In 2026, choosing between an iPad Air and an iPad Pro has changed significantly. Apple launched the iPad Pro with M4 chip and Tandem OLED display in 2024, and in March 2025 the iPad Air with M3 chip in two sizes (11" and 13"). The Air line has come even closer to the Pro, and the classic comparison of iPad Air 2022 (M1) vs iPad Pro 2021 (M1) remains relevant for those looking for refurbished — because both share the same chip and are now at unbeatable prices.
In this article
- iPad Air 2022 (5th gen) vs iPad Pro 2021: what changes?
- In 2026, which is worth buying refurbished?
- And the current lineup? iPad Air M3 vs iPad Pro M4
- 2026 comparison (new vs refurbished)
- How to decide in 2026
- Why buy at iOutlet
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Does the iPad Air 5 (2022) still receive updates in 2026?
- Is it better value to buy refurbished Air 5 or new Air M3?
- Can you really tell the difference between iPad Air and iPad Pro displays?
- What warranty does an iOutlet refurbished iPad have?
This guide compares the two worlds, focusing on what makes sense in 2026: the current iPad Air M3 and iPad Pro M4, and the option many people are choosing — buying a refurbished iPad Air 5 (2022) or iPad Pro 11/12.9 (2021), with 24 months iOutlet warranty and real savings compared to new.
iPad Air 2022 (5th gen) vs iPad Pro 2021: what changes?
In 2022 Apple gave the iPad Air 5 the same Apple M1 chip that was in the iPad Pro 2021 — a decision that brought the two devices dramatically closer together. Both have Liquid Retina display, Apple Pencil 2 support, Magic Keyboard, USB-C/Thunderbolt connection and run the same iPadOS. The differences became more subtle and specific.
- iPad Air 5 — 10.9" display, 8GB RAM, USB-C, single rear camera, 5 colours (space grey, pink, purple, blue, starlight), 64GB and 256GB options.
- iPad Pro 11" (2021) — 11" Liquid Retina display, 8/16GB RAM, Thunderbolt/USB 4, dual camera with LiDAR, 128GB-2TB, ProMotion 120Hz.
- iPad Pro 12.9" (2021) — 12.9" Liquid Retina XDR mini-LED display, 1,600 nits HDR brightness, identical to 11" in all other respects.
In 2026, which is worth buying refurbished?
The answer depends a lot on use. For most people — reading, video, web, notes with Apple Pencil, productivity apps — the refurbished iPad Air 5 is the smart choice: M1 chip still smooth, all modern apps work, optimal battery life, light and cheaper.
If you work with serious content creation — professional drawing with colour reference, HDR video editing, motion design — the refurbished iPad Pro 12.9" 2021 is worth the small extra spend: ProMotion 120Hz smooths everything, the mini-LED display is a reference for HDR, and the TrueDepth camera unlocks better conditions for AR and Animoji.
Check out the refurbished iPad options available at iOutlet — all with 24 months warranty, battery tested with specialist technical software and free delivery within 8 working days.
And the current lineup? iPad Air M3 vs iPad Pro M4
In 2026, Apple offers two clear lines:
- iPad Air M3 (March 2025) — 11" or 13", M3 chip, 8GB RAM, Liquid Retina display, support for Magic Keyboard with trackpad. From €699 (11" 128GB) at Apple Store.
- iPad Pro M4 (May 2024) — 11" or 13", M4 chip, Tandem OLED display with 1,000 nits SDR / 1,600 nits HDR brightness, ProMotion 120Hz, Apple Pencil Pro, more ports (Thunderbolt). From €1,199 (11" 256GB) at Apple Store.
2026 comparison (new vs refurbished)
| Model | Chip | Display | New price | iOutlet refurbished |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| iPad Air 5 (2022) | M1 | 10.9" Liquid Retina | — | Available, with 24-month warranty |
| iPad Pro 11" (2021) | M1 | 11" Liquid Retina ProMotion | — | Available, with 24-month warranty |
| iPad Pro 12.9" (2021) | M1 | 12.9" XDR mini-LED ProMotion | — | Available, with 24-month warranty |
| iPad Air M3 (2025) | M3 | 11"/13" Liquid Retina | from €699 | — |
| iPad Pro M4 (2024) | M4 | 11"/13" Tandem OLED ProMotion | from €1,199 | — |
How to decide in 2026
- Budget below €500 — iPad Air 5 or refurbished iPad Pro 2021.
- I want the best display — new iPad Pro M4 (Tandem OLED), or refurbished iPad Pro 12.9" 2021 as an alternative.
- I'll use it with Apple Pencil professionally — any iPad Pro (LiDAR + ProMotion), or Air with Pencil Pro in the latest models.
- Home and light use — refurbished Air 5 is the obvious choice.
- I want a larger display — refurbished Pro 12.9" 2021 or Air M3 13".
Why buy at iOutlet
Every refurbished iPad at iOutlet passes complete technical inspection: battery tested with specialist technical software, display, connections, cameras, speakers and Wi-Fi. The warranty is 24 months iOutlet with direct coverage — double what Apple gives on new models. We operate 100% online from Coimbra, with free delivery within 8 working days in Portugal and 14 days to return with no questions asked.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the iPad Air 5 (2022) still receive updates in 2026?
Yes. The iPad Air 5 with M1 chip runs the latest iPadOS (iPadOS 18 and beyond) and should continue to receive updates for a few more cycles.
Is it better value to buy refurbished Air 5 or new Air M3?
It depends on budget. If you want the latest machine and have €700+, the Air M3 is a good choice. If you want to save and usage is typical (study, web, video, reading), a refurbished Air 5 gives you what you need with 24 months iOutlet warranty.
Can you really tell the difference between iPad Air and iPad Pro displays?
For casual use, not much. For those who work with video, professional photography or drawing with colour reference, yes — the Pro has ProMotion 120Hz (smoother), mini-LED or OLED display on Pro 2021 12.9" and Pro M4, with much higher HDR brightness.
What warranty does an iOutlet refurbished iPad have?
24 months warranty on all refurbished iPads, with direct iOutlet coverage (including battery). 18 months on the Outlet line (used). Free delivery within 8 working days.
Ready to choose? See all the refurbished iPad options available at iOutlet, with 24 months warranty, free delivery within 8 working days and 14 days to return with no questions asked.
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