How the two devices differ, and which one is right for you
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The iPad Pro and MacBook Air are lightweight, ultra-portable Apple mobile computing and entertainment products.
Overall Findings
Runs iPadOS, uses iPad apps.
Like a big iPhone.
Weighs around 1 pound.
11- or 13-inch screen.
Battery lasts the length of the work day.
Front and back cameras.
Keyboard is an add-on.
Runs macOS, uses Mac apps.
Weighs around 3 pounds.
13- or 15-inch screen.
Battery lasts most of a full day.
That difference has a lot of implications.
Their hardware is a bit different, too.
However, the MacBook Air has a battery that lasts a lot longer than the iPad’s.
For most people, the Air could be the only computer you own.
OLED Retina Display with TrueTone color.
Two screen sizes, including the largest option of the two devices.
LED Retina Display with TrueTone color.
No Apple Pencil support.
The iPad’s screen is lit with bright, battery-friendly OLED technology.
Keyboard and Mouse: Built-In vs. Add On
Keyboard add-ons with case or external.
Mouse add-on, but support is limited.
If you plan to write a lot on your gadget, a keyboard is crucial.
Takes still photos or records video at up to 4K resolution.
Flash, low-light features, zoom.
One camera, facing the user.
Takes still photos and records video at 1080p resolution.
No flash or low-light options, no zoom.
Networking: Only the iPad Has Cellular
Wi-Fi.
Both devices can connect to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, but only the iPad Pro has optional 5G cellular connectivity.
Memory and Storage: Pretty Even Choices
Up to 16GB RAM.
Up to 2TB hard drive.
Up to 24GB RAM.
Both the MacBook Air and iPad Pro offer almost identical options for RAM and hard drive storage.
Both have the same options for hard drive storage.
6 speakers, Spatial Audio with AirPods.
More USB ports, headphone jack.
4 speakers, Surround Sound, Spatial Audio with AirPods.
A few interesting factors are included here.
Which unit makes sense for you depends on how you want to use it.
It’s super portable, less expensive, and plenty powerful.
With a keyboard case, it makes for a tidy little powerhouse.
