Based on our overall comparison score, Apple iPad Pro 13 M5 rates higher at 85/100 versus 73/100 for Apple iPad Air 13 M4 — a 12-point lead. Apple iPad Pro 13 M5 is the stronger overall pick, though the right choice still depends on which specs matter most to you; the full spec table above breaks down every difference.
Apple iPad Pro 13 M5 vs Apple iPad Air 13 M4
Updated Nov 2026 · Scored by the Let’s Compare Data Engine · How we score
For most buyers the Apple iPad Pro 13 M5 is the better pick — it scores 70/100 to the Apple iPad Air 13 M4's 59, leading on Display and Performance. Choose the Apple iPad Air 13 M4 instead if you want to spend less.
Verdict
Our overall take, at a glance
Key takeaways
- Apple iPad Pro 13 M5 leads Apple iPad Air 13 M4 overall by 11 points (70 vs 59 out of 100).
- Apple iPad Pro 13 M5 stands out on Display Refresh Rate: 120 Hz (100% more), Display Peak Brightness: 1,600 nits (167% more), Memory & Storage Storage Options: 256 GB (100% more).
Apple iPad Pro 13 M5 leads overall
Apple iPad Pro 13 M5
70
Apple iPad Air 13 M4
59
Why it stands out
- Display Refresh Rate: 120 Hz (100% more)
- Display Peak Brightness: 1,600 nits (167% more)
- Memory & Storage Storage Options: 256 GB (100% more)
Watch-outs
Compromises to know before you buy
Apple iPad Pro 13 M5
No notable compromises found.
Apple iPad Air 13 M4
- 60 Hz display — less smooth than 120 Hz tablets.
In-depth analysisAI
AI-generated from the cited sources — may be incomplete or inaccurate; verify important details before deciding · generated Nov 2026.
Apple iPad Pro 13 M5
The Apple iPad Pro 13 M5 is an ultra-premium, high-performance tablet geared toward demanding workflows and media creation. It features the Apple M5 system-on-a-chip, a highly responsive 13-inch Tandem OLED display, and an exceptionally thin 5.1 mm chassis.
Best for Low-light reading and nighttime productivity thanks to the screen's 1-nit…Best for High-speed wireless data transfers in environments optimized with Wi-Fi 7…Best for Mobile professionals who need to quickly top off their battery during short…
Pros
- Significantly faster memory bandwidth of 153 GB/s and enhanced graphics performance over prior models
- Ultra-thin 5.1 mm design that retains a lightweight profile for a large-format tablet
- Stunning Tandem OLED display capable of dimming down to a 1-nit minimum brightness for dark-room usage
- Updated wireless capabilities including Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Thread networking support
- New fast-charging capability that can replenish the battery to 50% in roughly half an hour
Cons
- The anti-reflective nano-texture display glass is locked behind the expensive 1 TB and 2 TB storage configurations
- Rear and front camera systems feature no hardware upgrades over the previous generation
- Fast charging requires a separate purchase of a 40W Dynamic Power Adapter or a compatible 60W or higher USB-C charger
Apple iPad Air 13 M4
The 13-inch Apple iPad Air (M4) is a large-format tablet designed for users who need significant screen real estate and fast performance without jumping up to the Pro line. Powered by the Apple M4 chip paired with 12 GB of unified memory, it features a 13-inch Liquid Retina display with 600 nits of peak brightness. It also adds modern connectivity via Wi-Fi 7 and maintains support for input devices like the Apple Pencil Pro.
Best for Digital artists and designers wanting a large 13-inch visual workspace with ApplBest for High-demand iPadOS multitasking requiring M4 performance and 12 GB memory at a l
Pros
- Strong performance driven by the Apple M4 chip and standard 12 GB of unified memory
- Bright 13-inch fully laminated screen featuring wide P3 color support and True Tone
- Upgraded wireless capabilities with support for Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6
- Full compatibility with the Apple Pencil Pro and Magic Keyboard accessories
Cons
- Lacks Face ID biometric unlock capabilities
- Data speeds are constrained by the absence of Thunderbolt or USB4 support
- Audio output is limited to two active speakers despite having four grilles in the chassis
Value for Money
Which is the better deal for the price
Pre-filled with launch prices where known — enter today's price for an up-to-date check. Use the same currency for both.
Apple iPad Pro 13 M5
Apple iPad Air 13 M4
Battery capacity
Larger cell — a hardware spec, not battery life
Apple iPad Pro 13 M510,290 mAh
Apple iPad Air 13 M49,705 mAh
Capacity is the raw battery size. Real-world battery life depends just as much on the processor, software and display.
Physical Comparison
Weigh them up, then compare real dimensions in 3D
Apple iPad Pro 13 M5Apple iPad Air 13 M4
Apple iPad Air 13 M4 is 37 g (6%) heavier than Apple iPad Pro 13 M5.
Review Videos
Hand-picked expert reviews for each product
Detailed Specifications
The full spec sheet, side by side
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Apple iPad Pro 13 M5 vs Apple iPad Air 13 M4 comparison
Apple iPad Pro 13 M5 and Apple iPad Air 13 M4 are compared side by side above across every spec in the tablets category — including performance, features and design — each scored 0–100 so you can see exactly where one leads the other. Our overall scores are 85/100 for Apple iPad Pro 13 M5 and 73/100 for Apple iPad Air 13 M4.
If you want the higher-rated tablets option overall, Apple iPad Pro 13 M5 (85/100) edges out Apple iPad Air 13 M4 (73/100). But if Apple iPad Air 13 M4 is cheaper or stronger on the specific specs you care about, it can still be the better buy — use the spec table and strengths profile above to decide.
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