This iPad Air is an absolute powerhouse and is able to accomplish so many of the things that you would typically do in your day to day that the Pro model almost doesn't seem worth it. To start, this iPad is thin, light, and takes up virtually no space in most work bags and backpacks. It is easy to take on the go, and the battery life is incredible. This iPad is also compatible with the Apple Pencil, which makes sketching and taking notes a simple task.
For me, however, the best part about this iPad is the power under the hood. The M1 chip is capable of running virtually any iOS app flawlessly, and honestly makes the MacBook feel like an accessory. I've used this to play multiple mobile games with high frame rates, edit videos on the go, and for watching videos when sitting in waiting rooms. I haven't had any issues with apps slowing down or freezing, and it is capable of doing anything I need. When using it with an add-on keyboard, it really does make the MacBook and other computing devices feel obsolete as it has so much processing power even in 2024. The iPad also has a built-in front and rear camera for taking photos, recording videos or to FaceTime your coworkers or family. The quality of these cameras are not the greatest, but are still nice to have. The speakers also get very loud and sound good overall but there is a bit of thinness to some details in various movie scenes and songs. The only real complaint I have is the limited storage space, but as long as you aren't taking too many photos or working on too many projects at a time, the storage is more than enough.
Overall, this iPad still holds its own in 2024, as when it is on sale, it is an absolute steal. I would highly recommend getting this for those uncertain on what to choose, and I must say I have been very happy with it!
Sustainability features
This product has sustainability features recognized by trusted certifications.
Sustainability features
This product has sustainability features recognized by trusted certifications.
Energy efficiency
Conserves energy compared to similar products.
As certified by
EPEAT
EPEAT EPEAT addresses the sustainability impacts of electronic products. An EPEAT registered product must meet required criteria and can meet optional criteria. The criteria depend on the type of product and can include energy efficiency, reduction of fluorinated greenhouse gases (F-Gases), and end of life management. Products meeting 50% - 75% optional criteria are “Silver” and those meeting more than 75% are “Gold”.
Certification Level
GOLD Part of
Compare Apple iPad products
| Price | From: - | From: - | From: $349.99 | From: $319.00 | From: $199.99 |
| Ratings | (14,011) | (1,778) | (10,887) | (19,633) | (70,781) |
| Display | 10.9 inch Liquid Retina | 11‑inch Liquid Retina display with ProMotion technology and True Tone | 8.3 Liquid Retina display | 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display with True Tone | 10.2 inch Retina display with True Tone |
| Secure authentication | Touch ID | Face ID | Touch ID | Touch ID | Touch ID |
| Chip | Apple M1 8-core CPU chip with 8-core GPU and Neural Engine | Apple M2 chip | A15 Bionic chip with Neural Engine | A14 Bionic chip | A13 Bionic chip with Neural Engine |
| Camera | 12MP photos | 12MP Wide and 10MP Ultra Wide cameras with Smart HDR 4 | 12MP photos | 12MP Wide camera with Smart HDR 3 | 8MP photos |
| Video | 4K video recording | 4K video recording | 4K video recording | 4K video recording | 1080p HD video recording |
| Apple Pencil Compatibility | Apple Pencil (2nd generation), Apple Pencil (USB-C) | Works with Apple Pencil (2nd generation), Apple Pencil (USB-C) | Apple Pencil (2nd generation), Apple Pencil (USB-C) | Works with Apple Pencil (1st generation) using USB-C to Apple Pencil Adapter, Apple Pencil (USB-C) | Apple Pencil (1st generation) |
| Smart Keyboard Compatibility | Compatible with Smart Keyboard Folio and Magic Keyboard | Works with Magic Keyboard, Smart Keyboard Folio, and Bluetooth keyboards | Compatible with Smart Keyboard Folio and Bluetooth keyboards | Works with Magic Keyboard Folio | Compatible with Smart Keyboard and Bluetooth keyboards |
| Connector | USB-C connector | USB-C connector with support for Thunderbolt / USB 4 | USB-C connector | USB-C connector | Lightning connector |
Best deal out there
If you’re a student or someone who will use an IPad casually (99% of people) this is the absolute best deal you will find. 550$ for the 256g version is a steal considering at an Apple Store they are 750$. You might be able to find a lower price on a refurbished product but those are a gamble and often have battery issues. If you are a student, I would recommend this because the M1 chip is plenty fast enough for school and the 2nd gen Apple Pencil works with this model and it’s awesome. I was able to get this iPad, the Apple Pencil, a case, and screen protectors for under 700$ total after tax. Hope this helps someone, I researched this for a while trying to find the best deal.
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