Apple iPad Air (2GB + 128GB) review. Compare 168 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among tablets and if it is worth buying.
Overall score
What it is: An overall evaluation of the smartphone's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.
When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best Tablets on the market.
Score components:
90.0%
Technical Score
10.0%
User score
Technical Score
What it is: An assessment of the smartphone's technical performance, covering eight key areas: performance & hardware, software, camera, connectivity, display, battery, audio, and design.
When it matters: When you want to compare Tablets based on technical performance and available features.
Score components:
22.0%
Performance
20.0%
Display
16.0%
Camera
14.0%
Battery
12.0%
Connectivity
8.0%
Software & Features
5.0%
Design
3.0%
Audio & Multimedia
User score
What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the smartphone
When it matters: When you want to know how a smartphone handles daily tasks and how reliable it remains over time according to user feedback.
Score components:
70.0%
User reviews
30.0%
Popularity
No reviews for this version.
Check reviews from other versions.
Score components:
25.0%
RAM capacity
20.0%
Refresh rate
20.0%
GPU frequency
20.0%
Chipset
15.0%
Battery capacity
Score components:
20.0%
Chipset
20.0%
Battery life
20.0%
RAM capacity
10.0%
Weight
10.0%
Internal storage
10.0%
Keyboard accessory
10.0%
Screen size
Score components:
30.0%
RAM capacity
25.0%
Chipset
20.0%
Internal storage
15.0%
Screen size
5.0%
Keyboard accessory
5.0%
Stylus included
Score components:
20.0%
Screen size
20.0%
Battery life
20.0%
Weight
20.0%
RAM capacity
20.0%
Chipset
Score components:
25.0%
Battery capacity
25.0%
RAM capacity
15.0%
Weight
15.0%
Internal storage
10.0%
Screen size
10.0%
Price
Score components:
20.0%
RAM capacity
20.0%
Battery life
15.0%
Chipset
15.0%
Weight
10.0%
Cellular module
10.0%
5G connectivity
5.0%
GPS
5.0%
Internal storage
Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.
#2 in Best 10-inch Tablets
#17 in Best Apple Tablets
#51 in Best Tablets With SIM Card
#54 in Best 5G Tablets
#77 in Best Tablets With Keyboard
#80 in Best Tablets For Drawing
#85 in Best Tablets
What it is: An assessment of the smartphone's technical performance, covering eight key areas: performance & hardware, software, camera, connectivity, display, battery, audio, and design.
When it matters: When you want to compare Tablets based on technical performance and available features.
Score components:
22.0%
Performance
20.0%
Display
16.0%
Camera
14.0%
Battery
12.0%
Connectivity
8.0%
Software & Features
5.0%
Design
3.0%
Audio & Multimedia
What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the smartphone
When it matters: When you want to know how a smartphone handles daily tasks and how reliable it remains over time according to user feedback.
Score components:
70.0%
User reviews
30.0%
Popularity
No reviews for this version.
Check reviews from other versions.
What it is: An indicator that combines the smartphone's overall rating with its cost.
When it matters: When you are looking for a smartphone with a good balance between quality and price.
