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Apple iPad Air 11 M4 2026 review

Apple iPad Air 11 2026 review – A slim tablet with Apple M4 power

Even more power.

While the Apple iPad Air 11 (2026) has been given a performance upgrade thanks to its M4 chip and boasts smaller updates like Wi-Fi 7, its other features, such as its display, cameras and design, remain largely unchanged. In our test, we’ll show just how powerful the new model really is during everyday use and whether it’s worth making the switch, given its price and features.
Florian Schmitt, 👁 Florian Schmitt (translated by Daisy Dickson) Published 🇩🇪
ARM Apple iPad Tablet

Verdict on the Apple iPad Air M4 2026

The iPad Air 2026 proves to be more of a compulsory update rather than a true revolution: While its new processor takes the tablet to new performance heights, and Apple has even lowered the price of its more expensive models by a few dollars, the rest of the device's changes are minor—such as a faster Wi-Fi standard and a few extra grams in weight.

When it comes to its runtimes, speaker sound, display and cameras, on the other hand, nothing has changed. The same can be said for its case and available colors, where Apple has made no changes whatsoever.

Download your licensed rating image as SVG / PNG

For productive use, Apple iPadOS still isn't quite as useful as MacOS. So, you'll need to decide for yourself whether the iPad can act as a full replacemet for the MacBook, as it also depennds on what apps you will be using.

One thing is clear: Fans of OLED screens or lots of storage space will still find cheaper deals at Android compared to Apple. However, for those who can make peace with an IPS display and who already store their data in the Cloud, the eighth generation of the Apple iPad Air 2026 is sure to give users a lot of power at a fair price.

Pros

+ very high performance
+ fast, stable WLAN
+ entry-level version: good price-to-performance ratio
+ high-quality case
+ fast USB connection with display port
+ updates expected to be long
+ decent sustainability
+ precise touchscreen
+ pencil support

Cons

- relatively wide bezels
- few updates
- display only 60 Hz
- weak brightness for outdoor use
- no water/dust protection
- iPadOS less productive than macOS
- storage upgrades very expensive
- few Bluetooth codecs
- throttling under load

Price and availability

Test device provided by notebooksbilliger.de.
Test device provided by notebooksbilliger.de.

The 8th-gen Apple iPad Air 11 costs between $599 and $1,249, depending on the configuration.

You can buy it directly from Apple or on Amazon, where it's currently on offer for $559.

Apple's mid-range tablet is back, now with pen support, Wi-Fi 7, a color-accurate display and Apple M4 power. It aims to win the hearts of both casual users and professionals. Plus, it features a much better price-to-performance ratio compared to the iPad Pro.

Today, we'll be taking a look at the 11-inch version of the iPad Air 2026 (Wi-Fi only) so we can tell you exactly what's new—and whether it's worth making the switch.

Specifications

Apple iPad Air 11 M4 2026 (iPad Air Series)
Processor
Apple M4 8-Core 8c/8t, 4 x 4.4 GHz Apple M4 P-Core 2.9 GHz Apple M4 E-Core
Graphics adapter
Apple M4 9-Core GPU
Memory
12 GB 
Display
10.86 inch 3:2, 2360 x 1640 pixel 265 PPI, capacitive touchscreen, IPS, glossy: yes, 60 Hz
Storage
128 GB NVMe, 128 GB 
, 90 GB free
Connections
1 USB 3.0 / 3.1 Gen1, USB-C Power Delivery (PD), 1 DisplayPort, 1 Docking Station Port, Audio Connections: audio via USB-C, 1 Fingerprint Reader, Brightness Sensor, Sensors: acceleration, orientation, barometer, compass
Networking
802.11 a/​b/​g/​n/​ac/​ax/​be (a/b/g/n = Wi-Fi 4/ac = Wi-Fi 5/ax = Wi-Fi 6/ Wi-Fi 6E 6 GHz be = Wi-Fi 7), Bluetooth 6.0
Size
height x width x depth (in mm): 6.1 x 247.6 x 178.5 ( = 0.24 x 9.75 x 7.03 in)
Battery
28.93 Wh, 7606 mAh Lithium-Polymer, 20 Watt wired charging
Operating System
Apple iPadOS 26
Camera
Primary Camera: 12 MPix f/​2.0, LED flash
Secondary Camera: 12 MPix f/​1.8, AF, wide angle
Additional features
Speakers: stereo speakers, USB cable, 12 Months Warranty, IP42-certified, fanless
Weight
464 g ( = 16.37 oz / 1.02 pounds) ( = 0 oz / 0 pounds)
Price
600 Euro
Note: The manufacturer may use components from different suppliers including display panels, drives or memory sticks with similar specifications.

 

Case – High-quality and lightweight

The iPad Air 11 (2026)’s aluminum unibody case is typical Apple: high-quality, lightweight, and comfortable to hold. That being said, its weight has increased by a few grams to 464 or 465 grams (Wi-Fi or cellular version).

Its screen bezels are relatively wide, but this does at least help prevent accidental touches. Note: The tablet is not water- or dust-resistant—a quick splash may not be a problem, but you should avoid anything more than that.

There are four colors to choose from: Space Gray, Purple, Blue, and Starlight—a subtle beige.

