Apple’s new M4 iPad Air arrives in users’ hands this Wednesday, and today the first reviews of the upgraded iPad have arrived. Here’s an overview of what reviewers are saying.
M4 iPad Air performance vs the M5 iPad Pro
Many reviews compare the M4 iPad Air’s performance not only to the M3 model—which it’s modestly better than—but also the much more expensive M5 iPad Pro.
Kyle Barr writes at Gizmodo:
Maria Diaz writes at ZDNET:
Apple’s C1X chip for cellular
The switch to a C1X modem in the M4 iPad Air could prove a valuable upgrade for heavy cellular users.
David Pierce writes at The Verge:
The enticing alternative of MacBook Neo
Unsurprisingly, some reviews compared the new iPad Air to another notable $599 product from Apple: the MacBook Neo.
Mike Prospero writes at Tom’s Guide:
M4 iPad Air: video reviews and wrap-up
TechRadar summarizes the new iPad well: “iPad Air has long been the ‘pro model for most people,’ and the 2026 refresh keeps that reputation intact.”
This isn’t a revolutionary update, but it does help keep the iPad Air a great middle-ground option between the base iPad and the iPad Pro.
Here are some video reviews worth checking out too:
Best iPad accessories
- AirPods Pro 3 (limited-time $219 price)
- 100W USB-C power adapter for fast charging
- tomtoc Tablet sleeve bag for protection and style
- Baseus 10ft USB-C cable for extended reach
- Apple Pencil Pro (now only $99, down from $129)
