The iPad Air models currently available do not offer a 1TB storage option with increased RAM beyond 8GB. However, for the iPad Pro models, the 1TB and 2TB versions come with 16GB of RAM, while the lower storage models have 8GB[1][4][6]. The question of whether the extra RAM is noticeable for everyday tasks depends on how you use your device.
Importance of RAM in iPads
RAM (Random Access Memory) is crucial for running applications smoothly. It acts as a fast storage space where active processes are loaded, allowing apps to execute efficiently. The more RAM available, the less the system needs to swap data between RAM and slower storage, which can improve performance and multitasking capabilities[1].
Everyday Tasks and RAM
For most everyday tasks like browsing the web, streaming videos, using social media, and playing casual games, the difference between 8GB and 16GB of RAM might not be significantly noticeable. These tasks typically do not require extensive memory resources, and Apple's iPadOS is designed to manage memory efficiently, ensuring that stock apps like Safari use minimal RAM[2][5].
However, if you engage in more demanding activities such as video editing, graphic design, or running multiple resource-intensive apps simultaneously, the additional RAM in the higher-end iPad Pro models could provide a noticeable improvement. It would allow more apps to remain active in the background without needing to reload when you switch between them[7].
Conclusion
For the average user who primarily uses their iPad for basic tasks, the extra RAM in the higher storage iPad Pro models might not offer a tangible benefit. However, for those who require more powerful multitasking or run demanding applications, the additional RAM can enhance performance and user experience. Since the iPad Air does not currently offer a 1TB model with increased RAM, users considering the iPad Air for everyday tasks may not need to worry about the RAM difference.
Citations:[1] https://discussions.apple.com/thread/255257465
[2] https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/is-ram-really-important-in-ipads.2311593/
[3] https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/upgrading-to-the-ipad-pro-1tb.2168309/
[4] https://9to5mac.com/ipad-ram-list-2/
[5] https://www.reddit.com/r/ipad/comments/1co0e4k/are_you_buying_the_new_ipad_air_what_storage_size/
[6] https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=40286128
[7] https://www.reddit.com/r/iPadPro/comments/1cxmqr8/is_buying_the_1tb_version_worthwhile_for_the/
[8] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z6R2l9r-Hx4
[9] https://techshop.umich.edu/143322.html
[10] https://discussions.apple.com/thread/254745681
[11] https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/ipad-air-1tb-is-it-restricted-to-8gb-of-ram.2426875/