Apple iPad Air 11 M4 2026 review
Apple iPad Air 11 M4 2026 review
Apple iPad Air 11 M4 2026 review
Apple iPad Air 11 M4 2026 review
Apple iPad Air 11 M4 2026 review
Apple iPad Air 11 M4 2026 review

Size comparison

255.5 mm / 10.1 in 165.8 mm / 6.53 in 6.2 mm / 0.2441 in 458 g1.01 lbs253.8 mm / 9.99 in 165.3 mm / 6.51 in 5.5 mm / 0.2165 in 469 g1.034 lbs251.2 mm / 9.89 in 173.4 mm / 6.83 in 5.8 mm / 0.2283 in 485 g1.069 lbs247.6 mm / 9.75 in 178.5 mm / 7.03 in 6.1 mm / 0.2402 in 464 g1.023 lbs247.6 mm / 9.75 in 178.5 mm / 7.03 in 6.1 mm / 0.2402 in 460 g1.014 lbs210 mm / 8.27 in 148 mm / 5.83 in 1 mm / 0.03937 in 2.9 g0.00639 lbs

Connectivity – Cheaper storage upgrades

Prices for the iPad Air 11 (2026) start at $599 (128 GB, Wi-Fi). All models come with 12 GB of RAM.

Those who want more storage or cellular connectivity will pay significantly more, although prices for upgrades have actually dropped compared to last year.

  • 256 GB storage: $699 (WiFi) / $849 (WiFi + cellular)
  • 512 GB storage: $899 (WiFi) / $1,049 (WiFi + cellular)
  • 1 TB storage: $1,099 (WiFi) / $1,249 (WiFi + cellular)

Its USB-C-Port supports 10 GBit/s and can output display signals up to 6K. Accessories can be connected via three Pogo pins on the back.

The cellular versions of the tablet only support eSIMs.

Software – iPadOS now numbered by year

Apple now names its iPadOS after the year it was released: The 8th-gen iPad Air comes with iPadOS 26.4 preinstalled. It now relies on the Liquid Glass design we already know from the new iPhones, which features partially transparent surfaces and optimized window management for multitasking. Complex processes can now run in the background, allowing you to continue using the iPad.

Apple hasn't officially stated how long new software versions will be available for the iPad Air. However, based on experience with previous devices, updates are typically provided for at least six years.

Sustainability

The iPad Air is made with 30% recycled materials, and its lithium and cobalt components are almost entirely recycled.

Its carbon footprint remains unchanged at 76 kg for the lowest-capacity model. Apple has also published a detailed environmental report for this product.

Communication and GNSS – Wi-Fi 7 on the Apple device

The iPad Air 11 (2026) now supports Wi-Fi 7 for the first time, enabling even faster and more stable connections. Unfortunately, we aren't yet able to test Wi-Fi 7 networks; using our Asus ROG Rapture AXE11000 reference router, however, the tablet achieved speeds of around 1,700 Mbps (download) and over 1,100 Mbps (upload) within the Wi-Fi 6E range. The connection was very stable throughout our test.

For precise satellite positioning, you'll need the 5G model.

Networking
Apple iPad Air 11 M4 2026
802.11 a/​b/​g/​n/​ac/​ax/​be
iperf3 transmit AXE11000 6GHz
950 (min: 719) MBit/s ∼52%
iperf3 receive AXE11000 6GHz
1632 (min: 1226) MBit/s ∼87%
Apple iPad Air 11 2025
Wi-Fi 6E
iperf3 transmit AXE11000 6GHz
1011 (min: 909) MBit/s ∼55%
iperf3 receive AXE11000 6GHz
1484 (min: 1233) MBit/s ∼79%
Samsung Galaxy Tab S11
Wi-Fi 6E
iperf3 transmit AXE11000
970 (min: 946) MBit/s ∼100%
iperf3 receive AXE11000
981 (min: 963) MBit/s ∼93%
iperf3 transmit AXE11000 6GHz
1827 (min: 1785) MBit/s ∼100%
iperf3 receive AXE11000 6GHz
1874 (min: 1677) MBit/s ∼100%
Xiaomi Pad 8 Pro
802.11 a/​b/​g/​n/​ac/​ax/​be
iperf3 transmit AXE11000
719 (min: 546) MBit/s ∼74%
iperf3 receive AXE11000
922 (min: 807) MBit/s ∼88%
iperf3 transmit AXE11000 6GHz
1148 (min: 966) MBit/s ∼63%
iperf3 receive AXE11000 6GHz
1338 (min: 1008) MBit/s ∼71%
Lenovo Yoga Tab
802.11 a/​b/​g/​n/​ac/​ax/​be
iperf3 transmit AXE11000 6GHz
988 (min: 806) MBit/s ∼54%
iperf3 receive AXE11000 6GHz
1689 (min: 1523) MBit/s ∼90%
Average 802.11 a/​b/​g/​n/​ac/​ax/​be
 
iperf3 transmit AXE11000
956 (min: 595) MBit/s ∼99%
iperf3 receive AXE11000
1053 (min: 459) MBit/s ∼100%
iperf3 transmit AXE11000 6GHz
1257 (min: 508) MBit/s ∼69%
iperf3 receive AXE11000 6GHz
1468 (min: 719) MBit/s ∼78%
Average of class Tablet
 
iperf3 transmit AXE11000
589 (min: 10.5) MBit/s ∼61%
iperf3 receive AXE11000
700 (min: 20.1) MBit/s ∼66%
iperf3 transmit AXE11000 6GHz
1169 (min: 330) MBit/s ∼64%
iperf3 receive AXE11000 6GHz
1411 (min: 291) MBit/s ∼75%
050100150200250300350400450500550600650700750800850900950100010501100115012001250130013501400145015001550160016501700Tooltip
Apple iPad Air 11 M4 2026; iperf3 transmit AXE11000 6GHz: Ø950 (719-1138)
Apple iPad Air 11 M4 2026; iperf3 receive AXE11000 6GHz: Ø1632 (1226-1701)

Cameras – 4K video support

Photo taken using front-facing camera
Photo taken using front-facing camera

There are no camera updates this year either: The tablet's 12-MP rear camera delivers solid results, but by no means smartphone-level quality.

