Apple's new iPad Pro models are so light that they weigh less than its latest iPad Air devices, which might have some consumers wondering what exactly the "Air" moniker stands for these days.
The new 11-inch iPad Air weighs 1.02 pounds, whereas the 11-inch iPad Pro comes in at just 0.98 pounds.
When comparing the larger models, it's a similar story: The 13-inch Air is 1.36 pounds to the 13-inch Pro's 1.28 pounds. But it's not just the weight that differentiates the new models. Both iPad Pro sizes are also thinner.
The 11-inch iPad Pro is 5.3mm thick, while the 13-inch iPad Pro is 5.1mm thick, which Apple pointed out is thinner than the iPod nano. Comparatively, both iPad Air models are 6.1mm thick, and they also have noticeably thicker bezels.
At its "Let Loose" event announcing the devices, Apple said the iPad Air was designed "to make features pioneered on iPad Pro at a more affordable price," so it seems that "Air" is now the company's moniker for a mid-range device, rather than alluding specifically to physical dimensions.
It's worth noting however that the same doesn't apply to the MacBook Air, which is thinner and lighter than the models in Apple's MacBook Pro line. Despite the naming consistency, "Air" still stands for portability, at least when it comes to the company's Macs.
Like the previous models, the iPad Air starts at $599, while the 13-inch model starts at $799. Meanwhile, the 11-inch iPad Pro starts at $999 and the 13-inch model starts at $1,299. Both devices are available to order now and launch on Wednesday, May 15.
