Should I get the new M2 13-inch iPad Air with 512 GB or the 13-inch iPad Pro M4 with 256 GB? The Pro is $300 more where I live.
Whatever fits your budget will work fine.
Just buy what you can afford. All iPads are pretty powerful for a beginner. If you really want a Pro, consider the older models with M2 or M1. Even the regular 10.9-inch iPad is a great option. Just make sure you get the right Apple Pencil (not the USB-C version).
The iPad Air is basically the iPad Pro 2020 but with a few things missing. Buy the one that’s within your budget. If you have the money, it’s always a good idea to go for the higher-end model.
If you can save up, the Pro is worth it, but the 2022 M1 model Pro is still a fantastic choice. The M1 and M2 aren’t that different. Honestly, I’ve never needed the extra features in Procreate that come with the M2. The M1 Pro and an Apple Pencil will do everything you need. I use mine for Procreate and 3D sculpting with no problems. Unless you’re working on really demanding 3D stuff, the M4 isn’t going to be a ‘must-have’ for a long time. Procreate runs perfectly on the M1 and M2.
For a beginner, I’d say neither. I have a 9th gen iPad and it works perfectly for me. If I get more serious, I might get an older Pro model. The M4 is overkill, especially since Procreate doesn’t need that much power.