In good lighting, photos look natural, but the quality quickly suffers in low light. The post-processed bokeh effects don't always look the best.

Users can record 4K video at 60 fps, and this yields good quality results; the autofocus responds quite quickly.

Its front-facing camera takes decent selfies, but you shouldn’t zoom in too much.

Image comparison

Choose a scene and navigate within the first image. One click changes the position on touchscreens. One click on the zoomed-in image opens the original in a new window. The first image shows the scaled photograph of the test device.

Main camera plantMain camera surroundingsMain camera low light
ColorChecker
4.5 ∆E
8.9 ∆E
8.6 ∆E
5.7 ∆E
9.4 ∆E
9.4 ∆E
5.5 ∆E
1.9 ∆E
9.3 ∆E
6.1 ∆E
8.6 ∆E
5.4 ∆E
4.3 ∆E
5.1 ∆E
5 ∆E
5.6 ∆E
8.5 ∆E
9.6 ∆E
11.4 ∆E
11 ∆E
11.9 ∆E
7.7 ∆E
4.7 ∆E
6.4 ∆E
ColorChecker Apple iPad Air 11 M4 2026: 7.27 ∆E min: 1.87 - max: 11.89 ∆E
ColorChecker
29.6 ∆E
51.6 ∆E
38.9 ∆E
34.6 ∆E
44.7 ∆E
57.3 ∆E
50.9 ∆E
33.7 ∆E
40.8 ∆E
29.4 ∆E
59.9 ∆E
61 ∆E
29.4 ∆E
45.4 ∆E
36.2 ∆E
70 ∆E
41.6 ∆E
40.4 ∆E
69 ∆E
66.5 ∆E
49.6 ∆E
36.4 ∆E
23.8 ∆E
13.9 ∆E
ColorChecker Apple iPad Air 11 M4 2026: 43.94 ∆E min: 13.91 - max: 70.02 ∆E

Accessories and warranty – Only a USB cable included

The tablet's scope of delivery only includes a USB cable.

The Magic Keyboard ($269) features function keys and a USB-C port. It is compatible with the Apple Pencil ($79) or Apple Pencil Pro ($129). It attaches magnetically to the top edge of the device.

The iPad is covered by a 12-month warranty, which can be extended with AppleCare+ (starting at $5.99/month).

Input devices and operation – Not quite as reactive

The iPad's touchscreen is responsive, but its 60-Hz display feels less smooth compared to tablets with higher refresh rates.

Its fingerprint sensor in the standby button works reliably.

Display – 500-nit brightness

Sub-pixel array
Sub-pixel array

Like its predecessor, the device's 10.86-inch IPS display features a resolution of 2360 x 1640 pixels (265 PPI).

Its brightness is around 500 cd/m²—sufficient for indoor use, but not for bright sunlight.

Although HDR is supported, the tablet's poor maximum brightness makes displaying this less than impressive.

The screen suffers from no PWM flickering.

509
cd/m²
512
cd/m²
513
cd/m²
505
cd/m²
513
cd/m²
512
cd/m²
509
cd/m²
510
cd/m²
511
cd/m²
Distribution of brightness
tested with X-Rite i1Pro 3
Maximum: 513 cd/m² (Nits) Average: 510.4 cd/m² Minimum: 3.7 cd/m²
Brightness Distribution: 98 %
Center on Battery: 513 cd/m²
Contrast: 1140:1 (Black: 0.45 cd/m²)
ΔE ColorChecker Calman: 1.92 | ∀{0.5-29.43 Ø4.74}
ΔE Greyscale Calman: 2.8 | ∀{0.09-98 Ø4.99}
99.6% sRGB (Calman 2D)
Gamma: 2.222
CCT: 7102 K
Apple iPad Air 11 M4 2026
IPS, 2360x1640, 10.9"
Apple iPad Air 11 2025
IPS, 2360x1640, 10.9"
Samsung Galaxy Tab S11
OLED - Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 2560x1600, 11"
Xiaomi Pad 8 Pro
LCD, 3200x2136, 11.2"
Lenovo Yoga Tab
LTPS, 3200x2000, 11.1"
Screen
11%
11%
20%
15%
Brightness middle (cd/m²)
513
508
-1%
946
84%
626
22%
609
19%
Brightness (cd/m²)
510
497
-3%
938
84%
617
21%
583
14%
Brightness Distribution (%)
98
93
-5%
96
-2%
96
-2%
91
-7%
Black Level * (cd/m²)
0.45
0.5
-11%
0.3
33%
0.4
11%
Contrast (:1)
1140
1016
-11%
2087
83%
1523
34%
Colorchecker dE 2000 *
1.92
1.13
41%
3.5
-82%
1.64
15%
1.81
6%
Colorchecker dE 2000 max. *
4.12
2.49
40%
5.5
-33%
4.13
-0%
2.98
28%
Greyscale dE 2000 *
2.8
1.7
39%
2.4
14%
3.1
-11%
2.5
11%
Gamma
2.222 99%
2.173 101%
2.02 109%
2.2 100%
1.934 114%
CCT
7102 92%
6747 96%
6322 103%
6746 96%
6853 95%

* ... smaller is better

Display / APL18 Peak Brightness
Samsung Galaxy Tab S11
Immortalis-G925 MC12, Dimensity 9400+, 128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
1575 cd/m² +199%
Apple iPad Air 11 M4 2026
M4 9-Core GPU, M4 8-Core, 128 GB NVMe
526 cd/m²
Display / HDR Peak Brightness
Samsung Galaxy Tab S11
Immortalis-G925 MC12, Dimensity 9400+, 128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
1648 cd/m² +224%
Apple iPad Air 11 M4 2026
M4 9-Core GPU, M4 8-Core, 128 GB NVMe
508 cd/m²

Screen Flickering / PWM (Pulse-Width Modulation)

To dim the screen, some notebooks will simply cycle the backlight on and off in rapid succession - a method called Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) . This cycling frequency should ideally be undetectable to the human eye. If said frequency is too low, users with sensitive eyes may experience strain or headaches or even notice the flickering altogether.
Screen flickering / PWM not detected

In comparison: 52 % of all tested devices do not use PWM to dim the display. If PWM was detected, an average of 7914 (minimum: 5 - maximum: 343500) Hz was measured.