Score components:
60.0%
Overall score
40.0%
Price
Importance: MEDIUM
Importance: HIGH
Good value: >=8 GB
Importance: HIGH
Good value: <7 nm
Importance: HIGH
Good value: >=128 GB
Importance: HIGH
Good value: >1300
Importance: HIGH
Importance: HIGH
Importance: HIGH
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >3500
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >=8 GB
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: 5
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >20 GB/s
Importance: MEDIUM
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >7 W
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >2500
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >800
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >8
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >900 MHz
Importance: MEDIUM
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >3000
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >1200
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >3200 MHz
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >400
Importance: MEDIUM
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: 8+
Importance: MEDIUM
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >800 MHz
Importance: MEDIUM
Importance: MEDIUM
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >10000 million
Importance: LOW
Good value: >=4 MB
Importance: LOW
Good value: >64 KB
Importance: LOW
Good value: >=1 MB
Importance: LOW
Importance: LOW
Good value: 4
Importance: LOW
Good value: >=512 GB
Importance: LOW
Good value: 2.0/3.0
Importance: LOW
Good value: 3.2
Importance: LOW
Good value: 3.3
Importance: HIGH
Importance: HIGH
Good value: >=120 Hz
Importance: HIGH
Importance: HIGH
Good value: >250 ppi
Importance: HIGH
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >500 nits
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >=11 inches
Importance: MEDIUM
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >120 Hz
Importance: MEDIUM
Importance: MEDIUM
Importance: MEDIUM
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >200 Hz
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >250 ppi
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >400 nits
Importance: MEDIUM
Importance: LOW
Importance: LOW
Importance: LOW
Importance: HIGH
Importance: HIGH
Importance: HIGH
Good value: >=8 MP
Importance: HIGH
Importance: HIGH
Importance: MEDIUM
Importance: MEDIUM
Importance: MEDIUM
Importance: MEDIUM
Importance: LOW
Importance: LOW
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Importance: LOW
Importance: LOW
Importance: HIGH
Good value: >8000 mAh
Importance: HIGH
Good value: >30 W
Importance: HIGH
Good value: >10 hours
Importance: MEDIUM
Importance: MEDIUM
Importance: LOW
Importance: LOW
Importance: HIGH
Importance: HIGH
Importance: HIGH
Importance: MEDIUM
Importance: MEDIUM
Importance: MEDIUM
Importance: MEDIUM
Importance: MEDIUM
Importance: MEDIUM
Importance: MEDIUM
Importance: MEDIUM
Importance: MEDIUM
Importance: MEDIUM
Importance: LOW
Good value: >5.2
Importance: LOW
Importance: LOW
Importance: LOW
Good value: 3.1/3.2
Importance: LOW
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Importance: HIGH
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Importance: MEDIUM
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Importance: LOW
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Importance: LOW
Importance: MEDIUM
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: <500 g
Importance: MEDIUM
Importance: MEDIUM
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: <10 ms
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >7
Importance: MEDIUM
Importance: MEDIUM
Importance: LOW
Good value: <7 mm
Importance: LOW
Importance: LOW
Importance: LOW
Importance: LOW
Importance: LOW
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >=2
Importance: MEDIUM
Importance: MEDIUM
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >=4
Importance: LOW
Importance: LOW
Importance: LOW
Importance: LOW
Importance: LOW
Importance: LOW
Importance: HIGH
Importance: HIGH
Importance: MEDIUM
Importance: HIGH
Good value: >=8 MP
Importance: MEDIUM
Importance: MEDIUM
Importance: HIGH
Importance: MEDIUM
Importance: HIGH
Importance: HIGH
Good value: >=8 GB
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: 8+
Importance: MEDIUM
Importance: MEDIUM
Importance: HIGH
Importance: LOW
Importance: LOW
The 2024 iPad Air 6 (M2) acts as a "Goldilocks" tablet, offering Pro-level performance with a new 13-inch size option alongside the standard 11-inch model, boasting roughly 50% faster performance than its predecessor. Key advantages include the landscape-oriented front camera, base storage upgraded to 128GB, and Apple Pencil Pro support, all while utilizing the robust M2 chip for demanding tasks. However, the device maintains a 60Hz LCD screen lacking 120Hz ProMotion, uses Touch ID instead of Face ID, and requires specific, newer accessories, making it a powerful yet slightly constrained alternative to the Pro line. Tech Advisor
The 13-inch Apple iPad Air (M2, 2024) is positioned as a high-performance, cost-effective alternative to the Pro series, featuring the M2 chip, 8GB of RAM, and a new 13-inch screen option. Key pros include the vibrant, color-accurate IPS display, support for the Apple Pencil Pro, improved landscape speakers, and a relocated webcam for better video calls. However, notable cons include a limited 60Hz screen refresh rate, the absence of Face ID, a 128GB base storage, and battery life that is outperformed by the M4 iPad Pro.
The 2024 Apple iPad Air, earning an Editors' Choice award, positions itself as a high-performance, mid-range tablet featuring the M2 chip, a new 13-inch model option, and doubled base storage of 128GB. It excels with powerful performance for creative apps, a relocated 12MP front camera for better video calls, and compatibility with the Apple Pencil Pro. However, notable drawbacks include the lack of a 120Hz ProMotion display, average battery life under heavy load, and the absence of Face ID.
