CraveHub Score73
Specs
- Price
- Consistent with previous generation
- Processor
- M4
TabletsMay 3, 2026
M4 iPad Air vs. Entry-Level iPad: Apple's Sneaky Upsell or Smart Upgrade? | PCMag
Summary
Apple's M4 iPad Air delivers laptop-class performance at a mid-range price point, positioning itself between the budget entry-level iPad and the premium M5 iPad Pro. The 2026 refresh maintains pricing while offering meaningful performance improvements through the M4 processor upgrade, making it suitable for users who need more power than the base model but don't require Pro-level capabilities.
Pros
- ✓Significant performance boost over entry-level iPad
- ✓Maintains previous generation pricing
- ✓Mid-range positioning offers better value than iPad Pro for most users
- ✓Improved connectivity features
Cons
- ✕M4 processor upgrade may not translate to noticeable real-world improvements for everyday tasks
- ✕Battery life unchanged from previous generation
- ✕Incremental 'spec-bump' update with no radical changes
- ✕$300 cheaper than M5 iPad Pro but still carries premium pricing over entry-level model
Sources
- BlogApple's M4 iPad Air vs. M5 iPad Pro: Is More Power Worth the Extra $300? | PCMag↗
- BlogM4 iPad Air review: Middle of the road is the best place to be↗
- BlogI Went Hands On With the M5 MacBook Air. The Real Changes Are Hiding Inside | PCMag↗
- BlogM4 iPad Air vs. Entry-Level iPad: Apple's Sneaky Upsell or Smart Upgrade? | PCMag↗