Apple iPad Air 11 (2024) Gen 6 review - The powerful Apple tablet with an identity crisis
In releasing the sixth generation of the iPad Air, Apple's mid-range tablet has inherited the in-house M2 chipset from the 2022 Pro models. Apple has promised significant improvements in its processor as well as its GPU and NPU performance—in total, its performance is supposed to have been doubled or even tripled compared to the M1 SoC inside the iPad Air 5.
Aside from the version we have tested which features a classic 11-inch size, the iPad Air 6 now also comes in a 13-inch version. As a result, Apple fans who want a large screen surface may be able to save some money by not having to reach for the expensive new 13-inch iPad Pro.
The smallest configuration of the iPad Air 11 (2024) has had its storage doubled to 128 GB and features an MRSP of US$599. This means the sixth generation iPad Air has the same starting price as its predecessor did.
Possible competitors compared
Rating | Date | Model | Weight | Height | Size | Resolution | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 90 % v7 (old) | 05 / 2024 | Apple iPad Air 11 2024 M2, M2 10-Core GPU | 462 g | 6.1 mm | 10.86" | 2360x1640 | |
| 91.7 % v7 (old) | 03 / 2022 | Apple iPad Air 5 2022 M1, M1 8-Core GPU | 461 g | 6.1 mm | 10.90" | 2360x1640 | |
| 92.5 % v7 (old) | 11 / 2022 | Apple iPad Pro 11 2022 M2, M2 10-Core GPU | 466 g | 5.9 mm | 11.00" | 2388x1668 | |
| 90.9 % v7 (old) | 10 / 2023 | Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 5G SD 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy, Adreno 740 | 500 g | 5.9 mm | 11.00" | 2560x1600 | |
| 89.3 % v7 (old) | 09 / 2023 | Google Pixel Tablet Tensor G2, Mali-G710 MP7 | 493 g | 8.1 mm | 10.95" | 2560x1600 |
Case - The iPad Air 11 (2024) with an aluminum unibody
Visually, not much has changed about the iPad Air 11 (2024) compared to its predecessor. Its footprint and weight are nearly identical. Now, if you thought that the bezels around its screen would be made narrower to accommodate a slightly larger display diagonal of 11 inches, then you are unfortunately wrong, as Apple continues to make use of a 10.86-inch panel. The manufacturer has merely rounded up the numbers more in the tablet's product description. As a result, its size ratio of 80.9 per cent between the screen and the front of the device is in need of some improvement, and it only partially does justice to a tablet costing US$600. In comparison, a Galaxy Tab S9 achieves over 83 %.
Speaking of product descriptions—in previous generations, the suffix "Air" was introduced for the thinnest and most lightweight design among the iPads. If we now compare the new iPad Pro 11's measurements, then it quickly becomes clear that Apple has an even more "airy" tablet on offer. The new Pro variant is not only thinner, but it is also 18 grams lighter than the latest iPad Air 6. Nevertheless, the 2024 model is still a lightweight 11-inch tablet, weighing in at 462 grams.
We have nothing negative to say about its unibody case made from recycled aluminum. Its build quality is great and its matte aluminum surfaces don't attract many fingerprint marks. The iPad Air 6 also withstands twisting attempts without any problems. However, it does not have an IP certification.
Connectivity - The Apple tablet without NFC
In the United States, you can get the 11-inch iPad Air Gen 6 in four variants between 128 GB and 1 TB—and optionally with a 5G cellular module. Apple is earning big bucks by doubling the 6th-gen iPad Air's storage, but all models feature the same RAM configuration—unlike the Pro models.
8 GB RAM | 128 GB ROM | US$599 WiFi | US$749 cellular
8 GB RAM | 256 GB ROM | US$699 WiFi | US$849 cellular
8 GB RAM | 512 GB ROM | US$899 WiFi | US$1,049 cellular
8 GB RAM | 1 TB ROM | US$1,099 WiFi | US$1,249 cellular
Its USB port is connected via the USB 3.1 Gen 2 standard, meaning it delivers transfer speeds of up to 10 Gbit/s and can output picture to a monitor. However, you can't use the supplied cable which only supports USB 2.0. Outputting a DisplayPort signal via USB-C can be done at up to 6K (6,016 x 3,384 pixels) at 60 Hz.