During our tests using a spectrophotometer and CalMAN software, we noticed a slight blue cast, particularly when displaying lighter shades of gray and white.

This isn't too much of a problem, however, and overall, colors are reproduced well.

CalMAN grayscale
CalMAN grayscale
CalMAN color accuracy
CalMAN color accuracy
CalMAN color space
CalMAN color space

Display Response Times

Display response times show how fast the screen is able to change from one color to the next. Slow response times can lead to afterimages and can cause moving objects to appear blurry (ghosting). Gamers of fast-paced 3D titles should pay special attention to fast response times.
       Response Time Black to White
14.1 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 10.1 ms rise
↘ 4 ms fall
The screen shows good response rates in our tests, but may be too slow for competitive gamers.
In comparison, all tested devices range from 0.1 (minimum) to 240 (maximum) ms. » 35 % of all devices are better.
This means that the measured response time is better than the average of all tested devices (20 ms).
       Response Time 50% Grey to 80% Grey
29.6 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 19.2 ms rise
↘ 10.4 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 0.165 (minimum) to 636 (maximum) ms. » 39 % of all devices are better.
This means that the measured response time is similar to the average of all tested devices (31.3 ms).

Performance – Full power for the tablet

What’s new is that the 2026 Apple iPad Air 11 now features the Apple M4 chip. This chip is also used in the iMac and (with more processor cores) in the MacBook Pro. It offers about 15–20% more performance than last year’s iPad Air.

As a result, lag is a thing of the past for this tablet, and it handles even demanding tasks with ease.

Geekbench 6.6
Single-Core
Apple iPad Air 11 M4 2026
Apple M4 8-Core, M4 9-Core GPU, 12288
3735 Points
Average Apple M4 8-Core
  (3660 - 3735, n=2)
3698 Points -1%
Xiaomi Pad 8 Pro
Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite, Adreno 840, 16384
3088 Points -17%
Apple iPad Air 11 2025
Apple M3, M3 9-Core GPU, 8192
3019 Points -19%
Samsung Galaxy Tab S11
Mediatek Dimensity 9400+, Immortalis-G925 MC12, 12288
2478 Points -34%
Lenovo Yoga Tab
Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, Adreno 750, 12288
1999 Points -46%
Average of class Tablet
  (323 - 4128, n=91, last 2 years)
1602 Points -57%
Multi-Core
Average Apple M4 8-Core
  (13494 - 14025, n=2)
13760 Points +2%
Apple iPad Air 11 M4 2026
Apple M4 8-Core, M4 9-Core GPU, 12288
13494 Points
Apple iPad Air 11 2025
Apple M3, M3 9-Core GPU, 8192
11773 Points -13%
Xiaomi Pad 8 Pro
Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite, Adreno 840, 16384
9543 Points -29%
Samsung Galaxy Tab S11
Mediatek Dimensity 9400+, Immortalis-G925 MC12, 12288
7787 Points -42%
Lenovo Yoga Tab
Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, Adreno 750, 12288
6689 Points -50%
Average of class Tablet
  (1104 - 16544, n=91, last 2 years)
5125 Points -62%
Geekbench AI
Single Precision NPU 1.7
Apple iPad Air 11 M4 2026
Apple M4 8-Core, M4 9-Core GPU, 12288
5166 Points
Average Apple M4 8-Core
  (n=1)
5166 Points 0%
Samsung Galaxy Tab S11
Mediatek Dimensity 9400+, Immortalis-G925 MC12, 12288
1143 Points -78%
Average of class Tablet
  (166 - 5295, n=37, last 2 years)
733 Points -86%
Xiaomi Pad 8 Pro
Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite, Adreno 840, 16384
587 Points -89%
Lenovo Yoga Tab
Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, Adreno 750, 12288
489 Points -91%
Half Precision NPU 1.7
Apple iPad Air 11 M4 2026
Apple M4 8-Core, M4 9-Core GPU, 12288
38399 Points
Average Apple M4 8-Core
  (n=1)
38399 Points 0%
Samsung Galaxy Tab S11
Mediatek Dimensity 9400+, Immortalis-G925 MC12, 12288
9067 Points -76%
Average of class Tablet
  (154 - 41155, n=37, last 2 years)
3718 Points -90%
Xiaomi Pad 8 Pro
Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite, Adreno 840, 16384
594 Points -98%
Lenovo Yoga Tab
Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, Adreno 750, 12288
481 Points -99%
Quantized NPU 1.7
Apple iPad Air 11 M4 2026
Apple M4 8-Core, M4 9-Core GPU, 12288
54488 Points
Average Apple M4 8-Core
  (n=1)
54488 Points 0%
Samsung Galaxy Tab S11
Mediatek Dimensity 9400+, Immortalis-G925 MC12, 12288
12422 Points -77%
Average of class Tablet
  (88 - 57388, n=37, last 2 years)
5341 Points -90%
Xiaomi Pad 8 Pro
Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite, Adreno 840, 16384
1311 Points -98%
Lenovo Yoga Tab
Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, Adreno 750, 12288
1127 Points -98%

In terms of its graphics performance, the SoC can hold its own against high-end SoCs. The limiting factor for gaming is more likely to be the tablet's 60-Hz display.

