Considering a new iPad and torn between the iPad Air and the 10th-generation iPad? We understand the dilemma.
Comparing iPad Air vs iPad 10th gen can help you make an informed decision based on your specific needs.
While both options offer their own set of features, there are distinct differences that may sway your preference toward one over the other.
In this article, we will provide a detailed comparison of the iPad Air and the 10th-generation iPad, enabling you to assess their unique characteristics and choose the iPad that best aligns with your requirements.
Say goodbye to confusion and embrace the clarity in your iPad selection process.
First, let’s talk about the basics.
The 10th-generation iPad is Apple’s entry-level tablet, with a starting price of $329.
It has a 10.2-inch display, an A13 Bionic chip, and supports the first-generation Apple Pencil.
The iPad Air, on the other hand, starts at $599 and has a larger 10.9-inch display, an A14 Bionic chip, and supports both the first- and second-generation Apple Pencil.
Design
When it comes to design, both the iPad Air and the 10th-gen iPad have a lot in common, but there are some differences that may sway your decision one way or the other.
Size And Weight
The iPad Air is slightly smaller and lighter than the 10th-gen iPad, making it more portable and easier to hold for extended periods.
The iPad Air measures 247.6 x 178.5 x 6.1mm and weighs 461g, while the 10th-gen iPad measures 248.6 x 179.5 x 7mm and weighs 477g.
Display
Both iPads have a 10.2-inch Retina display, but the iPad Air has a few advantages.
The iPad Air has a laminated display, which means there’s no gap between the glass and the display, making it feel more like you’re touching the content directly.
The iPad Air also has an anti-reflective coating, which reduces glare and makes it easier to see in bright sunlight.
Colors
The iPad Air has a wider P3 color gamut, which means it can display a wider range of colors than the 10th-gen iPad.
This makes colors in photos and videos look more vibrant and true to life.
Both iPads also have True Tone, which adjusts the color temperature of the display to match the ambient lighting in your environment.
Overall, the iPad Air has a more premium look and feel than the 10th-gen iPad, with a sleeker design and more advanced display technology.
However, if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, the 10th-gen iPad is still a great choice.
Hardware
When it comes to hardware, the iPad Air and iPad 10th generation have some similarities and differences.
In this section, we’ll take a closer look at the processor, storage options, and connectivity of both devices.
Processor
The iPad Air is powered by the A14 Bionic chip, which is also used in the iPhone 12 series.
This chip delivers excellent performance and is one of the fastest processors in the market.
It is designed to handle demanding tasks like video editing, gaming, and multitasking with ease.
On the other hand, the iPad 10th generation is powered by the A13 Bionic chip, which is a step down from the A14.
Although it’s not as powerful as the A14, it still delivers excellent performance and can handle most tasks with ease.
Storage Options
Both the iPad Air and iPad 10th generation come with different storage options.
The iPad Air is available in 64GB and 256GB configurations, while the iPad 10th generation is available in 32GB and 128GB configurations.
If you’re someone who stores a lot of files and media on your tablet, the iPad Air might be a better option for you.
However, if you’re someone who uses cloud storage or doesn’t store a lot of files locally, the iPad 10th generation might be sufficient.
Connectivity
The iPad Air and iPad 10th generation have similar connectivity options.
They both come with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, but the iPad Air has the advantage of using Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2.
Wi-Fi 6 is the latest Wi-Fi standard, which delivers faster speeds and better range compared to Wi-Fi 5. Bluetooth 5.2 is the latest Bluetooth standard, which delivers faster data transfer speeds and better range compared to Bluetooth 5.0.
Both devices also come with a USB-C port, which is a welcome change from the Lightning port used in previous iPad models.
The USB-C port allows you to connect your iPad to a wide range of accessories and peripherals, including external displays, cameras, and storage devices.
Overall, both the iPad Air and iPad 10th generation have excellent hardware.
The iPad Air has a more powerful processor and better connectivity options, while the iPad 10th generation offers more affordable storage options.
Software
The software is where the two devices differ the most.
Both the iPad Air and the 10th-gen iPad come with iPadOS 16, Apple’s latest operating system designed specifically for iPads.
However, the iPad Air has some additional features that the 10th-gen iPad does not have.
iPadOS 16
iPadOS 16 brings several new features and improvements to the iPad Air and the 10th-gen iPad.
Some of the notable features include:
- App Library: This feature automatically organizes your apps into categories and helps you find the app you need quickly.
- Multitasking: With iPadOS 16, you can now use Split View and Slide Over to run two or more apps simultaneously.
