Summary

The article discusses the minimal differences and questionable value of upgrading to the M1 iPad Air from the iPad Air 4.

Abstract

Apple's latest iPad Air iteration, equipped with the M1 chip, is deemed by the author to be an unnecessary upgrade over its predecessor, the iPad Air 4. Despite the new processor, the physical design, storage options, and most specifications remain unchanged. The author suggests that consumers can save money by purchasing the iPad Air 4, which offers nearly identical performance and features for everyday use. The article emphasizes that the M1 chip's capabilities are beyond what most users will need, making the older model a more practical and cost-effective choice.

Opinions

The author is a self-professed fan of the iPad Air series, considering it a perfect middle ground between the basic iPad and the Pro models.
The M1 chip's inclusion in the new iPad Air is described as "completely, relentlessly, biblically pointless" for the average user.
The author expresses frustration with the lack of a 128GB storage option, finding it puzzling that Apple continues to offer only 64GB and 256GB variants.
The new pastel color options for the M1 iPad Air are considered non-offensive but not particularly noteworthy.
The article points out that the display and rear camera of the M1 iPad Air are identical to those of the iPad Air 4.
The front-facing camera of the M1 iPad Air has been improved with the addition of Centre Stage for FaceTime calls, which is acknowledged as an "admittedly brilliant" feature.
The author suggests that the best course of action for potential buyers is to purchase the iPad Air 4 instead of the newer M1 model to save money without compromising on performance or experience.
The article concludes by recommending the iPad Air 4 over the M1 iPad Air, asserting that the latter's performance benefits will go unnoticed by the majority of users.

The Shocking Truth About the M1 iPad Air

Answering the question everyone has about Apple’s latest tablet

Earlier this month, Apple announced a brand-new version of its brilliant mid-range tablet — the iPad Air.

I’m a huge fan of the iPad Air — always have been. It slots perfectly in-between the equally brilliant ‘normal’ iPad, and the Pro models. It isn’t quite the ‘everyman’ iPad, but it’s ideal for anyone with a decent budget who isn’t fussed about ProMotion, XDR workflows, or 12.9" screens.

5 Reasons the Cheapest iPad Might Be for You

And why it’s nearly identical to the M1 iPad Pro

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Now, you can buy an iPad Air with an M1 chip in it. Which is completely, relentlessly, biblically pointless.

The good news? That makes this buying guide the easiest buying guide I’ve ever written.

If you want to save yourself some time (and money) and crack on with the rest of the day, just buy the iPad Air 4.

If you’ve got a bit of time to kill and want to be a fly on the wall as I get progressively and needlessly angry about a slab of glass and aluminium… let’s get into it.

Comparing the specs

The M1 iPad Air is the exact same size as the iPad Air 4. All of its buttons, speakers and cameras can be found in identical locations, too.

There are some new colours. The silver version has been dropped, and the rest look like slightly different shades of what came before. They’re all a bit pastely and nondescript, but equally non-offensive.

Storage capacity? Well, you’re stuck with either 64GB or 256GB, as before. Why on earth there isn’t a 128GB version is anyone’s guess. But, there isn’t, so… tough.

iPad mini 6 vs iPad Air 4: Which Is Better?

The most unlikely purchasing decision

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When it comes to the display, they are identical.

The rear camera is the same, too — a 12MP wide lens with an f1.8 aperture. Things get a little fruitier on the front of the M1 iPad, which now sports a 12MP ultra-wide lens with a 122° field of view, enabling the admittedly brilliant Centre Stage for FaceTime calls.

Everything else is the same (I think — to be brutally honest, I got rather bored of scrolling down the spec sheets).

You see, the big change is under the hood; the new iPad Air has an M1 chip, baby. Ooh yeah.

Who needs an M1 iPad Air?

No one.

iPad Air 4 vs M1 iPad Air: how to save some cash

The new M1 iPad Air starts at $599. On Amazon, you can pick up a fourth-generation iPad Air for around $489. If you wait a bit and shop around, I’m pretty sure you’ll find it even cheaper elsewhere.

Apple has single-handled performed the silliest and most wonderful trick with the 2022 iPad Air. On the one hand, they’ve chucked a chip into it which no user will even remotely breach in terms of performance. But on the other hand, they’ve made bargain hunting a far easier task for anyone who wants the best all-screen iPad money can buy.

This Is the Best iPad I’ve Owned: iPad Air 4 Long-Term Review

But has Apple created a problem for itself?

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This is good news. It means that if you’re in the market for a new iPad Air, you can ignore the new version and buy the outgoing model, which I promise will feel absolutely identical in terms of performance.

Thank me later.

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Originally published at https://markellisreviews.com on March 15, 2022.