iPad Air 5: Tablet or Laptop Replacement?
A nearly €700 tablet that's faster than your laptop? The new iPad Air 5 promises a lot. With the M1 chip from MacBooks and a weight of just 461 grams, it seems like the perfect combination. But here's the rub: most people use their expensive iPad primarily for Netflix and surfing the web.
Yet, you see more and more professionals trading in their laptops for this thin slab of aluminum. They pair it with a Magic Keyboard from the accessories and run demanding programs that make your MacBook sweat. The secret? Apple has quietly blurred the line between tablet and computer. This iPad Air is no longer a toy—it's a workhorse disguised as an entertainment device. And that changes everything we thought we knew about tablets.
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The M1 chip makes the difference
The biggest change in the iPad Air 5 is under the hood: the M1 chip. This is the same processor Apple uses in its MacBook Air and MacBook Pro 13-inch. With an 8-core CPU, 8-core GPU, and 16-core Neural Engine, this model performs up to 60% faster than its predecessor with the A14 Bionic chip.
In practice, this means you can run demanding editing programs like Adobe Photoshop or LumaFusion without a hitch. Exporting videos is noticeably faster, and multitasking between different apps feels seamless. The 8GB of RAM supports this performance, while the previous generation had to make do with 4GB.
Display and design: familiar yet refined
The 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display remains unchanged from the previous generation, but that's no disadvantage. With a resolution of 2360 x 1640 pixels at 264 ppi, the screen delivers sharp images. True Tone technology automatically adjusts the color temperature to match the ambient light, making it easier on your eyes during long work sessions.
The body measures just 6.1mm thin and weighs 461 grams (Wi-Fi model) or 462 grams (Wi-Fi + Cellular). These dimensions make the device ideal for on-the-go use. The five color options—space gray, starlight, pink, purple, and blue—offer something for everyone, though space gray remains the most professional choice.
Cameras for work and private use
The 12-megapixel wide-angle rear camera shoots decent photos with an ƒ/1.8 aperture. The Smart HDR 3 system automatically enhances exposure and colors. This camera is excellent for scanning documents or capturing whiteboard notes.
The front camera has been significantly upgraded to 12 megapixels with an ultra-wide-angle lens. The Center Stage feature automatically keeps you in frame during video calls, even when you're moving. This makes the device suitable for professional video conferences from home.
Connectivity and accessories
Wi-Fi 6 delivers fast wireless connections, while optional 5G support in cellular models enables mobile working. The USB-C port now supports USB 3.1 Gen 2, enabling data transfer speeds of up to 10 Gbps—twice as fast as the previous generation.
Support for Apple Pencil (second generation) and Magic Keyboard transforms the tablet into a full-fledged work computer. The Magic Keyboard not only adds a trackpad and keyboard, but also protects the screen during transport. Note: These accessories must be purchased separately and together cost almost as much as the tablet itself.
Battery life and daily use
Apple promises up to 10 hours of web browsing or video viewing on a single charge. In practice, you'll achieve this with normal use, although demanding apps like video editing consume more power. Charging via USB-C with the included 20W adapter takes about 2.5 hours.
Who is this tablet suitable for?
Students benefit from the versatility: taking notes during lectures, writing papers, and preparing presentations all on one device. Graphic designers appreciate the screen's color accuracy and Apple Pencil support.
Small business owners will find this model an affordable alternative to a laptop. With apps for accounting, project management, and communication, it covers most business needs. Its long battery life and light weight make it ideal for working on the go.
Comparison with alternatives
Compared to the 11-inch iPad Pro, the Air 5 is several hundred euros cheaper, but lacks the ProMotion display with a 120Hz refresh rate. For most users, this difference will be barely noticeable in practice.
Compared to a MacBook Air, you share the same processor, but the iPad offers touchscreen controls and pen support. The iPadOS operating system does have limitations for specific professional software.
Practical considerations
Consider a refurbished model for a better price-performance ratio. These undergo strict quality control and often offer the same warranty as new models. The price difference can be several hundred euros.
Consider storage capacity carefully. The base 64GB model fills up quickly with heavy use. The 256GB version offers more breathing room but adds a significant price. Cloud storage via iCloud can be a cost-effective alternative.
The choice between Wi-Fi and cellular depends on your mobility. If you work primarily at home or in the office, Wi-Fi is sufficient. If you're often on the road without reliable Wi-Fi, cellular justifies the extra cost.
Sustainability and future-proofing
With the M1 chip, this model is expected to receive software updates for at least five years. Apple products are known for their build quality, but a protective case is still recommended for daily use.
The aluminum frame is 100% recycled, reducing the environmental footprint. Under normal use, the battery lasts approximately 1,000 charge cycles before noticeable degradation occurs.
Conclusion: A tablet for professionals
The iPad Air 5 with the M1 chip proves that tablets have become mature tools . For students, designers, and entrepreneurs seeking mobility and performance, this is a solid choice. The nearly €700 price tag is a bit steep, but a refurbished iPad Air can easily save you hundreds of euros.
Consider carefully how much storage you need and whether cellular connectivity is worth the extra cost. With the right accessories, you'll have a device that can replace both your laptop and your entertainment center—and that will last for years .
