Apple offers two excellent, budget-friendly iPads that many individuals consider: the standard iPad and the iPad Air. Throughout the years, these iPads have remained quite alike, leading to an intriguing discussion. Currently, there’s just a $150 difference between the two iPads, raising the question: should you invest more in the iPad Air, or save some cash with the standard iPad?
## The Argument for iPad Air
For an additional $150, the iPad Air provides significantly more technology at a price below $500. Specifically, the iPad Air is now priced at $449, while the standard iPad costs $299.
Firstly, if you’re after a higher-end Apple Pencil experience, the iPad Air is the winner. It provides compatibility with Apple Pencil Pro, which gives you features such as pressure sensitivity, double-tap capability, haptics, squeeze, and others.
The iPad Air also boasts a laminated, P3 color display – delivering a superior viewing experience, with the glass extending right up to the pixels. The more economical iPads have an air gap and lack the same antireflective coating as the iPad Air.
If you’re looking for a more laptop-like feel, the iPad Air excels in this area. It accommodates a laptop-style Magic Keyboard, while the base iPad only works with the Magic Keyboard Folio, akin to a Microsoft Surface.
Additionally, the iPad Air supports Apple Intelligence and is equipped with the M3 chip. In contrast, the base iPad comes with an A16 chip and does not have Apple Intelligence support.
## Base iPad
If you found those notable iPad Air features unpersuasive, the base iPad should suit you well. It features 128GB of storage – the same as the iPad Air – and displays much more vibrant colors. It also includes the same 12MP Center Stage camera, ideal for FaceTime calls and virtual meetings.
Ultimately, it remains a considerably more affordable iPad, hitting all the essential iPad features remarkably well. While the iPad Air might offer a superior laptop experience, the base iPad is still a fantastic device. Both iPads (unfortunately) come with the same Touch ID sensor, meaning the iPad Air doesn’t provide significant upgrades – unless you’re after a premium Magic Keyboard, an enhanced Apple Pencil experience, or the laminated display.
One point to consider with the iPad (A16) is that you will be limited to a USB 2.0 spec port, which could restrict your wired data transfer speeds if that matters to you.
## Conclusion
An additional advantage of the iPad Air is that it includes a 13-inch display option; if you’re seeking a larger iPad at a more accessible price, the iPad Air will undoubtedly be your go-to option.
That being said, I lean towards the standard iPad. I value iPads for fundamental tasks and remain somewhat skeptical about how iPadOS 26 has altered multi-tasking on the iPad. However, if you prefer those updates, you might want to opt for the iPad Air.
The positive news is that neither of these iPads is expected to receive an update in the upcoming months, making it a suitable time to purchase.
