iPad Air M4 vs iPad Air 11" M2
Verdict: The M4 Air is the for anyone purchasing new; M2 owners should hold unless the landscape camera or Apple Intelligence features address a specific need.
iPad Air M4 lists at $599 while iPad Air 11" M2 lists at $449 — iPad Air 11" M2 undercuts iPad Air M4 by $150 (33%).
How we scored it
Spec verificationOwner sentimentLive pricing (4h refresh)Editorial review
Our methodology
Winner: iPad Air M4
iPad Air M4: 8.7/10
iPad Air 11" M2: 7.8/10
Spec-by-spec comparison
| iPad Air M4 | iPad Air 11" M2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Chip | Apple M4 | Apple M2 |
| CPU Cores | 9-core (4P + 5E) | 8-core (4P + 4E) |
| GPU Cores | 10-core | 8-core |
| Neural Engine | 38 TOPS | 15.8 TOPS |
| Front Camera | 12MP landscape orientation | 12MP portrait orientation |
| Display | 11" Liquid Retina, 60Hz | 10.9" Liquid Retina, 60Hz |
iPad Air M4
What works
- M4 chip with 10-core GPU and Apple Intelligence support
- Landscape front camera — centered for video calls in keyboard-case use
- Newer silicon: better-positioned for future software demands
What doesn't
- Same 60Hz display — no ProMotion at this price
- $599 new vs $399-449 refurbished M2
iPad Air 11" M2
What works
- Available for $399-449 refurbished — $150+ less than M4 new
- M2 handles every everyday task without slowing down
- Good software longevity through at least iPadOS 22 (~2028)
What doesn't
- Portrait-orientation front camera awkward in landscape mode
- M2 chip won't support future on-device Apple Intelligence features
- Older accessories (Magic Keyboard) not compatible with M4 Air
Bottom line
Our pick: iPad Air M4.
View full comparison on GoodPickr
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