Back in March, when the new iPad Air featuring the M3 chip was launched, tech enthusiasts were advised by Senior Tech Editor Jake Peterson not to invest in it immediately due to its high price tag compared to earlier models. However, circumstances have shifted since then: both sizes of the latest iPad Air have seen a price reduction of $100, hitting their lowest prices to date, as confirmed by various price monitoring tools.

The 11-inch model is now priced at a reasonable $499 (down from $599), while the 13-inch version can be yours for $699 (originally $799). This pricing makes them more affordable than the previous M2 models while offering the advantages of a newer chip and enhanced storage—an ideal purchasing scenario.

The performance of the M3 chip compared to its predecessor is remarkable, offering not only speed improvements but also a potentially longer lifespan for the device. This power upgrade suggests enhanced multitasking capabilities and more efficient operation for demanding applications. As noted previously, this latest iteration of the iPad Air ranks among Apple’s finest tablet creations. The M3 chip facilitates hardware-accelerated ray tracing, leading to stunning graphics in games and high-performance apps. However, aside from the updated chip, there are negligible differences when compared to the older M2 variant.

The M3 iPad Air features a display with a resolution of 2,360 by 1,640 pixels at 264 ppi. It includes a 12MP Center Stage front camera that tracks your face during video calls and a 12MP Wide back camera with flash. Other notable features include USB-C compatibility, Touch ID, and battery endurance of up to 10 hours, dependent on usage. Additionally, it comes equipped with Apple Intelligence—a feature some may find appealing— as well as support for the Apple Pencil and the new Magic Keyboard.

For those already using an M2 model, upgrading might not be necessary. However, anyone seeking a budget-friendly iPad might find the base model available for just $299 (down from $349), suitable for most users’ needs. However, for those who desire cutting-edge technology, the M3 iPad Air is undoubtedly the top choice given the current discounts.