Apple iPad Air 2026 vs Apple iPad Air M1

By Billy G. · Founder & Lead EditorVerified Jun 7 by Billy G.

Apple iPad Air 2026
Apple iPad Air M1
Apple iPad Air M1
Verified Confidence: 85%

Verdict: Apple iPad Air 2026 wins with M4 chip, 12GB RAM, and Wi-Fi 7 versus M1's 8GB RAM and older connectivity. The 2026 model excels in performance and future-proofing while both share the same $599 MSRP. iPad Air M1 remains viable only for basic use on the secondary market before support ends.

Winner: Apple iPad Air 2026

Apple iPad Air 2026: 9/10

Apple iPad Air M1: 6/10

Spec-by-spec comparison

Apple iPad Air 2026Apple iPad Air M1
Display11-inch or 13-inch Liquid Retina10.9-inch Liquid Retina
ChipApple M4Apple M1
RAM12GB8GB
ConnectivityWi-Fi 7Wi-Fi 6

Apple iPad Air 2026

What works

  • M4 chip delivers significantly higher multi-core performance than M1
  • 12GB RAM enables better multitasking and future app compatibility
  • Wi-Fi 7 support for faster wireless speeds and lower latency

What doesn't

  • Higher starting storage options not specified beyond base models
  • 13-inch variant increases cost and reduces portability

Apple iPad Air M1

What works

  • M1 chip still handles everyday tasks and light creative work efficiently
  • Lower price on used/refurbished market due to discontinued status
  • Compact 10.9-inch size remains highly portable

What doesn't

  • Only 8GB RAM limits heavy multitasking compared to newer models
  • Discontinued status means no official software updates beyond a few years

Bottom line

Our pick: Apple iPad Air 2026.

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