For many users, the iPad Air is often regarded as Apple’s ideal tablet, striking a perfect balance between power and affordability. It offers enhanced performance and a larger display compared to the entry-level iPad, yet it remains significantly less expensive than the iPad Pro, which may be more than what some users require. Currently, there is an exciting price drop on the Apple iPad Air M3 available on Amazon, with discounts up to $150 off the regular price.
This enticing deal applies to both the 11-inch and 13-inch configurations of the latest iPad Air M3. The price for the 11-inch model has been reduced to as low as $449, while the 13-inch version is now available for just $649. If you prefer shopping at other retailers, similar discounts can be found at Best Buy and Target. This sale represents an all-time low, surpassing the previous best offer seen during Prime Day by $30.
The iPad Air M3 is more of an iterative upgrade than a significant redesign, but the enhanced specifications ensure that it will serve you well for years to come. It has earned the title of “best for most” in our comprehensive iPad buying guide, further validating its status as the “goldilocks” tablet. The standout feature of this model is undoubtedly the powerful M3 chip, which Geekbench 6 scores indicate is approximately 16% more powerful than the previous M2 chip, which was already impressive.
In addition to the upgraded chip, the iPad Air M3 boasts superior display quality and enhanced speakers compared to the entry-level model, along with broader accessory compatibility. The availability of a 13-inch display is particularly beneficial for artists or those looking to utilize the iPad as a laptop replacement.
While the iPad Air M3 excels in many areas, it does have a couple of shortcomings. Notably, it lacks the impressive 120Hz OLED display found in the iPad Pro. This distinction is not surprising, as Apple often leverages display technology to differentiate between its Pro and non-Pro models. Additionally, the absence of Face ID feels like a missed opportunity for this mid-range tablet. However, if you can overlook these limitations, the iPad Air remains a fantastic choice, especially at this discounted price.
If you find that the iPad Air may be more than you need, there are additional iPads on sale at Amazon worth considering. The iPad A16, which is Apple’s entry-level tablet, is currently priced at $299. Additionally, the latest iPad mini is available for $399. While both of these models were even more affordable during the Prime Day sales in July, these current discounts still present great opportunities to acquire a newer iPad at a reduced price.