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Update Published October 26, 2022
All Apple Q&As >> iPad Air Q&A (Home) | Also see: All iPad Specs
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What are the "pros and cons" of the iPad Air and iPad Air 2 models? Is one the iPad for me?
Please note that the original iPad Air and iPad Air 2 both have been discontinued. This Q&A has been updated with the latest details on iOS support and more and can be quite helpful to anyone buying or selling either model on the used market.
Only you can determine whether or not an original iPad Air model -- an iPad Air (Wi-Fi Only), iPad Air (Wi-Fi/Cellular), or iPad Air (Wi-Fi/TD-LTE/Cellular - China) -- or an iPad Air 2 model -- the iPad Air 2 (Wi-Fi Only) and iPad Air 2 (Wi-Fi/Cellular) -- is best for you.
However, you certainly can review the pros and cons to see whether or not your needs are met.
Photo Credit: Apple, Inc. (iPad Air 2 Color Options - Silver, Gold & Space Gray)
If you're interested in a more in-depth take, EveryiPad.com also provides a detailed comparison of the iPad Air and iPad Air 2 models that you may like.
For those who prefer just quick-and-easy highlights, though; this summary should be ideal:
Pros:
Cons:
Just compared to one another, and ignoring subsequent iPad models, the iPad Air 2 is the better choice. It offers (1) an antiglare screen (which is particularly handy outside), (2) faster performance, (3) faster Wi-Fi, (4) support for more 4G/LTE bands, (5) better cameras, and (6) support for later versions of the iPadOS (but not the current version). The Touch ID sensor is a nice bonus also and you may like the gold color option, too.
Because neither of these tablets support the current version of the iPadOS, app support will continue to wane, but the iPad Air 2 in particular should have a bit of life left for someone with modest needs and reasonable expectations. The original iPad Air was introduced in 2014 and likely could only be useful for someone with very modest online needs these days.
iPad Purchase & Sale Options
There are an abundance of places to buy a new or used iPad. However, buying your iPad from a quality company with extensive knowledge -- and after sales support -- will provide the best experience and save you money and time, too.
In the US, site sponsor Adorama sells new iPad Air models with free shipping. Other World Computing sells used and refurb iPad Air models at bargain prices with free shipping, as well. Finally, if you need to sell an iPad, A+ BBB-rated Cash for Your Mac and GoRoostr will buy your older iPad with an instant quote and prompt payment.
In the UK, site sponsor Hoxton Macs has a large number of used and refurbished iPad models with a one-year warranty and free next day delivery throughout the UK. Delivery across Europe also is available starting at just £9.99 for two-day delivery to France and Germany.
In Australia, site sponsor Mac City may have used iPad models in stock, as well. All Macs and devices are available with a free warranty and fast shipping across Australia.
Please also see EveryiPad.com's Ultimate iComparison feature to dynamically compare any iPad model to any other iPod, iPhone, or iPad.
Also see:
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