iPad Air M2 vs iPad Air M3: What are the differences

Thinking about upgrading your iPad? The iPad Air M2 and the new iPad Air M3 are both fantastic choices but what really sets them apart? Whether you're eyeing more performance or just curious about what's changed, we're breaking it all down for you right here.

What You’ll Learn in This Comparison:

Design and color choices
Screen size and display quality
Battery and performance
Accessory support
A side-by-side specs comparison

iPad Air M2 vs iPad Air M3: Difference in Design & Color Options

At first glance, the iPad Air M2 and iPad Air M3 look identical and that’s because their design is unchanged. Both models are available in 11-inch and 13-inch versions, with a sleek anodized aluminum finish and Touch ID integrated into the top button.

iPad Air M2 vs iPad Air M3: Available Colors

Blue
Purple
Star White
Space Gray

The only choice you need to make here is size: go for 11" if you need portability, or 13" for extra screen space.

iPad Air M2 vs iPad Air M3: Difference in Display

Both models feature stunning Liquid Retina displays with rich color, True Tone technology, and rounded corners that blend seamlessly into the iPad’s design.

iPad Air M2 vs iPad Air M3: What are the different screen sizes

11" – Compact and travel-ready
13" – Great for multitasking and creative work

There’s no difference in display quality; they're equally stunning.

iPad Air M3 vs M2: Keyboard & Pencil Support

One of the biggest M3 upgrades is the new Magic Keyboard:

Metal hinge for greater stability
Full function key row (finally!)
Extra USB-C port for pass-through charging

iPad Air M3 vs M2: Apple Pencil Compatibility

Both pencils magnetically attach to charge, no cables are required.

iPad Air M3 vs M2: Performance & Battery Life

Here's where the iPad Air M3 pulls ahead. Powered by Apple’s latest M3 chip, it delivers:

Faster processing for demanding apps
Better energy efficiency
Smoother multitasking and graphics performance

Battery Life: No changes here both models deliver up to 10 hours of web browsing or video playback, keeping you powered all day long.

iPad Air M3 vs M2: Apple Intelligence Support

Both the iPad Air M2 and M3 are ready for iPadOS 18, including:

Apple Intelligence features like Genmoji, Image Playground, and Writing Tools
Smarter multitasking
Enhanced app performance

iPad Air M2 vs M3 – Quick Specs Comparison

Feature	iPad Air M2	iPad Air M3
Dimensions (11")	17.85 x 24.76 x 0.61 cm	17.85 x 24.76 x 0.61 cm
Dimensions (13")	21.49 x 28.06 x 0.61 cm	21.49 x 28.06 x 0.61 cm
Weight	462g (11") / 617g (13")	460g (11") / 616g (13")
Display	Liquid Retina (11" or 13")	Liquid Retina (11" or 13")
Processor	M2 chip	M3 chip
Camera	12 MP wide	12 MP wide
Video Recording	4K at up to 60 fps	4K at up to 60 fps
Battery Life	Up to 10 hours	Up to 10 hours
Ports	USB-C	USB-C
Storage Options	128GB / 256GB / 512GB / 1TB	128GB / 256GB / 512GB / 1TB
Magic Keyboard	Compatible	New Magic Keyboard with function keys
Apple Intelligence	Yes	Yes

Which iPad Air is Right for You?

Below are reasons why we recommend the iPad Air M2 or iPad Air M3:

Choose the iPad Air M2 if:

You want a powerful iPad at a great value
You’re upgrading from an older iPad or buying your first iPad Air

Choose the iPad Air M3 if:

You want the latest performance with the M3 chip
You love the idea of the new Magic Keyboard
You plan on keeping your iPad for years to come

Ready to Upgrade?

You can reserve your iPad Air M3 today on the iSTYLE website or visit your nearest iSTYLE store to test it out in person. Our team is always here to help you make the perfect choice.