Hey guys! Ever found yourself staring at the Apple Store website, totally bamboozled by all the iPads? Choosing the right iPad can feel like navigating a minefield, especially when you're comparing older models like the iPad Pro 2018 against newer ones, like the iPad Air 4. Let's dive in and break down these two tablets, so you can figure out which one is the ultimate champ for your needs. We'll look at the key features, performance, display quality, and of course, the all-important price tag. By the end, you'll be armed with the knowledge to make a smart choice and grab the iPad that's perfect for you. Ready to find your perfect tablet match? Let's get started!

Design and Build Quality

Alright, let's talk about how these iPads look and feel. The iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2018) boasts a sleek, premium design. Picture this: flat edges, a gorgeous Liquid Retina display, and an overall feeling of pure luxury. The 2018 Pro is built like a tank, with a sturdy aluminum frame that screams quality. It's the kind of device that feels substantial in your hands, perfect for those who appreciate top-notch craftsmanship. The Pro also had super slim bezels for a more immersive experience. The iPad Air 4, on the other hand, brought a fresh aesthetic to the Air lineup. It takes a lot of design cues from the iPad Pro, with flat edges and a more modern look, but in a lighter and more compact form factor. The Air 4 also features an all-screen design, but it did maintain some bezels on the top and bottom. Both iPads look great, but the iPad Pro 2018 has a slight edge in terms of pure, unadulterated premium feel. It's built like a flagship device, which it was at the time, and it shows. The iPad Air 4 keeps things sleek and modern, but it’s a bit more practical for everyday use. Its lighter design makes it easier to carry around, perfect if you are always on the move. Both are beautifully designed iPads; the choice really boils down to your preference between luxury and portability. One thing to keep in mind is that the iPad Pro 2018 might feel slightly dated, especially when compared with current iPad models, while the iPad Air 4 still looks fresh and modern. It's all about what's important to you.

Size and Portability

When it comes to size and portability, the iPad Air 4 definitely has an advantage. It's lighter and slimmer than the iPad Pro 2018, making it much easier to carry around, chuck in your bag, or hold comfortably for extended periods. This is a huge plus if you're a student, someone who travels a lot, or just someone who likes to use their tablet on the go. The iPad Pro 2018, while not exactly a brick, is noticeably heavier and bulkier, especially the 12.9-inch model. It's ideal for use at a desk or table, but might not be the best choice for holding in one hand for extended periods, or if you want a more convenient experience.

Build Materials

Both iPads use high-quality materials, but the iPad Pro 2018 has a slightly more premium feel. Its aluminum build exudes a sense of durability and quality that's hard to beat. The iPad Air 4, while also made of aluminum, feels a bit more mainstream, but still very solid. You won't be disappointed with either device, but if you want the absolute best in build quality, the iPad Pro 2018 takes the win. However, remember, both are well-built and sturdy. You're getting Apple's signature level of craftsmanship with either pick.

Display: A Visual Feast

Let’s get into the screen because, let's face it, that's where all the magic happens! Both the iPad Pro 2018 and iPad Air 4 have fantastic displays, but they have some key differences that cater to different needs. The iPad Pro 2018 sports a stunning Liquid Retina display with ProMotion technology. What does that mean for you? Well, ProMotion dynamically adjusts the refresh rate up to 120Hz, making everything look incredibly smooth, especially when scrolling or playing games. The colors are vibrant, the blacks are deep, and the overall picture quality is simply stunning. It's a true visual feast, ideal for creative professionals, gamers, and anyone who appreciates a top-tier viewing experience. The iPad Air 4 also boasts a Liquid Retina display, but without the ProMotion technology. That means the refresh rate is fixed at 60Hz. It still offers vibrant colors, good contrast, and a sharp image, but it doesn't have the same level of smoothness as the Pro. It’s still a fantastic display, perfect for watching videos, browsing the web, and doing everyday tasks. Both iPads have great displays, but if you value that extra smoothness and want the absolute best picture quality, the iPad Pro 2018 takes the crown. The iPad Air 4 provides an amazing display at a slightly lower price point. Let's delve deeper into these differences and find out which display will fit your daily usage. The details make all the difference, so let's start with screen resolution.

Screen Resolution

The iPad Pro 2018, especially the 12.9-inch model, offers a higher resolution, providing a sharper and more detailed image. The extra pixels make a difference, especially when you're looking at text or fine details in photos and videos. The iPad Air 4 has a great resolution that still provides a crisp image. The resolution differences between the two aren't huge, but the iPad Pro 2018 has a slight edge if you want the absolute sharpest image quality. The larger size of the iPad Pro 2018 also allows for more content to be displayed on the screen, improving multitasking and productivity. The iPad Air 4, however, is no slouch, and its screen still delivers a fantastic visual experience. Its resolution is more than adequate for most users and tasks.

