iPad Air 2 vs iPad 5th Gen: Which iPad Is Right?
Choosing the right iPad can feel overwhelming, especially with so many models available. Are you trying to decide between the sleek iPad Air 2 and the more recent iPad 5th generation? This comparison will break down the key differences to help you make the best choice for your needs.
The iPad Air 2, known for its thin and light design, was a popular choice upon its release. It offered a premium feel and impressive performance for its time. However, the iPad 5th generation brought some notable upgrades to the table, making it a worthy contender.
We’ll explore the specifications, features, and overall performance of both tablets. This includes aspects like display quality, processing power, battery life, and more. By the end of this comparison, you’ll have a clear understanding of which iPad better suits your requirements and budget.
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | iPad Air 2 | iPad 5th Gen |
|---|---|---|
| Release Year | 2014 | 2017 |
| Screen Size | 9.7 inches | 9.7 inches |
| Resolution | 2048 x 1536 pixels | 2048 x 1536 pixels |
| Processor | Apple A8X | Apple A9 |
| RAM | 2GB | 2GB |
| Storage Options | 16GB, 64GB, 128GB | 32GB, 128GB |
| Operating System | iOS (Upgradable) | iOS (Upgradable) |
| Rear Camera | 8MP | 8MP |
| Front Camera | 1.2MP | 1.2MP |
| Wi-Fi | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac |
| Bluetooth | 4.0 | 4.2 |
| Weight | 437g (Wi-Fi), 444g (Cellular) | 469g (Wi-Fi), 478g (Cellular) |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Processor
- iPad Air 2: Features the A8X chip, a significant upgrade over the A7 in the original Air. It offers decent performance for everyday tasks, but struggles with more demanding applications compared to newer iPads. Its age can lead to occasional lag.
- iPad 5th Gen: Equipped with the A9 chip, a notable improvement over the A8X. This results in faster performance, smoother multitasking, and better handling of modern apps and games. It still shows its age, but is more capable.
- Winner: 5th Gen
Display
- iPad Air 2: Boasts a 9.7-inch Retina display with a resolution of 2048×1536 pixels. The display is bright and clear, making it suitable for media consumption and web browsing, but it lacks some of the newer display technologies.
- iPad 5th Gen: Also features a 9.7-inch Retina display with the same resolution as the Air 2. The quality is very similar, offering a crisp viewing experience.
- Winner: Tie
Design
- iPad Air 2: Known for its incredibly thin and lightweight design, making it comfortable to hold and transport. It has a premium feel with its aluminum unibody construction, but the design is dated.
- iPad 5th Gen: Has a slightly thicker and heavier design compared to the Air 2, but still maintains a sleek and modern look. The build quality is solid, but not as premium.
- Winner: Air 2
Storage Options
- iPad Air 2: Available in various storage configurations, including 16GB, 64GB, and 128GB. The 16GB option can quickly become limiting, especially for users with large media libraries or games.
- iPad 5th Gen: Typically offered with 32GB or 128GB storage options. The 32GB is the minimum. This is an improvement compared to the Air 2’s base model.
- Winner: 5th Gen
Cameras
- iPad Air 2: Includes an 8MP rear camera and a 1.2MP front-facing camera. The image quality is acceptable for basic photography and video calls, but not exceptional by modern standards.
- iPad 5th Gen: Features the same 8MP rear camera and 1.2MP front-facing camera as the Air 2. The camera performance is very similar, so there’s no real change.
- Winner: Tie
Battery Life
- iPad Air 2: Offers a typical battery life of around 10 hours for web browsing and video playback, depending on usage. Battery life can degrade over time with age.
- iPad 5th Gen: Generally provides similar battery life, around 10 hours, which is quite good for its class. Battery life is a strong point.
- Winner: Tie
Operating System Support
- iPad Air 2: Received its last major iOS update a while ago. It may not get the latest features and security updates, which could affect its overall usability and security.
- iPad 5th Gen: Received more recent iOS updates compared to the Air 2. It’s likely to remain supported for a longer period, ensuring access to new features and security patches.
- Winner: 5th Gen
Price & Availability
- iPad Air 2: Generally cheaper on the used market, making it an affordable option. However, finding one in good condition might be difficult, and its age may affect its lifespan.
- iPad 5th Gen: Also available on the used market but might be slightly more expensive. It’s still a budget-friendly choice, offering better value for money due to its improved performance and longer software support.
- Winner: 5th Gen
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Performance | iPad 5th Gen |
| Design (Thinness/Lightness) | iPad Air 2 |
| Value (Considering Age) | iPad Air 2 (Potentially) |
What They Have in Common:
- Screen Size and Resolution: Both iPads feature a 9.7-inch Retina display with the same 2048 x 1536 pixel resolution, ensuring a sharp and vibrant viewing experience for both models. This means apps, videos, and websites will look equally crisp on either device.
- Wi-Fi and Cellular Connectivity: Both models support 802.11a/b/g/n/ac Wi-Fi and offer cellular options, providing flexible connectivity options for internet access on the go. You can choose a Wi-Fi only or cellular model for either iPad.
- Operating System: Both iPads are capable of running the latest versions of iPadOS. This ensures that both devices can access the newest features and security updates from Apple.
- Front-Facing Camera: Both iPads have a 1.2MP front-facing camera, suitable for video calls and selfies. This provides a similar video calling experience on both devices.
- Rear Camera: Both iPads feature an 8MP rear camera, capable of taking decent photos and videos. This provides similar photo and video capabilities for the users.
