iPad Air 2 vs. iPad Pro

Attribute	iPad Air 2	iPad Pro
Display Size	9.7 inches	9.7 inches / 10.5 inches / 12.9 inches
Resolution	2048 x 1536 pixels	2048 x 1536 pixels / 2224 x 1668 pixels / 2732 x 2048 pixels
Processor	Apple A8X	Apple A9X / Apple A10X Fusion / Apple A12X Bionic
RAM	2 GB	2 GB / 4 GB / 6 GB
Storage Options	16 GB / 64 GB / 128 GB	32 GB / 128 GB / 256 GB / 512 GB / 1 TB
Camera	8 MP (rear), 1.2 MP (front)	12 MP (rear), 7 MP (front)
Weight	437 grams	437 grams / 469 grams / 631 grams
Operating System	iOS 8 (upgradable)	iOS 9 (upgradable) / iOS 10 (upgradable) / iOS 11 (upgradable)
Apple Pencil Support	No	Yes
Smart Keyboard Support	No	Yes

Design and Display

The iPad Air 2 and iPad Pro both feature sleek and premium designs, but there are some notable differences. The iPad Air 2 has a 9.7-inch Retina display with a resolution of 2048 x 1536 pixels, providing crisp and vibrant visuals. On the other hand, the iPad Pro comes in two sizes: 11-inch and 12.9-inch, both with Liquid Retina displays. The 11-inch model has a resolution of 2388 x 1668 pixels, while the 12.9-inch model boasts an impressive resolution of 2732 x 2048 pixels. The larger display of the iPad Pro offers a more immersive viewing experience, making it ideal for multimedia consumption and productivity tasks.

When it comes to dimensions, the iPad Air 2 is thinner and lighter, measuring 9.4 x 6.6 x 0.24 inches and weighing just 0.96 pounds. On the other hand, the iPad Pro is slightly bulkier, with the 11-inch model measuring 9.74 x 7.02 x 0.23 inches and weighing 1.03 pounds, while the 12.9-inch model measures 11.04 x 8.46 x 0.23 inches and weighs 1.39 pounds. While the iPad Air 2 is more portable, the iPad Pro's larger size offers a more immersive experience for tasks that require a larger screen real estate.

Performance and Power

Both the iPad Air 2 and iPad Pro are powered by Apple's custom-designed processors, but the iPad Pro takes the lead in terms of performance. The iPad Air 2 is equipped with the A8X chip, which delivers smooth and responsive performance for everyday tasks, such as web browsing, email, and media consumption. On the other hand, the iPad Pro features the more advanced A12Z Bionic chip, which offers desktop-class performance and enables seamless multitasking, video editing, and gaming.

In terms of storage options, the iPad Air 2 is available in 32GB and 128GB variants, while the iPad Pro offers more storage choices, ranging from 128GB to a whopping 1TB. This makes the iPad Pro a better option for professionals and power users who require ample storage for their files, applications, and creative projects.

Apple Pencil and Keyboard Support

Both the iPad Air 2 and iPad Pro support the Apple Pencil, but there are some differences in terms of compatibility and functionality. The iPad Air 2 is compatible with the first-generation Apple Pencil, which allows users to take notes, draw, and annotate directly on the screen. However, the iPad Pro takes it a step further by supporting the second-generation Apple Pencil, which offers enhanced precision, lower latency, and a more seamless user experience. Additionally, the iPad Pro features a magnetic attachment for the Apple Pencil, allowing for easy storage and charging.

When it comes to keyboard support, the iPad Air 2 does not have a Smart Connector, which means it requires a Bluetooth keyboard for external typing. On the other hand, the iPad Pro features a Smart Connector, enabling seamless connection and power transfer to compatible keyboards, such as the Apple Smart Keyboard Folio. This makes the iPad Pro a more versatile option for users who frequently type or require a physical keyboard for productivity tasks.

Camera and Audio

The iPad Air 2 and iPad Pro both have capable cameras, but the iPad Pro offers some notable improvements. The iPad Air 2 features an 8-megapixel rear camera and a 1.2-megapixel front camera, which are suitable for casual photography and video calls. In contrast, the iPad Pro boasts a 12-megapixel rear camera with advanced features like optical image stabilization and 4K video recording. The front camera of the iPad Pro has also been upgraded to a 7-megapixel TrueDepth camera, which enables Face ID facial recognition and high-quality selfies.

When it comes to audio, the iPad Air 2 has stereo speakers that deliver decent sound quality. However, the iPad Pro takes audio to the next level with its four-speaker audio system, which provides immersive and balanced sound, regardless of the device's orientation. This makes the iPad Pro a great choice for media consumption, gaming, and video editing, where audio quality plays a crucial role.

Software and Features

Both the iPad Air 2 and iPad Pro run on Apple's iOS operating system, but the iPad Pro offers some exclusive features. The iPad Air 2 is compatible with the latest version of iOS that it supports, which limits access to some of the newer features introduced in later versions. On the other hand, the iPad Pro benefits from the latest iOS updates and is likely to receive software support for a longer period, ensuring access to new features, security updates, and performance enhancements.

One of the standout features of the iPad Pro is its Face ID facial recognition technology, which allows for secure authentication and convenient unlocking of the device. The iPad Air 2, on the other hand, relies on the traditional Touch ID fingerprint sensor for biometric authentication. While both methods are secure and reliable, Face ID offers a more futuristic and seamless user experience.

Price and Conclusion

When it comes to pricing, the iPad Air 2 is generally more affordable compared to the iPad Pro. The iPad Air 2 starts at a lower price point, making it a suitable option for budget-conscious users or those who prioritize portability over advanced features. On the other hand, the iPad Pro's higher price tag reflects its superior performance, larger display, and additional features, making it a better choice for professionals, creatives, and power users who require a more capable device.

In conclusion, both the iPad Air 2 and iPad Pro have their own strengths and target audiences. The iPad Air 2 offers a compact and lightweight design, suitable for everyday tasks and casual use. On the other hand, the iPad Pro delivers a more powerful performance, larger display, and advanced features, making it a versatile tool for professionals and demanding users. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on individual needs, preferences, and budget.