iPad Air M3 Vs iPad Pro M4: Apple has expanded its iPad lineup with the introduction of the iPad Air M3, offering a refreshed design, an updated processor, and new AI-driven capabilities. But how does it compare to the high-end iPad Pro M4, which boasts superior hardware and an award-winning display? Here’s a detailed comparison to help buyers decide which model suits their needs best.
iPad Air M3 Vs iPad Pro M4: Gap In Price
For those looking to purchase the standard 11-inch iPad Air, the Wi-Fi-only version is priced at Rs 59,900, while the Wi-Fi + Cellular variant costs Rs 74,900. Meanwhile, the larger 13-inch model starts at Rs 79,900 for the Wi-Fi edition and goes up to Rs 94,900 for the Wi-Fi + Cellular option.
Apple is also extending a special discount for students, making the new iPads more accessible for education and learning purposes. With the student pricing, the 11-inch model is available at Rs 54,900, while the 13-inch variant starts at Rs 74,900.
In contrast, the iPad Pro M4 price starts at Rs 99,900 for the 11-inch model, whereas the 13-inch variant price starts at Rs 1,29,900.
iPad Air M3 Vs iPad Pro M4: Design
Despite its “Air” branding, the new iPad Air M3 is slightly thicker than the iPad Pro M4. The 11-inch Air is marginally wider than its Pro counterpart, while the 13-inch version is shorter but also a bit bulkier. Interestingly, the Pro models are lighter despite their higher specifications.
In terms of aesthetics, the iPad Air M3 offers more color variety, coming in Blue, Purple, Starlight, and Space Grey. The iPad Pro M4 is available in just Silver and Space Black, maintaining a more professional appearance.
iPad Air M3 Vs iPad Pro M4: M3 Vs M4 Chipset
At the core of the iPad Air M3 is Apple’s M3 processor, which the company claims offers nearly double the performance of the M1 chip and up to three times the speed of the older A14 Bionic-powered Air. Featuring an 8-core CPU and 9-core GPU, the M3 promises up to 40% faster graphics performance than the M1 model.
Additionally, Apple highlights improvements in AI-driven tasks, with a neural engine that is 60% faster than that of the M1.
However, the iPad Pro M4 surpasses this with its next-generation processor. Designed for creative professionals, the M4 chip delivers superior graphics and processing capabilities. The 1TB and 2TB versions further enhance performance with an additional performance core and twice the RAM of the lower-capacity models.
iPad Air M3 Vs iPad Pro M4: OLED Takes The Lead
One of the biggest differentiators is the display. The iPad Pro M4 features an advanced tandem OLED screen, which has earned high praise for its brightness and contrast. Apple claims it can achieve 1600 nits of brightness in HDR mode and 1000 nits in SDR, significantly outperforming the previous generation’s capabilities.
The Pro model also includes the option for nano-texture display glass on high-storage variants, which reduces glare and improves visibility under ambient lighting.
In comparison, the iPad Air M3 retains a Liquid Retina LCD display, which, while high-quality, doesn’t match the deep blacks and vibrant colors of OLED.
iPad Air M3 Vs iPad Pro M4: Accessories and Additional Features
The iPad Air M3 introduces an updated Magic Keyboard with a larger trackpad and a 14-key function row, improving usability for productivity tasks. Both the Air M3 and the Pro M4 support Apple’s latest AI features and include a 12-megapixel camera.
However, Apple’s ProMotion technology, which enables a higher refresh rate for smoother scrolling and motion, remains exclusive to the iPad Pro M4.
Final Verdict: Which iPad Should You Choose?
While full hands-on reviews are yet to be published, early impressions suggest the iPad Air M3 continues Apple’s tradition of delivering a capable, well-rounded tablet. Given its lower price point, it remains an excellent option for general users and students. The iPad Pro M4, on the other hand, is clearly aimed at professionals who need the best performance and display technology available.
For those seeking a powerful yet reasonably priced tablet, the iPad Air M3 is likely the smarter choice. However, users who require top-tier performance, enhanced visuals, and additional processing power may find the iPad Pro M4 worth the investment.