- Quick Note: You can now create a Quick Note from anywhere on the iPad, even while using another app.
- Live Text: This feature allows you to select and interact with text in photos and other images.
- Focus: This feature lets you customize your notifications and prioritize the apps and people that matter most to you.
- Universal Control: You can now use a single mouse and keyboard to control your iPad and Mac.
Overall, iPadOS 16 is a significant upgrade over the previous version, and it brings several new features and improvements to the iPad Air and the 10th-gen iPad.
However, the iPad Air has some additional features that the 10th-gen iPad does not have.
For example, the iPad Air supports the Apple Pencil (2nd generation), which is not supported by the 10th-gen iPad.
The iPad Air also has a USB-C port, which allows you to connect to a wider range of accessories and peripherals.
In conclusion, both the iPad Air and the 10th-gen iPad come with iPadOS 16, which is a significant upgrade over the previous version.
However, the iPad Air has some additional features that the 10th-gen iPad does not have, such as support for the Apple Pencil (2nd generation) and a USB-C port.
Performance
When it comes to performance, both the iPad Air and iPad 10th gen are powered by the A14 Bionic chip, which is Apple’s latest and most powerful processor.
This means that both devices are capable of handling demanding tasks like video editing, gaming, and multitasking with ease.
However, there are a few key differences between the two devices when it comes to performance.
Here are some things to consider:
- RAM: The iPad Air has 4GB of RAM, while the iPad 10th gen has 3GB. This means that the iPad Air may be able to handle more apps and browser tabs open at once without slowing down.
- Graphics: The iPad Air has a 4-core GPU, while the iPad 10th gen has a 3-core GPU. This means that the iPad Air may be better suited for gaming and other graphics-intensive tasks.
- Benchmark Scores: According to benchmark tests, the iPad Air generally performs better than the iPad 10th gen. However, in real-world usage, you may not notice a significant difference in performance between the two devices.
Overall, both the iPad Air and iPad 10th gen offer excellent performance for most users.
However, if you’re a power user who frequently uses demanding apps or plays graphics-intensive games, the iPad Air may be the better choice for you.
Cameras
When it comes to cameras, both the iPad Air and the 10th gen iPad have decent options for photography and video calling.
Rear Camera
The iPad Air boasts a 12MP rear camera, which is an improvement over the 8MP camera found on the 10th gen iPad.
This means that the iPad Air is capable of taking higher quality photos and videos with more detail and clarity.
Additionally, the iPad Air’s rear camera has features like Smart HDR, which helps to balance out shadows and highlights in photos for a more natural look.
Front Camera
Both the iPad Air and the 10th gen iPad have a 7MP front-facing camera, which is great for video calls and selfies.
However, the iPad Air’s front camera has a wider aperture, which means that it can capture more light and produce better quality photos and videos, especially in low light situations.
Overall, if you’re looking for a tablet with a good camera, either the iPad Air or the 10th gen iPad will do the trick.
However, if you’re someone who takes a lot of photos and wants the best possible quality, the iPad Air’s 12MP rear camera is definitely worth considering.
| iPad Air | 10th gen iPad |
|---|---|
| 12MP rear camera | 8MP rear camera |
| 7MP front camera | 7MP front camera |
| Smart HDR | – |
| Wider aperture front camera | – |
- Both have decent options for photography and video calling
- iPad Air has a 12MP rear camera, while the 10th gen iPad has an 8MP rear camera
- iPad Air’s rear camera has features like Smart HDR, which helps to balance out shadows and highlights in photos for a more natural look
- Both have a 7MP front-facing camera, but the iPad Air’s front camera has a wider aperture for better low light performance
- iPad Air’s 12MP rear camera is definitely worth considering if you take a lot of photos.
Battery Life
When it comes to battery life, both the iPad Air and the iPad 10th gen have impressive performance.
However, there are a few differences to keep in mind.
The iPad Air is equipped with a 28.6-watt-hour rechargeable lithium-polymer battery, while the iPad 10th gen has a slightly smaller 32.4-watt-hour battery.
Despite the difference in size, both devices can last up to 10 hours of web browsing, video playback, or audio playback on a single charge.
One thing to note is that the iPad 10th gen comes with a 20W charger, which takes over two hours to charge the device from 0% to 100%.
In contrast, the iPad Air supports faster charging with a 20W or 30W USB-C power adapter, which can charge up to 50% in just 30 minutes.
If you’re someone who needs to use your iPad for extended periods of time without access to a power source, the iPad 10th gen may be a better option due to its larger battery.
However, if you prioritize fast charging and portability, the iPad Air may be a better choice.
