M3 iPad Air vs 2018 iPad Pro: The Upgrade I Didn’t Expect to Question
(Relatable/Problem-Solving) I fully expected the M3 iPad Air to blow my trusty 2018 iPad Pro out of the water. Six years is ancient in tech, right? Yet, after using the M3 Air, I found myself questioning if the upgrade was truly necessary. My 2018 Pro, despite its age, still handled almost everything I threw at it with surprising grace. This wasn’t the straightforward upgrade I anticipated; the old workhorse put up a real fight, making the decision much harder than simply buying the ‘newest’ model. Was the M3 speed boost worth losing features I loved?
Replacing My Beloved 2018 iPad Pro: Is the M3 iPad Air Worth It?
(Problem-Solving) My 2018 iPad Pro has been my indispensable tool for years – photo editing, teleprompting, writing, entertainment. Replacing it isn’t just about specs; it’s about replacing a reliable partner. The M3 iPad Air boasts a powerful chip, but is it truly worth the $599 asking price when my old Pro still performs so well? This exploration dives into whether the tangible benefits of the M3 Air – like future OS support and the landscape camera – outweigh the cost and the loss of cherished features like the 120Hz display and Face ID from my beloved 2018 Pro.
Forced Upgrade? Why iPadOS Support is Pushing Me From My 2018 Pro to the M3 Air
(Problem-Solving/Relatable) Honestly, my 2018 iPad Pro isn’t slowing down much. It still feels great. But here’s the catch: it’s hitting the end of its iPadOS support lifespan. As someone using this for professional work – client photo edits, film set tasks – running the latest, secure OS isn’t optional, it’s essential. This review explores the uncomfortable reality of being pushed towards the M3 Air not solely by desire for new features, but by the practical necessity of software updates and security patches, even when the old hardware feels perfectly capable.
$599 M3 Air vs $100 Battery Replacement: The Real Cost of Upgrading an Old iPad Pro
(Data/Shock Value) Apple quoted me about $100 for a battery replacement on my aging 2018 iPad Pro. The brand new M3 iPad Air costs $599. That’s a $500 difference just to get a new device instead of refreshing the old one. Is the M3 chip, landscape camera, and future OS support worth five times the cost of simply fixing the battery? This analysis breaks down the stark financial choice: invest minimally to keep a great device going a bit longer, or spend significantly more for the latest model with its own set of compromises.
6 Years Later: Testing if the M3 iPad Air REALLY Beats My Daily Driver 2018 iPad Pro
(Transformation/Data) For six years, my 2018 iPad Pro has been my go-to daily tool for everything from client work to watching videos in bed. Could the M3 iPad Air truly offer a transformative improvement after all this time? I put the M3 Air through the exact same demanding, diverse daily grind – photo editing, script writing, gaming, media consumption. This test reveals whether the raw power of the M3 chip translates into a genuinely superior experience compared to the remarkably capable A12X Bionic, or if the differences feel surprisingly minor in day-to-day use.
Confessions of a 2018 iPad Pro Power User: My Honest M3 Air Review
(Relatable/Expertise) I don’t just browse the web on my iPad; my 2018 Pro is my teleprompter, my reference monitor, my scriptwriter, my photo editor – it’s integral to my work and life. So, this M3 Air review comes from that power-user perspective. Forget benchmarks; how does it feel? Does it handle professional tasks seamlessly? Are the compromises (like losing 120Hz) dealbreakers for someone who relies heavily on their iPad? These are my unfiltered confessions after pushing the M3 Air as hard as I pushed my trusty old Pro for years.
The 120Hz Problem: Why the M3 iPad Air Display Feels Like a Downgrade from 2018 Pro
(Shock Value/Problem-Solving) Going from the buttery-smooth 120Hz ProMotion display on my 2018 iPad Pro to the 60Hz screen on the M3 iPad Air is jarring. Yes, the Air has a faster chip, but the feel of scrolling and interacting with the interface feels noticeably slower, almost like a step backward. For anyone accustomed to ProMotion, this isn’t a minor spec difference; it’s a tangible downgrade in the daily user experience. This explores why the M3 Air’s screen, despite being newer, presents a significant “problem” for upgrading 2018 Pro users.