Performance Buying Guide
Processor and Speed
The iPad Air 2, powered by the A8X chip, offers respectable performance for everyday tasks, web browsing, and casual gaming. However, the iPad 5th generation boasts the A9 chip, providing a noticeable performance boost. This newer chip allows for smoother multitasking, faster app loading times, and a more responsive overall experience. The A9 also handles more demanding games and applications with greater ease, making it a better choice if performance is a top priority.
The difference is particularly evident when comparing the two devices side-by-side during graphically intensive operations. The A9 chip provides a significant advantage in terms of raw processing power and graphics capabilities, making it a better option for users who want a smoother, more responsive experience.
Display Quality
Both iPads feature Retina displays, delivering sharp and vibrant visuals. However, the iPad Air 2’s display is fully laminated and features an anti-reflective coating, resulting in a slightly better viewing experience, especially in bright sunlight. This lamination brings the screen closer to the glass and reduces glare. Colors appear more vivid and the contrast is improved, making the Air 2 a more enjoyable device for media consumption.
The 5th generation iPad does not have these enhancements, meaning it’s not as good in direct sunlight. While both displays are good, the Air 2 provides a slightly better visual experience.
Design and Portability
The iPad Air 2 is renowned for its sleek and lightweight design. It’s thinner and lighter than the 5th generation iPad, making it more comfortable to hold and carry around. Its compact design is ideal for users prioritizing portability and ease of use. The Air 2 also has a more premium feel, with a slightly more refined design aesthetic that many users find appealing.
The 5th generation iPad is slightly thicker and heavier, but it is still relatively portable. The difference in dimensions isn’t huge, but it’s noticeable when holding the devices side-by-side. Those needing ultimate portability should lean toward the Air 2.
Camera Capabilities
The iPad Air 2 and the 5th generation iPad both feature respectable cameras for basic photography and video calls. However, the Air 2’s camera has a slightly better aperture and image processing capabilities, which can result in somewhat better photos in low-light conditions. Both iPads are adequate for video conferencing and capturing casual snapshots, but the differences are subtle.
The camera on the 5th generation iPad is fine for everyday use. While the Air 2 offers slight improvements in image quality, the differences are not dramatic for the average user. Both cameras are capable, but neither is a standout feature.
Storage Options
When considering storage options, it’s important to assess your needs. The iPad Air 2 was originally offered in 16GB, 64GB, and 128GB configurations. The 5th generation iPad was available in 32GB and 128GB options. If you plan to store a large number of apps, games, photos, and videos, opting for a higher storage capacity is crucial.
Consider the apps you will download, if you will download movies/videos, and your photo library size. If you need more storage, carefully consider the available options for each model. Cloud storage can offset some storage needs.
Battery Life
Both the iPad Air 2 and the 5th generation iPad offer excellent battery life, typically lasting through a full day of moderate use. Apple generally rates both devices for around 10 hours of web browsing on Wi-Fi or video playback. However, battery performance can vary depending on usage patterns, screen brightness, and other factors.
In real-world tests, the battery life of both devices is comparable. Though there may be minor variations depending on usage, either iPad should provide all-day use for most users. Ensure proper charging habits to maintain battery health over time.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy iPad Air 2 If…
- You prefer a thinner and lighter design for easier portability.
- You find a significantly better deal on a used or refurbished model.
- You prioritize the classic iPad Air design.
Buy iPad 5th Gen If…
- You want a newer device with a slightly more powerful processor.
- You prioritize having a newer generation device.
- You can find it for a comparable price to a used iPad Air 2.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which iPad is faster?
The iPad 5th generation is faster due to its A9 chip, which provides a significant performance boost over the A8X chip in the iPad Air 2. The A9 handles tasks more quickly and efficiently, resulting in a smoother overall user experience, particularly when multitasking or running demanding applications.
Which iPad has a better display?
The iPad Air 2 has a slightly better display because it has a fully laminated screen with an anti-reflective coating, which reduces glare and improves visual clarity, especially in bright sunlight. This results in a more vibrant and enjoyable viewing experience, particularly for media consumption.
Which iPad is more portable?
The iPad Air 2 is more portable due to its thinner and lighter design. It is noticeably thinner and lighter than the 5th generation iPad, making it easier and more comfortable to hold and carry around for extended periods. This is a key advantage for users who prioritize portability.
Which iPad has better camera quality?
The iPad Air 2 has a slightly better camera, offering improved image processing and a slightly wider aperture, which can result in better photos in low-light conditions. While both cameras are capable, the Air 2 offers subtle improvements in image quality. But the difference is not substantial.
What storage options are available?
The iPad Air 2 was offered in 16GB, 64GB, and 128GB storage options. The 5th generation iPad was available in 32GB and 128GB configurations. The appropriate storage option depends on an individual’s needs, such as the number of apps, games, videos, and photos they intend to store.
How’s the battery life on both iPads?
Both iPads offer excellent battery life, typically lasting through a full day of moderate use. Apple rates both for approximately 10 hours of web browsing on Wi-Fi or video playback. Battery life can vary based on individual usage patterns, screen brightness, and other environmental factors.
Which iPad is better for gaming?
The iPad 5th generation is better for gaming due to its more powerful A9 chip, which delivers faster processing speeds and improved graphics performance. This results in smoother gameplay, faster loading times, and a more responsive gaming experience, particularly with demanding titles.
Final Verdict
The iPad 5th generation emerges as the winner due to its superior performance, driven by the A9 chip, offering a smoother and more responsive user experience for everyday tasks and gaming. While the iPad Air 2 offers a slightly better display and a more portable design, the performance benefits of the 5th generation iPad give it a clear advantage for most users.
Winner: iPad 5th Generation