Overall, both devices offer impressive battery life, and it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and usage habits.
Accessories
When it comes to accessories, both the iPad Air and the 10th-gen iPad are compatible with a range of accessories that can enhance your experience.
Here are some of the most popular ones:
Apple Pencil
The Apple Pencil is a great accessory for both the iPad Air and the 10th-gen iPad.
It allows you to draw, take notes, and annotate documents with ease.
The 2nd generation Apple Pencil is compatible with the iPad Air, while the 1st generation Apple Pencil works with the 10th-gen iPad.
The Apple Pencil is pressure-sensitive and has low latency, which means that it feels natural to use and responds quickly to your touch.
Magic Keyboard
The Magic Keyboard is a great accessory for those who want to use their iPad Air or 10th-gen iPad as a laptop replacement.
It has a built-in trackpad and backlit keys, which makes typing and navigating easier.
The Magic Keyboard is compatible with both the iPad Air and the 10th-gen iPad.
Smart Keyboard Folio
The Smart Keyboard Folio is another great accessory for those who want to use their iPad Air or 10th-gen iPad as a laptop replacement.
It is a lightweight keyboard that attaches to your iPad and folds into a protective cover when not in use.
The Smart Keyboard Folio is compatible with both the iPad Air and the 10th-gen iPad.
In conclusion, the iPad Air and the 10th-gen iPad are compatible with a range of accessories that can enhance your experience.
The Apple Pencil, Magic Keyboard, and Smart Keyboard Folio are some of the most popular ones.
Whether you want to draw, take notes, or use your iPad as a laptop replacement, there is an accessory out there that can help you do it.
Price
When comparing the iPad Air and the 10th-generation iPad, price is a significant factor to consider.
The 10th-generation iPad starts at $449, while the iPad Air has a starting price of $599.
That’s a $150 difference between the two devices.
If you’re on a budget, the 10th-generation iPad might be the better choice for you.
It’s a great option for casual users who don’t need all the bells and whistles of the iPad Air.
However, if you’re looking for a more premium device with better features, the iPad Air might be worth the extra cost.
It’s worth noting that the price difference between the two devices isn’t just about the features.
The iPad Air also has a more premium design and a slightly larger screen compared to the 10th-generation iPad.
Additionally, the iPad Air comes with more storage options, which can also affect the price.
When it comes to pricing, it’s important to consider your needs and budget.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly device for casual use, the 10th-generation iPad might be the better choice.
However, if you’re willing to spend a bit more for a more premium device with better features, the iPad Air is worth considering.
Comparison To iPad Air (2022)
If you’re considering purchasing a new iPad, you may be wondering which one to choose between the iPad Air (2022) and the iPad 10th Gen.
Here are some key differences between the two models to help you make an informed decision.
Design And Display
The iPad Air (2022) has a slightly larger screen than the iPad 10th Gen, measuring at 10.9 inches compared to 10.2 inches.
Additionally, the iPad Air (2022) features a Liquid Retina display with True Tone and P3 wide color, which provides a more vivid and accurate display than the standard Retina display on the iPad 10th Gen.
The iPad Air (2022) also has a more modern design with thinner bezels and a Touch ID button integrated into the power button, while the iPad 10th Gen has a more classic look with thicker bezels and a traditional home button.
Performance And Battery Life
Both the iPad Air (2022) and the iPad 10th Gen are powered by Apple’s A14 Bionic chip, which provides fast and efficient performance.
However, the iPad Air (2022) has 4GB of RAM compared to the 3GB of RAM on the iPad 10th Gen, which may result in slightly smoother multitasking and app performance on the iPad Air (2022).
According to Apple’s published specs, both models should provide nearly identical battery life of up to 10 hours of surfing the web on Wi-Fi or watching video.
Camera And Audio
The iPad Air (2022) features a 12MP rear camera and a 7MP front camera, while the iPad 10th Gen has an 8MP rear camera and a 1.2MP front camera.
The iPad Air (2022) also has stereo speakers, which provide a more immersive audio experience than the mono speaker on the iPad 10th Gen.
Other Features
The iPad Air (2022) supports the second-generation Apple Pencil, which attaches magnetically to the side of the iPad and charges wirelessly.
The iPad 10th Gen supports the first-generation Apple Pencil, which charges via the Lightning port.
Additionally, the iPad Air (2022) has a USB-C port for charging and accessories, while the iPad 10th Gen has a Lightning port.
Overall, the iPad Air (2022) offers some upgrades in design, display, camera, and audio compared to the iPad 10th Gen, but comes with a higher price tag.