In contrast to its predecessor, the iPad Air 11 (2024) supports Bluetooth 5.3. Two things that are still missing on the Apple tablet are NFC and a UWB chip. You can connect a first-gen Magic Keyboard via the "Smart Connector" (3-pin connection) on the back—it attaches to the iPad Air magnetically. You can use the magnetic surface on the right side of the device to connect and charge an Apple Pencil Pro.
Software - The iPad Air 11 (2024) with iPad OS 17
The 6th-generation Apple iPad Air 11 comes delivered with iPadOS 17.5. There is no official information on how long the tablet will be supplied with updates. However, update supply can be seen as a plus point for the iPad Air, even if statements from Apple would provide more clarity. In our view, buyers of the iPad Air 11 (2024) can hope for an update supply of at least five to six years. The iPad Air (3rd generation) from 2019 is still receiving updates, for example.
Communication - The Apple tablet with WiFi 6E
The Apple iPad Air 11 (2024) now supports the Wi-Fi standard 6E and as a result, the ability to use the 6 GHz network for WLAN. Together with our Asus ROG Rapture GT-AXE11000 reference router, we measured fluctuating but quite high values of up to 1,300 MBit/s when receiving. However, its sending values were considerably lower and were also quite inconsistent.
We tested the Wi-Fi module, which doesn't allow 5G connections or locating via satellite systems. However, you can optionally select a cellular module (Wi-Fi + Cellular) with a wide range of frequencies and 5G. It should be noted that the device no longer accommodates nano SIM cards—instead, you can only use eSIMs. Still, Wi-Fi, a digital compass and iBeacon micro-location are also available for locating using the WiFi-only version of the tablet. However, this is not sufficient for navigation tasks including route guidance.
| Networking | |
| Apple iPad Air 11 2024 | |
| iperf3 transmit AXE11000 6GHz | |
| iperf3 receive AXE11000 6GHz | |
| Apple iPad Air 5 2022 | |
| iperf3 receive AXE11000 | |
| iperf3 transmit AXE11000 | |
| Apple iPad Pro 11 2022 | |
| iperf3 transmit AXE11000 6GHz | |
| iperf3 receive AXE11000 6GHz | |
| Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 5G | |
| iperf3 receive AXE11000 | |
| iperf3 transmit AXE11000 | |
| Google Pixel Tablet | |
| iperf3 receive AXE11000 | |
| iperf3 transmit AXE11000 | |
Cameras - The iPad Air 11 (2024) with single-cams
From a tech standpoint, barely anything has changed on the front compared to its predecessor. The 12-MPix camera uses an f/2.4 aperture and delivers solid picture quality. However, the lens on the front has finally been placed along the long side of the iPad Air 11. As not many users of a 10.86-inch tablet will prioritize upright use, this can be seen as a positive. "Center Stage", which uses software to restrict the image section for recognized faces, can also be used for videos.
The back now features the 12-MPix camera including autofocus which could already be seen in the iPad Air 5. Photos taken using this lens should be sufficient for most tablet users, however, the Apple tablet uses a lot of artificial sharpness and its color reproduction could do with being better, too. Under controlled lighting conditions, the iPad Air 11 (2024) showed some larger deviations in the ColorChecker passport—the same can be said for its white balance.
Videos can be recorded in a maximum of UHD quality and at 60fps, but the front-facing lens can't make use of a 4K option.
Accessories and warranty - The iPad Air 11 (2024) without a power supply
The 2024 iPad Air's scope of delivery has been reduced even further compared to its predecessor. A modular 20-watt power supply is no longer part of Apple's included accessories. The slim box now only features a fabric-covered USB-C cable and info leaflets. Even the well-known sticker depicting the Apple with a bite taken out if it is no longer included.
In addition, Apple offers cases and power supplies for its iPad Air 6. You can also optionally purchase Apple's new input pen—the Pencil Pro—which retails for US$129. You'll have to fork out a pricey US$299 for a first-generation Magic Keyboard.
The iPad Air 11 (2024) only comes with a 12-month warranty in the United States. You can optionally purchase the insurance package Care+ for the Apple tablet. This can either be purchased for a one-off cost of US$79 or for US$3.99 a month. It includes unlimited repairs for accidental damage. A fee is then due for each service process.
Input devices & operation - The Apple tablet only supports 60 Hz
The iPad Air 11 (2024)'s capacitive touchscreen recognizes touch inputs without any noticeable delay. In contrast to the iPad 10, a laminated panel is used, which benefits the tablet's responsiveness.