M3 iPad Air Gaming Test: Shockingly NOT Much Better Than My 6-Year-Old iPad Pro?
(Shock Value/Data) I expected the M3 chip in the iPad Air to demolish my 2018 iPad Pro (A12X Bionic) in gaming. Loading up demanding titles, the results were… surprising. While the M3 Air ran games well, it struggled to maintain a consistent high frame rate, sometimes dipping significantly. The 2018 Pro, while generally lower-res or capped at 30fps, often felt surprisingly comparable. The M3 wasn’t the knockout punch I anticipated. This tests why the real-world gaming leap might be less dramatic than the specs suggest.
Face ID vs Touch ID: Why I Miss My 2018 iPad Pro’s Unlock on the M3 Air
(Relatable) Using the M3 iPad Air constantly reminds me how much I took Face ID on my 2018 Pro for granted. It just worked. Glance and unlock. With the Air’s Touch ID on the power button, I find myself fumbling, forgetting it’s there, pressing the spacebar on the keyboard expecting it to unlock like Face ID would. It feels like an extra, sometimes awkward step. While functional, Touch ID feels less seamless and convenient than the effortless biometric unlock I enjoyed for six years on the Pro.
Landscape Camera on M3 Air: Is it Worth Losing 120Hz & Face ID From the 2018 Pro?
(Problem-Solving) The M3 iPad Air finally puts the front camera in the sensible landscape position – great for video calls! But this upgrade comes at a cost for former Pro users: you lose the silky 120Hz ProMotion display and the effortless convenience of Face ID. Is this trade-off worth it? We weigh the practical benefit of the better camera placement against the significant downgrade in screen fluidity and biometric login that 2018 iPad Pro users have enjoyed for years. Which features matter more in daily use?
Apple Intelligence: The ONLY Compelling Reason to Ditch the 2018 iPad Pro for M3 Air?
(Solution/Problem-Solving) My 2018 iPad Pro is fast, has a great screen, and feels premium. So why upgrade to the M3 Air? Increasingly, the answer seems to boil down to one thing: Apple Intelligence. The powerful AI features coming to iPadOS require newer chips like the M3; my A12X won’t make the cut. If accessing these future smart capabilities – writing tools, image generation, enhanced Siri – is important, then Apple Intelligence might be the single most compelling, perhaps only truly necessary, reason to make the leap from the still-great 2018 Pro.
iPad Air M3 for Creatives: Can It Replace a Workhorse Like the 2018 iPad Pro?
(Expertise/Problem-Solving) As a creative professional using my 2018 iPad Pro daily for photo editing, concept design, and even as a reference monitor, could the M3 iPad Air truly step into its shoes? It boasts the powerful M3 chip, but lacks the 120Hz display crucial for smooth visuals and the Face ID convenience. This assesses if the Air M3 has the raw power and usability needed for demanding creative workflows, or if the compromises make it fall short as a replacement for a dedicated creative workhorse like the beloved 2018 Pro.
Using the M3 iPad Air on a Film Set (vs. My Trusty 2018 Pro)
(Transformation/Expertise) I took the new M3 iPad Air onto a professional film set, a place my 2018 iPad Pro has served me well as a digital slate, teleprompter controller, and script reference. How did the newcomer fare? I tested its performance under pressure, battery life during long shoots, and screen visibility outdoors. Could it handle the demanding, versatile roles my old Pro excelled at? This real-world test reveals the M3 Air’s strengths and weaknesses in a high-stakes professional environment, directly compared to its predecessor.
Teleprompter Showdown: M3 iPad Air vs 2018 iPad Pro Setup & Performance
(Solution/Expertise) A key use for my iPads is running teleprompter setups for corporate and documentary shoots, often using one iPad to display text and another (my 2018 Pro) to control it. How does the M3 iPad Air fit into this workflow? Does its performance offer any advantage as the main display? Can it handle controlling apps smoothly? This practical showdown compares both iPads in this specific, professional use case, even exploring the scenario where needing both devices highlights the unique demands of professional work.
Photo Editing on M3 Air vs 2018 Pro: Do You FEEL the M3 Difference?