The T3 review highlights the iPad Air (M2) as a high-performance, cost-effective alternative to the Pro, now available in a 13-inch model with a landscape-oriented front camera. Pros include the powerful M2 chip, 128GB base storage, and Apple Pencil Pro support, all housed in a lightweight, premium chassis. Key cons involve the 60Hz Liquid Retina display, lack of Face ID, incompatibility with the newest M4 Magic Keyboard, and limitations of iPadOS.
The 2024 Apple iPad Air, featuring a new 13-inch option and an M2 chip, bridges the gap between base models and the Pro lineup, offering high-end performance with improved 128GB base storage. Key improvements highlighted by Trusted Reviews include the landscape-oriented front camera and support for the Apple Pencil Pro. However, the device lacks a 120Hz ProMotion display and Face ID, keeping it distinct from the more premium iPad Pro.
The 2024 Apple iPad Air (M2), reviewed by The Guardian, is a highly capable, mid-range tablet featuring a new 13-inch model that offers a larger screen for less money than the Pro. Powered by the M2 chip, it delivers a 15% speed increase, easily handling demanding tasks and multitasking. Key improvements include a landscape-oriented front camera, support for the Apple Pencil Pro, 128GB base storage, and a 10-hour battery life. However, the tablet retains a 60Hz LCD screen, which lacks the 120Hz ProMotion smoothness of the higher-end models, and still relies on Touch ID rather than Face ID. Additionally, it does not support the newest aluminium Magic Keyboard designed for the M4 Pro, and performance remains limited by iPadOS.
The 2024 Apple iPad Air is positioned as a highly practical device, offering M2 chip performance and a new 13-inch size option at a lower price point than the Pro models. Key advantages include compatibility with the Apple Pencil Pro, a landscape-oriented front camera, and a doubled base storage of 128GB. However, the device features a 60Hz LCD screen instead of 120Hz ProMotion, relies on Touch ID rather than Face ID, and lacks a Thunderbolt port.
The 2024 13-inch Apple iPad Air offers a "sweet spot" large-screen experience with a vibrant 600-nit Liquid Retina display and an improved landscape-oriented front camera. Powered by the M2 chip, it delivers high-end performance for gaming, supports the new Apple Pencil Pro, and features a 128GB starting storage capacity. However, drawbacks include significant heating during intense gaming, a 60Hz display lacking ProMotion, and the absence of Face ID. IGN
The 2024 Apple iPad Air M2 offers an incremental update, introducing a 13-inch display option and the powerful M2 chip for improved multitasking performance, while moving the front-facing camera to the landscape edge. Key pros include increased 128 GB base storage, compatibility with the Apple Pencil Pro, and a 600-nit, 13-inch screen, providing high-end functionality without the Pro-level cost. Conversely, cons include a stagnant design, heavier, thicker build on the 13-inch model, 60Hz LCD, lack of Face ID, and incompatibility with the Pencil 2. Copy
The 2024 Apple iPad Air (11-inch and 13-inch) is a top-tier intermediate tablet, earning an Editors' Choice award for its balance of performance and value. Pros include the upgraded M2 chip, a landscape-oriented 12MP front camera with Center Stage, and compatibility with the Apple Pencil Pro, alongside increased base storage (128GB). Notable cons, however, include the lack of a 120Hz ProMotion display, retention of 60Hz LCD technology, and a 10Gbps USB-C port rather than Thunderbolt, according to PCMag.
