iPad (2022) vs. iPad Air (2022): Which one's really better for you?

Apple might have more individual tablet models out now than at any other time in its history. What confuses things even further is that some lines, including the two we'll be looking at today, have converged to the point where it's hard to tell them apart just by looking at them.

That said, big differences in internal components, peripheral support, and overall capabilities mean these seemingly identical devices are better for different users with different priorities. Our goal today is to help you decide, based on your personal needs and budget, which of these two models is best for you.

Also: The best Windows tablets: Expert tested and reviewed

Specifications

You should buy the iPad (2022) if...

1. You're buying a tablet for a child or young student

Apple's iPad line has been a popular way to keep kids entertained and educated for the better part of a decade. The standard-model 2022 iPad is more than enough tablet for this purpose.

It matches the iPad Air in every way that matters for a youngster, including screen size, battery life, local storage, and connectivity. While it doesn't feature the magnetic connector included with the iPad Air that lets that model connect with Apple's Magic Keyboard, the standard iPad does support the new Magic Keyboard Folio, which offers nearly all the same capabilities and turns the device into a homework powerhouse.

Also: The best kids' tablets, according to parents

2. You want a more recent Bluetooth audio protocol

Despite the iPad Air technically being a more premium device than the standard iPad, the iPad Air uses Bluetooth 5.0, while the standard iPad uses the newer Bluetooth 5.2. The jump between the two versions isn't revolutionary, but the newer 5.2 protocol offers faster pairing and longer battery life through improvements to transmission efficiency. These enhancements could be handy if you're constantly pairing new headphones, keyboards, or other peripherals with your iPad.

3. The unusual Apple Pencil support doesn't bother you

Apple's iPad has supported the Apple Pencil for several generations now. Unfortunately, Apple chose not to add support for the second-generation Apple Pencil to the 2022 iPad.

Instead, the 2022 iPad continues to support the older first-generation Apple Pencil, just like its predecessors. The only problem is that the first-gen Pencil is designed to charge via its built-in Lightning connector, and the latest iPad has switched its power/data port to USB-C.

This means you'll need an adapter cable to connect and charge your Pencil, adding more hassle and another thing to forget. If this doesn't bother you, or you never planned to buy an Apple Pencil, you can save some cash by ignoring Apple's questionable stylus support decisions.

More: iPad 2022 (10th Gen) review: A confusingly good iPad

You should buy the iPad Air 2022 if...

1. You want laptop-like performance from your tablet

Despite their physical similarities, there's a major gap between the processing power housed in the iPad mentioned above, and the iPad Air. The iPad Air uses the same M1 chip that Apple used in its MacBook and Mac Mini lines.

This laptop-class CPU provides far more oomph than most tablet apps will ever need, ensuring you can get work done without slowdown no matter how many tabs you have open, or how intense your creative processes are. Even photo and video editing on the iPad Air are possible thanks to its M1 core.

Also: The 20+ best Black Friday 2024 iPad deals

2. You expect to make extensive use of the Apple Pencil

The iPad Air provides all the same convenience as the iPad Pro thanks to its included magnetic connector. This little extra makes it possible to use and charge Apple's second-generation Apple Pencil, which sticks right to the side of the tablet for easy charging and travel.

The newer stylus also features a matte finish and an angular design that makes it more pleasant to hold in the hand and less likely to roll away. If you plan to use your iPad of choice as a drawing tablet, note-taking device, or for any purpose that requires a stylus, the extra price difference might be worth it for this one upgrade alone. 

3. You want the full Magic Keyboard experience

Apple's Magic Keyboard is a big part of the reason why you might now consider an iPad as a legitimate replacement for your laptop or desktop. The Magic Keyboard Folio supported by the standard iPad gets you most of the way there by adding a trackpad and physical keyboard to your device, but it's missing the floating cantilever hinge that makes it viable to use your iPad as a literal lap-top device, as well as the USB-C pass-through port that provides connectivity for peripherals like external storage, wired input devices, and more.

More: iPad Air (2022) review: So good I almost regret buying my iPad Pro

Alternatives to consider

Open to other iPad and tablet prospects? Consider these ZDNET-recommended devices: