As Apple's iPad lineup has evolved, it has increasingly adopted similar designs and features, making newer models less distinguishable. However, the 10th-generation standard iPad from 2022 and the 2024 iPad Air models have notable differences in internal components, accessory support, and premium features that gear them toward different users.
The standard iPad remains the best iPad for most people in Apple's current lineup. It offers exceptional value at its low starting price for casual users who want to run basic apps and games or stream video.
Built for more intensive tasks, the 2024 iPad Air models have various "pro-level" features like multitasking and external monitor support; their powerful M2 processor is also compatible with Apple's new AI suite, Apple Intelligence. In contrast, the standard iPad lacks those high-end features and has an aging yet capable A14 Bionic chipset that is incompatible with Apple Intelligence.
While the standard iPad performs exceptionally for its price, and we expect it to do so for two years or more, those looking to keep their iPad for the longest time possible may want to wait for the next standard iPad or buy the current iPad Air.
The 10th-generation iPad features a modern Apple tablet design, USB-C, and a centered front camera for better video calls. It runs basic tasks capably on the older A14 Bionic chip, and its low starting price makes it the best overall value for most users.
The 2024 iPad Air runs on Apple’s M2 processor introduced in Apple computers in 2022, making it a veritable ultra-portable powerhouse for visual creative work. It comes in the standard 11-inch option and a new 13-inch model, which gives you a powerful large tablet for a significantly lower price than the 13-inch iPad Pro.
iPad (2022) vs. iPad Air (2024): Specs
| Specification | iPad (2022) | iPad Air (2024) |
| Display | 10.9-inch (2,360 x 1,640) Liquid Retina LED | 11-inch (2,360 x 1,640) or 13-inch (2,732 x 2,048) Liquid Retina LED |
| Processor | Apple A14 Bionic | Apple M2 |
| Memory (RAM) | 4GB RAM | 8GB RAM |
| Storage | 64GB, 256GB | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB |
| Battery and charging | 28.6 Wh, 20W charger included | 11-inch: 28.92 Wh, 13-inch: 36.59Wh. 20W charger included |
| Cameras | 12MP main camera | 12MP main camera |
| Front camera | Landscape 12MP FaceTime HD camera with Center Stage | Landscape 12MP FaceTime HD camera with Center Stage |
| Audio | Stereo speakers | Stereo speakers |
| Authentication | Touch ID (on power button) | Touch ID (on power button) |
| Connectivity | WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.2 5G (optional) | WiFi 6E Bluetooth 5.3, 5G (optional) |
| Ports | USB-C, up to 480 Mb/s (USB 2) | USB-C, up to 10Gb/s (USB 3) |
| Starting price | $349 | $599 |
iPad (2022) vs. iPad Air (2024): Design, display, and cameras
iPad (2022) vs. iPad Air (2024): Performance and Apple Intelligence
iPad (2022) vs. iPad Air (2024): Accessories
iPad (2022) vs. iPad Air (2024): Which should you buy?
For casual tablet users who run basic apps and stream video, and even hobbyists who occasionally edit photos and create simple videos, the 10th-generation iPad from 2022 offers better value at its latest $349 price, which Apple reduced from $449 in 2024. It's often found for around $300 on Amazon.
Despite its aging processor, the standard iPad's overall value remains hard to argue, even among the newest iPads. That said, those looking for the maximum potential lifespan of a standard iPad may want to wait. Apple may release a new standard iPad to replace the 10th-generation model in 2025, but exactly when is unclear.
Starting at $599, the 2024 iPad Air can be seen as a premium version of the standard iPad or a budget version of the iPad Pro. Relative to the standard iPad, the iPad Air's extra performance, Apple Intelligence compatibility, and other specialized features make it a better fit for those who often work on intensive tasks like photo or video editing. It can frequently be found on Amazon for around $550 and sometimes even $500.
We should note that while Apple no longer sells the ninth-generation iPad (2021) in new condition, it does sell refurbished models, and the tablet can still be found new on Amazon for discounted prices, periodically as low as $200. It remains a great option for those looking to spend as little as possible on an iPad for basic uses.
The same could be said about the previous fifth-generation iPad Air (2022), which Apple also sells refurbished. It's still highly capable, and its M1 processor supports Apple Intelligence.
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