The 2024 iPad Air brings Pro-level performance to a lower price point, featuring the powerful M2 chip (correcting the response's M4 error based on the URL context) in both 11-inch and new 13-inch sizes. Key improvements include the landscape-oriented front camera and compatibility with the Apple Pencil Pro. The device is lauded for offering high-end features, such as Wi-Fi 6E, at a value price point that appeals to most users, including a larger 13-inch option for enhanced productivity. CNNHowever, the 2024 Air lacks premium features found in the Pro model, such as OLED display technology and the 120Hz ProMotion refresh rate. Additionally, the device uses Touch ID on the power button rather than Face ID, and it lacks the quad-speaker system found on higher-end models. While performance is excellent, the battery life is solid, though it doesn't outperform top-tier competitors. CNN
The 2024 13-inch iPad Air offers a large, lightweight, and high-performance, M2-powered alternative to the Pro model, featuring a practical landscape camera, 128GB base storage, and Apple Pencil Pro support. While praised for its value and functionality, the tablet is constrained by a 60Hz screen refresh rate, lack of Face ID, and incompatibility with the latest redesigned Magic Keyboard.
The 2024 Apple iPad Air, particularly in the new 13-inch format, offers a more spacious, laptop-like experience with improved landscape camera placement. Powered by the M2 chip, it delivers strong performance and enhanced battery life, while base storage has been upgraded to 128GB. Key pros include compatibility with the Apple Pencil Pro and its haptic feedback, alongside crisp, loud dual-stereo speakers. However, the device features a 60Hz LCD panel limited to 600 nits, lacking the advanced display technology and FaceID found in the Pro line. Cons noted in the review include a lack of backward compatibility with the 2nd-gen Apple Pencil and a slightly heavy design that challenges the "Air" branding. Despite these, the 2024 model provides a capable, more affordable alternative to the M4 Pro lineup.
The CNET review of the 2024 iPad Air highlights the M2-powered tablet as the "Pro" model most users should buy, offering a premium experience at a lower price point than the high-end Pro. A major addition is the 13-inch display option, which brings a larger canvas to the Air lineup. Key pros include the powerful M2 chip, which ensures future-proofing for Apple Intelligence, the moved landscape-edge front camera, increased base storage of 128GB, and compatibility with the new Apple Pencil Pro. Conversely, the review notes significant cons, including the lack of OLED technology and 120Hz ProMotion, which are reserved for the more expensive Pro models. The review cautions that configuring the Air with 5G, higher storage, a Magic Keyboard, and a Pencil Pro can bring the total cost into MacBook price territory. Additionally, the new model is actually heavier and thicker than the M4 iPad Pro, and it lacks compatibility with the older Apple Pencil 2.
The 2024 M2 iPad Air, available in 11-inch and new 13-inch sizes, represents a solid, performance-focused middle ground that lacks the premium display and security features of the iPad Pro. Key improvements include the M2 chip, 128GB base storage, and a landscape-oriented front camera. While offering high performance and Apple Pencil Pro support, the device is hampered by a 60Hz LCD screen and continued reliance on Touch ID. The 2024 iPad Air brings Pro-level sizing to a lower price point but highlights the gap in display technology and accessories compared to the Pro lineup.
The F.A.Z. Kaufkompass review crowns the Apple iPad Pro (M4) as the top performer, highlighting its incredible power, Tandem OLED display, and thin design as key pros. However, this premium tablet is hindered by its very high price and restrictive iPadOS. For Android users, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 series offers a superior alternative with high-quality OLED screens, included S Pens, and robust multitasking via DeX. The OnePlus Pad 3 is recommended for offering high-end performance with a unique 7:5 screen ratio at a more competitive price point. Budget-conscious users are directed toward the Xiaomi Redmi Pad Pro, which delivers a smooth 120Hz display, though it falls short on long-term software support and camera quality compared to flagships. Overall, the market remains split between high-power, high-cost options and functional, price-friendly alternatives. Kaufkompass.
The 2024 Apple iPad Air lineup, featuring M2 chip performance and a new 13-inch size, serves as a high-performance, mid-range tablet option, according to reviews. Key pros include the landscape-oriented front camera for better video calls, 128GB base storage, and Apple Pencil Pro support. Conversely, the displays are limited to 60Hz Liquid Retina panels without OLED, and security relies on Touch ID rather than Face ID. While the M2 provides roughly 50% faster performance than its predecessor, the high cost of accessories like the Magic Keyboard can increase the overall investment. For a detailed analysis, visit PCMag Australia or Tom's Guide.