Color Accuracy

Both iPads offer excellent color accuracy, meaning the colors on the screen are true to life. This is great for creative work, such as photo and video editing, where color accuracy is crucial. However, the iPad Pro 2018, with its superior display technology, has a slight edge here. The colors appear more vibrant and accurate, giving your content an extra pop. If you're a creative professional, the iPad Pro 2018's color accuracy might be a deciding factor.

Brightness and Contrast

Both iPads have bright displays that are easily viewable in most lighting conditions. However, the iPad Pro 2018 often has a slight advantage in brightness, and the contrast is also better. This means that images and videos will look even more vivid and detailed. The iPad Air 4's display is still bright enough for outdoor use, but the iPad Pro 2018 offers a more enjoyable viewing experience in bright environments.

Performance Powerhouse

Okay, let's talk about what's inside these devices – the stuff that makes them tick! The iPad Pro 2018 is powered by the A12X Bionic chip, and this chip, even by today's standards, is still pretty darn powerful. You can run demanding apps, play graphic-intensive games, and multitask like a pro. The iPad Air 4 boasts the A14 Bionic chip, which is newer and slightly faster than the A12X. However, in day-to-day use, you probably won't notice a massive difference in speed. Both iPads handle most tasks with ease. The A14 in the iPad Air 4 does provide a bit of a boost, especially in tasks that benefit from the newer architecture. If you're a power user or a gamer, the iPad Air 4 might give you a slight edge. Otherwise, the iPad Pro 2018 is still plenty capable, and you won't be disappointed with its performance. The difference in chips can come into play in more intensive tasks like video editing, 3D rendering, or running complex simulations. For most users, both are super snappy and responsive. So, let’s dig a little deeper into their processing capabilities to figure out which one is the winner.

Processing Power

The A12X Bionic chip in the iPad Pro 2018 is still a beast. It offers more than enough processing power for most tasks, handling everything from browsing the web and streaming videos to running complex creative apps. The iPad Air 4’s A14 Bionic chip provides a noticeable performance boost. It’s faster in tasks such as app loading, gaming, and multitasking. If you often work with demanding applications or do a lot of multitasking, the iPad Air 4 might be the better choice.

Graphics Performance

When it comes to graphics, both iPads perform well. However, the iPad Pro 2018 has a slightly more powerful graphics processor. This means you’ll experience smoother performance in graphically intensive games and apps. The iPad Air 4 also has great graphics performance, but the iPad Pro 2018 offers a slight edge in this area. This difference is more noticeable if you play a lot of games or work with graphics-intensive applications.

Real-world Usage

In real-world usage, both iPads are incredibly responsive and fast. You’ll be able to switch between apps seamlessly, browse the web with ease, and run all kinds of applications without any lag. The iPad Air 4 will provide a bit more headroom, which might become important as new apps and software updates are released. Both iPads offer excellent performance for daily tasks.

Cameras: Snapping Memories

Let's talk about cameras, because sometimes you just gotta snap a pic or jump on a video call. Both the iPad Pro 2018 and iPad Air 4 have decent cameras, but they're not the main selling point of these devices. The iPad Pro 2018 has a 12MP rear camera that takes good quality photos and videos. It's great for capturing moments, scanning documents, or using augmented reality apps. It also has a 7MP front-facing camera for FaceTime calls and selfies. The iPad Air 4 also has a 12MP rear camera and a 7MP front-facing camera. The quality of the cameras is comparable, though there might be slight improvements in image processing on the iPad Air 4 due to its newer chip. For most users, the cameras on both iPads will be sufficient for their needs. If camera quality is a top priority, the latest iPads have even better cameras, but for casual use, you'll be fine with either the iPad Pro 2018 or iPad Air 4. Let's further discuss the camera specs and determine which one offers the optimal experience.

Rear Camera Quality

Both iPads feature 12MP rear cameras, which can capture clear and detailed photos and videos in good lighting conditions. The iPad Pro 2018 produces high-quality images with good color accuracy and detail. The iPad Air 4 also captures excellent photos, and may have slightly improved image processing due to its newer chip. Overall, both rear cameras are capable of capturing great images.

Front Camera Quality

Both iPads have 7MP front-facing cameras that are perfect for FaceTime calls and video conferencing. The image quality is good, and you'll be able to be seen and heard clearly. The front cameras on both devices will get the job done for video calls, but they're not a highlight of either iPad.

