Apple has just launched the latest version of the iPad Air, and it comes with some impressive enhancements. After testing the tablet, it’s clear that this device sits within a diverse range of Apple’s iPad options—four different types are currently available, not to mention the various specifications you can choose from. This variety can make selecting the right one quite a challenge.
Starting at a price of £599 / $599, the iPad Air might deter some potential buyers right from the beginning. Tablets aren’t as essential as phones for everyone, and if spending a significant amount on one seems excessive to you, it can be difficult to change that mindset.
Personally, I find my iPad ideal for various activities, including gaming, writing on the go, browsing the web, and keeping entertained during long flights. Students might appreciate it as a laptop substitute, while those who love watching shows may prefer its larger display over that of an iPhone.
So, what can we expect from this newest model? The iPad Air is designed to fit snugly in the middle of Apple’s lineup. It has more power than the entry-level iPad, yet is less advanced than the iPad Pro. Both lines are larger compared to the compact iPad Mini.
Available in four attractive colors—Space Grey, Blue, Purple, and Starlight—there should be a color to suit everyone’s taste. The Air model weighs just 460 grams, making it lighter than the regular iPad, and its slim design, measuring only 6.1mm in thickness, adds to its appeal. Interestingly, it is even thinner than the iPhone 16.
Regarding display sizes, you can choose between an 11-inch or a 13-inch version. If you plan on using the iPad as a functional work device, the larger screen might be the better option; however, the compact 11-inch model is perfect for casual uses. It’s worth noting that opting for the bigger screen adds an extra £200 / $200 to the cost.
Both models feature Liquid Retina displays with a sharp 264 pixels-per-inch clarity. The tablet also boasts a 12-megapixel rear camera capable of recording 4K video at 60 frames per second, ensuring you can take quality photos for social media. The front-facing 12-megapixel camera includes the Centre Stage feature, which automatically adjusts the view during video calls for the best framing.
Unlike many modern devices that include Face ID, the iPad Air uses Touch ID for convenient unlocking, allowing you to securely access apps and authorize Apple Pay transactions using your fingerprint. You’ll also find a USB-C port at the bottom of the device, replacing Apple’s older Lightning connector, which is a significant improvement as USB-C is becoming the standard across devices.
For those curious about the specifications, here are some key features of the iPad Air 2025:
– Liquid Retina display (11-inch or 13-inch)
– Apple M3 chip (8-core CPU, 9-core GPU, 16-core Neural Engine)
– 12-megapixel wide camera and 12-megapixel Centre Stage camera
– USB-C port and Touch ID
– Supports Apple Pencil
– Battery provides up to 10 hours of video playback
As for battery life, Apple suggests about 10 hours of video watching, which is consistent with both the iPad Pro and regular iPad. Users should comfortably manage a full day of work and entertainment, which is particularly handy during long travels.
Under the hood, the potent Apple M3 chip provides high performance while ensuring energy efficiency, making this tablet capable of handling demanding applications. It also incorporates Apple Intelligence features, enabling useful functionalities like Clean Up, Genmoji, and notification summaries.
When choosing storage, you can select from 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and even 1TB options, giving you the flexibility to match the device to your needs. For a majority of users, 256GB is a sensible choice to accommodate apps, movies, and music comfortably.
You can also purchase a cellular version to stay connected on the go, with an additional £150 / $150, which might be worth it depending on your usage habits. Accessories like the new Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil further enhance the iPad Air’s capabilities. The Magic Keyboard, priced between £269 and £319 depending on the model, turns the tablet into a more versatile work device, while the Apple Pencil costs £79 for the standard version and £129 for the Pro variant.
Even with a solid array of features, there are still a couple of things to keep in mind. While the iPad Air is an excellent all-rounder, it does require some accessories to function like a laptop, which may add to your total expense.
For those seeking a casual tablet, the base model iPad may be more suitable. On the flip side, the iPad Pro offers advanced specs, making it ideal for heavy use, such as video editing and gaming, but at a considerably higher price of at least £400 / $400 more.
In summary, the new iPad Air is a stunning device with excellent performance tailored for a mix of work and leisure, making it a strong contender in Apple’s iPad range.