According to Computer Bild, the Apple iPad Air 13-inch (2024) successfully brings a large, high-quality display and robust M2 chip performance to a more accessible price point compared to the Pro line. The 13-inch IPS display boasts excellent color accuracy (DCI-P3) and, along with a newly relocated landscape front camera, significantly improves user experience. Key compromises include a 60Hz refresh rate (no 120Hz ProMotion), lack of OLED technology, and reliance on Touch ID rather than Face ID. Copy
The Mac4Ever review highlights the iPad Air M2 (2024) as a powerful, "pro-leaning" device featuring the M2 chip and a new 13-inch option, making it ideal for most professional tasks. Key pros include exceptional performance, compatibility with the Apple Pencil Pro, and a landscape-oriented camera, all at a lower price point than the iPad Pro. However, cons include the lack of a 120Hz ProMotion display, continued reliance on 60Hz LCD technology, and authentication via Touch ID rather than Face ID. Copy
According to the Frandroid review, the 2024 Apple iPad Air 13-inch (M2) acts as a high-performance alternative to the Pro line, offering a spacious 13-inch Liquid Retina display and powerful M2 processing, ideal for users seeking better multitasking and creativity tools at a lower price point. Key improvements include support for the new Apple Pencil Pro, a redesigned landscape-oriented 12MP front camera, and increased base storage capacity to 128GB. However, the device is limited by its 60Hz LED screen (lacking 120Hz ProMotion), continued reliance on Touch ID rather than Face ID, and a USB-C port that does not support Thunderbolt speeds. Furthermore, the review suggests that constraints within iPadOS can still hinder the device's capability to fully replace a laptop for professional workflows. Copy
The 13-inch Apple iPad Air (2024) serves as a large-screen, more accessible alternative to the Pro models, featuring a well-calibrated 2732×2048 Liquid Retina LCD, although it lacks OLED technology and 120Hz ProMotion. Driven by the powerful Apple M2 chip, this model introduces a more practical landscape-oriented 12 MP front camera and offers strong, responsive performance for daily tasks and creative work, supported by the Apple Pencil Pro and Magic Keyboard. Key compromises to maintain its positioning include the absence of Face ID, relying on Touch ID, along with missing Thunderbolt support, no physical SIM slot, and average battery life compared to its premium counterparts. Copy
The M2 iPad Air introduces a 13-inch model alongside the 11-inch version, offering a larger, more accessible, and faster alternative to the Pro line with 128GB base storage. Key improvements include the powerful M2 chip and the landscape-oriented front camera, though it retains a 60Hz Liquid Retina display, lacks ProMotion, and is incompatible with older Apple Pencil models. While praised as a balanced, "Goldilocks" choice for most users, the device is ultimately constrained by iPadOS limitations and uses Touch ID rather than Face ID. For a detailed, in-depth review of the iPad Air M2, read the article on Wired.
The 2024 11-inch iPad Air (M2) positions itself as a "balanced and powerful" mid-range tablet, featuring a significant performance boost with the M2 chip—roughly 50% faster than its predecessor. Design improvements include relocating the front camera to the landscape edge for better video calls and doubling the base storage to 128GB. The device, which supports the new Apple Pencil Pro, is noted for its "desktop-class" speed suitable for creative tasks and future-proofing, while retaining a thin, portable design with Wi-Fi 6E connectivity. Key disadvantages center on the 60Hz Liquid Retina display, which lacks the 120Hz ProMotion and deep blacks found in the Pro series. The device also lacks Face ID, relying on Touch ID, and features no backward compatibility with the Apple Pencil 2, requiring an upgrade to the Pencil Pro. Additionally, it lacks the faster Thunderbolt speeds offered by higher-end models.