The built-in LCD display only supports a refresh rate of 60 Hz, which makes animations or scrolling appear less fluid than on some entry-level Android tablets with a 90-Hz refresh rate, such as the Redmi Pad SE. For an MRSP of just under US$600, increasing its refresh rate should actually have been a mandatory upgrade compared to the iPad Air 5. This is because pen input—which the Apple tablet supports—also massively benefits from a higher frame rate. Taking notes on the sixth-generation iPad Air will feel less natural than on an iPad Pro 11 (2022).
In addition to the Apple Pencil (USB-C), the iPad Air 11 (2024) also gets to benefit from the new Apple Pencil Pro. This uses a gyroscope to determine its orientation relative to the screen. This is intended to improve the use of non-uniformly shaped and wide brushes when drawing. The pen also uses a pressure sensor to detect when its case is pressed. Unfortunately, we have not yet been able to test the Apple Pencil Pro.
For biometric security, this model doesn't use 3D facial recognition "Face ID" like the Pro models do, but it instead uses "Touch ID" like its predecessor. The fingerprint sensor in the on/off button works very well and reliably, although it now works passively, meaning the screen must first always be taken out of standby mode.
Display - The iPad Air 11 (2024) with IPS
The iPad Air 11 (2024)'s Liquid Retina IPS display is likely the same panel as in its predecessor and the model before it—at least that's what our measurements suggest. Its slow response times in particular have not changed in recent years. The same applies to its resolution and display brightness.
We measured an average of 474 cd/m² with somewhat uneven illumination. When we used an APL18 pattern, a small increase could be teased out of the panel (526 cd/m²). As a result, the display is not entirely suitable for displaying HDR content—the HDR standards HDR10 and Dolby Vision are supported.
The iPad Air 6 doesn't use pulse width modulation to control its screen brightness and we also noted no evidence of high-frequency flickering in our measurements, which PWM-sensitive people will certainly appreciate—especially since the Pro models have switched to OLED technology.
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Brightness Distribution: 87 %
Center on Battery: 506 cd/m²
Contrast: 1265:1 (Black: 0.4 cd/m²)
ΔE Color 1.48 | 0.5-29.43 Ø4.83
ΔE Greyscale 2.3 | 0.09-98 Ø5.1
99.4% sRGB (Calman 2D)
Gamma: 2.204
| Apple iPad Air 11 2024 IPS, 2360x1640, 10.9" | Apple iPad Air 5 2022 IPS, 2360x1640, 10.9" | Apple iPad Pro 11 2022 IPS, 2388x1668, 11" | Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 5G Dynamic AMOLED 2x, 2560x1600, 11" | Google Pixel Tablet IPS, 2560x1600, 11" | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Screen | 8% | 10% | -11% | 6% | |
| Brightness middle | 506 | 529 5% | 620 23% | 576 14% | 521 3% |
| Brightness | 474 | 490 3% | 611 29% | 579 22% | 508 7% |
| Brightness Distribution | 87 | 86 -1% | 93 7% | 99 14% | 89 2% |
| Black Level * | 0.4 | 0.37 7% | 0.37 7% | 0.51 -28% | |
| Contrast | 1265 | 1430 13% | 1676 32% | 1022 -19% | |
| Colorchecker dE 2000 * | 1.48 | 1.35 9% | 1.49 -1% | 2.5 -69% | 1.2 19% |
| Colorchecker dE 2000 max. * | 3.12 | 2.45 21% | 3.67 -18% | 4.6 -47% | 2.6 17% |
| Greyscale dE 2000 * | 2.3 | 2.1 9% | 2.3 -0% | 2.3 -0% | 1.3 43% |
| Gamma | 2.204 100% | 2.183 101% | 2.211 100% | 2.02 109% | 2.2 100% |
| CCT | 6954 93% | 6939 94% | 6849 95% | 6585 99% | 6696 97% |
* ... smaller is better
Screen Flickering / PWM (Pulse-Width Modulation)
| Screen flickering / PWM not detected |  | ||
In comparison: 53 % of all tested devices do not use PWM to dim the display. If PWM was detected, an average of 8350 (minimum: 5 - maximum: 343500) Hz was measured. | |||
Measurement series with fixed zoom level and different brightness settings
In our display measurements using the Calman software and a spectrophotometer, the IPS display proved to be very well calibrated. Differences compared to the reference colors are barely perceptible to the naked eye. We achieved the best color reproduction without using the "True Tone" setting. The iPad OS doesn't offer individual color profiles and the screen's color temperature can only be adjusted by using "Night Shift". Its contrast ratio is around 1,300:1 thanks to its solid black value of 0.4 cd/m², which is decent.
