Quick Answer
If you want the best performance and future-proofing at a modest price increase, choose the renewed iPad Air M2. If you prioritize the lowest cost and only need everyday tasks, the renewed iPad Air 4th Gen is still a solid value.
Price vs. Performance: The Core Trade-off
The renewed iPad Air 4th Gen is priced at USD 356.97, while the renewed iPad Air M2 costs USD 371.99. That's only a USD 15 difference, which makes the M2's performance leap almost a no-brainer for most buyers.
The iPad Air 4th Gen runs on the Apple M1 chip, while the M2 model has the newer Apple M2 chip. The M2 delivers noticeably faster CPU and GPU performance, which matters for video editing, 3D design, or heavy multitasking.
However, if your usage is limited to browsing, email, streaming, and note-taking, the M1 in the 4th Gen is still more than capable, and you save a bit of money.
Display and Camera: Similar, but Not Identical
Both iPads feature a 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display with True Tone and P3 Wide Color, so visuals look vibrant and accurate on either model.
The iPad Air 4th Gen has a 12MP Wide front camera, while the M2 model features a new landscape camera. The landscape position is better for video calls and FaceTime, as the camera sits on the long edge instead of the side.
If you frequently join video conferences or record yourself, the M2's camera placement is a practical advantage.
Connectivity and Accessories
The iPad Air 4th Gen supports Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), while the M2 model supports Wi-Fi 6E, which can offer faster speeds and lower latency in compatible networks.
The 4th Gen works with the Magic Keyboard, Smart Keyboard Folio, and Apple Pencil (2nd Gen). The M2 model works with the newer Apple Pencil Pro and Magic Keyboard.
If you already own a 2nd Gen Apple Pencil, the 4th Gen lets you keep using it. If you want the latest accessory features, the M2 is the way to go.
Decision Trade-offs
- Budget-focused buyer: Choose the renewed iPad Air 4th Gen if you want the lowest upfront cost and only need everyday performance.
- Performance-focused buyer: Choose the renewed iPad Air M2 if you edit video, use graphics-intensive apps, or want the latest accessory support.
- Accessory compatibility: If you already own an Apple Pencil (2nd Gen), the 4th Gen saves you from buying a new Pencil Pro. If you want the new Pencil Pro, the M2 is required. Check which accessories you already own before deciding.
Product Facts
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Apple iPad Air 4th Gen (10.9-inch, Wi-Fi+Cellular, 64GB) Space Grey (factory renewed): 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display, Apple M1 chip, Wi-Fi 6, 12MP front camera, Touch ID, USB-C, supports Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil (2nd Gen). This combination gives you solid performance and accessory compatibility at the lowest price.
Apple iPad Air 4th Gen (10.9-inch, Wi-Fi+Cellular, 64GB) Space Grey (factory renewed)
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Apple - 11-inch iPad Air M2 chip Built for Apple Intelligence Wi-Fi 128GB - Space Gray (factory renewed): Redesigned 11-inch iPad Air with M2 chip, Liquid Retina display, landscape camera, Wi-Fi 6E, supports Apple Pencil Pro and Magic Keyboard. The M2 chip and landscape camera make it better for demanding tasks and video calls, with a modest price increase.
Apple - 11-inch iPad Air M2 chip Built for Apple Intelligence Wi-Fi 128GB - Space Gray (factory renewed)
Who Should Buy Which
Best for
- Students and casual users who need a reliable tablet for browsing, notes, and streaming
- Budget-conscious buyers who want a factory renewed iPad with strong performance at the lowest price
Not for
- Creative professionals or heavy multitaskers who need the M2 chip's extra power
- Users who want the latest Apple Pencil Pro support
