Re: The biggest thorn in the side of the Combo Touch...
You're not addressing the exam question - which is what does the bottom range Ipad give up to the Air and/or the Pro that makes it a lesser desktop machine. Nothing until you bring the 12" Pro into the equation afaik and even then only resolution.
https://www.tomsguide.com/uk/face-off/ipad-pro-vs-ipad