Display Response Times
| ↔ Response Time Black to White | ||
|---|---|---|
| 29 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined | ↗ 13.6 ms rise |  |
| ↘ 15.4 ms fall | ||
| The screen shows relatively slow response rates in our tests and may be too slow for gamers. In comparison, all tested devices range from 0.1 (minimum) to 240 (maximum) ms. » 75 % of all devices are better. This means that the measured response time is worse than the average of all tested devices (20.5 ms). | ||
| ↔ Response Time 50% Grey to 80% Grey | ||
| 73.8 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined | ↗ 30.2 ms rise |  |
| ↘ 43.6 ms fall | ||
| The screen shows slow response rates in our tests and will be unsatisfactory for gamers. In comparison, all tested devices range from 0.165 (minimum) to 636 (maximum) ms. » 99 % of all devices are better. This means that the measured response time is worse than the average of all tested devices (32.1 ms). | ||
The IPS panel's viewing angle stability is absolutely fine and we noted no changes to its colors. Outdoors, the iPad Air 11 (2024) shows its best side despite its rather low luminosity—this is thanks to its anti-reflective coating. However, content is difficult to read in direct sunlight, so you should always avoid reflections on the glass surface as best you can, even with its special display treatment.
Performance - The iPad Air 11 (2024) with M2
The iPad Air 11 (2024) certainly isn't lacking in performance, as the sixth generation of the Apple tablet has been equipped with the company's own M2 chipset from the Pro model. Compared to the M1 in its predecessor, the new 2024 edition made significant gains in our CPU benchmark package—especially when it came to its Geekbench multi-score. This makes the passively cooled iPad Air 11 (2024) more powerful than most laptops within this price range. There is not really any competition from the side of Android in terms of performance. A Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 is actually even significantly slower than an iPad Air 5.
| Antutu v10 - Total Score | |
| Apple iPad Air 11 2024 | |
| Average Apple M2 (1936538 - 1966791, n=3) | |
| Apple iPad Pro 11 2022 | |
| Average of class Tablet (164396 - 2854581, n=57, last 2 years) | |
| PassMark PerformanceTest Mobile V10 | |
| Storage Read | |
| Average of class Tablet (879 - 1159, n=5, last 2 years) | |
| Average Apple M2 (856 - 905, n=3) | |
| Apple iPad Air 11 2024 | |
| Apple iPad Pro 11 2022 | |
| Storage Write | |
| Apple iPad Air 11 2024 | |
| Average of class Tablet (444 - 3540, n=5, last 2 years) | |
| Average Apple M2 (914 - 2974, n=3) | |
| Apple iPad Pro 11 2022 | |
Its increase in GPU performance compared to the M1 inside its predecessor is also very impressive. Depending on the scenario, we noted a performance increase of up to 23 % in the GFXBench tests. During the on-screen tests, however, the Galaxy Tab S9 achieved better results than the iPad Air 6, as the Samsung tablet has a significantly higher refresh rate.