The Notebookcheck review of the 2024 Apple iPad Air 11 finds the device to be a powerful, M2-equipped tablet, though one struggling with an identity crisis between budget and Pro models. Key pros highlighted include the high-performance chipset, an aluminum unibody design, and the relocated landscape front camera. However, the device faces significant cons, including a 60 Hz Liquid Retina display that lacks the 120 Hz refresh rate of competitors and the Pro line. Other limitations cited are the lack of Face ID, slower USB-C transfer speeds (10 Gbps), and high pricing that approaches the iPad Pro, especially with added storage or cellular options. Despite these drawbacks, the tablet receives praise for its compatibility with the new Apple Pencil Pro, positioning it as a capable option for users needing substantial power without the Pro's full price tag. Copy
The 2024 13-inch iPad Air with M2 chip brings a large-screen, premium aluminum design to a more accessible price point, notably featuring a repositioned landscape front-facing camera. Performance is driven by the robust M2 chip, offering high-end speed for creative tasks, while the 600-nit Liquid Retina display offers better brightness than previous models, paired with surprisingly strong speakers. Limitations compared to Pro models include the lack of ProMotion 120Hz or OLED technology, restricted USB-C speeds, continued reliance on Touch ID rather than Face ID, and a higher weight, especially when paired with accessories.
The NextPit review finds the 2024 iPad Air (13-inch model) to be a high-performance alternative to the Pro line, featuring the M2 chip, 128GB base storage, and a landscape-oriented front camera. It offers premium, flicker-free IPS display quality, support for the Apple Pencil Pro, and strong build quality, making it an excellent value proposition. Limitations include a 60Hz screen with no ProMotion, lack of Thunderbolt support, and the inherent, restrictive nature of iPadOS, alongside compatibility with only the older Magic Keyboard. For the full, detailed review, visit NextPit.
The M2 iPad Air bridges the gap between base and Pro models by introducing a 13-inch option, offering a large-screen experience with enhanced multitasking via Stage Manager and a significant performance boost from the M2 chip. Key advantages include a durable recycled aluminum body, the landscape-oriented front camera, 128GB base storage, and Apple Pencil Pro support. However, the device lacks 120Hz ProMotion, OLED technology, and Face ID, relying on a 60Hz LCD screen and Touch ID. Additionally, it uses eSIM-only for cellular models and requires the new Apple Pencil Pro.
The iPhoneSoft 2024/2025 guide recommends the iPad Air M2 as the most balanced choice, offering 11-inch or 13-inch options with M2 performance, Apple Intelligence support, and compatibility with Pencil Pro/Magic Keyboard. While offering high-end features, it lacks the 120Hz ProMotion display found on the Pro line. For maximum performance, the M4 iPad Pro is highlighted for its superior OLED display, ultrathin design, and pro-level speed, though at a significantly higher cost. Finally, the guide identifies the iPad 10 for value-conscious users and the iPad mini 7 for portability, with the main trade-offs being a lack of the newest chip in the base model and a niche market for the mini, respectively.
The iPhon.fr review describes the 13-inch M2 iPad Air as a compelling, more affordable alternative to the Pro models, designed for users requiring a large display without the highest price point. Driven by the powerful M2 chip, it offers significant performance gains for multitasking and creative tasks, while also introducing support for the Apple Pencil Pro. Notable pros include the expansive 12.9-inch Liquid Retina display with 600 nits brightness and the improved landscape-oriented front camera. Key compromises noted in the review include the lack of ProMotion (120Hz) technology, as the screen is capped at a 60Hz refresh rate, alongside the absence of Face ID, relying instead on Touch ID in the power button. Furthermore, the device is slightly thicker and heavier than the M4 iPad Pro, and while the M2 is powerful, iPadOS limitations may hinder its capability as a full laptop replacement. Overall, the review positions it as a "powerhouse" with a robust 10–13 hour battery life, aiming for a balance between price and performance.
The iPad Air M2 offers a high-performance, cost-effective alternative to the Pro line, featuring the powerful M2 chip and a new 13-inch display option alongside the standard 11-inch model. Key advantages highlighted in the review include the improved landscape front-facing camera, compatibility with the Apple Pencil Pro, increased 128GB base storage, and faster Wi-Fi 6E connectivity. However, limitations include the lack of a 120Hz ProMotion display, the absence of Face ID, reliance on older Magic Keyboard compatibility, and a Liquid Retina screen that misses the advanced contrast of OLED. Copy
The 2024 M2 iPad Air, available in 11 and 13-inch sizes, serves as a high-performance, cost-effective alternative to the Pro model, featuring the M2 chip for advanced tasks and Apple Intelligence support. Key advantages include the relocated landscape front camera, 128GB base storage, and solid build quality with rich stereo sound. Conversely, drawbacks include the lack of a 120Hz ProMotion display, a 60Hz LCD panel, and limitations within iPadOS for heavy multitasking, alongside incompatibility with older accessories.
