iPad Air M3 price hits record low

Apple's iPad Air M3 sees a record-low price across major retailers, boosting value for mid-range tablets during back to school season.

iPad Air M3 price hits record low

Retailers are discounting Apple's iPad Air M3 by $150 across configurations. The 11-inch model is available for as low as $449 and the 13-inch version for $649, with Amazon, Best Buy, and Target all participating. This marks an all-time low and beats the previous Prime Day price by about $30. The back to school window helps explain the timing, but the deal also makes the iPad Air M3 an appealing option for general consumers seeking a capable, affordable tablet.

The iPad Air M3 uses a mid-range refresh rather than a bold redesign. Its main appeal is the M3 chip, which Geekbench 6 places roughly 16 percent faster than the M2 Air. Shoppers also get a sharper display, better speakers, and broader accessory support compared with the entry-level iPad. The option of a 13-inch display is a plus for artists or anyone who wants a larger canvas that doubles as a light productivity device. A notable caveat is the absence of a 120 Hz ProMotion display and Face ID remains missing, trade-offs that affect premium feel and login security. Still, at this price, many will see the Air as a balanced, long-lasting choice for everyday use.

The price cut signals Apple’s ongoing strategy to keep the iPad Air in the mainstream as a versatile, all-round device. By delivering real performance gains with the M3 while keeping the design familiar, Apple preserves the Air’s position as the most suitable option for most buyers who don’t need Pro features. The move also heightens competition in the mid-range space, where Windows and Android tablets are inching closer in capability. For shoppers, the deal makes the Air M3 a compelling proposition during a season when discount-driven purchases are common.

However, the trade-offs are real. The absence of ProMotion and Face ID can matter for users who want a premium touch and stronger security or who value a faster refresh rate for gaming and scrolling. That said, the price-to-performance ratio remains favorable for many, suggesting Apple will rely on value and ecosystem advantages to maintain momentum in this segment while the Pro line stays positioned above it.

Highlights

Prices can vary by retailer and color, but the trend is clear: mid-range tablets are getting more affordable.