iPad Air 4 (2020, A14 series) vs iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series)

Both tablets share similar physical durability profiles and long-term support timelines, though their release dates create a distinct window for future software updates.

• Release timeline and support: The iPad Air 4 arrived in late 2020, while the iPad Air 5 launched in early 2022, giving the newer model an extra year and a half of expected software lifespan.
• Repairability and build: Both models utilize aluminum enclosures and laminated glass screens that score similarly for structural rigidity, requiring professional assistance for internal repairs like battery replacements.
• Practical lifespan: Both units comfortably last through multiple years of daily tasks, though the newer internal components of the Air 5 position it to handle heavy future operating system demands slightly longer.

Performance represents the most significant divergence between these two generations, shifting from a smartphone-derived processor to a desktop-grade powerhouse.

• Storage and multitasking: Both devices offer identical storage tiers starting at 64GB, but the iPad Air 5 doubles its system memory, allowing for smoother handling of split-screen apps and heavy background processes.
• Processor capabilities: The iPad Air 4 handles daily web browsing, streaming, and moderate productivity smoothly, while the iPad Air 5 executes demanding 3D rendering, video editing, and complex multi-app workflows with greater thermal efficiency.
• Battery behavior: Both models deliver standard all-day battery performance lasting up to ten hours of continuous web browsing or video playback under typical use cases.

The visual viewing experience remains nearly identical across both generations due to shared display hardware specifications.

• Display technology: Both devices feature a 10.9-inch Liquid Retina IPS LCD panel with full lamination, wide color support, and True Tone technology for balanced color accuracy under shifting ambient light.
• Brightness and clarity: Each display reaches a maximum brightness of 500 nits alongside a resolution of 2360 by 1640 pixels, ensuring clear text and vibrant media consumption indoors and in moderate outdoor light.
• Refresh rate: Both models utilize a standard 60Hz refresh rate, providing smooth scrolling for everyday navigation and standard video playback.

Media consumption and front-facing video capabilities present a noticeable functional difference for digital communication.

• Front-facing optics: The iPad Air 4 features a standard 7-megapixel FaceTime camera, whereas the iPad Air 5 upgrades to a 12-megapixel ultra-wide sensor equipped with automatic framing software to keep users centered during video calls.
• Rear camera system: Both models house a single 12-megapixel wide rear camera that captures crisp everyday photos, scans documents efficiently, and records stable video up to 4K resolution.
• Audio output: Dual landscape stereo speakers on both tablets deliver balanced sound output for casual music listening, video streaming, and virtual meetings.

Physical dimensions and connectivity standards are largely aligned, with one major network enhancement on cellular configurations.

• Connectivity options: Both models support Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0, but cellular configurations of the iPad Air 5 add compatibility with faster 5G networks compared to the 4G LTE limits of the older generation.
• Ports and security: Both tablets rely on a reversible USB-C port for charging and data transfer, and integrate a Touch ID fingerprint sensor directly into the top power button for biometric authentication.
• Handling and dimensions: Sharing identical measurements and weighing roughly 460 grams, both models fit into the exact same protective cases and keyboard accessories.