3DMark / Wild Life Extreme Unlimited
Apple iPad Air 11 M4 2026
M4 9-Core GPU, M4 8-Core, 128 GB NVMe
7189 Points
Xiaomi Pad 8 Pro
Adreno 840, SD 8 Elite, 512 GB UFS 4.1 Flash
6432 Points -11%
Samsung Galaxy Tab S11
Immortalis-G925 MC12, Dimensity 9400+, 128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
6388 Points -11%
Apple iPad Air 11 2025
M3 9-Core GPU, M3, 128 GB NVMe
5611 Points -22%
Lenovo Yoga Tab
Adreno 750, SD 8 Gen 3, 256 GB UFS 4.0 Flash
5028 Points -30%
3DMark / Wild Life Extreme
Xiaomi Pad 8 Pro
Adreno 840, SD 8 Elite, 512 GB UFS 4.1 Flash
6405 Points +2%
Samsung Galaxy Tab S11
Immortalis-G925 MC12, Dimensity 9400+, 128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
6353 Points +1%
Apple iPad Air 11 M4 2026
M4 9-Core GPU, M4 8-Core, 128 GB NVMe
6275 Points
Apple iPad Air 11 2025
M3 9-Core GPU, M3, 128 GB NVMe
5190 Points -17%
Lenovo Yoga Tab
Adreno 750, SD 8 Gen 3, 256 GB UFS 4.0 Flash
5043 Points -20%
3DMark / Wild Life Unlimited Score
Xiaomi Pad 8 Pro
Adreno 840, SD 8 Elite, 512 GB UFS 4.1 Flash
26009 Points
Samsung Galaxy Tab S11
Immortalis-G925 MC12, Dimensity 9400+, 128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
23674 Points
Lenovo Yoga Tab
Adreno 750, SD 8 Gen 3, 256 GB UFS 4.0 Flash
19029 Points
3DMark / Solar Bay Score
Xiaomi Pad 8 Pro
Adreno 840, SD 8 Elite, 512 GB UFS 4.1 Flash
11683 Points +3%
Samsung Galaxy Tab S11
Immortalis-G925 MC12, Dimensity 9400+, 128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
11564 Points +2%
Apple iPad Air 11 M4 2026
M4 9-Core GPU, M4 8-Core, 128 GB NVMe
11301 Points
Lenovo Yoga Tab
Adreno 750, SD 8 Gen 3, 256 GB UFS 4.0 Flash
8562 Points -24%
Apple iPad Air 11 2025
M3 9-Core GPU, M3, 128 GB NVMe
5675 Points -50%
3DMark / Solar Bay Unlimited Score
Apple iPad Air 11 M4 2026
M4 9-Core GPU, M4 8-Core, 128 GB NVMe
14357 Points
Xiaomi Pad 8 Pro
Adreno 840, SD 8 Elite, 512 GB UFS 4.1 Flash
11589 Points -19%
Samsung Galaxy Tab S11
Immortalis-G925 MC12, Dimensity 9400+, 128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
11543 Points -20%
Apple iPad Air 11 2025
M3 9-Core GPU, M3, 128 GB NVMe
8906 Points -38%
Lenovo Yoga Tab
Adreno 750, SD 8 Gen 3, 256 GB UFS 4.0 Flash
8601 Points -40%
3DMark / Steel Nomad Light Unlimited Score
Apple iPad Air 11 M4 2026
M4 9-Core GPU, M4 8-Core, 128 GB NVMe
3157 Points
Xiaomi Pad 8 Pro
Adreno 840, SD 8 Elite, 512 GB UFS 4.1 Flash
2596 Points -18%
Samsung Galaxy Tab S11
Immortalis-G925 MC12, Dimensity 9400+, 128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
2491 Points -21%
Apple iPad Air 11 2025
M3 9-Core GPU, M3, 128 GB NVMe
2088 Points -34%
Lenovo Yoga Tab
Adreno 750, SD 8 Gen 3, 256 GB UFS 4.0 Flash
1693 Points -46%
3DMark / Steel Nomad Light Score
Apple iPad Air 11 M4 2026
M4 9-Core GPU, M4 8-Core, 128 GB NVMe
3431 Points
Xiaomi Pad 8 Pro
Adreno 840, SD 8 Elite, 512 GB UFS 4.1 Flash
2643 Points -23%
Samsung Galaxy Tab S11
Immortalis-G925 MC12, Dimensity 9400+, 128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
2577 Points -25%
Apple iPad Air 11 2025
M3 9-Core GPU, M3, 128 GB NVMe
2572 Points -25%
Lenovo Yoga Tab
Adreno 750, SD 8 Gen 3, 256 GB UFS 4.0 Flash
1672 Points -51%

Surfing the web on the iPad Air 2026 is super fast. The only delays you might experience are more likely to be due to a poor internet connection.