GFXBench (DX / GLBenchmark) 2.7: T-Rex Onscreen | 1920x1080 T-Rex Offscreen
GFXBench 3.0: on screen Manhattan Onscreen OGL | 1920x1080 1080p Manhattan Offscreen
GFXBench 3.1: on screen Manhattan ES 3.1 Onscreen | 1920x1080 Manhattan ES 3.1 Offscreen
GFXBench: on screen Car Chase Onscreen | 1920x1080 Car Chase Offscreen | on screen Aztec Ruins High Tier Onscreen | 2560x1440 Aztec Ruins High Tier Offscreen | on screen Aztec Ruins Normal Tier Onscreen | 1920x1080 Aztec Ruins Normal Tier Offscreen | 3840x2160 4K Aztec Ruins High Tier Offscreen
| 3DMark / Wild Life Extreme Unlimited | |
| Apple iPad Air 11 2024 | |
| Apple iPad Pro 11 2022 | |
| Apple iPad Air 5 2022 | |
| Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 5G | |
| Google Pixel Tablet | |
| 3DMark / Wild Life Extreme | |
| Apple iPad Air 11 2024 | |
| Apple iPad Pro 11 2022 | |
| Apple iPad Air 5 2022 | |
| Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 5G | |
| Google Pixel Tablet | |
| 3DMark / Wild Life Unlimited Score | |
| Apple iPad Air 11 2024 | |
| Apple iPad Pro 11 2022 | |
| Apple iPad Air 5 2022 | |
| Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 5G | |
| Google Pixel Tablet | |
| 3DMark / Solar Bay Unlimited Score | |
| Apple iPad Air 11 2024 | |
| Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 5G | |
| 3DMark / Solar Bay Score | |
| Apple iPad Air 11 2024 | |
| Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 5G | |
| GFXBench (DX / GLBenchmark) 2.7 / T-Rex Onscreen | |
| Apple iPad Pro 11 2022 | |
| Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 5G | |
| Apple iPad Air 5 2022 | |
| Google Pixel Tablet | |
| Apple iPad Air 11 2024 | |
| GFXBench (DX / GLBenchmark) 2.7 / T-Rex Offscreen | |
| Apple iPad Pro 11 2022 | |
| Apple iPad Air 11 2024 | |
| Apple iPad Air 5 2022 | |
| Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 5G | |
| Google Pixel Tablet | |
| GFXBench 3.0 / Manhattan Onscreen OGL | |
| Apple iPad Pro 11 2022 | |
| Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 5G | |
| Apple iPad Air 5 2022 | |
| Google Pixel Tablet | |
| Apple iPad Air 11 2024 | |
| GFXBench 3.0 / 1080p Manhattan Offscreen | |
| Apple iPad Pro 11 2022 | |
| Apple iPad Air 11 2024 | |
| Apple iPad Air 5 2022 | |
| Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 5G | |
| Google Pixel Tablet | |
| GFXBench 3.1 / Manhattan ES 3.1 Onscreen | |
| Apple iPad Pro 11 2022 | |
| Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 5G | |
| Apple iPad Air 5 2022 | |
| Apple iPad Air 11 2024 | |
| Google Pixel Tablet | |
| GFXBench 3.1 / Manhattan ES 3.1 Offscreen | |
| Apple iPad Air 11 2024 | |
| Apple iPad Pro 11 2022 | |
| Apple iPad Air 5 2022 | |
| Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 5G | |
| Google Pixel Tablet | |
| GFXBench / Car Chase Onscreen | |
| Apple iPad Pro 11 2022 | |
| Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 5G | |
| Apple iPad Air 5 2022 | |
| Apple iPad Air 11 2024 | |
| Google Pixel Tablet | |
| GFXBench / Car Chase Offscreen | |
| Apple iPad Air 11 2024 | |
| Apple iPad Pro 11 2022 | |
| Apple iPad Air 5 2022 | |
| Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 5G | |
| Google Pixel Tablet | |
| GFXBench / Aztec Ruins High Tier Onscreen | |
| Apple iPad Pro 11 2022 | |
| Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 5G | |
| Apple iPad Air 5 2022 | |
| Apple iPad Air 11 2024 | |
| Google Pixel Tablet | |
| GFXBench / Aztec Ruins High Tier Offscreen | |
| Apple iPad Pro 11 2022 | |
| Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 5G | |
| Apple iPad Air 11 2024 | |
| Apple iPad Air 5 2022 | |
| Google Pixel Tablet | |
| GFXBench / Aztec Ruins Normal Tier Onscreen | |
| Apple iPad Pro 11 2022 | |
| Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 5G | |
| Apple iPad Air 5 2022 | |
| Apple iPad Air 11 2024 | |
| Google Pixel Tablet | |
| GFXBench / Aztec Ruins Normal Tier Offscreen | |
| Apple iPad Pro 11 2022 | |
| Apple iPad Air 11 2024 | |
| Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 5G | |
| Apple iPad Air 5 2022 | |
| Google Pixel Tablet | |
| GFXBench / 4K Aztec Ruins High Tier Offscreen | |
| Apple iPad Air 11 2024 | |
| Apple iPad Pro 11 2022 | |
| Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 5G | |
| Google Pixel Tablet | |
Surfing using the Safari browser works quickly and without any issues—websites are loaded speedily. During the benchmarks, the iPad Air 11 (2024) came far ahead of its Android competition.