If you’re looking for a more modern design, better display, and improved camera and audio, the iPad Air (2022) may be worth the extra investment.
However, if you’re on a tighter budget or don’t need the extra features, the iPad 10th Gen is still a solid option.
Comparison To iPad Pro
If you’re considering the iPad Air or iPad 10th Gen, you may also be wondering about the iPad Pro.
While the iPad Pro is certainly a step up in terms of performance and features, it may not be necessary for everyone.
The iPad Pro is powered by the M1 chip, which is also used in Apple’s Macs.
This means it has significantly more processing power than the iPad Air or iPad 10th Gen.
It also has a larger screen, with the option for a 12.9-inch display.
The iPad Pro also comes with a few unique features, such as Center Stage, which automatically keeps you in the frame during video calls.
However, the iPad Pro is also significantly more expensive than the iPad Air or iPad 10th Gen.
You’ll also need to consider whether you need the extra power and features that the iPad Pro offers.
Both the iPad Air and iPad 10th Gen have a Liquid Retina display, which is a step up from the standard Retina display found on older iPads.
This means you’ll get more vibrant colors and sharper images.
However, the iPad Pro’s display is even better, with a ProMotion display that can refresh up to 120 times per second.
Overall, if you’re someone who needs the extra processing power and features of the iPad Pro, it may be worth the investment.
However, if you’re just looking for a solid tablet for everyday use, the iPad Air or iPad 10th Gen will likely be more than sufficient.
iPad Air Vs iPad 10th Gen: Main Difference
When it comes to choosing between the iPad Air and the iPad 10th Gen, one of the main differences is the design.
The iPad Air has a more modern design with a thinner bezel and a larger screen-to-body ratio than the iPad 10th Gen.
The iPad Air also has a Touch ID sensor integrated into the top button, while the iPad 10th Gen has a traditional Touch ID sensor on the home button.
Another difference between the two is the processor.
The iPad Air is powered by the A14 Bionic chip, which is more powerful than the A12 Bionic chip found in the iPad 10th Gen.
This means the iPad Air can handle more demanding tasks and has better overall performance.
The iPad Air also has a better camera system than the iPad 10th Gen.
It has a 12MP rear camera and a 7MP front camera, while the iPad 10th Gen has an 8MP rear camera and a 1.2MP front camera.
This means the iPad Air can take better quality photos and videos, and is better suited for video conferencing and FaceTime calls.
In terms of storage options, the iPad Air has a wider range of options than the iPad 10th Gen.
The iPad Air comes in 64GB and 256GB storage options, while the iPad 10th Gen only comes in a 32GB and 128GB option.
This means the iPad Air is better suited for users who require more storage for their apps, files, and media.
Overall, the iPad Air is a more premium device with better performance, a more modern design, and better camera capabilities.
However, it comes at a higher price point than the iPad 10th Gen.
The iPad 10th Gen is a more affordable option that still offers solid performance and features, making it a great choice for budget-conscious users.
Key Takeaways
If you’re considering purchasing a new iPad, you may be wondering which one to choose between the 10th-generation iPad and the iPad Air.
Here are some key takeaways to help you make an informed decision:
- Design: The iPad 10th gen underwent a massive redesign, bringing in a modern look with the flat back and sides. The Touch ID button has been ditched for a biometrically skilled power key, and the iPad Air has a similar design with a few additional features.
- Display: The iPad Air has a wider P3 color gamut, so the colors in photos and some videos may be a little richer and more vibrant. However, both iPads have a 10.5-inch Retina display with True Tone technology, which adjusts the display to the ambient light for a more natural viewing experience.
- Performance: The iPad Air has a more powerful A14 Bionic chip, which is the same chip used in the latest iPhone models. The 10th-generation iPad, on the other hand, has an A12 Bionic chip, which is still a powerful chip but not as advanced as the A14.
- Accessories: Both iPads work with the Apple Pencil (2nd generation), but the iPad Air also supports the Apple Pencil (1st generation) using USB‑C to Apple Pencil Adapter. Additionally, the iPad Air has a Smart Connector, which allows you to connect a Smart Keyboard without needing to pair it via Bluetooth.
- Price: The iPad 10th gen is more affordable than the iPad Air, making it a great option for those on a budget. However, the iPad Air has more advanced features and is worth the extra cost if you need a more powerful device.
Overall, both the 10th-generation iPad and the iPad Air are great options depending on your needs and budget.
If you’re looking for a more affordable option with a modern design, the iPad 10th gen is a great choice.
However, if you need a more powerful device with additional features such as the Smart Connector and Apple Pencil (1st generation) support, the iPad Air is the way to go.