The May 2024 review from HOLA describes the Apple iPad Air M2 as a highly versatile tablet that effectively bridges the gap between entry-level models and the high-end Pro, featuring a new 13-inch option for increased productivity. Performance is a key pro, driven by the faster M2 chip, alongside a relocated landscape camera and support for the Apple Pencil Pro. While it provides improved value with 128GB base storage, cons include a 60Hz LCD screen lacking ProMotion, the absence of Face ID, and incompatibility with the 2024 Magic Keyboard. For more details, visit HOLA.
The 2024 M2 iPad Air, as reviewed by GQ, is positioned as a "midfielder" bridging the gap between standard and Pro tablets, highlighted by a new 13-inch option offering significant, productive screen real estate. Driven by the powerful M2 chip, it offers roughly 50% faster performance than the M1 model, while the repositioned landscape camera improves video calls. Key limitations (cons) include a 60Hz LCD screen lacking ProMotion, the absence of Face ID, and incompatibility with older accessories.
The iPad Air 5 (2022) offers premium performance by incorporating the M1 chip, positioning it close to the iPad Pro in power while featuring a 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display and a 12MP Ultra Wide front camera with Center Stage. Pros include the high speed, compatibility with the 2nd Gen Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard, and a competitive price point for users not needing the Pro's advanced features. However, the review highlights significant cons, particularly the restrictive 64GB base storage and the absence of ProMotion 120Hz display technology. The 256GB model's price also approaches the 11-inch iPad Pro, challenging its value proposition for users requiring more storage. Ultimately, the device is considered an extraordinary option for students and creative hobbyists needing high performance without the Pro price tag, though it requires careful consideration of storage and display limitations. It is deemed a top-tier tablet, held back only by strategic product segmentation.
The 2022 iPad Air (5th generation) functions as a "democratic" Pro model, integrating the high-performance M1 chip into a familiar 10.9-inch design, offering immense speed comparable to higher-end models. Key upgrades highlighted include 5G connectivity and a 12MP front camera with Center Stage, enhancing video calls and user experience. However, the review notes constraints like the 60Hz display, limited 64GB base storage, and lack of Face ID, with the 11-inch Pro becoming a viable alternative at higher storage configurations.
The 2024 M2 iPad Air, reviewed by Letem světem Applem, is characterized as an evolutionary update that, while introducing a 13-inch model, largely retains the design of its predecessor. Performance is significantly enhanced by the M2 chip and a doubled base storage of 128GB, though the device still lacks a 120Hz ProMotion display and Face ID. Key highlights include the new landscape camera placement and support for the Apple Pencil Pro, alongside excellent battery life, but it is held back by minor build inconsistencies like a creaky Touch ID button. For more details, visit Letem světem Applem.
The TechRadar review of the 13-inch iPad Air (2024) positions the device as a "Pro-light" tablet offering a large screen and the powerful M2 chip, making it a strong option for users needing high performance for creative tasks or multitasking. Pros include the upgraded 128GB base storage, a landscape-oriented front camera for better video calls, and support for the Apple Pencil Pro. Key cons identified are the 60Hz Liquid Retina display, which lacks the 120Hz ProMotion technology and superior contrast found on Pro models, along with the high cost of accessories like the £349 Magic Keyboard. The review notes these factors mean the total investment can approach that of a MacBook Air. Ultimately, TechRadar deems the 13-inch iPad Air a "smarter buy" for artists, students, and users wanting a massive, capable canvas without the professional-grade price tag. It delivers a balanced experience with the reliable M2 chip, a refined design, and Touch ID functionality.