| Jetstream 2 - 2.0 Total Score | |
| Apple iPad Air 11 2024 (Safari 17) | |
| Average Apple M2 (220 - 257, n=9) | |
| Apple iPad Pro 11 2022 (Safari 16) | |
| Apple iPad Air 5 2022 (Safari 15) | |
| Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 5G (chrome 117) | |
| Average of class Tablet (19.9 - 393, n=73, last 2 years) | |
| Google Pixel Tablet (Chrome 115) | |
| WebXPRT 4 - Overall | |
| Apple iPad Air 11 2024 | |
| Average Apple M2 (223 - 256, n=8) | |
| Apple iPad Pro 11 2022 (Safari 16) | |
| Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 5G (chrome 117) | |
| Average of class Tablet (21 - 315, n=74, last 2 years) | |
| Google Pixel Tablet (Chrome 115) | |
| Speedometer 2.0 - Result | |
| Apple iPad Air 11 2024 (Safari 17) | |
| Apple iPad Air 11 2024 | |
| Average Apple M2 (437 - 445, n=10) | |
| Apple iPad Pro 11 2022 (Safari 16) | |
| Apple iPad Air 5 2022 (Safari 15) | |
| Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 5G (chrome 117) | |
| Average of class Tablet (2.59 - 572, n=64, last 2 years) | |
| Google Pixel Tablet (Chrome 115) | |
| Octane V2 - Total Score | |
| Apple iPad Air 11 2024 (Safari 17) | |
| Average Apple M2 (72484 - 78736, n=9) | |
| Apple iPad Pro 11 2022 (Safari 16) | |
| Apple iPad Air 5 2022 (Safari 15) | |
| Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 5G (Edge 117) | |
| Google Pixel Tablet (Chrome 115) | |
| Average of class Tablet (763 - 111219, n=98, last 2 years) | |
| Mozilla Kraken 1.1 - Total | |
| Average of class Tablet (319 - 34733, n=83, last 2 years) | |
| Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 5G (chrome 117) | |
| Google Pixel Tablet (Chrome 115) | |
| Apple iPad Air 5 2022 (Safari 15) | |
| Apple iPad Pro 11 2022 (Safari 16) | |
| Average Apple M2 (440 - 467, n=9) | |
| Apple iPad Air 11 2024 (Safari 17) | |
| Speedometer 3.0 - Score | |
| Apple iPad Air 11 2024 (Safari 17) | |
| Average Apple M2 (25.7 - 29.9, n=2) | |
| Average of class Tablet (1.25 - 34.4, n=46, last 2 years) | |
* ... smaller is better
Games - The Apple tablet with a fast graphics unit
The Apple iPad Air 11 (2024) is very well suited for playing mobile games from the App Store thanks to its powerful GPU. For our test, we took a look at the graphically demanding fantasy action role-playing game Genshin Impact and the shooter PUBG Mobile. Both games ran smoothly with high details and the large display naturally makes the games very fun to play.
However, fans of HFR gaming should note that the 60 Hz screen only supports a maximum of 60fps. This is the case with Genshin Impact, for example: 120fps would theoretically be possible with high details, but only 60fps can actually be used.
PUBG Mobile supports the maximum UHD setting. Precise measurements of the M2's refresh rates within the iPad Air 6—which we record using the GameBench application—will be provided soon for its sister model with the 13-inch panel, as measurements are currently only possible with special hardware.
Emissions - The iPad Air 11 (2024) with low waste heat
Temperature
The tablet's surface temperatures are neither pronounced in idle mode nor under constant load. However, we measured a peak of almost 44 °C at a hotspot.
We used the 3DMark stress tests to check the device's internal heat development. Here, the Apple M2 revealed moderate fluctuations in its refresh rate under intensive computing loads. In view of its high performance values, the iPad Air 11 (2024) still performed better than a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 in the Galaxy Tab S9 when throttled during Wild Life Extreme.
(±) The maximum temperature on the upper side is 40.5 °C / 105 F, compared to the average of 33.7 °C / 93 F, ranging from 20.7 to 53.2 °C for the class Tablet.
(±) The bottom heats up to a maximum of 43.5 °C / 110 F, compared to the average of 33.2 °C / 92 F
(+) In idle usage, the average temperature for the upper side is 21.6 °C / 71 F, compared to the device average of 30 °C / 86 F.
