Difference between the iPad Air 5 (2022) vs iPad mini 6 (2021)

The iPad Air 5 (2022) and iPad mini 6 (2021) are both impressive mid-range tablets from Apple. The iPad Air stands out with its powerful M1 chip, stunning Liquid Retina display, and the new Center Stage feature. On the other hand, the iPad mini offers great value for money with a powerful A15 Bionic chip and a compact design.
 

Display

The iPad Air 6 has a larger 10.9-inch screen compared to the iPad mini's 8.3-inch display. The Air also features a higher resolution and a brighter display. It is powered by the M1 chip, which offers superior performance compared to the mini's A15 Bionic chip. The Air also has more RAM, providing a smoother multitasking experience.

Performance, Battery Life, and Charging

The iPad Air 6 takes the lead in performance with its M1 chip and higher RAM capacity. It excels as a work device and can handle computationally intensive tasks. Both tablets offer 64GB of storage as standard, but it may not be sufficient for heavy users. Battery life is similar for both tablets, providing around a day's usage.

Camera and Connectivity

The iPad Air 6 and iPad mini 6 feature the same 12MP rear camera and 12MP ultrawide selfie camera. The Air's main camera lens offers dual-pixel PDAF for better autofocus. Both tablets support Apple's Center Stage feature, which keeps you in the frame during video calls. Both tablets support 5G connectivity and the second-generation Apple Pencil. However, the iPad Air 6 is compatible with the Magic Keyboard, making it more versatile as a work tablet.
 

Verdict

The iPad Air 6 (2022) emerges as the winner with its larger, higher-resolution display, powerful M1 chip, enhanced camera, and compatibility with the Magic Keyboard. However, the iPad mini 6 (2021) is a great choice for those who prefer a compact tablet and want to save some money while still enjoying a smooth software experience.