Speedometer 2.0 - Result 2.0
Apple iPad Air 11 M4 2026 (Safari 26)
629 runs/min
Average Apple M4 8-Core (n=1)
629 runs/min 0%
Apple iPad Air 11 2025 (Safari 18)
548 runs/min -13%
Average of class Tablet (2.59 - 790, n=49, last 2 years)
228 runs/min -64%
Speedometer 3 - Score 3.0
Apple iPad Air 11 M4 2026 (Safari 26)
40.9 runs/min
Average Apple M4 8-Core (n=1)
40.9 runs/min 0%
Apple iPad Air 11 2025 (Safari 18)
34.4 runs/min -16%
Xiaomi Pad 8 Pro (Chrome 141)
29.2 runs/min -29%
Average of class Tablet (1.25 - 49.1, n=63, last 2 years)
15 runs/min -63%
WebXPRT 4 - Overall
Apple iPad Air 11 M4 2026 (Safari 26)
342 Points
Average Apple M4 8-Core (n=1)
342 Points 0%
Samsung Galaxy Tab S11 (Chrome 140)
234 Points -32%
Lenovo Yoga Tab (Chrome 140)
181 Points -47%
Average of class Tablet (39 - 376, n=66, last 2 years)
147.4 Points -57%
Xiaomi Pad 8 Pro (Chrome 141)
134 Points -61%
Octane V2 - Total Score
Apple iPad Air 11 M4 2026 (Safari 26)
122578 Points
Average Apple M4 8-Core (n=1)
122578 Points 0%
Apple iPad Air 11 2025 (Safari 18)
92645 Points -24%
Samsung Galaxy Tab S11 (Chrome 140)
89374 Points -27%
Xiaomi Pad 8 Pro (Chrome 141)
76383 Points -38%
Lenovo Yoga Tab (Chrome 140)
75238 Points -39%
Average of class Tablet (763 - 138481, n=83, last 2 years)
48391 Points -61%
Mozilla Kraken 1.1 - Total
Average of class Tablet (243 - 27101, n=75, last 2 years)
2373 ms * -735%
Lenovo Yoga Tab (Chrome 140)
531.2 ms * -87%
Xiaomi Pad 8 Pro (Chrome 141)
473.3 ms * -66%
Samsung Galaxy Tab S11 (Chrome 140)
392.3 ms * -38%
Apple iPad Air 11 2025 (Safari 18)
329.7 ms * -16%
Apple iPad Air 11 M4 2026 (Safari 26)
284.3 ms *
Average Apple M4 8-Core (n=1)
284 ms * -0%

* ... smaller is better

Unfortunately, there are no reliable storage benchmarks for iPadOS, so we had to rely on our hands-on testing experience: The NVMe storage proved to be very fast and enabled quick load times throughout our test.

Emissions – Some throttling may happen

Temperature

The tablet's waste heat generation under prolonged load is slightly higher than in the previous model, but it's still nothing to worry about. We also observed some throttling in the iPad Air 11 M4 2026, and in some cases, this was significantly more pronounced than in the previous model.

Even so, at least two-thirds of its power was maintained after prolonged load, as we determined through our 3DMark stress tests.

Max. Load
 32.9 °C
91 F
32.7 °C
91 F
32.7 °C
91 F
 
 33.7 °C
93 F
33.8 °C
93 F
33.9 °C
93 F
 
 36.4 °C
98 F
42.1 °C
108 F
38.9 °C
102 F
 
Maximum: 42.1 °C = 108 F
Average: 35.2 °C = 95 F
32.1 °C
90 F
32.5 °C
91 F
32.5 °C
91 F
33.2 °C
92 F
34.2 °C
94 F
34.3 °C
94 F
35.8 °C
96 F
41 °C
106 F
43 °C
109 F
Maximum: 43 °C = 109 F
Average: 35.4 °C = 96 F
Power Supply (max.)  41.1 °C = 106 F | Room Temperature 21 °C = 70 F | Fluke t3000FC (calibrated), Voltcraft IR-260
(±) The average temperature for the upper side under maximal load is 35.2 °C / 95 F, compared to the average of 30 °C / 86 F for the devices in the class Tablet.
(±) The maximum temperature on the upper side is 42.1 °C / 108 F, compared to the average of 33.6 °C / 92 F, ranging from 20.7 to 53.2 °C for the class Tablet.
(±) The bottom heats up to a maximum of 43 °C / 109 F, compared to the average of 33.2 °C / 92 F
(+) In idle usage, the average temperature for the upper side is 23.8 °C / 75 F, compared to the device average of 30 °C / 86 F.

3DMark stress tests

3DMark
Wild Life Stress Test Stability
Xiaomi Pad 8 Pro
Adreno 840, SD 8 Elite, 512 GB UFS 4.1 Flash
93.1 %
Lenovo Yoga Tab
Adreno 750, SD 8 Gen 3, 256 GB UFS 4.0 Flash
79.5 %
Samsung Galaxy Tab S11
Immortalis-G925 MC12, Dimensity 9400+, 128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
63.3 %
Wild Life Extreme Stress Test
Xiaomi Pad 8 Pro
Adreno 840, SD 8 Elite, 512 GB UFS 4.1 Flash
93.4 % +14%
Lenovo Yoga Tab
Adreno 750, SD 8 Gen 3, 256 GB UFS 4.0 Flash
82.1 % 0%
Apple iPad Air 11 M4 2026
M4 9-Core GPU, M4 8-Core, 128 GB NVMe
82 %
Apple iPad Air 11 2025
M3 9-Core GPU, M3, 128 GB NVMe
76.4 % -7%
Samsung Galaxy Tab S11
Immortalis-G925 MC12, Dimensity 9400+, 128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
66.7 % -19%
Solar Bay Stress Test Stability
Xiaomi Pad 8 Pro
Adreno 840, SD 8 Elite, 512 GB UFS 4.1 Flash
97.2 % +21%
Lenovo Yoga Tab
Adreno 750, SD 8 Gen 3, 256 GB UFS 4.0 Flash
85.9 % +7%
Apple iPad Air 11 2025
M3 9-Core GPU, M3, 128 GB NVMe
81.1 % +1%
Apple iPad Air 11 M4 2026
M4 9-Core GPU, M4 8-Core, 128 GB NVMe
80.4 %
Samsung Galaxy Tab S11
Immortalis-G925 MC12, Dimensity 9400+, 128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
76 % -5%
Steel Nomad Light Stress Test Stability
Lenovo Yoga Tab
Adreno 750, SD 8 Gen 3, 256 GB UFS 4.0 Flash
89.3 % +32%
Apple iPad Air 11 2025
M3 9-Core GPU, M3, 128 GB NVMe
80 % +18%
Samsung Galaxy Tab S11
Immortalis-G925 MC12, Dimensity 9400+, 128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
79.4 % +17%
Apple iPad Air 11 M4 2026
M4 9-Core GPU, M4 8-Core, 128 GB NVMe
67.9 %
05101520253035Tooltip
Apple iPad Air 11 M4 2026; Wild Life Extreme Stress Test; 0.0.0.0: Ø28.6 (27.1-33)
Apple iPad Air 11 M4 2026; Solar Bay Stress Test Stability; 0.0.0.0: Ø31.7 (29.9-37.2)
Apple iPad Air 11 M4 2026; Steel Nomad Light Stress Test Stability; 0.0.0.0: Ø17.9 (16.8-24.7)
Heatmap front
Heatmap front
Heatmap back
Heatmap back

