Should You Buy an iPad Air?
The iPad Air is Apple's mid-range tablet, offering many key iPad features such as a USB-C port and Touch ID for prices starting at $599. The current model includes the M1 chip from the previous-generation MacBook Pro, an upgraded front-facing camera with Center Stage, and a range of color options.
Announced in March 2022, the iPad Air is now among the older iPads in Apple's lineup and it is likely midway through its product cycle. Apple does not seem to update the iPad Air regularly, leaving up to two and a half years between upgrades, and there are no immediate signs of a new model. This means that now is still a good time to buy the iPad Air and most customers should not wait for a new model to launch. We are not expecting a new iPad Air until 2024.
The iPad Air is Apple's middle option in the iPad lineup, but for those who want a smaller tablet, there is the iPad mini, which still offers almost all of the iPad Air's features, but in a much more portable form factor. Users who are looking for a more affordable option should consider the tenth-generation iPad. Starting at $449, the iPad offers many iPad Air features, such as Touch ID and a Retina display, but at a lower price that balances functionality and affordability.
On the other hand, for iPad models with a larger, more advanced display and high-end features, there is the iPad Pro. The iPad Pro takes the iPad Air's features to the next level, adding up to 16GB of memory, an Ultra Wide camera and a LiDAR scanner, Face ID, ProMotion, a mini-LED display panel on the 12.9-inch model, and more.
- iPad 10 vs. iPad Air Buyer's Guide: Is the $150 Difference Worth It?
- M1 iPad Air vs. M2 iPad Pro Buyer's Guide
If you're planning to get an iPad Air or another iPad, make sure to check out our iPad deals guide, where we aggregate the best prices of the month.
2022 iPad Air
Contents
- Should You Buy an iPad Air?
- 2022 iPad Air
- How to Buy
- Reviews
- Design
- Colors
- Smart Connector
- USB-C
- Microphones and Speakers
- Sensors
- WiFi 6 and Bluetooth Support
- 5G Connectivity
- Storage Space
- Magic Keyboard and Trackpad Support
- Apple Pencil
Apple in March 2022 updated the iPad Air with a fifth-generation model that features an M1 chip that brings it closer in design to the iPad Pro. Priced at $599, the iPad Air is a middle-tier option between the low-cost $329 ninth-generation iPad, the $499 iPad mini, and the more expensive iPad Pro, priced starting at $799.
The iPad Air features a 10.9-inch edge-to-edge display with a 2360x1640 resolution, 3.8 million pixels, and a design that's similar to the iPad Pro with an aluminum chassis that has flat, rounded edges that wrap around the fully laminated display. True Tone support is included for adjusting the display to match the ambient lighting, as is P3 wide color, 500 nits brightness, and 1.8 percent reflectivity. It does not feature mini-LED technology or ProMotion support.
Apple's iPad Air was the first iPad to offer unique color options similar to iPhone colors, and the 2022 iPad Air comes in space gray, pink, purple, blue, and starlight. The iPad Air features a Touch ID sensor integrated into the top button rather than Face ID like the iPad Pro. Other than being built into the top button instead of a Home button, the Touch ID functionality is the same as other devices that feature Touch ID.
Apple's iPad Air includes the same M1 chip that's in the 2021 iPad Pro models. The M1 chip features an 8-core CPU and an 8-core GPU, along with 8GB RAM and a 16-core Neural Engine. The M1 chip's CPU is up to 60 percent faster than the A14 chip in the prior-generation iPad Air, and it provides up to 2x faster graphics.
Cellular iPad Air models are now compatible with 5G networks, but Apple did not add support for the fastest mmWave 5G networks. Instead, the iPad Air is limited to the slower but more widespread Sub-6GHz 5G networks.
Though there's no Face ID, the iPad Air includes a 12-megapixel front-facing FaceTime camera with Center Stage support along with a 12-megapixel f/1.8 rear camera which is the same wide-angle camera used in the iPad Pro. The iPad Air includes stereo speakers in landscape mode for wider stereo sound when watching video.
Instead of a Lightning port, the iPad Air has a USB-C port for up to 10Gbps data transfer along with support for connecting cameras for downloading images, hard drives, and 4K external monitors. The iPad Air ships with a 20W USB-C adapter for charging purposes.
Like the iPad Pro, the iPad Air supports the $129 second-generation Apple Pencil and it works with the $299 Magic Keyboard with trackpad that Apple offers. It is also compatible with the Smart Keyboard Folio and Smart Folio covers.
