The screens are the same size and resolution. The Air costs much more - for the M4, memory and Apple Pencil Pro support.
Short answer
iPad Air 11 (M4) - M4, 12 GB RAM, Apple Pencil Pro, 6.1 mm. iPad (A16) - the same screen and iPadOS for much less.
Key differences
| Spec | Apple iPad (A16) Wi-Fi | Apple iPad Air 11-inch (M4) Wi-Fi |
|---|---|---|
| Chip | Apple A16 (5-core) | Apple M4 |
| Display | 10.86", IPS LCD, 2360×1640, 60 Hz | 10.86", IPS LCD, 2360×1640, 60 Hz |
| RAM / storage | 6/128 GB, 6/256 GB, 6/512 GB | 12/128 GB, 12/256 GB, 12/512 GB, 12/1024 GB |
| Rear cameras | 12 MP | 12 MP |
| Front | 12 MP | 12 MP |
| Stylus | Apple Pencil (USB-C), Apple Pencil (1st generation) | Apple Pencil Pro, Apple Pencil (USB-C) |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi |
| Speakers | stereo | stereo |
| Thickness / weight | 7 mm / 477 g | 6.1 mm / 464 g |
| Price | current prices | current prices |
Specs come from the device pages on Smartphone.ua.
Chips
Apple A16 (5-core) and Apple M4. The M4 is laptop-class.
What's the same
10.86" 2360×1640 60 Hz, 12 + 12 MP, Wi-Fi.
Memory
6 GB vs 12 GB RAM, storage up to 512 GB vs up to 1 TB.
Verdict: who should buy which
- For school and browsing - iPad (A16).
- For editing and work - iPad Air 11 (M4).
FAQ
Is the screen the same?
Yes, 10.86" 2360×1640 60 Hz.
How heavy are they?
477 and 464 g.
Which is cheaper?
The iPad (A16).