Speakers

The device's stereo speakers are reasonably powerful and have a fairly warm sound, but you won’t find any real bass in their sound profile.

External audio devices can be connected via the USB-C port or using Bluetooth 6. Support for wireless audio codecs is limited to Apple’s AAC, and SBC, which doesn’t sound the most impressive.

dB(A) 0102030405060708090Deep BassMiddle BassHigh BassLower RangeMidsHigher MidsLower HighsMid HighsUpper HighsSuper Highs2014.716.42517.818.73119.522.54021.126.25021.335.76323.622.4802117.310017.131.312526.644.81602453.320019.657.225023.35831532.863.340026.660.950024.659.663035.464.980033.165.8100036.765.5125038.671.4160034.874.7200036.773.9250034.468.5315029.968.6400030.967.350003067.4630025.568.7800024.468.11000027.170.81250027.871.31600022.555.5SPL45.682N4.952median 27.8median 65.8Delta55.742.740.146.241.139.632.43533.237.933.826.525.122.124.925.337.324.749.92453.520.454.615.85517.959.814.957.117.657.825.563.317.757.117.46215.36816.268.314.861.9166217.860.91659.122.16721.673.626.168.220.462.620.467.320.965.232.278.41.642.1median 17.9median 61.93.15.2hearing rangehide median Pink NoiseApple iPad Air 11 M4 2026Apple iPad Air 11 2025
Frequency diagram (checkboxes can be checked and unchecked to compare devices)
Apple iPad Air 11 M4 2026 audio analysis

(+) | speakers can play relatively loud (82 dB)
Bass 100 - 315 Hz
(±) | reduced bass - on average 14.5% lower than median
(-) | bass is not linear (20.2% delta to prev. frequency)
Mids 400 - 2000 Hz
(+) | balanced mids - only 4.4% away from median
(+) | mids are linear (6.7% delta to prev. frequency)
Highs 2 - 16 kHz
(+) | balanced highs - only 2.7% away from median
(+) | highs are linear (4.3% delta to prev. frequency)
Overall 100 - 16.000 Hz
(±) | linearity of overall sound is average (19.6% difference to median)
Compared to same class
» 54% of all tested devices in this class were better, 7% similar, 38% worse
» The best had a delta of 7%, average was 20%, worst was 129%
Compared to all devices tested
» 49% of all tested devices were better, 7% similar, 44% worse
» The best had a delta of 4%, average was 24%, worst was 134%

Apple iPad Air 11 2025 audio analysis

(±) | speaker loudness is average but good (78.4 dB)
Bass 100 - 315 Hz
(±) | reduced bass - on average 10.2% lower than median
(±) | linearity of bass is average (13.3% delta to prev. frequency)
Mids 400 - 2000 Hz
(+) | balanced mids - only 3.5% away from median
(±) | linearity of mids is average (9.3% delta to prev. frequency)
Highs 2 - 16 kHz
(+) | balanced highs - only 4% away from median
(±) | linearity of highs is average (9.3% delta to prev. frequency)
Overall 100 - 16.000 Hz
(+) | overall sound is linear (14.7% difference to median)
Compared to same class
» 31% of all tested devices in this class were better, 4% similar, 65% worse
» The best had a delta of 7%, average was 20%, worst was 129%
Compared to all devices tested
» 19% of all tested devices were better, 4% similar, 77% worse
» The best had a delta of 4%, average was 24%, worst was 134%

Battery life – Endurance fit for everyday use

Power consumption

Its power consumption is slightly lower than that of the previous model, with a maximum of just under 17 watts.

The tablet charges at up to 20 watts, and its charging time of no more than 2 hours and 15 minutes is fine.

Power Consumption
Off / Standbydarklight 0.1 / 0.2 Watt
Idledarkmidlight 2 / 2.9 / 3.7 Watt
Load midlight 10.9 / 16.9 Watt
 color bar
Key: min: dark, med: mid, max: light        Metrahit Energy
Apple iPad Air 11 M4 2026
7606 mAh
Apple iPad Air 11 2025
 mAh
Samsung Galaxy Tab S11
8400 mAh
Xiaomi Pad 8 Pro
9200 mAh
Lenovo Yoga Tab
8860 mAh
Average Apple M4 8-Core
 
Average of class Tablet
 
Power Consumption
-2%
-21%
26%
38%
0%
-5%
Idle Minimum * (Watt)
2
1.6
20%
2.57
-29%
1.5
25%
1.2
40%
2 ?(n=1)
-0%
Idle Average * (Watt)
2.9
2.8
3%
4.32
-49%
2
31%
1.4
52%
2.9 ?(n=1)
-0%
Idle Maximum * (Watt)
3.7
4.7
-27%
4.36
-18%
2.6
30%
1.8
51%
3.7 ?(n=1)
-0%
Load Average * (Watt)
10.9
11.4
-5%
12.54
-15%
6.7
39%
7.8
28%
10.9 ?(n=1)
-0%
Load Maximum * (Watt)
16.9
16.8
1%
15.49
8%
15.7
7%
13.9
18%
16.9 ?(n=1)
-0%

