The performance of Affinity Photo 2 on the iPad Air compared to the iPad Pro can be analyzed based on several key factors: hardware capabilities, display features, and user experience.
Hardware Capabilities
- iPad Air: The iPad Air, particularly models with the M1 or later chips, offers robust performance suitable for demanding tasks like photo editing. However, it might not match the iPad Pro's processing power, especially in handling extremely large files or complex operations[5].
- iPad Pro: The iPad Pro, equipped with more advanced processors (such as the M2 or M3), generally provides superior performance. This is beneficial for tasks that require intense processing, such as working with multiple large image layers or applying complex effects in Affinity Photo 2[5].
Display Features
- iPad Air: The iPad Air typically features a 60Hz refresh rate display, which is sufficient for most photo editing tasks. While it lacks the ProMotion technology found in the iPad Pro, this difference is less noticeable for tasks that don't require rapid screen updates, such as drawing or video editing[6].
- iPad Pro: The iPad Pro offers a higher refresh rate with ProMotion technology, providing a smoother experience, especially when using the Apple Pencil for fast or sweeping motions. However, for most photo editing tasks, the difference may not be significant[2][6].
User Experience
- iPad Air: Users report that the iPad Air handles Affinity Photo 2 well, especially for general photo editing tasks. It's a cost-effective option that provides a good balance between performance and price[5].
- iPad Pro: The iPad Pro offers a more premium experience with better performance and display features. It is ideal for professionals who need the best possible tools for demanding projects, including those requiring high color accuracy and fast rendering times[2][5].
In summary, while both the iPad Air and iPad Pro can run Affinity Photo 2 effectively, the iPad Pro offers superior performance and display features, making it more suitable for professional-grade work. However, the iPad Air remains a viable option for those on a budget or with less demanding needs.
Citations:[1] https://apps.apple.com/us/app/affinity-photo-2-for-ipad/id1616823773
[2] https://www.reddit.com/r/Affinity/comments/1ha7880/ipad_pro_vs_air/
[3] https://apps.apple.com/th/app/affinity-photo-2-for-ipad/id1616823773
[4] https://affinity.serif.com/en-us/press/newsroom/affinity-v2-sets-new-standards-in-creative-software/
[5] https://www.reddit.com/r/Affinity/comments/1bdrxc3/recommendations_for_suitable_ipad_for_affinity_2/
[6] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8P5ScrfVlzs
[7] https://www.lizkohlerbrown.com/affinity-designer-for-ipads-pros-cons-and-comparisons-with-procreate/
[8] https://www.canonrumors.com/forum/threads/how-pro-are-ipad-pro-and-affinity-together.34386/