3DMark Wild Life Stress Test
| 3DMark | |
| Wild Life Extreme Stress Test | |
| Google Pixel Tablet | |
| Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 5G | |
| Apple iPad Pro 11 2022 | |
| Apple iPad Air 5 2022 | |
| Apple iPad Air 11 2024 | |
| Wild Life Stress Test Stability | |
| Apple iPad Air 11 2024 | |
| Google Pixel Tablet | |
| Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 5G | |
| Apple iPad Pro 11 2022 | |
| Solar Bay Stress Test Stability | |
| Apple iPad Air 11 2024 | |
| Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 5G | |
Speakers
Despite its four openings in the tablet's case, the sixth-generation iPad Air still only has two speakers, which is somewhat disappointing for a tablet in this price range. However, we don't have much to complain about when it comes to their sound, as the audio output sounds great with even mids and highs as well as some bass. The iPad Air 6 doesn't get terribly loud—we noted just 73 dB.
If you prefer to use headphones, you can do so either wirelessly via Bluetooth (5.3 standard) or wired via the USB-C port. However, hardly any codecs other than AAC are supported, so compatibility should be taken into account when purchasing headphones or speakers.
Apple iPad Air 11 2024 audio analysis
(±) | speaker loudness is average but good (72.4 dB)
Bass 100 - 315 Hz
(±) | reduced bass - on average 8.6% lower than median
(±) | linearity of bass is average (13% delta to prev. frequency)
Mids 400 - 2000 Hz
(±) | higher mids - on average 5% higher than median
(±) | linearity of mids is average (9.6% delta to prev. frequency)
Highs 2 - 16 kHz
(+) | balanced highs - only 2.9% away from median
(±) | linearity of highs is average (7.6% delta to prev. frequency)
Overall 100 - 16.000 Hz
(+) | overall sound is linear (14.3% difference to median)
Compared to same class
» 28% of all tested devices in this class were better, 4% similar, 68% worse
» The best had a delta of 7%, average was 21%, worst was 129%
Compared to all devices tested
» 16% of all tested devices were better, 4% similar, 80% worse
» The best had a delta of 4%, average was 24%, worst was 134%
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 5G audio analysis
(+) | speakers can play relatively loud (89 dB)
Bass 100 - 315 Hz
(±) | reduced bass - on average 13.6% lower than median
(±) | linearity of bass is average (7.3% delta to prev. frequency)
Mids 400 - 2000 Hz
(+) | balanced mids - only 3% away from median
(+) | mids are linear (2.9% delta to prev. frequency)
Highs 2 - 16 kHz
(+) | balanced highs - only 2.3% away from median
(+) | highs are linear (6.3% delta to prev. frequency)
Overall 100 - 16.000 Hz
(+) | overall sound is linear (10.4% difference to median)
Compared to same class
» 7% of all tested devices in this class were better, 3% similar, 90% worse
» The best had a delta of 7%, average was 21%, worst was 129%
Compared to all devices tested
» 4% of all tested devices were better, 1% similar, 94% worse
» The best had a delta of 4%, average was 24%, worst was 134%
Power management - only 20-watt charging on the iPad Air 11 (2024)
Power consumption
Compared to its predecessor, the new iPad Air's battery has increased by 0.33 to 28.93 watt-hours, but it can only be charged at a maximum of 20 watts via the USB port. In our test of the iPad Pro 11 with the M2 chip and a similar battery capacity, it took almost 2.5 hours to charge it fully using the now optional 20-watt power supply unit.
Its power consumption under load is higher than with the Pro model. In idle mode, however, the 11-inch version of the iPad Air 6 consumes comparatively little power at less than 5 watts.