(Problem-Solving/Expertise) Editing client photos requires speed and accuracy. My 2018 iPad Pro (A12X) handled it well, but could the M3 Air offer a noticeable improvement? I edited the same batches of RAW files on both devices, timing exports and assessing responsiveness during adjustments. While the M3 is technically faster, did it feel significantly quicker in real-world editing sessions? Or did the 2018 Pro’s capable chip and smooth 120Hz display make the overall experience feel surprisingly comparable for professional photo work? This explores the tangible benefits.
Script Writing & Productivity: Is the M3 Air Experience Better Than the 2018 Pro?
(Transformation) A lot of my iPad time involves writing scripts and managing productivity tasks. My 2018 Pro always felt snappy for this. Does the M3 Air offer a better experience? I spent hours writing, researching, and multitasking on the new Air. While the M3 chip provides overhead, the lack of 120Hz makes scrolling less pleasant. Is faster processing for basic tasks a meaningful upgrade, or do factors like display fluidity and comfortable unlocking (Face ID vs Touch ID) make the older Pro feel just as, if not more, productive?
Why My 2018 iPad Pro is STILL So Good (Making the M3 Air Upgrade Tough)
(Relatable/Shock Value) It’s almost frustrating how good Apple made the 2018 iPad Pro. Six years later, its A12X chip remains capable, the thin-bezel design still looks modern, Face ID is seamless, and the 120Hz ProMotion display feels incredibly smooth – smoother than the brand new M3 Air! Apple truly nailed the formula back then. This resilience and quality are precisely why upgrading feels less like an exciting leap and more like a begrudging necessity driven by software support, not hardware inadequacy. It set a bar Apple itself struggles to clearly surpass without compromises.
Apple’s “3% Effort”: Is the M3 iPad Air Upgrade Lazy for Long-Term Users?
(Shock Value) Seeing the M3 iPad Air felt… underwhelming. Slapping an M3 chip into the existing design feels like minimal effort, especially for loyal users like me coming from older Pro models. Where’s the innovation? The excitement? Apple knows they dominate the tablet market, and this M3 Air feels like they’re leveraging that dominance rather than pushing boundaries. This critique voices the disappointment that the upgrade feels more like an incremental spec bump (“3% effort”) than a genuinely compelling new product for those already invested in the ecosystem.
iPad Dependency: Why I NEED an iPad (and if the M3 Air Fits the Bill)
(Relatable) For me, an iPad isn’t a luxury; it’s essential. I’d genuinely rather give up my iPhone. It’s my entertainment hub, productivity station, creative tool, even parenting aid (sometimes!). Its versatility is unmatched. My 2018 Pro filled this role perfectly. The big question is: can the M3 iPad Air, with its specific strengths (M3, future support) and weaknesses (60Hz, Touch ID), adequately step into this critical, multifaceted role? Or do the compromises diminish its ability to be the indispensable “everything device” I rely on daily?
Ditching the Apple Pencil Tax: Best $29 Alternative for M3 iPad Air (ESR Review)
(Solution/Data) Paying $129 for an Apple Pencil feels excessive, especially after buying the iPad itself. I found this ESR stylus on Amazon for just $29, and honestly, it’s fantastic. It attaches magnetically, charges via USB-C, has virtually no lag, supports tilt for drawing, and even includes Find My support like an AirTag! For writing notes or casual drawing on the M3 Air (or older compatible iPads), it delivers 90% of the functionality for less than 25% of the price. This review shows you don’t need to pay the Apple tax.
This Rugged Case Fits BOTH M3 iPad Air & 2018 iPad Pro! (ESR Case Review)
(Solution) Finding a great case is key, especially one that doesn’t break the bank. This ESR case is not only protective and has a brilliant magnetic kickstand with multiple angles (perfect for drawing or watching), but it also fits both the new M3 iPad Air and my old 2018 iPad Pro! It’s sturdy enough to withstand pressure while drawing and offers vertical viewing too. For anyone upgrading or juggling both devices, having one versatile, well-designed case like this is incredibly convenient and cost-effective.
