Written by Stefan
Edited on
3 March 2026
·
15:32
Difference between the Apple iPad Air (2026) and the Apple iPad Air (2025)
On 2 March 2026, Apple announced its latest Apple iPad Ar model: the iPad Air (2026). Thanks to the powerful Apple M4 chip, this iPad is faster than its predecessor. In this article, we'll tell you all about the differences and similarities between the Apple iPad Air (2026) and Apple iPad Air (2025).
Compare the iPad Air (2026) to the iPad Air (2025)
- Apple iPad Air (2026) 13 inches
Open even demanding apps quickly and smoothly with the Apple M4 chip.
Enjoy a razor-sharp image and bright colors on the Liquid Retina display.
See all details on the large 13-inch screen.
From
€ 849,-
- Apple iPad Air (2026) 11 inches
Open even demanding apps quickly and smoothly with the Apple M4 chip.
Enjoy a razor-sharp image and bright colors on the Liquid Retina display.
It's less easy to keep an overview on the smaller 11-inch screen.
From
€ 649,-
- Apple iPad Air (2025) 13 inches
Demanding apps open slower and slow down more often with the Apple M3 chip.
Enjoy a razor-sharp image and bright colors on the Liquid Retina display.
See all details on the large 13-inch screen.
From
€ 759,-
- Apple iPad Air (2025) 11 inches
Demanding apps open slower and slow down more often with the Apple M3 chip.
Enjoy a razor-sharp image and bright colors on the Liquid Retina display.
It's less easy to keep an overview on the smaller 11-inch screen.
From
€ 589,-
Compare the iPad Air (2026) to the iPad Air (2025)
| iPad Air (2026) | iPad Air (2025) | |
|---|---|---|
| Screen | 11-inch and 13-inch Liquid Retina | 11-inch and 13-inch Liquid Retina |
| Processor | Apple M4 chip | Apple M3 chip |
| Storage | 128GB/256GB/512GB | 128GB/256GB/512GB |
| Colors | Gray, Starlight, Blue, Purple | Gray, Starlight, Blue, Purple |
Design: no large changes
You don't see any big changes on the exterior of the iPad Air (2026) compared to its predecessor. You can choose between an 11-inch and 13-inch Liquid Retina display for both iPad Air models. You can see razor-sharp details on these, and colors are beautiful and clear. Choose the 13-inch screen to not miss any details. The smaller 11-inch size is easier to take with you, so you can also use your iPad Air on the go.
Processor and speed
M4 chip: fast performance and more demanding apps
Thanks to the new M4 chip, the Apple iPad (2026) is even more powerful. You can open demanding apps like Adobe Photoshop and play 3D games, for example. Apps open quickly and you can smoothly switch between various demanding apps. Want to open the most demanding apps and smoothly edit large video files as well? Choose the Apple iPad Pro.
M3 chip: older, slow processor
The Apple iPad Air (2025) has the previous generation processor: Apple M3. This makes the tablet slower and less powerful than its successor. Apps open less quickly and slow down more often. You also switch between different demanding apps less smoothly. This makes the Apple iPad Air (2025) mostly suitable for everyday tasks.
Accessories for your iPad
Get the most out of your Apple iPad Air by combining it with various accessories. Choose an Apple Pencil to draw and write on your iPad, just like with a real pen. With an Apple Smart Folio cover, you can protect your iPad from scratches and damage. Want to smoothly and quickly type long texts on your iPad? Choose an Apple Magic Keyboard for your iPad. You don't receive a charger with the iPad Air, so order one along with it and start charging right away.
Conclusion: Apple iPad Air (2026) or the Apple iPad Air (2025)?
Thanks to the Apple M4 chip, the Apple iPad Air (2026) is faster than its predecessor. Your apps open quicker, and you can play 3D games on your iPad, for example. You can fully enjoy your favorite series thanks to the Liquid Retina display. Choose the 11-inch screen to easily take the iPad Air with you, or the 13-inch size to not miss any details.
Article by Stefan
Apple iPad Expert
