I’ve been using the iPad Air 5 for a year and I’m really satisfied with it. I use the 2nd generation Apple Pencil to take notes at school, and since I don’t have a computer, I rely on the Magic Keyboard for computer-like tasks. 64 GB is enough for me because I upload my large videos privately on my YouTube channel, have a 50 GB iCloud subscription, and store large PDF files on a USB drive.
I’m wondering if I should upgrade to the M2 chip model. The benefits for me would be the landscape-oriented camera and the 128 GB storage. I don’t think the chip would be an advantage because I don’t push my current iPad too hard, except when editing vlog videos. What do you think?
I don’t think anyone needs to upgrade their iPad unless:
It’s still supported by Apple for iPadOS
The device is still working fine
All the apps/games you use run smoothly on it.
iPads are pretty easy to get, and you won’t have to wait long for one if you order online. If you need a new iPad, then it’s time to upgrade. Otherwise, I’d say get one with all the extras you’ll need in the next few years so it can last 5-6 years.
We have both the iPad Air 5 and the newer models, and honestly, there’s not much difference. You mentioned storage isn’t a big deal for you (the Air 6 starts with 128 GB, which is nice), but besides that, and the Pro Pencil (which is cool but not really necessary for most people), there’s no significant difference.
There’s nothing about the M2 Air that makes it a clear upgrade over the M1. Both seem similar in speed when using Apple Intelligence features like summarization and genmoji. I’d only suggest upgrading if you’re moving to an iPad Pro, but the Air 5 will work just fine for the next 5 years.
The only iPad I would upgrade to from the Air 5 at the moment would be an M2 Pro or higher. Upgrading from Air 5 to Air 6 isn’t worth the cost or hassle. Upgrading to a Pro might make sense for some, but it’s probably overkill in your case.
I’d stick with the Air 5 and reconsider when the next Air model comes out.
Wendell said:
I upgraded from an M1 Air 64 GB to an M2 Air 128 GB. Honestly, apart from the extra storage, there’s no difference for me.
I upgraded from an M1 Pro to an M4 Pro, and while I love the new Magic Keyboard (yes, that’s its name ) and the new OLED display, there’s no noticeable performance difference. Even games like Assassins Creed were more stable on the M1 at launch.
No, the upgrade from an M1 iPad Air to an M2 iPad Air isn’t worth it unless you really need the extra storage. Honestly, I probably won’t upgrade from my M1 Air until there’s a model with more than 8 GB of RAM.
I had an iPad Air 4 and upgraded to the M2 mainly because I wanted to use Apple Intelligence. I’ve seen it in action with my iPhone 15 Pro, which convinced me to upgrade my iPad. With the release of iOS 18.2 and the ability to use ChatGPT, it’s helped me with my workflow, especially using writing tools.
@Leith
The iPad Air 5 already has AI and all the features I need. I just bought an iPhone 15 right before they announced the AI updates. I’m happy with the Air 5 for now, but I’ll wait until the next Air model with more memory before upgrading.
There’s no obvious reason to sell your iPad. For one, your Apple Pencil 2 won’t work with the new model, and you’d need to buy a Pencil Pro. I’m not sure if your older Magic Keyboard would work with the M2 Air, so that’s something to look into. The landscape camera is the reason the Pencil 2 won’t work, but more storage could be helpful. Could you manage with your current storage for a year or two? If not, that’s a good reason, but the upgrade will cost you quite a bit.
The iPad Air 5 is great, and upgrading now doesn’t seem necessary, but I’d be a little concerned about the 64 GB model. It’s always good to go for more storage, but it seems like you have a good solution for now.
No need to upgrade. You’re happy with what you have, and there’s no reason to get something new unless it’s really necessary. Stick with your current device.
) and the new OLED display, there’s no noticeable performance difference. Even games like Assassins Creed were more stable on the M1 at launch.