The iPad Air became available for pre-order on Friday, March 11, with a launch following on March 18. Pricing starts at $599 for 64 GB of storage. 256GB of storage is available for $749. Base prices are for WiFi models, with Cellular models available for an additional cost.
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How to Buy
The iPad Air can be purchased from Apple's website and it is priced at $599 for the 64GB version and $749 for the 256GB version. Refurbished models of the previous-generation iPad Air are also available from Apple.
- iPad 10 vs. iPad Air Buyer's Guide: Is the $150 Difference Worth It?
- 2022 M1 iPad Air vs. M2 iPad Pro Buyer's Guide
Reviews
Initial reviews of the iPad Air concluded that it remains great value for money, with performance now on par with the previous iPad Pro thanks to the M1 chip and other Pro-like features.
M1 Chip
Geekbench 5 benchmark results that surfaced earlier this week confirmed that the M1 chip is not downclocked in the new iPad Air, resulting in the device having virtually identical performance as the iPad Pro.
Nevertheless, several reviewers pointed out that iPadOS makes it challenging to take advantage of the performance capabilities.
If you're using the iPad for things like browsing the web, reading books, watching movies or TV shows, or even light productivity, you won't likely notice the extra performance headroom the M1 chip provides. It mostly shines when doing especially demanding tasks, like editing and exporting 4K video or managing large file transfers. The Air is capable of doing those jobs, but there are better tools available if that's what you intend to do that don't have the limitations of iPadOS and a relatively small screen.
5G
The iPad Air now supports 5G networks on Wi-Fi + Cellular models, but not faster mmWave 5G like the iPad Pro does.
CNET's Scott Stein tested 5G on the new iPad Air:
This iPad doesn't support mmWave, just sub-6 5G. Effectively, at many times, it feels similar to LTE: Speeds at my home were around 290 megabits per second on Verizon, while in Washington Square Park in New York speeds were only around 60Mbps to 80Mbps.
Center Stage Camera
With an upgraded 12-megapixel front camera, the new iPad Air is the last iPad to gain support for Center Stage, a feature that helps keep you and anyone else with you in the frame as you move around during video calls. Center Stage is available for FaceTime calls and in supported third-party video calling apps, such as Zoom.
TechCrunch's Matthew Panzarino:
The front camera has gotten a 12MP upgrade too – and is definitely improved from the previous Air. Facetime gets that nice Center Stage enhancement we saw come through on the iPad Pros last year too. As I said in my review of those this is a pretty huge quality of life improvement for those who video chat a lot as the auto-crop and tracking feature mitigates the odd left hand side placement of the camera when the iPad Air is in landscape mode. The angles feel more natural and less awkward overall. The color and contrast of the video call quality is improved as well.
Design
The 2022 iPad Air is identical to the prior-generation model, measuring in at 10.9 inches. It features an iPad Pro-like edge-to-edge display with slim bezels and an aluminum chassis with flat, rounded edges that wrap around the Retina display. Compared to the 11-inch iPad Pro, it has a slightly thicker body and thick bezels around the display.
iPad Pro left, iPad Air middle, iPad right
The iPad Air measures in at 9.74 inches long and 7 inches wide, and it is 6.1mm thick. It weighs in at one pound, and it is similar in both size and weight to the 11-inch iPad Pro.
With the all-display design, there is no Touch ID Home button, but the iPad Air also hasn't adopted Face ID. Instead, Apple has put a Touch ID fingerprint sensor into the top power button. The fingerprint sensor in the top button scans a fingerprint like the Touch ID Home button, but it is smaller and more compact.
The Touch ID top button works just like the Touch ID Home button and it can be used to unlock the iPad, access apps, and make purchases with Apple Pay, and more. Touch ID on the iPad Air is functional in both portrait and landscape orientations.
Speakers and a microphone are located at the top of the iPad Air adjacent to the Touch ID button, while the right side features features volume up/down buttons, a nano-SIM tray on cellular models, and a magnetic space for charging the Apple Pencil.
At the back, there's a single-lens rear camera with a microphone, and a single lens camera. Stereo speakers and a USB-C port are located at the bottom of the iPad Air.
Colors
The aluminum shell of the iPad Air is available in five colors, including space gray, pink, purple, blue, and starlight, which is a light silver/gold shade.