M3 iPad Air Accessories That DON’T Cost $7 Million (Budget Pencil & Case)
(Solution/Relatable) Let’s be real, Apple accessories are expensive – sometimes feeling like they cost “$7 million,” as I joked. But you don’t have to spend a fortune to enhance your M3 iPad Air. This focuses on smart, budget-friendly alternatives that deliver great value. We look closely at the $29 ESR Pencil with Find My and the versatile ESR kickstand case – proving you can get excellent functionality, protection, and convenience for your new iPad without emptying your wallet on official Apple-branded gear.
Unboxing the M3 iPad Air: First Impressions from a Skeptical 2018 Pro User
(Relatable) Opening the M3 iPad Air box, I wasn’t filled with the usual new tech excitement. Instead, as a long-time 2018 iPad Pro user, I felt… skeptical. Would this truly feel like an upgrade? Holding it, the design felt familiar (almost identical), but the lack of Face ID and the immediate feel of the 60Hz screen tempered my enthusiasm. This captures those initial, honest moments – the look, the feel, the setup – all viewed through the critical lens of someone wondering if they made the right choice leaving behind a beloved device.
Can You Tell the Difference? M3 Air vs 2018 iPad Pro Side-by-Side
(Problem-Solving) Put the blue M3 iPad Air next to my space gray 2018 iPad Pro, and the differences are subtle if you ignore the color. Bezels are similar, the feel in hand is nearly identical. Without turning them on, you might struggle to tell them apart instantly. Once on, the 120Hz smoothness vs 60Hz is apparent to trained eyes, and the Touch ID button replaces the Face ID notch. But the core design language Apple established in 2018 remains remarkably unchanged, highlighting just how iterative this M3 Air feels physically.
The Versatility Test: Putting the M3 Air Through My 2018 Pro’s Daily Grind
(Transformation/Expertise) My 2018 iPad Pro wasn’t just one thing; it was my teleprompter, script editor, photo editing suite, reference monitor, travel entertainer, concept sketchpad, and more. To truly test the M3 Air, I forced it to wear all those hats. Could it seamlessly transition between these vastly different tasks like the Pro did? Did the M3 power make certain jobs easier? Did the 60Hz screen hinder others? This comprehensive test evaluates if the M3 Air possesses the same incredible, jack-of-all-trades versatility that made my 2018 Pro indispensable.
iPad for Parenting: Does the M3 Air Offer Any Edge Over Older Models? (Humor)
(Relatable/Humor) Let’s be honest, does the M3 chip magically make Peppa Pig load faster or prevent juice spills? Probably not. While I joked about the iPad being a parenting tool, the reality is, for entertaining kids, my old 2018 Pro worked just fine. The M3 Air doesn’t suddenly gain indestructible properties or a ‘find the lost remote’ feature (though that would be useful!). For basic kid-friendly tasks, the latest chip offers no real parenting advantage – unless maybe faster processing helps me stay calmer while they watch the same episode for the tenth time.
Justifying the Upgrade: When Your Old iPad Pro STILL Works Great
(Relatable/Problem-Solving) This is the internal battle many of us face: my 2018 iPad Pro still flies. It edits photos, handles multitasking, feels premium. So, how do I justify spending $600+ on an M3 Air? The justification often boils down to future-proofing – impending loss of OS updates, needing Apple Intelligence, or specific workflow needs like the landscape camera. It’s less about the old device failing and more about preemptively addressing future limitations or wanting specific new features, even if it feels slightly forced when the current device remains so capable.
M3 Chip Power vs Real-World Use: Does the Air Feel Faster Than the 2018 Pro?
(Expertise/Data) Benchmarks show the M3 chip trounces the 2018 Pro’s A12X. But in daily tasks – writing scripts, browsing, even some photo editing – does the M3 Air feel significantly faster? Honestly, not always. The A12X was already very capable. Where the M3 shines is in heavier tasks like gaming or potentially future complex apps. But for the everyday grind, the perceived speed difference isn’t always dramatic, especially when offset by the smoother feel of the 2018 Pro’s 120Hz screen during navigation. Raw power doesn’t always translate to drastically better real-world feel.