The March 2025 Corriere della Sera review describes the Apple iPad Air (M3, 2025) as a versatile, "middle-ground" tablet that balances high-end power with a more accessible price point compared to Pro models. Equipped with the M3 chip, it offers significant performance gains for creative tasks and full compatibility with Apple Intelligence for AI-driven productivity. Corriere della SeraThe device, available in 11-inch and 13-inch sizes, features a landscape-oriented camera and supports the Apple Pencil Pro and new Magic Keyboard. Key pros include this high-level performance and portability, while cons are limited to the 60Hz Liquid Retina display, the absence of OLED technology, and reliance on Touch ID instead of Face ID. Corriere della SeraDesigned for students and those upgrading from older models, the M3 iPad Air delivers "laptop-level" power in a familiar design. It is presented as a compelling, cost-effective alternative for users requiring professional performance without the premium cost of the iPad Pro lineup. Corriere della Sera
According to the Repubblica review, the 2024 iPad Pro M4 boasts a groundbreaking "Ultra Retina XDR" tandem OLED display and the M4 chip, making it incredibly thin and powerful. Pros include exceptional display quality, a landscape camera, and 120Hz ProMotion, though it faces cons like a high price and restrictive iPadOS. The iPad Air M2, offered in 11 and 13-inch sizes, serves as a balanced, "rational" option utilizing the powerful M2 chip. Key pros are the added 13-inch size, lower price point, and Apple Pencil Pro support, while its 60Hz LCD screen and lack of Face ID are noted as limitations. Both models feature a improved, landscape-oriented front camera and support the new Pencil Pro, but lack backward compatibility with older accessories. The analysis concludes the Pro is a powerhouse pushing limits, while the Air remains the most versatile choice for most users. Copy
The Apple iPad Air 13 (2024) makes the 13-inch form factor more accessible, featuring a high-quality aluminum unibody and the powerful M2 chip. The 13-inch IPS Liquid Retina display is bright (up to 631 nits) and PWM-free, while the front camera is now located on the landscape edge. Key compromises to maintain a lower price point than the Pro series include a 60 Hz refresh rate instead of 120 Hz, the use of Touch ID rather than Face ID, and a lack of Thunderbolt support.
The ID.nl review rates the 2024 iPad Air (M2) an 8.6/10, highlighting the new 13-inch model as a "Goldilocks" option that delivers Pro-level screen real estate at a more accessible price point. Key advantages include the powerful M2 chip, a landscape-oriented front camera, increased 128GB base storage, and Apple Pencil Pro compatibility. Limitations mentioned are the 60Hz IPS display (lacking ProMotion/OLED), absence of Face ID, and heavier design compared to the Pro, with limited Magic Keyboard compatibility. Copy
The 2024 iPad Air brings significant updates, bridging the gap between standard and Pro models with the introduction of a new 13-inch screen option and an upgrade to the M2 chip, offering a 15% performance boost. Key improvements include a landscape-oriented 12MP front camera, a 128GB base storage configuration, and compatibility with the Apple Pencil Pro's advanced features. However, the device remains on 60Hz LCD, lacks Face ID, and paradoxically weighs more than the 2024 Pro models while not supporting the latest Pro-specific Magic Keyboard. Copy
According to iCulture's hands-on experience, the 2024 iPad Pro stands out with its exceptionally thin design, M4 chip, and superior Ultra Retina XDR OLED display, making it a powerful tool for creative professionals, though its high cost and niche appeal are noted as cons. Conversely, the 2024 iPad Air, available in 11 and 13-inch sizes, is highlighted as the more practical, better-value option for most users, featuring the updated landscape camera and support for the Apple Pencil Pro. While the Pro excels in display tech and performance, the Air is positioned as a versatile daily driver, albeit without ProMotion (120Hz) technology or Face ID, serving as an excellent choice for a wider audience.
The Notebookcheck review of the Apple iPad Air 11 2024 (Gen 6) highlights a high-performance device powered by the Apple M2 chip, which delivers roughly 50% more power than its predecessor for demanding creative tasks and gaming. Key pros include the improved landscape front camera, a 128 GB base storage option, and solid build quality, though it faces an identity crisis between entry-level and Pro models. Significant drawbacks identified are the limited 60 Hz display refresh rate, lower contrast ratios compared to OLED, lack of Face ID, and the absence of a charger in the box. For more details, visit the Notebookcheck review at Copy
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