi 7 | Apple M5 |
| Apple iPad Air 11-inch | Wi-Fi 7 | Apple M4 chip |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Ipad Pro Vs Ipad Air For Students
When choosing between an iPad Pro and iPad Air for students, several key factors can influence your decision. Understanding these considerations helps you pick a device that aligns with your academic demands, budget, and lifestyle. It’s important to weigh hardware capabilities against real-world usage, considering both current needs and future-proofing to ensure your investment pays off over time.Performance and Power
Students engaging in graphic design, video editing, or 3D modeling will benefit from the higher processing power of the iPad Pro, which features more advanced chips and better graphics. For typical note-taking, browsing, and streaming, the iPad Air’s M1 or M2 chips provide sufficient speed. Overpaying for a Pro might be unnecessary if your tasks are less demanding, but for future-proofing or intensive use, the Pro’s extra power can be worth it.
Display and Size
Display quality influences how comfortable you are during long study sessions, especially with digital textbooks or creative work. The iPad Pro’s Liquid Retina XDR and larger sizes (11-inch and 12.9-inch) offer stunning visuals but add bulk. The iPad Air’s 10.9 or 11-inch Liquid Retina displays are lighter and easier to carry, which can be more suitable for students moving between classes or studying on the go.
Portability and Design
Portability is a critical factor for students who commute or change locations often. The lighter weight of the iPad Air makes it easier to carry around all day, while the larger Pro models, though offering more screen space, can be cumbersome. Consider your daily routine and whether the extra size of a Pro will be a hindrance or a benefit for your workflow.
Storage and Connectivity
Storage options vary from 64GB to 2TB across these models, influencing how many apps, files, and media you can store locally. For students working with large files or offline content, higher storage capacity is advisable. Cellular connectivity (4G/5G) adds convenience but also increases cost, so evaluate your need for constant internet access against your budget.
Price and Value
Budget constraints are common for students, but investing in a device that lasts can save money in the long run. The iPad Air presents a more affordable choice with many comparable features, while the Pro offers premium extras like better displays and more powerful processors. Balance your immediate needs with future use to avoid overspending on features you might not need.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the iPad Pro worth the extra cost for a student?
The iPad Pro’s higher price is justified if you need advanced performance, larger or higher-quality displays, or plan to use demanding apps regularly. For general note-taking, browsing, and media consumption, the iPad Air offers a similar experience at a lower cost. Consider your specific use cases and whether the Pro’s additional features will significantly enhance your productivity or creative projects.
Can the iPad Air handle multitasking and creative work?
Yes, the iPad Air, especially with the M1 or M2 chips, is capable of multitasking and creative tasks such as drawing, photo editing, and light video work. Its Liquid Retina display is sharp and color-accurate, making it suitable for most student needs. However, for very intensive creative workflows, the Pro’s higher-end display and processing power still offer some advantages.
Which size is better for portability: 11-inch or 12.9-inch?
The 11-inch models, including the iPad Air and smaller Pro variants, are easier to carry around and fit comfortably in backpacks or bags. The larger 12.9-inch models provide more screen space, ideal for multitasking or detailed work but can be bulkier. Your choice depends on whether portability or screen real estate takes priority for your daily routine.
Should I prioritize storage or price?
Many students find that moderate storage (128GB or 256GB) suffices for everyday tasks, especially with cloud storage options. However, if you work with large files or want to avoid managing external drives, higher storage capacities are worth the extra cost. Balancing your budget with anticipated storage needs helps prevent future frustrations or additional expenses.
Is cellular connectivity necessary for students?
Cellular connectivity offers the convenience of internet access without relying on Wi-Fi, which can be helpful during commutes or in areas with limited Wi-Fi. It does add to the device’s cost and ongoing data plan expenses. If you frequently study outside of Wi-Fi zones, investing in a cellular model could be advantageous; otherwise, Wi-Fi-only models may be sufficient.
Conclusion
For students seeking the best overall experience, the iPad Pro 13-inch with M5 Chip balances power, display, and versatility, especially for creative or multitasking-heavy users. Those on a tighter budget will appreciate the iPad Air 13-inch (M2) for its comparable performance at a lower price. Beginners or casual users will find the iPad Air 11-inch or older models a suitable entry point, offering portability and sufficient features. Students prioritizing portability and value should lean toward the iPad Air, while those needing top-tier performance and larger screens should opt for the iPad Pro. Your choice hinges on your specific workflow, budget, and how much you prioritize advanced features versus everyday usability.
Halloween Picks
halloween
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