Why I Might Keep BOTH the M3 Air and My Old 2018 iPad Pro (Creative Pro Needs)
(Problem-Solving/Expertise) My initial plan was replacement, but my film production work throws curveballs. Using one iPad as a teleprompter display (M3 Air) and the other to control it (2018 Pro) is incredibly useful on set. Having a dedicated reference monitor (another iPad!) is also key. For professionals with niche, multi-device workflows, sometimes “upgrading” actually means adding tools. Keeping both allows for specific setups that enhance my productivity in ways a single device, even a new one, cannot easily replicate. The redundancy becomes a feature.
iPad Boredom: Is Apple Making iPads Unexciting for Loyal Users?
(Shock Value/Relatable) After years of iPad upgrades, the M3 Air announcement felt… flat. Another spec bump, a camera moved. Where’s the magic? For loyal users like me, who’ve seen iPads evolve, these incremental changes feel uninspired. It seems Apple, comfortable in its market dominance, isn’t pushing boundaries. This lack of exciting innovation leads to a sense of “iPad boredom” – the new models are competent, yes, but they rarely spark genuine excitement or feel like a must-have leap forward anymore. Are iPads becoming appliances instead of inspiring tools?
What Features Would ACTUALLY Make Me Excited to Upgrade My iPad Pro?
(Relatable/Problem-Solving) Slapping in a new chip isn’t enough anymore. What would genuinely tempt me from my trusty old Pro? Imagine true innovation: maybe hologram capabilities for meetings, actual IP68 water resistance like Samsung tablets offer for real-world durability, a truly revolutionary display technology beyond OLED, or seamless integration with Vision Pro. Give us something fundamentally new and exciting, not just iterative improvements. Until then, the motivation to upgrade feels driven by necessity (OS support) rather than genuine desire for groundbreaking features.
End of an Era: Saying Goodbye to iPadOS Support on the Legendary 2018 iPad Pro
(Relatable/Transformation) The 2018 iPad Pro was a landmark device. Its design language persists today, its A12X chip remains capable, and its features like 120Hz and Face ID are still benchmarks. Knowing that iPadOS updates will soon cease feels like the end of an era for this legendary tablet. It forces users like me, who could happily use it for years more based on hardware alone, to confront its planned obsolescence. It’s a bittersweet goodbye to a device that arguably set the standard for modern iPads.
Is the M3 iPad Air Future-Proof Enough After Using a 2018 Pro for 6 Years?
(Problem-Solving/Expertise) My 2018 iPad Pro lasted an impressive six years, setting a high bar for longevity. Does the M3 iPad Air feel like it can match that? The M3 chip is powerful and should handle OS updates for years. It supports Apple Intelligence. However, the 60Hz display already feels dated compared to ProMotion, raising questions about its long-term appeal. While the core specs suggest good longevity, the screen technology makes me wonder if it will feel premium and up-to-date for as long as my 2018 Pro did.
M3 Air Brightness vs 2018 iPad Pro: Noticeable Difference? (500 vs 600 Nits)
(Data/Expertise) On paper, the 2018 iPad Pro boasts 600 nits of typical brightness versus the M3 Air’s 500 nits. Is that 100-nit difference noticeable in real life? Honestly, side-by-side, it’s very subtle for everyday content. You might perceive the Pro as slightly brighter in direct comparison or very bright environments, but the M3 Air’s screen is plenty bright for indoor and most outdoor use. It’s not a dramatic difference that impacts usability for most people; other display factors like refresh rate are far more noticeable.
Wi-Fi 6E on M3 Air: Does it Make a Real Difference vs 2018 Pro’s Wi-Fi 5?
(Expertise/Problem-Solving) The M3 Air supports Wi-Fi 6E, the latest standard, while the 2018 Pro has Wi-Fi 5. Does this matter? For most users today, probably not significantly. Wi-Fi 6E requires a compatible router and offers potential benefits like less congestion and higher speeds in ideal conditions. However, Wi-Fi 5 is still very fast and reliable for typical home internet speeds. Unless you have a cutting-edge network setup and push massive file transfers wirelessly, you’re unlikely to notice a dramatic real-world difference day-to-day.