* ... smaller is better

Power consumption: Geekbench (150 cd/m²)

012345678910111213141516Tooltip
Apple iPad Air 11 M4 2026; Geekbench 5.5 Power Consumption 150cd: Ø7.66 (1.919-16.9)
Apple iPad Air 11 M4 2026; Idle 150cd/m2: Ø2.25 (2.16-3.56)

Power consumption: GFXbench (150 cd/m²)

00.20.40.50.70.91.11.21.41.61.822.12.32.52.72.833.23.4Tooltip
Apple iPad Air 11 M4 2026: Ø2.25 (2.16-3.56)

Runtimes

Its 7,606 mAh battery lasted about 12 hours during our Wi-Fi test. That’s slightly longer than its predecessor, which was fitted with a battery of the same capacity.

While some Android tablets in this price range offer significantly longer battery life, the iPad's battery life is adequate for everyday use.

Battery Runtime
Idle (without WLAN, min brightness)
25h 22min
WiFi Websurfing
11h 59min
Load (maximum brightness)
3h 54min
Apple iPad Air 11 M4 2026
7606 mAh
Apple iPad Air 11 2025
 mAh
Samsung Galaxy Tab S11
8400 mAh
Xiaomi Pad 8 Pro
9200 mAh
Lenovo Yoga Tab
8860 mAh
Battery runtime
-2%
-7%
35%
48%
Reader / Idle (h)
25.4
25.6
1%
37.2
46%
WiFi v1.3 (h)
12
11.7
-2%
11.2
-7%
20.4
70%
17.7
48%
Load (h)
3.9
3.7
-5%
3.5
-10%
H.264 (h)
12.9
16.6

Notebookcheck total rating

The Apple iPad Air 2026 features an even faster SoC in the form of the Apple M4, but otherwise, the changes from last year are minimal.

Apple iPad Air 11 M4 2026 review. Test device provided by notebooksbilliger.de.
Apple iPad Air 11 M4 2026 review. Test device provided by notebooksbilliger.de.

Apple iPad Air 11 M4 2026 - 04/09/2026 v8
Florian Schmitt

Chassis
86 / 98 → 87%
Keyboard
73 / 80 → 91%
Pointing Device
92%
Connectivity
54 / 69 → 79%
Weight
84 / 40-88 → 91%
Battery
89%
Display
84%
Games Performance
47 / 65 → 72%
Application Performance
96 / 92 → 100%
AI Performance
96%
Temperature
90%
Noise
100%
Audio
82 / 91 → 90%
Camera
62 / 90 → 69%
Average
82%
88%
Tablet - Weighted Average
CO2 Emissions
86%
Materials
80%
Packaging
95%
Power Use
94.8%
Repairability
50%
Software Updates
90%
Recycle Logo Total Sustainability Score: 82.6%

Possible alternatives compared

Image
Model / Review
Price
Weight
Drive
Display
1.
87.5%
Apple iPad Air 11 M4 2026
Apple iPad Air 11 M4 2026
Apple M4 8-Core ⎘
Apple M4 9-Core GPU ⎘
12 GB Memory, 128 GB NVMe
List Price: 600€464 g128 GB NVMe10.86"
2360x1640
265 PPI
IPS
2.
87.4%
Apple iPad Air 11 2025
Apple iPad Air 11 2025
Apple M3 ⎘
Apple M3 9-Core GPU ⎘
8 GB Memory, 128 GB NVMe
List Price: 699€460 g128 GB NVMe10.86"
2360x1640
265 PPI
IPS
3.
88.2%
Samsung Galaxy Tab S11
Samsung Galaxy Tab S11
Mediatek Dimensity 9400+ ⎘
ARM Immortalis-G925 MC12 ⎘
12 GB Memory, 128 GB 
List Price: 899€469 g128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash11.00"
2560x1600
274 PPI
OLED - Dynamic AMOLED 2X
4.
89.2%
Xiaomi Pad 8 Pro
Xiaomi Pad 8 Pro
Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite ⎘
Qualcomm Adreno 840 ⎘
16 GB Memory, 512 GB 
Amazon:
1. $499.99
XIAOMI Pad 8 Ai WiFi Version...
2. $469.50
XIAOMI Pad 8 Ai WiFi Version...
3. $499.99
XIAOMI Pad 8 Ai WiFi Version...
List Price: 600€
485 g512 GB UFS 4.1 Flash11.20"
3200x2136
344 PPI
LCD
5.
88.2%
Lenovo Yoga Tab
Lenovo Yoga Tab
Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 ⎘
Qualcomm Adreno 750 ⎘
12 GB Memory, 256 GB 
Amazon:
1. $529.99
Lenovo - Yoga Tab Plus - 12....
2. $333.01
Lenovo Idea Tab Pro with Goo...
3. $216.00
Lenovo Idea Tab - College Ta...
List Price: 499€
458 g256 GB UFS 4.0 Flash11.10"
3200x2000
340 PPI
LTPS

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. As an independent media company, Notebookcheck is not subjected to the authority of manufacturers, retailers or publishers.

This is how Notebookcheck is testing

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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> Expert Reviews and News on Laptops, Smartphones and Tech Innovations > Reviews > Apple iPad Air 11 2026 review – A slim tablet with Apple M4 power
Florian Schmitt, 2026-04-12 (Update: 2026-04-12)