The iPad Air 2 and the iPad Air are two tablets made by Apple. Many people need to choose between them. This guide shows the most important differences. It helps you decide if spending $100 more is worth it.
Price and Storage Options
Both tablets have several price points. The iPad Air starts at $399 for a 16 GB model.
If you want cellular (4G LTE) you pay $529 for the same storage.
The iPad Air also comes in a 32 GB version for $499. With LTE the price is $579.
The newer iPad Air 2 starts at $499 for 16 GB. The LTE version costs $629.
You can upgrade storage on either tablet. Adding 64 GB costs about $100 more. Adding 128 GB costs about $200 more.
- iPad Air 16 GB – $399
- iPad Air 32 GB – $499
- iPad Air LTE 16 GB – $529
- iPad Air LTE 32 GB – $579
- iPad Air 2 16 GB – $499
- iPad Air 2 LTE 16 GB – $629
These prices are from 2015. Recent news shows Apple has raised iPad prices again in 2026. That means the older Air models may be cheaper now compared with the newest Air versions.
Speed and Processor
The iPad Air 2 uses the Apple A8X chip. The older iPad Air uses the Apple A7 chip.
Apple says the A8X is about 40 % faster than the A7.
Faster speed means apps open a little quicker.
It also helps with heavy apps like CAD or games.
For everyday tasks the difference is small, but it can be noticeable in demanding work.
- A8X chip – 40 % faster than A7
- Better handling of graphics‑intensive apps
- Smoother multitasking
Size, Weight and Design
Both tablets have a 9.7‑inch screen. The iPad Air 2 is thinner and lighter.
The Air 2 is 6.9 mm thick and weighs 0.96 lb.
The original Air is 7.5 mm thick and weighs 1 lb.
This makes the Air 2 about 18 % thinner than the Air.
The difference is easy to feel when you hold them.
The Air 2 also comes in a new Gold colour.
Unlike the Air, the Air 2 does not have a mute switch. You mute with the volume keys.
- Air 2 thickness: 6.9 mm
- Air thickness: 7.5 mm
- Air 2 weight: 0.96 lb
- Air weight: 1 lb
- Gold colour added on Air 2
Touch ID and Security
Touch ID is a big new feature on the iPad Air 2.
It lets you unlock the tablet with your fingerprint.
You can also use Touch ID to approve purchases.
Apps that support Touch ID can log you in without a password.
This saves time and makes the device more secure.
The older iPad Air does not have Touch ID.
- Fingerprint unlock
- One‑tap Apple Pay purchases
- Secure app login
Display Quality
Both tablets have a 9.7‑inch Retina display.
The Air 2 screen uses three layers fused into one.
This design reduces reflections and makes colours look richer.
The older Air screen can show more glare in bright light.
Both screens are sharp, but the Air 2 looks better in sunlight.
- Air 2: less reflective, better colour
- Air: more glare, still sharp
Camera and Media
The iPad Air 2 has an 8 MP rear camera.
The older iPad Air has a 5 MP rear camera.
Air 2 can shoot burst photos and record 1080p video.
Air does not have burst mode and its video quality is lower.
Both cameras are fine for casual photos, but the Air 2 is a clear upgrade.
- Air 2 rear camera: 8 MP, burst, 1080p video
- Air rear camera: 5 MP, no burst, lower video
Connectivity – Wi‑Fi and LTE
Apple improved Wi‑Fi on the iPad Air 2.
The newer chip gives faster download speeds.
The Air 2 also has a newer LTE modem.
This means faster mobile data when you are not on Wi‑Fi.
The Air 2 can use a single SIM and switch carriers easily.
Both tablets support the same Wi‑Fi standards, but the Air 2 is quicker.
- Improved Wi‑Fi speed on Air 2
- Faster LTE on Air 2
- Single‑SIM carrier switching
FAQ
Which iPad is cheaper?
The iPad Air starts at $399 for the base model, while the iPad Air 2 starts at $499. So the Air is cheaper.
Is the extra $100 worth it?
If you value a faster processor, Touch ID, a better camera and a thinner design, the $100 extra can be worth it. If you only need basic tasks, the older Air may be enough.
Does the iPad Air 2 have Touch ID?
Yes. The iPad Air 2 includes Touch ID for fingerprint unlocking and secure purchases.
Can I use the same accessories on both tablets?
Both use the same 9.7‑inch size, so most cases and keyboards fit both models.
In summary, the iPad Air 2 offers a faster chip, thinner body, Touch ID, a brighter screen, a better camera and faster Wi‑Fi/LTE. The iPad Air is cheaper and still works well for everyday use. Decide what matters most to you and choose the model that fits your budget.