Smart Connector
The Smart Connector at the back of the iPad Air allows it to communicate with and power accessories like the Magic Keyboard. The Smart Connector interface is able to transfer both power and data, so accessories that connect to the iPad Air using the Smart Connector do not need to have batteries.
USB-C
Like the prior-generation iPad Air, the 2022 model continues to include a USB-C port instead of a Lightning port. With the USB-C port, the iPad Air can be connected to 4K or 5K displays, cameras (downloading images only), and other USB-C devices. The USB-C port supports 10Gbps data transfer and is able to charge an iPhone or Apple Watch with the right cable.
Display
The iPad Air is equipped with a 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display that is identical to the iPad Pro display but without 120Hz ProMotion technology for a smoother scrolling experience.
It has a resolution of 2360 by 1640 at 264 pixels per inch and 3.8 million pixels total. It has P3 wide color support for rich, true-to-life colors, an anti-reflective coating with 1.8 percent reflectivity, 500 nits maximum brightness, and True Tone support.
True Tone adjusts the white balance of the display to match the ambient lighting to make the screen easier on the eyes. If you're in a room with yellower lighting, for example, the iPad's display is warmer in color so there's not a stark contrast between the color of the iPad and the lighting in the room.
M1 Chip
The 2022 iPad Air is equipped with the same M1 chip that's in the 2020 MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, Mac mini and iPad Pro models. The M1 features an 8-core CPU, an 8-core GPU, and a 16-core Neural Engine, plus it supports 8GB RAM.
Apple says that the M1 chip in the iPad Air offers up to 60 percent faster CPU performance than the prior-generation iPad Air and 2x faster graphics.
Camera
Though there's no TrueDepth camera system to support Face ID in the iPad Air, there is a 12-megapixel Ultra Wide front facing camera with a 122 degree field of view and an f/2.4 aperture. The camera supports Center Stage, designed to keep users perfectly framed on screen during video calls. With the wider field of view, the camera can zoom in as appropriate and follow people around the room as they move.
When other people join in on a call, the camera is able to detect them, and it will zoom out to fit everyone into the view. Center Stage is designed for FaceTime, but it also works with third-party video apps like Zoom and Skype.
At the rear of the iPad Air, there's an updated single-lens f/1.8 12-megapixel Wide camera for taking photos.
The camera includes all improvements that Apple has added to its device cameras such as Live Photos with stabilization, autofocus with Focus Pixels, wide color capture, exposure control, Smart HDR, auto image stabilization, noise reduction, and more.
4K video recording is supported at 20, 30, or 60 frames per second, as is slo-mo video at 120 or 240 frames per second. The iPad Air can also record in 1080p at 30 or 60 frames per second, and it supports continuous autofocus, cinematic video stabilization, and the option to take 8-megapixel still photos when recording 4K video.
Battery Life
The iPad Air is equipped with a 28.6-watt-hour lithium-polymer battery that Apple says lasts for up to 10 hours when surfing the web on WiFi or watching video.
Cellular models last for up to nine hours when surfing the web over a cellular connection. The iPad Air can be charged using the included 20W USB-C power adapter and USB-C to USB-C cable.
Other Features
Microphones and Speakers
The iPad Air features two sets of speakers for stereo sound in landscape mode. Dual microphones are included for calls, video recording, and audio recording.
Sensors
Along with a Touch ID sensor, the iPad Air features a three-axis gyro, an accelerometer, a barometer, and an ambient light sensor for True Tone and other features.
WiFi 6 and Bluetooth Support
The 2020 iPad Air supports WiFi 6, otherwise known as 802.11ax. The updated standard offers faster speeds, improved network capacity, better power efficiency, lower latency, and upgraded connectivity when there are multiple WiFi devices in the same area.
WiFi 6 devices also support WPA3, which is a security protocol that offers improved cryptographic strength. It also supports Bluetooth 5.0.
5G Connectivity
The iPad Air includes a 5G chip that allows it to connect to 5G networks, but it does not support the fastest mmWave 5G networks and is limited to the slower but more widespread Sub-6GHz networks.
mmWave 5G networks are the fastest 5G networks, but mmWave is short-range and can be obscured by buildings, trees, and other obstacles, so its use is limited to major cities and urban areas along with venues like concerts, airports, and other places where a lot of people congregate.
Sub-6GHz 5G is much more widely available and available in urban, suburban, and rural areas across the United States and other countries.
