For its 2024 vintage, the new iPad Air integrates a brand new M2 chip and a new 13-inch screen. Discover our test.
Announced at an event in May 2024 that kept all its promises, the iPad is making its big comeback to the general public. To everyone’s surprise, Apple announced not one, but two new models: the iPad Air M2 and the iPad Pro M4.
In this test, we will focus on the iPad Air which, despite a level below its predecessor, still performs well. By offering a 13-inch model which was previously only available for the Pro model, Apple is revolutionizing its range to meet the needs of fans of larger screens.
| a LED panel blocked at 60 Hz too slow a charging time no compatibility with Magic Keyboard Premium |
Design: Apple sees things in a big way
We don’t change an aesthetic that pleases! For its new iPad Air M2 (2024), Apple has decided not to shake up the codes and remains on an almost similar design. The aluminum back is retained and leaves room for four distinct color choices: starlight, blue, star gray and purple. For this test, we have the model “stellar gray” loaned by the brand.
But where the iPad Air M2 really stands out is in the choice of versions. Since its debut, the mid-range tablet has always been marketed in an 11-inch model. This year, the Cupertino company is making a change and is now offering the iPad Air M2 range in a brand new 13-inch model. A choice that the brand defends by explaining that the larger models, already present on the iPad Pro, are the best-selling.
A larger screen size necessarily implies a thicker tablet. It’s difficult to compete with the new iPad Pro M4, described as “the thinnest ever designed” and its 5.1 mm thickness. The iPad Air M2 still remains compact with a thickness of 6.1 mm for both models. The difference is in terms of weight since the 13-inch model weighs 618 g while the 11-inch model weighs 462 g. A detail that is not felt when the tablet is placed. But we still appreciate holding the much lighter 11-inch model in our hands.
And since Apple is not done with its new features, this time, it’s at the front camera level that it’s happening. Until now, the brand has always accustomed us to a sensor centered vertically. Now, it is placed horizontally. A change that allows for pleasant video conference calls when the tablet is placed in landscape format. As for the camera, the iPad Air M2 stay on lare the same bases thatand its predecessor with a sensor of 12 Mpx.
A well-adjusted LED screen, but which has had its day
No notable new features on the iPad Air M2 screen side. The tablet has a Liquid Retina LED panel with a resolution of 2732 x 2048 pixels for the 13-inch model and 2360 x 1640 pixels for the smaller 11-inch model. The brightness reaches 600 nits for the 13-inch model while the 11-inch model remains within the standards at 500 nits. The screen also benefits from the addition of anti-reflective treatment and an oleophobic coating to reduce fingerprints. It must be said that fingerprints appear quite quickly, especially during intensive use.
Overall, the iPad Air M2 (2024) screen is of very good quality. Brightness management is well handled both indoors and outdoors and we hardly felt any lack of visibility. A slight downside, however, when the tablet is exposed to the sun or a strong source of light. The contrast allows you to display good color depth and fully enjoy movies and series.
A black point to note is the refresh rate of the device. The frequency of the iPad Air is blocked at 60 Hz and remains far behind the competition which offers OLED screens that can go up to 90 or 120 Hz. At this price, we could have expected Apple to make efforts. This still leaves room for improvement for the brand’s next models.
Performances that don’t go unnoticed
In terms of performance, Apple intends to reach heights never seen before for such a device in the range. Thus, the iPad Air integrates a brand new M2 chip that previously equipped the iPad Pro of 2023. For comparison with its predecessor the iPad Air 5th generation and its M1 chip, the new system is announced by Apple as 15% faster in CPU and benefits from 20% more power. We wanted to check if these assumptions turned out to be true.
On our Benchmark test, the 11-inch version obtained a score of 2586 in Single-Core and 8256 in Multi-Score. Results for the Single-Core which remain below theiPhone 15 Pro which undoubtedly dominates. However, the iPad Air M2 remains ahead of the 11th generation iPad Pro.
Tested on gaming apps such as Call of Duty Mobile, we did not encounter any connection issues or specific bugs. We can still express reservations about the overheating of the device that appears after a certain time of use with the game graphics at full blast.
As for accessories, we were lucky enough to be able to get to grips with the new Apple Pencil Pro. The latter is also compatible with the iPad Pro M4 models as well as the iPad Air M2. Apple’s new stylus offers new options. With a simple press, the user has access to the general menu to choose the tool they want or change the colors. A saving of precious time which is significant, especially for professionals.
To have all the services offered by the Apple Pencil Pro, you will still have to pay 150 euros out of your pocket. If you don’t want to put so much money into a tool like this, know that it is possible to opt for the more “classic” option of the Apple Pencil offered at 60 euros and in USB-C.
Satisfactory autonomy despite a long recharge time
Tested while browsing the Internet, going to YouTube, Spotify or even gaming applications, the iPad Air M2 lasted between 10h and 12h during our test days. This is a little short for those who want to have a full day of use. It is still very correct since the device is in the standards of its predecessor, the iPad Air M1.
On the charging side, the iPad Air is not supplied with a charging block but only with its USB-C cable. Apple defends actions regarding environmental protection. You will therefore have to make do with a charger you already have or obtain one.
With the help of a 125W fast charger, it still took us just over 2 hours to fully charge the device.
Our conclusion from the iPad Air M2 test
The year 2024 marks the renewal of the iPad Air range. Although the competition is tough with the iPad Pro 2024 and its M4 chip, the iPad Air M2 remains competitive. Apple equips its new iPad with a larger screen size and a chip inherited from the iPad Pro 2023, giving it excellent performance.
However, it can be criticized for its lack of evolution with its LED screen stuck at 60 Hz, increasing the gap with its competitors on the market. Its stagnant autonomy and the high weight for the 13-inch model can be a deterrent for many buyers.
Be aware that if your use is limited to the Internet and entertainment, the device remains a perfect companion in terms of performance and at a more affordable price. For classic use such as watching videos, movies or series, the 10th generation iPad will be more than enough. On the other hand, we still advise you to opt for the range above, namely the iPad Pro M4, for more professional use.