A familiar tablet gets a chip boost, but is it enough? We dissect the M3 iPad Air, weighing its performance, keyboard upgrades, and future-proof potential to help you decide if it's the right iPad for you.

M3 iPad Air: Is Apple's New Tablet Worth the Upgrade?

Apple's refreshed iPad Air is here, packing the M3 chip. But does this mid-cycle update offer enough to justify an upgrade? Let's dive into six key thoughts to help you decide.

Familiar Territory: Is the M3 iPad Air Just More of the Same?

At first glance, the new iPad Air feels... familiar. Sporting the same design and starting price as its predecessor, the most significant change lies within: the M3 chip. But is that enough to warrant an upgrade?

Marginal Gains: Does the M3 Chip Really Make a Difference?

The M3 chip benchmarks 12–15% higher than the M2.

While benchmarks show a performance increase, the real-world difference is negligible for most tasks. Apps open just as fast, games play the same, and even demanding applications like Procreate and Logic feel equally responsive.

Is this a problem? Not necessarily. It speaks more to the M2's already impressive performance than the M3's shortcomings. However, don't expect a night-and-day difference.

Keyboard Revolution: Has Apple Finally Nailed the iPad Air Keyboard?

The new Magic Keyboard is a game-changer. The addition of a function row instantly elevates the Air into a more credible laptop replacement.

• Dedicated function keys: Volume, playback, app switcher, and device lock are now just a tap away.
• Passthrough charging: Keep your iPad juiced up while using the keyboard.
• Backward compatibility: The new keyboard works with the M2 Air.

Starting at $269, it’s a very good one.

While pricey, the new Magic Keyboard is a worthwhile investment for those seeking a more laptop-like experience.

Face ID or Touch ID? Is Apple Holding Back a Key Feature?

Touch ID on a tablet can be frustrating. The hunt for the power button becomes a minor annoyance.

On the Face ID iPad Pro, you hardly ever need the power button; just tap the screen, and it wakes up and unlocks.

Face ID offers a seamless, intuitive unlocking experience that the Air sorely lacks.

Size Matters: 11-inch vs. 13-inch – Which iPad Air is Right for You?

The difference between the 11-inch and 13-inch models is significant. The 11-inch is more portable, ideal for handheld use. The 13-inch, on the other hand, feels more like a desktop replacement.

• 11-inch: Portable, wieldable, great for on-the-go use.
• 13-inch: Desk-bound, keyboard-attached, better for productivity.

I’m convinced that practically every iPad user is best-served by either the plain ol’ iPad or the 11-inch Air.

If you're after versatility and portability, the 11-inch Air is the sweet spot.

Apple Intelligence: The X-Factor – Should Future AI Capabilities Influence Your Purchase?

Apple Intelligence is the wild card. Currently, it's not a deciding factor. No features will make you regret or celebrate your purchase in the immediate future. But if you believe Apple Intelligence will become a game-changer, the Air is your only option besides the Pro.

I can’t think of one reason Apple Intelligence would cause you to buy one device over another

Consider your long-term needs. Are you willing to bet on Apple Intelligence?

The Verdict: Who is the M3 iPad Air For?

The M3 iPad Air is a solid, future-proof tablet. If you want:

• a nicer screen
• a bit more power
• confidence your device will last

Then the Air is a great choice.