Cellular iPad Air models are compatible with the following bands: n1, n2, n3, n5, n7, n8, n12, n20, n25, n28, n29, n30, n38, n40, n41, n48, n66, n71, n77, n78, n79.
LTE connectivity is also available and the iPad Air is compatible with FDD-LTE bands 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 11, 12, 13, 14, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 25, 26, 28, 29, 30, 32, 66, and 71 along with TD-LTE bands 34, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 46, and 48.
There are two SIM options in the iPad Air: a physical nano-SIM slot at the side of the device and an eSIM, or digital SIM, which is designed to work without the need for a physical SIM card.
The physical nano-SIM slot supports the Apple SIM that is designed to let users swap between carriers without a hassle. Many carriers in the U.S. and other countries support the Apple SIM, but for those that don't, like Verizon, a physical SIM card is still required.
Storage Space
Apple sells the iPad Air with 64GB of storage or 256GB of storage, with no middle tier 128GB storage option available.
Accessories
Magic Keyboard and Trackpad Support
Like the iPad Pro, the iPad Air is designed to work with the Magic Keyboard that was introduced earlier in 2020. The Magic Keyboard is a folio-style case that features a full backlit keyboard and, for the first time, a trackpad.
The Magic Keyboard uses scissor mechanisms much like the keyboard of the MacBook Air and the MacBook Pro. The scissor mechanism provides 1mm of travel, for what Apple says is the best typing experience ever on iPad.
The Magic Keyboard attaches to the iPad Air through a magnetic connection, and it features cantilevered hinges that allow it to work on a desk or on a lap. The hinges allow for adjustments of the viewing angle up to 130 degrees, so it can be tweaked for every usage situation. The design of the Magic Keyboard allows the iPad to "float" in the air, with the bottom part of the case tilting backward when used in keyboard mode.
When not in use, the keyboard's folio-style design keeps the iPad Air safe, covering the front and back of the device. A USB-C port is included on the Magic Keyboard for passthrough inductive USB-C charging capabilities, leaving the iPad Air's built-in USB-C port free for accessories like external drives and displays.
Apple Pencil
2020 iPad Air models are compatible with the second-generation Apple Pencil. Priced at $129, the Apple Pencil connects to the iPad Air using magnets, and when attached magnetically, it charges inductively. Pairing is also done through the magnetic attachment.
Gesture support is included with the second-generation Apple Pencil, and with a tap, you can change brushes or quickly switch from a brush to an eraser without having to pick up the pencil and select a new tool.
The Apple Pencil works across the iPad Air, with first and third-party apps. It features advanced palm rejection, extreme precision, and imperceptible lag for a paper-like writing experience that's unmatched by third-party styluses.
Pressure support allows thinner and thicker lines to be drawn by increasing the amount of pressure on the iPad's screen, and side nib detection allows for shading when the Apple Pencil is tilted.
FAQs
IPad Air : Should You Buy? Reviews, Features, Deals and More? ›
5th-Generation iPad Air (2022)
The main difference between the devices is their chips and amount of memory, so if you plan on using your iPad for more demanding tasks like 3D graphic design, advanced photo editing, and gaming, the iPad Air will be the better choice by far.
5th-Generation iPad Air (2022)
The main difference between the devices is their chips and amount of memory, so if you plan on using your iPad for more demanding tasks like 3D graphic design, advanced photo editing, and gaming, the iPad Air will be the better choice by far.
A 256GB storage capacity is always a solid choice. You can download all your favorite apps and the latest games without worrying about storage. You can easily save your holiday photos and videos on an iPad with 256GB. Download a season of your favorite series for on the plane, for example.
Is it worth to buy iPad Pro instead of iPad Air? ›Decision: If you want more storage and to get additional features, go with the 11-inch iPad Pro, which strikes a balance between price and performance. Or you can choose the 256GB iPad Air as the least expensive path to that much storage on a powerful iPad.
How long will an iPad Air last? ›Apple usually supports a new iPad with iPadOS updates for at least five years and often several years longer. Most iPad models hold up well in performance, features, and storage over this timeframe which means that five years is a standard lifespan for any iPad.
What are the perks of an iPad Air? ›Use multiple apps at once and work between them.
Work seamlessly across apps. Use Slide Over or Split View to work with multiple apps at the same time, and even drag and drop content between apps with touch or a trackpad. And on iPad Pro and iPad Air, you can use Stage Manager to overlap, stack, and resize app windows.
