This past week, Apple hosted a new event where it showcased its latest devices – including the iPad Air 5. Well, technically, it’s called the iPad Air, but it’s the 5th generation in its line-up, comfortably sitting between the iPad Mini and the iPad Pro.
The previous version of the iPad Air already has enough to merit a recommendation, but how does the new model compare? In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at what’s been added, its new price point, and, most importantly, if it’s worth the upgrade. And if you really want one, we’ll also provide you with tips on how to trade in your older iPad.
Contents
What Makes the iPad Air 5 Stand Out Over Previous Models?
What’s Missing From the iPad Air 5?
How Much Does the iPad Air 5 Cost?
Is It Worth Upgrading To an iPad Air 5?
What Can You Do With Your Older iPad? GadgetGone Can Help!
What Makes the iPad Air 5 Stand Out Over Previous Models?
Whenever Apple releases a new device, it provides a technological edge over the previous model that came before it. This trend continues with the iPad Air 5.
Perhaps the biggest thing that stands out with this model is the Apple M1 chip. This was previously used in the iPad Pro, providing twice the performance boost over the previous chip, along with a 60 percent boost to the CPU. This essentially means faster loading, as well as the ability to handle multiple apps without slowdown.
In addition, the iPad Air 5 also uses the 12Mp ultra-wide front-facing camera that the iPad Pro models have. This allows the ability to use Center Stage, a machine-learning program that keeps the user in focus, no matter what’s happening in the background. For those that FaceTime their friends and family often, this is sure to be a welcome feature.
The iPad Air 5 also makes use of the Touch ID sensor, which reads the user’s fingerprint in order to unlock the device. While some may prefer the convenience of Face ID, this is an extra layer of security should someone steal the device, or try to access it without the original owner’s knowledge.
There’s also 5G connectivity. With the right service provider, consumers can utilize that level of speed to stream movies, play online games, and more. It still connects to WiFi, but that 5G goes a long way for those that have a good online presence, either for work or for play.
The USB-C port on the device also enables two times faster processing than the previous generation. That makes connecting and transferring a cinch, whether it’s with cameras, external storage or other devices.
Finally, the iPad Air 5 comes in five unique colors, as featured above. These include space gray, pink, purple, blue and starlight. There’s a fun little spectrum to choose from, but whichever one you go with, you’ll have an iPad Air that looks as good as it handles. Us personally, though? We can’t get enough of purple. Maybe it’s just because we’re fans of McDonald’s Grimace.
Is Anything Missing From the iPad Air 5?
So is there anything really missing from the 5th generation of the iPad Air? Not necessarily, but there are a couple of things worth noting.
First, while the 5th Generation of iPad Air makes use of Apple’s state-of-the-art M1 chip, some of you might be wondering why it doesn’t have the A15 Bionic chip, which is currently utilized in Apple’s iPhone 13 devices.
In technical terms, the A15 Bionic uses a 64-bit six-core CPU implementing ARMv8 with two high-performance cores called Avalanche and four energy-efficient cores called Blizzard. This enables the iPhone 13 to go 50 percent faster than other models. It’s also used in the iPad Mini 6, providing it with a 40 percent boost over previous ones.
That’s not to say the M1 can’t hold its own, as its specs are noted above. But it’s an interesting choice that could have an effect on what happens with the next iPad Air. Don’t let that sway you though. The iPad Air 5’s chip performs remarkably well, so those that invest in it will certainly get the most from its power.
The iPad Air also doesn’t have the XDR display with 120Hz ProMotion tech that the iPad Pro currently uses. That’s not to say it isn’t easy on the eyes – it is – but those of you that were looking to get the absolute best visual quality from an Apple tablet may want to consider that version instead.
These are really small potatoes, though. The iPad Air 5 has more than enough features to fit your day-to-day needs.
How Much Does the iPad Air 5 Cost?