Perfect Upgrade Path? Why the M3 Air Might Be Ideal for 2018/A12X iPad Pro Users
(Solution/Expertise) If you’re holding onto a 2018 iPad Pro (A12X), the M3 Air presents itself as the logical, if imperfect, upgrade path within Apple’s current lineup. It offers a significant performance boost with the M3, guarantees future OS updates and Apple Intelligence support, and adopts the landscape camera. While sacrificing 120Hz and Face ID stings, the Air avoids the much higher cost of the M4 Pro. For users needing modern performance and software support without breaking the bank, the M3 Air represents the most direct, value-oriented step up.
Can the Base Model M3 iPad Air Handle Pro Tasks Like the 2018 Pro Could?
(Problem-Solving/Expertise) My 2018 Pro was a workhorse, handling photo editing, light video work, and intense multitasking. Can the entry-level M3 Air, with its 8GB RAM, replicate that? Thanks to the powerful M3 chip, the answer is largely yes. It manages demanding creative apps and workflows surprisingly well, often matching or exceeding the A12X Bionic’s performance. While heavy video editing might push its limits compared to higher-spec models, the base M3 Air proves capable enough to handle the ‘pro’ tasks that the revered 2018 Pro excelled at.
The “Apple Knows Best” Problem: Why iPad Dominance Leads to Incremental Upgrades
(Shock Value/Expertise) Apple utterly dominates the tablet market – Android competitors aren’t even close. This dominance creates a problem: Apple doesn’t need to innovate dramatically with iPads. They know users like me are locked into the ecosystem and “need iPad.” This leads to safe, incremental upgrades like the M3 Air – just enough to keep things moving but rarely pushing boundaries. Because there’s no significant competitive pressure, Apple can get away with minimal effort upgrades, knowing we’ll likely buy them anyway.
My Final Decision: Does the M3 iPad Air Replace My 2018 iPad Pro?
(Solution/Relatable) After extensive testing and internal debate, the verdict is complicated. For guaranteed OS updates and access to Apple Intelligence, the M3 Air is the necessary choice. However, the downgrade from 120Hz and Face ID is a real drawback. Ultimately, because my professional work demands current software and sometimes requires multiple iPads, I’ve decided to keep the M3 Air in addition to my Pro models for now. It doesn’t fully replace the 2018 Pro’s charm, but it fills a necessary role going forward.
Long Term iPad Pro User Reviews M3 iPad Air
(Expertise/Relatable) This isn’t just another tech review; it’s specifically from the perspective of someone who has lived and worked extensively with an older iPad Pro (the 2018 model) for six years. We understand the nuances of ProMotion, the convenience of Face ID, and the surprising longevity of the A12X chip. This review evaluates the M3 iPad Air through that specific lens, highlighting the pros and cons that matter most to fellow long-term Pro users considering this potential – and perhaps slightly compromised – upgrade path.
Upgrade Regret? Moving from 120Hz iPad Pro to 60Hz M3 Air
(Relatable/Problem-Solving) Be warned: if you’re coming from the 120Hz ProMotion display of the 2018 iPad Pro (or later models), switching to the M3 Air’s 60Hz screen can feel like a significant step down. Scrolling feels less fluid, animations less smooth. It’s a tangible difference you notice immediately. While you might adapt over time, that initial feeling can border on upgrade regret. This explores that specific pain point – the loss of screen fluidity – and whether the M3 Air’s other benefits are enough to compensate for this noticeable downgrade.
Best Value iPad Upgrade from A12X Bionic (2018 Pro)
(Solution/Expertise) Facing the end of OS support for your 2018 iPad Pro (A12X)? What’s the best value upgrade? While the M4 Pro offers the most features, its price is steep. The M3 iPad Air, starting at $599, delivers a massive performance leap with the M3 chip and guarantees software updates for years, including Apple Intelligence. Despite losing 120Hz/Face ID, its balance of modern power, future-proofing, and significantly lower cost than the M4 Pro makes it arguably the best value proposition for users needing to move on from the A12X platform.
M3 iPad Air for Film Production Workflows (Coming from 2018 Pro)
(Expertise/Solution) Can the M3 iPad Air truly replace the 2018 iPad Pro on a film set? For tasks like being a digital slate, script reference, or even controlling a teleprompter (as tested), the M3 Air performs admirably. Its chip handles necessary apps smoothly. The landscape camera is better for client calls. While lacking the Pro’s 120Hz screen, its core functionality is solid for many production tasks. For professionals needing a reliable, modern iPadOS device on set without the M4 Pro’s cost, the M3 Air proves a capable, if slightly compromised, successor.