| Off / Standby |   0.1 / 0.2 Watt |
| Idle |  1.5 / 3.6 / 4.6 Watt |
| Load |
12.8 / 16.8 Watt |
    
| |
Key:
min: ,
med: ,
max: Metrahit Energy | |
| Apple iPad Air 11 2024 mAh | Apple iPad Air 5 2022 mAh | Apple iPad Pro 11 2022 7538 mAh | Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 5G 8400 mAh | Google Pixel Tablet 7020 mAh | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Power Consumption | -35% | -1% | 3% | -4% | |
| Idle Minimum * | 1.5 | 1.65 -10% | 1.1 27% | 2.58 -72% | 1.33 11% |
| Idle Average * | 3.6 | 8.1 -125% | 6 -67% | 3.24 10% | 4.67 -30% |
| Idle Maximum * | 4.6 | 9.4 -104% | 6.1 -33% | 3.39 26% | 4.78 -4% |
| Load Average * | 12.8 | 9.5 26% | 9.1 29% | 7.02 45% | 9.81 23% |
| Load Maximum * | 16.8 | 10.4 38% | 10.2 39% | 15.86 6% | 19.76 -18% |
* ... smaller is better
Power consumption: Geekbench (150 cd/m²)
Power consumption: GFXBench (150 cd/m²)
Runtimes
Although the iPad Air 11 (2024) with its IPS panel boasts good runtimes, it is by no means a long-distance runner. Our comparison devices can be best contrasted at an adapted display brightness of 150 cd/m². In our practical WLAN test, the iPad Air Gen 6 managed about 11.5 hours and with the WLAN module deactivated when playing back a video in a loop, it lasted for 13 hours. These are good values, but the iPad Pro 11 with the M2 chip holds on for longer.
| Apple iPad Air 11 2024 mAh | Apple iPad Air 5 2022 mAh | Apple iPad Pro 11 2022 7538 mAh | Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 5G 8400 mAh | Google Pixel Tablet 7020 mAh | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Battery Runtime | 6% | 29% | -11% | 59% | |
| Reader / Idle | 1508 | 2198 46% | 920 -39% | 2202 46% | |
| H.264 | 768 | 941 23% | 703 -8% | 1239 61% | |
| WiFi v1.3 | 683 | 646 -5% | 846 24% | 539 -21% | 992 45% |
| Load | 211 | 245 16% | 256 21% | 262 24% | 391 85% |
Pros
Cons
Verdict on the Apple iPad Air 11 (2024)
The 6th gen iPad Air boasts a high-quality appearance and slim build. However, Apple should either rethink the name "Air" or the model in general, as the iPad Pro 11 with the M4 chip is not only a thinner tablet but it is also lighter, meaning the Air has lost its unique selling point.
Aside from the Apple M2, the iPad Air 11 (2024) only gives potential buyers little reason to upgrade compared to its predecessor. Thanks to its in-house SoC, the 2024 version is incredibly powerful and as a result of its high efficiency, it benefits from great runtimes and comparatively low waste heat. Even so, there are only few potential use scenarios using iPad OS that would properly demand an M2 chip.
Apple hasn't presented much new in its iPad Air 6, however, its performance is extraordinary thanks to its M2 chip.
All things considered, the 6th-gen iPad Air still fails to give users that true pro feeling. Its display—the likely most important feature of a tablet—simply isn't good enough to achieve this. Its 60 Hz refresh rate in particular just isn't up to date anymore within this price class. Together with its slow response times, creative pro users will likely continue to have to reach for the Pro model.
If you don't need the high performance capabilities of the iPad Air Gen 6 and would like to wager a look at the Android camp, then the Galaxy Tab S9 may well be a better-equipped 11-inch tablet within a similar price range. The Google Pixel Tablet, in combination with its Hub mode, could also be an exciting alternative to the iPad Air 11 (2024).
Price and availability
The 2024 Apple iPad Air can be purchased directly from the manufacturer or from online retailers such as Amazon, with prices starting from US$599.
Apple iPad Air 11 2024
- 05/27/2024 v7 (old)
Marcus Herbrich
Transparency
The selection of devices to be reviewed is made by our editorial team. The test sample was provided to the author as a loan by the manufacturer or retailer for the purpose of this review. The lender had no influence on this review, nor did the manufacturer receive a copy of this review before publication. There was no obligation to publish this review. We never accept compensation or payment in return for our reviews. As an independent media company, Notebookcheck is not subjected to the authority of manufacturers, retailers or publishers.
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Every year, Notebookcheck independently reviews hundreds of laptops and smartphones using standardized procedures to ensure that all results are comparable. We have continuously developed our test methods for around 20 years and set industry standards in the process. In our test labs, high-quality measuring equipment is utilized by experienced technicians and editors. These tests involve a multi-stage validation process. Our complex rating system is based on hundreds of well-founded measurements and benchmarks, which maintains objectivity. Further information on our test methods can be found here.
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