When the latest iPad Air with the M3 chip came out this March, Senior Tech Editor Jake Peterson warned you not to buy it, as its advantages didn't justify the premium price compared to an older model. But things have changed in the time since: Both sizes of the new iPad Air have dropped $150 in price, reaching their lowest levels since their release, according to price tracking tools.
The 11-inch wifi version starts at $449 (originally $599), with the cellular version starting at $599 (originally $749), and the 13-inch wifi version starts at $649 (originally $799), with the cellular version starting at $799 (originally $949). This means they can now be picked up for less than the older M2 versions while giving you a newer chip and more storage—a real no-brainer of a buying decision.
The M3 chip overpowers the M2 chip, and more power also means a longer lifespan for your iPad. In theory, you'll also see more efficient multitasking, heavier applications working more efficiently, and more speed overall. As Jake noted, on the specs, this new iPad Air is among the best tablets Apple has ever made. The M3 chip enables hardware-accelerated ray tracing, meaning lighting effects in games and graphically intensive apps look better. But other than the new chip, there's not much difference between it and the older M2 version.
The M3 iPad Air comes with a 2,360 by 1,640 pixel resolution display at 264 ppi, a 12MP Center Stage front camera (follows your face around) and a 12MP Wide back camera with flash, USB-C and Touch ID, and a battery life of up to 10 hours depending on use. Of course, you'll also have Apple Intelligence (if you even care about that) and it supports the Apple Pencil as well as the new Magic Keyboard.
If you already have an M2, there's no reason to upgrade. For those looking for a more affordable iPad, the basic model is just $299 (originally $349) right now, and it will be good enough for most people. But if you want the latest and greatest, the M3 iPad Air is your best pick at the current discounted price.