Why Apple’s 2018 iPad Pro Was Too Good (Hurting Future Sales?)
(Shock Value/Expertise) Apple shot themselves in the foot with the 2018 iPad Pro. It was so good – powerful A12X chip, timeless design, 120Hz display, Face ID – that it has remained relevant and capable for an incredible six years. Its excellence makes subsequent upgrades, like the M3 Air with its compromises, feel less compelling. By creating such a durable and feature-rich device back then, Apple inadvertently set a standard that makes justifying incremental upgrades much harder today, potentially impacting the upgrade cycle for satisfied long-term users.
Living with the M3 iPad Air After Years with ProMotion Display
(Relatable/Transformation) Switching from the 120Hz smoothness of my 2018 iPad Pro to the M3 Air’s 60Hz display requires adjustment. Initially, everything felt slightly choppy. Scrolling wasn’t as pleasant. However, after consistent use, your eyes do adapt to 60Hz again. While I still miss ProMotion, especially when switching back, the 60Hz screen becomes the new normal. This explores that adjustment period – the initial shock, the gradual adaptation, and the lingering awareness of what you’ve lost, even as the device proves perfectly usable day-to-day.
Is Lack of OS Support the ONLY Reason to Upgrade a 2018 iPad Pro?
(Problem-Solving/Expertise) For many 2018 iPad Pro users, the hardware itself still feels great. So, is the looming end of iPadOS updates truly the only compelling reason to upgrade to something like the M3 Air? While software support (and access to Apple Intelligence) is a major driver, other factors might include wanting the landscape camera, needing the faster M3 chip for specific demanding tasks, or simply desiring a new device with a fresh battery. However, without the software cutoff, the argument for upgrading purely based on hardware deficiencies is surprisingly weak.
Budget iPad Accessories Tested: ESR Pencil & Case on M3 Air
(Solution/Data) You don’t need to spend Apple prices on accessories. I tested the $29 ESR Digital Pencil and their magnetic kickstand case with my M3 iPad Air. The pencil offers excellent performance, magnetic attachment, tilt support, and even Find My integration – incredible value compared to the $129 Apple Pencil. The case is rugged, versatile with multiple stand angles, and fits perfectly. These budget accessories prove you can get high-quality, functional gear for your iPad without paying the premium Apple tax, saving you significant money.
Real-World Speed Test: M3 iPad Air vs A12X Bionic iPad Pro (2018)
(Data/Expertise) Forget synthetic benchmarks; how do these iPads perform head-to-head in tasks you actually do? We timed app loading, web browsing tests, game loading, and simple creative exports on both the M3 Air and the 2018 Pro (A12X). While the M3 Air consistently shows faster results, particularly in graphics-intensive areas, the A12X often keeps pace surprisingly well in common tasks. This real-world comparison gives a practical sense of the speed difference, showing where the M3 truly pulls ahead and where the older chip remains remarkably competent.
The Emotional Toll of Replacing a Perfectly Good Device (2018 iPad Pro Story)
(Relatable) There’s a weird emotional weight to replacing technology that still works perfectly fine, like my 2018 iPad Pro. It feels wasteful, almost like betraying a reliable tool that has served me well for years. It wasn’t broken or slow, just deemed obsolete by software timelines. This story explores that feeling – the reluctance to let go, the justification gymnastics, and the slightly bittersweet feeling of unboxing the new M3 Air, knowing it replaced something that didn’t truly need replacing based on its own merits.
If You Own a 2018 iPad Pro, Should You Buy the M3 Air in 2025?
(Solution/Expertise) Own a 2018 iPad Pro (A12X)? The M3 Air is your most logical, albeit compromised, upgrade if you need current software support and Apple Intelligence. You gain significant M3 speed but lose the beloved 120Hz ProMotion display and Face ID. If those features are non-negotiable, you’ll need the much pricier M4 Pro. If your 2018 Pro still meets your needs and you don’t require the latest OS for critical tasks, holding off remains viable. But for a balance of modern power and price, the M3 Air is the targeted upgrade.