Apple iPad Air M2 Price Slashes After M3 Launch in India: Should You Grab the Deal or Wait for the Latest Model?

New Delhi – In a move that has got tech enthusiasts buzzing, Apple has launched the highly anticipated iPad Air M3 in India. But the exciting news doesn’t end there – the price of the iPad Air M2 has seen a significant drop, making it an appealing option for those in the market for a tablet. If you’ve been eyeing the iPad Air M2, now might be the best time to make a purchase, especially with deals that can bring the price down further. Here's everything you need to know before you decide between the iPad Air M2 and the latest iPad Air M3.

iPad Air M2 Gets a Price Cut

With the release of the iPad Air M3 in India, Apple has made an interesting move by slashing the price of the previous generation iPad Air M2. The iPad Air M2, originally priced at Rs 59,900, is now available for Rs 56,900. That's not all – buyers using SBI or ICICI bank cards can avail an additional discount of Rs 4,000, which brings the price down to a sweet Rs 52,900.

While this price drop makes the iPad Air M2 more affordable than ever, the question remains: Is it still worth buying, especially when the iPad Air M3 is now available with upgraded features?

iPad Air M2: A Solid Option for Budget-Conscious Shoppers

Despite the launch of the iPad Air M3, the iPad Air M2 remains a solid choice for those looking for a budget-friendly tablet. If you’re upgrading from an older model such as the iPad 9 or iPad 10, the iPad Air M2 offers significant improvements in performance, making it a reliable option for everyday tasks. Whether you’re browsing the web, streaming videos, or indulging in some light gaming, the iPad Air M2 holds its ground.

However, if you already own an iPad Air M1, the M2 might not feel like a massive upgrade. The performance leap from M1 to M2 is notable, but it’s not as substantial as the jump from M1 to M3. If you’re seeking a tablet that offers better performance for demanding tasks like video editing or advanced gaming, you might want to consider opting for the newer iPad Air M3.

What Makes the iPad Air M3 a Game Changer?

Apple’s iPad Air M3 comes with the brand-new M3 chip, which promises a noticeable performance boost. Apple has proudly stated that the M3 chip is nearly twice as fast as the M1 chip, and up to 3.5 times faster than the A14 Bionic-powered models found in older iPad devices. This leap in speed makes the iPad Air M3 a powerful choice for professionals and creatives who require top-notch performance for tasks like video editing, content creation, and advanced gaming.

M3 vs M2: A Comparative Look

While both the iPad Air M2 and iPad Air M3 share similar designs, with the classic Touch ID integrated into the top button, the new M3 version stands out with its superior chipset and performance improvements. The M3 chip enables smoother multitasking, faster app launches, and an overall enhanced experience, especially for power users. However, the iPad Air M3 and M2 are both devoid of features found in the iPad Pro lineup. For example, Face ID, which is available on the iPad Pro, is not part of the iPad Air series. Additionally, the iPad Air models lack the function row on the Magic Keyboard that provides easy access to volume and brightness controls, something iPad Pro users have grown accustomed to.

Display and Camera: Minimal Changes but Key Enhancements

When it comes to display, there are minimal differences between the iPad Air M2 and M3. Both tablets offer impressive screens that support P3 Wide Colour and True Tone. The 11-inch variant delivers a brightness of 500nits, while the 13-inch version of the M3 model offers 600nits of brightness, making both tablets excellent for multimedia consumption. Whether you're editing photos or watching your favorite series, the display will provide crisp, vibrant visuals.

Camera-wise, the iPad Air M3 is equipped with a 12-megapixel front-facing camera that supports the innovative Center Stage feature. This allows the camera to track and keep users in the frame during video calls, making it ideal for those working remotely or video conferencing regularly. Additionally, the rear camera is also a 12-megapixel sensor capable of recording 4K video at up to 60fps, with the ability to capture slow-motion footage at 1080p and 240fps. These camera upgrades position the iPad Air M3 as a versatile tool for content creators and professionals alike.

The New Magic Keyboard: An Upgrade for Productivity

Along with the iPad Air M3, Apple has launched a refreshed version of the Magic Keyboard. While it closely resembles the iPad Pro's keyboard, it features a few key differences, such as the inclusion of a 14-key function row for quick access to shortcuts. However, the materials used for the iPad Air M3’s keyboard are not as premium as those used in the iPad Pro’s version. Still, the Magic Keyboard is a valuable accessory that enhances the overall productivity experience for users who rely on their tablets for work and multitasking.

Should You Buy the iPad Air M2 or the iPad Air M3?

The decision to go with the iPad Air M2 or the latest iPad Air M3 depends largely on your needs and budget. If you’re on a tight budget but still want a tablet that performs well for day-to-day tasks, the iPad Air M2’s price drop makes it an attractive option. Additionally, if you’re upgrading from an older iPad, such as the iPad 9 or 10, the iPad Air M2 offers a significant boost in performance, which will enhance your user experience.

However, for those who demand top-tier performance and are willing to invest in a more powerful tablet, the iPad Air M3 is the clear winner. The M3 chip offers impressive performance improvements, especially for professionals and creators working with demanding applications. Whether you're into video editing, advanced gaming, or content creation, the iPad Air M3 is the more future-proof option.

 Apple’s new iPad Air M3 offers cutting-edge performance, making it a powerful device for those who need speed and power. But with the price drop on the iPad Air M2, it’s also a great deal for those on a budget. Ultimately, it boils down to how much performance you require and what your budget allows.