The new iPad Air (2025) arrived less than a year after the 2024 model, raising the question: is it worth upgrading? Let’s delve into a comprehensive comparison to help you decide.
A person holding the iPad Air M2.
The 2025 and 2024 iPad Air models are strikingly similar. The core difference lies in the processor, which might not justify an upgrade for current 2024 owners. A more compelling comparison would be between the 2022 and 2024 iPad Airs, where more substantial changes were introduced.
Design and Display: Virtually Identical
Both the 11-inch and 13-inch 2025 iPad Air retain the Liquid Retina displays with True Tone, P3 wide color, and anti-reflective coating found in the 2024 models. The resolution remains at 264 ppi, with 500 nits maximum brightness for the 11-inch and 600 nits for the 13-inch version.
Dimensionally, the only difference is a negligible weight reduction in the 11-inch 2025 model (1.01 pounds) compared to its predecessor (1.02 pounds). The 13-inch versions maintain their 1.36-pound weight.
Performance: The M3 Chip Takes Center Stage
Apple M3 announcement.
The key differentiator is the M3 chip in the 2025 iPad Air, replacing the M2 chip of the 2024 model. While the M3 isn’t brand new (appearing in the 2024 MacBook Air), it offers a performance boost over the M2. Real-world performance gains remain to be thoroughly tested.
The M3’s 3nm manufacturing process translates to increased transistor density, enhancing both performance and power efficiency. While both chips have 8-core CPUs, the M3 boasts architectural improvements for faster processing speeds, particularly in single-core and multi-core tasks. The M3’s upgraded GPU architecture supports hardware-accelerated ray tracing and mesh shading, leading to improved graphics capabilities.
Furthermore, the M3 introduces ProRes encode and decode engines and AV1 decode, features absent in the M2. ProRes, Apple’s high-quality video codec, optimizes image quality and file size for professional video production. Dedicated encode and decode engines streamline ProRes workflows. AV1 decode enables efficient playback of AV1 videos, a modern, royalty-free codec designed for high-quality video at lower bitrates.
Cameras and Battery: No Changes
Both iPad Air generations feature identical camera setups: a 12MP rear camera and a 12MP landscape-oriented Center Stage front camera. Battery life also remains consistent at up to 10 hours for Wi-Fi browsing and video playback, and up to 9 hours with cellular data. Charging is via USB-C.
Software and Availability
Both models run iPadOS 18 and benefit from Apple’s long-term software update commitment. Pricing remains unchanged, starting at $599 for the 11-inch Wi-Fi model and $799 for the 13-inch Wi-Fi model. Storage options range from 128GB to 1TB, with 8GB of RAM.
The Verdict: Upgrade or Wait?
Upgrading solely for the M3 chip from a 2024 iPad Air isn’t compelling. Look for discounted 2024 models for better value. If the M4 chip is your target, consider a discounted iPad Pro (2024). The 2025 iPad Air’s minimal updates suggest Apple utilized existing M3 chip inventory. For most 2024 iPad Air owners, sticking with their current device is the sensible choice.