Intensity Of Use
If you are buying the iPad 10th generation for internet surfing, email checking, FaceTiming, watching movies, and light downloading, the 64GB is OK. However, for a picture-loving user who also loves to download apps and games, the 256GB option is the most appropriate.
64GB: limited storage space. 128GB: enough for basic use. 256GB: enough for the average user. 512GB: store your entire photo, video, and movie collection.
Is 64GB enough for the iPad Air? ›If you are a photographer and want to edit and store your photos on an iPad – 64GB won't be enough. On the other hand, if you want to have a few apps, a few games, occasionally download a movie and watch some TV shows on your iPad, take notes, and share notes – 64GB is enough.
Which is better iPad Air or just iPad? ›Apple's standard 2022 iPad offers more value than the 2022 iPad Air for casual tablet users. But the 2022 iPad Air is a better option if you often edit photos or videos. If you want to add the Apple Pencil, opt for the 2021 iPad or 2022 iPad Air.
Can I use iPad Air as a laptop? ›
With the arrival of Smart Keyboard, Magic Keyboard, and Magic Keyboard Folio, you can convert the Apple iPad into a complete text editor. In addition, you can connect a Bluetooth mouse, and an iPad is a good alternative to a laptop.
What does an iPad Pro do that an iPad doesn t? ›What is difference between iPad and iPad pro? The standard iPad has a 10.9-inch screen, as well as an M2 processor. The iPad Pro has the same M2 chip, but still offers better performance overall. It's also slightly larger, with an 11-inch or 12.9-inch screen.
Is Apple getting rid of iPad Air? ›Apple Discontinues iPad Air 2020 Model, Replaces With New M1 iPad Air.
What is the basic difference between iPad and iPad Air? ›Despite the iPad Air technically being a more premium device than the standard iPad, the standard iPad features a slight upgrade to its Bluetooth connectivity that the iPad Air doesn't: The iPad Air uses Bluetooth 5.0, while the standard iPad uses the newer Bluetooth 5.2.
Is iPad Air better than laptop? ›Along with the benefits of a full keyboard, the faster processors in most laptops make them better than iPads for office work, as laptops will easily handle demanding software, advanced spreadsheets, and word processing.
How often should you replace your iPad Air? ›iPads generally have a lifespan of about 5 years. Keep your software as up-to-date as possible. Plan to replace your tablet every 3 years. Reference Table 1 below to determine if your iPad is still supported.
How often should I charge my iPad Air? ›Use your iPad regularly.
Lithium-ion batteries are meant to be used hard, so don't be afraid to use and recharge your iPad often. In fact, if you don't regularly use your iPad, you should perform a complete charge cycle once a month (where you fully discharge the battery, then charge it up to 100%).
These include the iPad Pro 12.9-inch, the iPad mini 4, the iPad Pro 9.7-inch, the 5th generation iPad, the iPad Pro 10.5-inch, and the iPad Pro 12.9-inch. Devices that are older than these models aren't able to support the technological improvements and changes of iPadOS 14.
Is there a new iPad Air coming out in 2023? ›Now, given the increased rate at which Apple is seemingly updating its tablet lineups, it's safe to expect that the iPad Air 6 might break cover in late 2023 or early 2024, in the worst case scenario.
Does iPad Air have headphone jack? ›Does the iPad (2022) have a headphone jack? Despite all the cool new features, the Apple iPad (2022) still doesn't feature a headphone jack. In fact, none of the recent Apple devices come with a headphone jack, so you're left to use wireless earbuds like the AirPods for enjoying your music.
Why is the iPad Air so expensive? ›
Because it has the latest chip and design from apple, and beats even the highest end offerings from all competitors. Why is iPad air better than iPad?
Should I get 256GB or 64GB iPad air? ›iPad storage: size Apps and games
If you don't have a ton of apps or games on your iPad, 64GB will work just fine. If you have a fair number of apps and games, consider 128GB or 256GB. If you plan to do any graphics-heavy design work, get a 512GB or even more capacious model.
Most people can do just fine with 64GB of storage, while 128GB is for those who need a little extra headroom to avoid the trouble of constantly freeing up phone storage.
Is it better to get more storage on iPad? ›An Apple device like an iPhone, iPad, or Mac comes with a set amount of storage. The more storage your device has, the more music, apps, photos, and other content you can store on that device.
Is 64GB of memory overkill? ›Is 64/128 GB of RAM Overkill? For the majority of users, it is. If you plan on building a PC purely for gaming and some general, basic, everyday activity, 64 GB of RAM is just too much. The amount of RAM you need will ultimately depend on your workload.