Video Recording Capabilities

Both iPads can record video at up to 4K resolution. The video quality is good, and you'll be able to capture clear and detailed videos. The iPad Pro 2018 can record in 4K at up to 60fps, giving you more flexibility. The iPad Air 4 is just as capable.

Battery Life: Keeping You Powered

Okay, let's get real about battery life. No one wants a tablet that dies on them mid-Netflix binge. Both the iPad Pro 2018 and iPad Air 4 offer excellent battery life, but it can vary depending on your usage. You can generally expect to get a full day of use from either tablet, whether you're browsing the web, watching videos, or doing some light work. Apple typically claims around 10 hours of web browsing or video playback for both devices. The iPad Air 4, with its more power-efficient chip, might edge out the iPad Pro 2018 by a little. However, both devices have great battery life and should last you through most of your day. The battery life is generally comparable. The type of tasks and usage will be key factors that contribute to battery longevity.

Battery Test Results

When we look at battery test results, both iPads deliver impressive results. Both devices typically provide around 10 hours of web browsing or video playback. However, it's essential to remember that these results can vary based on your screen brightness, app usage, and other factors. Generally, you can depend on both iPads for a full day of typical use.

Charging Time

Both iPads support fast charging, which means you can quickly top up your battery. With a fast charger, you can get a significant amount of charge in a short period of time. Neither iPad includes a fast charger in the box. Both use USB-C, so you can easily use chargers from other devices. Charging times are usually similar for both models.

Pricing and Value: Bang for Your Buck

Alright, let’s talk about the money! This is where things get interesting. The iPad Air 4 is generally the more affordable option. Because it is a newer device, you can expect to pay a lower price when compared to the iPad Pro 2018, especially if you're buying used. This makes it a great value, especially considering its impressive features and performance. The iPad Pro 2018, being an older model, might be found at a discounted price, but it will depend on the seller and the condition of the device. The iPad Pro 2018 is still a premium device, and you might have to pay a premium price, but with its advanced features and high-end specs, it might still be a good investment. Ultimately, the best value depends on your budget and needs. If you're looking for the best bang for your buck, the iPad Air 4 is an excellent choice. If you want the absolute best features and performance, and the price isn’t a huge issue, then the iPad Pro 2018 might be worth it. Always check prices from different retailers to find the best deal. Let's delve into the price points and assess which iPad provides the best value based on its features and performance.

New vs. Used Prices

Since the iPad Air 4 is a newer model, the prices of new units are generally higher than the iPad Pro 2018. However, you might find some deals depending on the retailer and promotions. The iPad Pro 2018 can be found at lower prices if you buy used. The price will depend on the condition of the device, the storage capacity, and the seller. If you’re looking to save money, buying a used iPad Pro 2018 can be a great way to experience the features of this tablet without breaking the bank.

Long-Term Value

When it comes to long-term value, it's essential to consider factors like software updates and performance. The iPad Air 4, being the newer device, will likely receive software updates for a longer period of time. This is a crucial factor to keep in mind, as it ensures your device remains up-to-date with the latest features and security updates. Both iPads offer great performance for various tasks, but the A14 chip in the iPad Air 4 might offer a slight edge in the long run, especially as new apps and features are released.

Which iPad Wins?

So, which iPad should you choose? It really boils down to your personal needs and preferences. If you want the best performance, display quality, and features, and price isn't a major concern, the iPad Pro 2018 is a great choice. You'll get a premium experience with a beautiful display and powerful performance. However, keep in mind that it's an older model, so future software updates may not last as long as the iPad Air 4. If you are looking for the best value for your money, the iPad Air 4 is the clear winner. You get a modern design, excellent performance, and a great display at a more affordable price. It's perfect for students, casual users, and anyone who wants a fantastic tablet without breaking the bank. The iPad Air 4 is the better choice for most people, but the iPad Pro 2018 still has its place, especially if you can find a good deal and prioritize certain features. The best choice is the one that best suits your requirements and budget, so consider how you plan to use your iPad. Think about your daily habits, and which features are crucial. Both are excellent tablets, so you can't go wrong with either!

Summary

• iPad Pro 2018: Offers a premium experience, powerful performance, and a stunning display. Great for creative professionals and those who want the best features. Might be more expensive. Is a good value if you can find it for a discounted price.
• iPad Air 4: Offers a great balance of performance, features, and price. Perfect for students, casual users, and anyone looking for a modern tablet experience. Good value, especially considering its features.

I hope this comparison has helped you! Happy iPad hunting!