This year’s iPad Air launch came as a surprise, especially considering that Apple introduced the last model less than a year ago. The previous iPad Air was a commendable device, already capable of supporting the latest advancements in Apple Intelligence. Many anticipated that Apple would unveil an upgraded Magic Keyboard for the Air, which they did, or perhaps some innovative software features at the recent WWDC. However, the introduction of a whole new model was unexpected. In reality, the primary upgrade in this new iteration is the transition to an M3 chip, replacing last year’s M2. Thus, instead of a completely new iPad Air, this seems more like a mid-cycle refresh.
As with its predecessor, the new iPad Air starts at $599 for the 11-inch model and $799 for the 13-inch variant. The design remains consistent with the previous model, featuring the same light color options. Having used a 13-inch M2 Air for a while and recently testing the 11-inch M3 Air, I can confidently say that it continues to be an exceptional tablet. Yet, I find myself wishing that iPadOS could be leveraged to enhance its versatility.
As I evaluated the new iPad Air, I compiled six key observations that can help prospective buyers determine if this is the right tablet for them:
Score: 8 / 10 Price: Starts at $599 The Good: Significant Magic Keyboard upgrade, faster chip performance, and overall great user experience. The Bad: Touch ID instead of Face ID, limited upgrade in Apple Intelligence, and a higher price point compared to the base iPad.While the M3 chip boasts a benchmark performance that shows a 12-15% improvement over the M2, the difference in real-world application usage is minimal. Apps open at a similar speed, games perform identically, and even demanding apps like Procreate and Logic show no noticeable lag. This observation reflects more on how capable the M2 chip was rather than a shortcoming of the M3.
In terms of graphics, testing on the iPad Air can be challenging due to the limited number of games designed to fully exploit its potential. For instance, playing Call of Duty: Mobile at maximum settings reveals minor improvements in detail, particularly with shadows, but these differences are subtle and may not be substantial enough to impact most users.
The new Magic Keyboard is a notable upgrade, featuring a dedicated row of function keys for easier control of volume, playback, and device locking. This enhancement makes the iPad Air a more viable laptop replacement. Although the keyboard accessory starts at $269, it is an excellent investment for those seeking functionality. While the Pro keyboard remains superior in terms of materials and build quality, the new keyboard is backward compatible, allowing M2 Air users to benefit from its features as well.
One significant drawback is the continued reliance on Touch ID rather than adopting Face ID technology. Touch ID may be practical for iPhones, but on a tablet, where orientation changes frequently, it can be cumbersome. The Face ID feature on the iPad Pro simplifies unlocking and usage, making it a highly desirable upgrade for future iPad Air models.
When considering the size of the iPad Air, the difference between the 11-inch and 13-inch models is pronounced. The 13-inch version is less portable, often requiring a desk setup, while the 11-inch model is much easier to hold and transport. For those prioritizing mobility, the 11-inch Air is an excellent choice. However, if productivity is your primary concern, the iPad Pro offers superior performance and features that justify its higher price tag.
The potential of Apple Intelligence remains an open question. While the base model iPad uses the A16 Bionic chip, it lacks some features, like Stage Manager and Pro Pencil support, which may influence user choices. Currently, the limitations of Apple Intelligence do not significantly affect purchasing decisions; however, if you believe in the future capabilities of AI, the iPad Air may be worth considering.
Studies show that most iPad users keep their devices for several years, often up to a decade. If you plan to use your next tablet until 2030, the M3 Air is a solid choice. With its robust M-series chip, compatibility with an excellent Magic Keyboard, and support for the top-tier Apple Pencil, it provides a feature set that should ensure longevity. While the base iPad remains a suitable option for most users, the iPad Air offers enhanced performance and a more premium experience for those seeking a durable device.
