iPad Air 4 (2020, A14 series) vs iPad Pro (2017, A10 series)

When considering the long-term usability of these tablets, their respective release timelines and ongoing software support are key factors. The iPad Air 2020, being a more recent device, benefits from a longer expected period of major iPadOS updates compared to the iPad Pro 2017.

• Release Timeline: The iPad Air 2020 was released in October 2020, making it a newer device. The iPad Pro 2017 was released in June 2017, positioning it as an older generation.
• Software Longevity: The iPad Air 2020 is expected to receive iPadOS updates for a longer duration, typically 5-6 years from its release, extending its practical lifespan for accessing new features and security patches. The iPad Pro 2017, having been released earlier, will likely see its software support conclude sooner.
• Repairability: Both models generally offer a similar level of repairability within Apple's ecosystem, though specific component availability may vary with age. Users seeking an eco-friendly alternative might consider quality-assured refurbished options for either model to extend their lifecycle.

The performance capabilities of these two iPads are primarily driven by their internal processing units, influencing how smoothly they handle applications and multitasking. While both are capable devices, the newer iPad Air 2020 offers a more modern architecture.

• Processing Power: The iPad Air 2020 is equipped with a more recent processor, which provides a notable advantage in handling demanding applications, complex graphical tasks, and intensive multitasking. This results in quicker app loading times and a more fluid user experience, especially with newer software.
• Multitasking and Responsiveness: For everyday tasks such as web browsing, email, and light productivity, both tablets offer responsive performance. However, the iPad Air 2020 demonstrates greater efficiency and speed when switching between multiple applications or running professional-grade creative software.
• Battery Behavior: Both devices are designed to offer all-day battery life under typical usage. The iPad Air 2020 typically provides around 10 hours of web surfing or video playback. The iPad Pro 2017 also aims for up to 10 hours, with some user reports indicating longer durations for specific tasks.

The display is a central feature for any tablet, and both the iPad Air 2020 and iPad Pro 2017 offer high-quality viewing experiences, though with distinct characteristics.

• Display Technology and Size: The iPad Air 2020 features a 10.9-inch Liquid Retina IPS display, providing vibrant colors and good viewing angles. The iPad Pro 2017 was available in 10.5-inch and 12.9-inch Retina IPS display options.
• Refresh Rate: A significant difference lies in the refresh rate. The iPad Pro 2017 introduced ProMotion technology, offering an adaptive refresh rate up to 120Hz, which results in noticeably smoother scrolling and more responsive interactions, particularly with the Apple Pencil. The iPad Air 2020 has a standard 60Hz refresh rate.
• Brightness and Clarity: Both displays offer excellent clarity and color accuracy with P3 wide color support and True Tone technology. The iPad Pro 2017 generally offers higher peak brightness, which can be beneficial for outdoor use or viewing HDR content.

While tablets are not typically primary photography devices, both models offer capable camera systems for video calls, document scanning, and casual photography.

• Rear Camera System: Both the iPad Air 2020 and the iPad Pro 2017 feature a 12-megapixel wide rear camera with an f/1.8 aperture. The iPad Air 2020 supports 4K video recording at up to 60 frames per second, while the iPad Pro 2017 records 4K video at 30 frames per second.
• Front Camera Performance: For video conferencing and selfies, both tablets include a 7-megapixel front-facing camera. The iPad Air 2020's front camera is noted for its improved low-light capabilities, enhancing video call quality.
• Audio Experience: The iPad Air 2020 features stereo speakers that provide a wider sound experience in landscape mode. The iPad Pro 2017 is equipped with four speakers, offering a rich audio output that adjusts based on device orientation. Both include capable microphones for clear audio input during calls and recordings.

Beyond core performance and display, several practical elements differentiate these two iPad models, impacting their versatility and user experience.

• Connectivity and Ports: The iPad Air 2020 features a modern USB-C port, offering faster data transfer speeds and broader compatibility with accessories like external displays and hard drives. It also supports Wi-Fi 6 for faster wireless connections. The iPad Pro 2017 uses a Lightning port, with USB 3.0 speeds available on the 12.9-inch model and USB 2.0 on the 10.5-inch model. It supports Wi-Fi 802.11ac and Bluetooth 4.2.
• Security and Design: The iPad Air 2020 adopts a more contemporary design with slimmer bezels and integrates Touch ID into the top power button. The iPad Pro 2017 retains the traditional home button with integrated Touch ID and has thicker bezels.
• Accessory Compatibility: The iPad Air 2020 is compatible with the second-generation Apple Pencil and the Magic Keyboard. The iPad Pro 2017 works with the first-generation Apple Pencil and the Smart Keyboard.