Is 64GB enough for normal use? ›Therefore, it is suggested that your phone should ideally contain 64GB of storage, even if you have opted out of the auto download option for media over mobile data and Wi-Fi. If you are on Android, then it is advisable to get the Files app by Google that uses AI to clear up the junk.
Do I need 256GB memory? ›256GB. For more Android or iPhone GB, 256 lets you install many apps, take tons of photos, and record videos for Instagram without worrying about running out of space. You'll have plenty of room for larger applications like mobile games.
How many photos can 64GB hold? ›Number of RAW vs JPEG Photos on Memory Cards
32GB = 1,092 photos. 64GB = 2,184 photos. 128GB = 4,368 photos. 256GB = 8,732 photos.
You can't. Storage was fixed at purchase and there is no way add memory to a device. If you need space you have to delete things your don't need or use, such as Apps, Photos, Music, Files, Messages, Email, etc. Next time you buy a new iPad, make sure you get one with enough memory to meet or exceed your storage needs.
Can we increase storage in iPad Air? ›You can't expand the storage on your iPad for apps, but you can for almost everything else, which should leave plenty of room for apps. Cloud storage is a great way to store documents, photos, and videos.
Which iPad should I buy for normal use? ›
For most people, the best iPad to buy is the midrange iPad Air, which starts at $599. Released in 2022, the fifth-generation iPad Air offers a bright 10.9-inch high-resolution display, extremely fast performance thanks to its M1 processor, a modern design with even bezels around the screen, and excellent speakers.
Why is it called iPad Air? ›When Apple released the iPad Air, the change in name from simply "iPad" to "iPad Air" signified a change in philosophy at Apple, which was to break the iPad lineup into models with different size and power capabilities.
What generation is the newest iPad Air? ›Apple - 10.9-Inch iPad Air - Latest Model - (5th Generation) with Wi-Fi - 64GB - Starlight. User rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars with 2805 reviews.
Which iPad is closest to a laptop? ›Apple iPad Pro (12.9-inch, 2022)
Apple added cursor and trackpad support to make the iPad Pro is a true laptop replacement for some users.
Download Microsoft Word now and get the best way to create, share and edit documents from your iPhone or iPad. To create or edit documents, sign in with a free Microsoft account on devices with a screen size smaller than 10.1 inches.
What does an iPad do that a laptop doesn t? ›An iPad with the latest operating system allows users to do almost everything they need to do on a computer, here are several reasons you might choose an iPad over a laptop. It's lighter, thinner, has a touch screen, and can use apps.
What is difference between iPad Air and pro? ›A key difference between the iPad Air and iPad Pro is authentication technology. The iPad Air features Touch ID, while the iPad Pro features Face ID. The iPad Air has a Touch ID fingerprint scanner embedded in the iPad's top button.
Is it really necessary to have an iPad? ›If you have an iPhone, you'll need an iPad when you need the power of a laptop and the mobility of an iPhone. You'll be saving your phone's battery while having a larger display for watching movies, note-taking, reading books, social media videos and web browsing.
Why do people need iPad Pro? ›You should buy the iPad Pro (2022) if...
Between its compatibility with Apple's Magic Keyboard, its inclusion of the same M2 chip running some of Apple's MacBook Pro laptops, and its ability to use the second-generation Apple Pencil, the iPad Pro can replace a laptop for a significant portion of the population.
Cellular iPads Just Give You More Options
Whether it's for work or for play, a cellular iPad can be a game changer. Choosing a cellular iPad over a Wi-Fi iPad means you'll always have the speed, reliability, and security of a mobile data connection, giving you the power to use your iPad in many more ways.
Why is there a shortage of iPad Air? ›
The reason why it taking longer to ship is that there has been more demand on iPads more than ever before and currently there is a silicon shortage (microchips made for all devices) in every industry that makes electronics. And the Apple Pencil isn't as much demand so it's available to pick up or ship quicker.
How to get an iPad Air for cheap? ›- Amazon: often the best place to look for record low prices.
- Walmart: regularly offers new record lows.
- Best Buy: sometimes includes additional bundle accessories and software.
- B&H Photo: sometimes price matches other retailers.
- Adorama: larger discounts on cellular models.