Considering this is the 5th generation of the iPad Air, it comes at a slightly higher price than the previous edition. Here’s what it set to sell for upon release:
- iPad Air (64GB, Wi-Fi): $599
- iPad Air (256GB, Wi-Fi): $749
- iPad Air (64GB, Wi-Fi & Cellular): $749
- iPad Air (256GB, Wi-Fi & Cellular): $899
Essentially, we’re talking about $100 difference from what the iPad Air (4th Generation) is currently going for. Here are those device’s prices by comparison, though they could drop once the iPad Air 5 arrives.
- iPad Air (64GB, Wi-Fi): $499
- iPad Air (256GB, Wi-Fi): $649
- iPad Air (64GB, Wi-Fi & Cellular): $649
- iPad Air (256GB, Wi-Fi & Cellular): $799
The latest edition of iPad Air is still reasonably priced, with the most expensive model coming in at just under $1,000. However, for those of you that are looking to spend somewhere around $500 or less on an iPad, you may want to stick with an earlier version of the iPad Air – or perhaps even an iPad Mini.
Is It Worth Upgrading To an iPad Air 5?
Now comes the real question – does making the leap to an iPad Air 5 make sense? Here’s a glimpse across three different kinds of users, and how they can benefit:
Business
If you’re using a tablet for your day-to-day business, the iPad Air 5 is a must-own. Its M1 chip enables you to run two programs at once, so you can keep an eye on statistics while also checking other apps. In addition, its Center Stage technology enables you to conduct business calls without missing anything, as you’re always kept in frame.
Another thing to consider is its continuous 5G connectivity. Usually, you’ll have WiFi around the office anyway. But during business trips, getting up to 3.5Gbps in the middle of nowhere is a real lifesaver.
Finally, its sleek build makes it easy to carry around, since it isn’t as heavy as, say, an iPad Pro. It doesn’t hurt to get a good carrying case for it, but it’s fine on its own, too. It can handle whatever business you need to take care of.
Gamers
Over the past few years, the iPad has become a strong choice when it comes to gaming. There’s access to hundreds of games through the App Store, a slew of new games to try out through Apple Arcade, and Xbox Cloud streaming support – there’s a lot for players to enjoy here. And the iPad Air 5 is a perfect tablet to game with.
Since the newest model uses the Apple M1 chip, that means it’s capable of running games without any performance lag. This includes even the most advanced Apple Arcade games, like Sonic Racing and NBA 2K22: Arcade Edition.
For that matter, Xbox Cloud games like Halo Infinite and Forza Horizon 5 should run beautifully on it – especially with that 5G connection.
So, if you’re a gamer, the 5th generation of Apple’s device is well worth considering. Just make sure you get a good controller for it.
Casual Users
For those of you that aren’t looking to use an iPad either for business or gaming, the iPad Air 5 is still an exceptional choice when it comes to an upgrade.
The reason for this is mainly with its connectivity. Through 5G, you’ll be able to enjoy any streaming service – Netflix, Disney+, and more – without any hiccups getting in the way. And even though it doesn’t have the XDR display of the iPad Pro, it still has that gorgeous 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display.
It’s also good for setting up a music playlist. The screen makes it easy to select whatever songs you want to listen to; and with a twin-speaker sound system, it provides great sound whether you’re listening to Bach or the B-52’s.
If price is an issue, an older iPad device may be the better way to go. However, if you want to put that tax refund to good use, the iPad Air 5 is a satisfying investment.
What Can You Do With Your Older iPad? GadgetGone Can Help!
So you’ve decided you want an iPad Air 5 to call your own. Congrats! But now comes a question – how can you trade in your older iPad device and use the money towards the new one? We thought you’d never ask!
Here at GadgetGone, we offer the best value for your used iPad, even if it’s not in the greatest of shape. We also provide free shipping, so there’s no additional fees when you send it in to us. You can also decide how you want payment – a paper check, PayPal, or even an Amazon gift card, in case you want to go shopping right away!
We also take in other devices as well, including Apple Watches, smart phones, tablets and even game consoles! Check out our price quote page to see what we have to offer. And, as always, if you have any questions, our team is ready to answer them.
No matter what purpose you’re using it for, the iPad Air 5 is easily recommended. It’s got many improvements over the previous version, looks easy on the eyes (those new colors!), and exceptionally easy to use. We’re just as excited to give it a try as you are!
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