iPad vs. iPad Air: What do you really need?
You're in the store. iPad or iPad Air? The price difference is significant. The specs look similar. And the salesperson keeps harping on about processors and pixels. But here's what no one tells you: for 90% of users, the difference doesn't matter at all. In fact, most people who opt for the more expensive Air never use its full potential. They pay hundreds of euros extra for features they use a maximum of three times a year. While a refurbished iPad is often more than enough for everyday tasks like logging into iCloud , watching Netflix, and scrolling through social media. The real question isn't which iPad has the best specs. The question is: what will you actually do with it?
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The practical differences that really matter
Let's face it. Most people use their tablets for Netflix, scrolling through social media, video calling with family, and maybe some online shopping. For these tasks, you'll barely notice any difference between a standard iPad and the Air model. Yet, when you buy a new one, you'll easily pay 200 to 300 euros more for the Air. So what exactly is the difference?
The main differences lie in three areas: the screen, the processor, and the design. The Air has a slightly larger display (10.9 inches versus 10.2 inches), a faster chip, and is about 20% thinner and lighter. Sounds impressive, but what does this mean in practice?
Screen quality and daily use
The Air's screen offers a higher resolution and better color reproduction. This difference is most noticeable in:
- Editing photos and videos
- Graphic design or digital drawing
- Viewing 4K content
For standard Netflix series, YouTube videos, or reading the news, this makes minimal difference. Both screens are sharp enough for comfortable use. The regular model also has the same True Tone technology, which adjusts the screen to your ambient light.
Performance under the microscope
The Air's more powerful processor means apps launch faster and demanding tasks run more smoothly. But when will you really notice the difference? Especially when:
- Video editing with apps like iMovie or LumaFusion
- Gaming graphically intensive titles
- Using multiple heavy apps at the same time
- Professional drawing programs like Procreate with many layers
For standard tasks like browsing, email, Office apps, and streaming, both models are more than sufficient. A refurbished two-year-old model often still performs excellently for these purposes.
Storage and memory
The base version of the regular iPad comes with 64GB of storage, while the Air starts at the same capacity but often offers more expensive upgrade options. For most users, 64GB is sufficient, especially with iCloud storage. More storage is only useful if you plan to store a lot of offline content (movies for flights, large game files, RAW photos).
Design and portability
The weight difference between the two models is about 30 grams. That may not seem like much, but with prolonged use in bed or on the couch, you'll notice the difference. The Air feels premium with its flatter edges and thinner profile. This modern design better complements the latest iPhones.
Practically speaking, it doesn't matter much. Both fit in the same cases and bags. The regular model is even slightly more robust thanks to its thicker casing, which is handy if you have children using it.
Cameras and video calling
There's a striking difference here. The Air has a better rear camera (12 megapixels versus 8 megapixels). It's noticeably sharper for taking photos of documents or whiteboard notes. The front camera for video calling is comparable on both models and more than sufficient for Teams, Zoom, or FaceTime.
Accessories and compatibility
Both models work with the Apple Pencil, but note: the regular iPad only supports the first generation, while the Air works with the newer second generation. The latter charges magnetically and has better pressure sensitivity. For note-taking, generation 1 is fine, but for artistic work, generation 2 is noticeably better.
In terms of keyboards, the Air model offers more options, including the Magic Keyboard with a trackpad. The regular model uses the Smart Keyboard, which lacks a trackpad but still offers typing functionality.
Battery life in practice
Apple promises 10 hours of battery life for both models. In reality, you'll only get this with light use. With intensive use (streaming, gaming), you'll get closer to 6-8 hours. The difference between the two models is negligible. A refurbished model may lose 10-20% battery capacity after a few years, but that's often still sufficient for everyday use.
Who is which model suitable for?
Choose the regular iPad if you:
- Mainly consumes (videos, news, social media)
- Occasionally takes notes or sends emails
- A tablet is looking for the whole family
- Budget is important to you
- Want a second screen for basic tasks
Choose the iPad Air if you:
- Doing creative work (photos, videos, drawing)
- Using the tablet as a laptop replacement
- Lots of multitasking between heavy apps
- The latest design appreciates
- Professional use is important
The refurbished option
A smart choice is a refurbished Air from a generation older than a new regular iPad. You often get better specs for the same price. These devices have been professionally inspected, cleaned, and come with a warranty. It's also good for the environment: you're giving a perfectly functioning device a second life.
When purchasing refurbished, pay attention to iOS support. Apple typically supports iPads with updates for 5-7 years. A 2-3 year old model will therefore still have years of life left. Also check the battery health; anything above 80% is fine for normal use.
Practical tips for your choice
If you're unsure, try both models in a store. Pay particular attention to the weight when holding them for extended periods. Also consider your current usage versus what you plan to do. Many people overestimate their future creative ambitions.
Also consider when you buy. New models usually appear in September/October, after which older versions drop in price. Black Friday and the January sales also offer discounts, especially on refurbished models.
Conclusion without conclusion
The choice between an iPad and an iPad Air isn't about which is objectively "better." It's about what suits your needs and budget. For the vast majority of people, the regular iPad is more than sufficient. Those extra euros for the Air? Invest them in good accessories, a durable case, or simply save it for your next purchase. Because let's be honest: you'll only notice that super-fast processor when you're not using it.
The choice is simpler than you think
Ultimately, the choice between a regular iPad and an Air is simpler than it seems. For watching movies, browsing, and video calling, the standard iPad is perfectly fine—especially a refurbished one that will save you hundreds of euros. Only if you 're serious about video editing , professional drawing, or using the tablet as a laptop replacement will the Air be worth the extra cost. Don't be fooled by specs that sound impressive but you'll never actually use. Just choose what suits your daily needs.
