If you’ve been in the market for a tablet — something to watch movies, scroll through social media, or do a little work from the couch — we’ve got great news: As part of ongoing Black Friday deals, the iPad Air is just $499 right now. That’s $100 off the base model in Space Gray or Starlight.
You may be wondering what the difference is between a smartphone, a desktop computer, and an iPad, and what exactly you might need from an Apple tablet. And we’ve got you covered there. Check out our guide to the best iPads in 2024.
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With four colors and four storage levels (128GB up to 1TB) to choose from, not to mention Wi-Fi and mobile options, there’s an iPad Air for everyone.
$499 on Amazon
Why is this a good deal? 💰
Apple technology rarely comes on sale, so when prices drop, it’s worth a look, especially when, like the iPad Air, you can save $100. That’s the lowest price ever!
Why do I need this? 🤔
You might be thinking, “I have a phone. I have a laptop. Why do I need a tablet?” This iPad is the sweet spot between the two, especially for anyone who wants a little more computing power and screen size than the usual iPad and iPad mini offerings. Need something more than a touchscreen and an on-screen keyboard? It’s also compatible with the wireless Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil (first version), so writing and drawing are a breeze. Reading and watching videos on the iPad is much more enjoyable than on your phone.
“You know how a Corvette will get you where you’re going, fast and in style, the same way a Lamborghini will? That’s my take on the iPad Air,” says senior tech writer Rick Broida. “Ultimately, the Air is a good choice for anyone looking for a professional-grade iPad without the Pro price.” (Professional, in case you’re wondering, starts at $999 — ouch.)
iPad Air is also compatible with Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil. (amazon woman)
What reviewers say 💬
Over 880 reviewers have given this sleek, powerful tablet a five-star rating.
Avg 👍
“I really like this iPad Air!” delighted customer. “It’s beautiful, light, and has plenty of storage and features! Since my M1 only had 64GB, it was easy to fill it up. But, with this new beauty, I can add as many apps as I want!”
Storage aside, the ability to use the Apple Pencil is a big selling point, especially for digital artists. “I like to draw, so I mostly use it for Procreate. The battery lasts great. I can draw [for] almost a full day or two on a single charge,” said a five-star reviewer. “The weight is amazing. I feel like nothing.”
Another reviewer said that while the iPad Air is often overlooked, it should be for most people. “Let’s face it, unless you’re a video editor or using your iPad as a computer replacement, the M2 chip is far more powerful than what your average user uses their iPad for,” they said. “I mostly use it to consume entertainment, shoot iMessages with my friends, watch YouTube, surf the web, or play a few games, and the iPad Air M2 does it all seamlessly. And the 11-inch form factor is perfect when you’re lying in bed or traveling.”
Cons 👎
While the iPad Air is more powerful than the regular iPad and iPad mini, it still pales in comparison to the iPad Pro. “I have a first-gen iPad Pro 11 from 2019, so the specs aren’t impressive with the new iPad Air. First thing you notice: No Face ID support. No 120Hz display. Not as bright,” warned a reviewer with four stars. “That’s a lot to reduce [a] five years newer unit. That being said, it’s as fast as it gets.”
Speaking of reviews, here’s what Broida had to say: “Performance-wise, the Air will more than satisfy the vast majority of users. Only if you shoot and edit a lot of video should you consider going pro.” But he added: “If you already own an Apple Pencil 2, it won’t work here. Shame on you, Apple.” (However, the first-generation Apple Pencil is compatible.)
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Want a powerful tablet without paying a whopping $1,000 and up for an iPad Pro? Air is a good bet, experts say.
$499 on Amazon
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Need (a lot) more storage space? This 1TB version should do the trick, and it’s $100 off right now.
$949 on Amazon
The reviews cited above reflect the latest versions at the time of publication.
If you have Amazon Prime, you get free shipping, of course. Not a member yet? No problem. You can sign up for a free 30-day trial here. (And by the way, those without Prime still get free shipping on orders of $35 or more.)
Looking for more great Amazon tech deals? Check this out:
Your Black Friday Shopping Guide: See all Yahoo’s Black Friday report here. Shop the best selected experts Black Friday Deals he and the Amazon’s best Black Friday deals on Yahoo Life. Stay tuned to Engadget for Tech deals for Black Friday. And find it Black Friday sales to shop on AOL, handpicked just for you.
