The Apple iPad Air M4 seamlessly transitions between basic tablet functions and a full-fledged laptop replacement with a simple swipe of a finger. This latest iteration elevates the tablet experience by integrating faster laptop-grade power, rapid wifi and 5G capabilities, and significantly improved multitasking features, making it a highly capable device far beyond just streaming TV shows.
Design and Build Quality
Externally, the iPad Air M4 retains the sleek design of its predecessors, measuring just 6.1mm in thickness and weighing under half a kilogram. It feels like a premium piece of hardware, featuring a crisp, bright, and color-accurate screen, loud and clear stereo speakers, an excellent Centre Stage webcam, and a reliable Touch ID power button. As a media-watching device, it excels, but its potential extends much further.
Versatility and Accessories
When paired with accessories like a keyboard case, the iPad Air transforms into an effective laptop replacement. The Apple Pencil stylus enhances its functionality for note-taking and digital sketching. Battery life is robust, offering at least 9 hours of heavy use or extended periods for browsing and light image editing.
Performance and Specifications
Equipped with the Apple M4 chip and 12GB of RAM, the iPad Air M4 delivers up to 21% faster performance than the M3 model and up to 60% faster than the M1 variant. Few laptops or tablets at this price point can match such power. The device supports wifi 7 and 5G connectivity, ensuring fast data speeds and future-proofing for years to come.
Specifications include an 11-inch or 13-inch Liquid Retina display, storage options from 128GB to 1TB, iPadOS 26.3, a 12MP rear camera, and a USB-C port with USB3 support for connecting accessories like external SSDs and displays.
Multitasking and Software
iPadOS 26.3 introduces enhanced multitasking tools, making the interface more akin to a Mac with features like a menu bar, free window sizing, and traditional window controls. Users can switch between a desktop-like experience and full-screen apps for gaming and media streaming.
Sustainability and Repairability
The iPad Air M4 incorporates at least 30% recycled materials, including aluminum, cobalt, and rare-earth elements. Its battery is designed to last over 1,000 charge cycles while retaining at least 80% capacity, with replacement costs starting from £125. Apple provides detailed environmental reports and offers trade-in and recycling programs.
Pricing and Comparison
The 11-inch model starts at £599, while the 13-inch version begins at £799. In comparison, the iPad A16 costs from £329, the iPad Pro M5 from £999, and the Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 FE from £399. The MacBook Neo starts at £599, and the MacBook Air M5 at £1,099.
Verdict
The iPad Air M4 stands as the best premium tablet for most Apple buyers, offering top-tier technology at a reasonable price and outperforming competitors. While it lacks Face ID and a high-refresh-rate screen, its long battery life, powerful performance, and extensive app library make it a versatile choice. It may not be a significant upgrade for recent iPad Air owners, but those with older models will notice a substantial improvement, with the M4 chip ensuring longevity for over six years.
Pros: Laptop-level M4 performance, rapid wireless connectivity, dual size options, excellent battery life, quality display and speakers, USB-C support, long software support, vast app selection, and versatile accessories.
Cons: High cost, no multiuser support, requires a case for a kickstand, lacks Face ID, 60Hz screen, limited base storage of 128GB, and minimal upgrade from M2/M3 models.