5th-Generation iPad Air (2022)
The main difference between the devices is their chips and amount of memory, so if you plan on using your iPad for more demanding tasks like 3D graphic design, advanced photo editing, and gaming, the iPad Air will be the better choice by far.
With the all-display design, there is no Touch ID Home button, but the iPad Air also hasn't adopted Face ID. Instead, Apple has put a Touch ID fingerprint sensor into the top power button.
Which is better an iPad or a tablet? ›Strength of iPad:
Compared to competing tablets, the iPad is more stable, easier to use, and works more smoothly. In terms of overall user experience for a non-technical user, Apple's iOS has a distinct advantage over Google's Android OS. It's a robust, user-friendly operating system with a simple UI.
- Run powerful apps effortlessly. iPad works with the powerful apps you're familiar with, like Adobe Photoshop or Microsoft Office, with the added ease of using them with touch. ...
- Use multiple apps at once and work between them. ...
- Store and share all your stuff with Files.
Don't get me wrong, the iPad Air is a highly capable tablet with plenty of power, solid battery life, and a lightweight and portable design. The versatility is also a plus, giving me the ability to switch between using the same device as a laptop, a notepad, and a TV.
Should I get an iPad even though I have a laptop? ›Many workers like to stream music or other media from their iPad while they are working on the MacBook. This can be great for morale. Using the iPad as a second monitor with Sidecar is one of the biggest reasons that owning both an iPad business model and a laptop business model is ideal.
Does it make sense to buy an iPad now? ›Is Now a Good Time to Buy? Yes. Back in October, Apple launched a new 10th-generation base iPad and updated the 11-inch and 12.9-inch iPad Pro with a new processor. Considering Apple updated the iPad Air early last year, the only "out-of-date" model in the lineup is the iPad Mini from 2021.
What are the cons of buying an iPad? ›- iPads Are Big and Bulky. ...
- Uncomfortable for typing. ...
- iPads and Their Accessories Are Expensive. ...
- Your Favorite Apps Might Not Work on the iPad. ...
- Less Expandability. ...
- iPads Have Fragile structure. ...
- Higher risk of drops. ...
- Uncomfortable for multitasking.
What is the difference between a normal iPad and iPad Air? ›
Apple's standard 2022 iPad offers more value than the 2022 iPad Air for casual tablet users. But the 2022 iPad Air is a better option if you often edit photos or videos. If you want to add the Apple Pencil, opt for the 2021 iPad or 2022 iPad Air.
What's the difference between the iPad Air and iPad? ›Despite the iPad Air technically being a more premium device than the standard iPad, the standard iPad features a slight upgrade to its Bluetooth connectivity that the iPad Air doesn't: The iPad Air uses Bluetooth 5.0, while the standard iPad uses the newer Bluetooth 5.2.
Is 64 GB enough for an iPad? ›A 64GB iPad is enough for internet browsing, lightweight gaming, storing pictures, videos, etc. For any storage-intensive activities such as editing photos and videos, and playing graphic-intensive games, at least 128GB/256GB is recommended.
How often should you buy an iPad? ›iPads generally have a lifespan of about 5 years. Keep your software as up-to-date as possible. Plan to replace your tablet every 3 years.
Is having an iPad better than a laptop? ›An iPad with the latest operating system allows users to do almost everything they need to do on a computer, here are several reasons you might choose an iPad over a laptop. It's lighter, thinner, has a touch screen, and can use apps.
What is difference between iPad Air and iPad Pro? ›A key difference between the iPad Air and iPad Pro is authentication technology. The iPad Air features Touch ID, while the iPad Pro features Face ID. The iPad Air has a Touch ID fingerprint scanner embedded in the iPad's top button.
What is the downside of using iPad as laptop? ›Con: Computing power
Intensive apps like Photoshop, Final Cut Pro, Premiere Pro, Audacity, Python, and other specialized software are best fully utilized on a powerful machine like a laptop. The iPad also doesn't have fans like a laptop, so when you're multitasking, the device will heat up.
too much screen time can cause balance and posture problems as well as nulling fine motor skills. Argues that the use of devices in schools intensifies the risk of an 'electronic addiction'. Argues that ipads and other such devices have an astounding impact on a young child's growing mind.
What are the benefits of owning an iPad? ›- Run powerful apps effortlessly. iPad works with the powerful apps you're familiar with, like Adobe Photoshop or Microsoft Office, with the added ease of using them with touch. ...
- Use multiple apps at once and work between them. ...
- Store and share all your stuff with Files.