THE 4th generation iPad Air (RM2,599 for the base model with 64GB storage, RM3,249 for 256GB) comes between the standard iPad and the powerful iPad Pro, though for all intents and purposes it skews closer to the Pro model.
It has similar looks (which is a very good thing) and is compatible with the same accessories, in this case, the Magic Keyboard and the 2nd generation Apple Pencil.
Generally speaking, tablets occupy a weird space in the tech ecosystem. Are they supersized phones? Mobile entertainment devices? Laptop replacements? Office productivity machines? All the above?
After some use for a variety of different activities, the latest iPad Air is an attempt to be good at just about everything.
Featuring a 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display, the machine puts out strong high definition visuals. Netflix, YouTube, and AppleTV content look great and the stereo speakers do a good enough job.
It lacks the high refresh rate of the iPad Pro’s display – which can be a benefit in some games and all-around usage – but for most people, this would probably be the nicest looking screen they’ve seen on a tablet.
Powered by an A14 Bionic chip (the same chip that powers the latest iPhones), the iPad Air is more than capable of multitasking between many apps at any one time. In general office use, there have been no hiccups or slowdowns. In fact, like with the newer phones, the chip should afford some level of future-proofing.
Unlike the iPad Pro and the iPhone 12 line, the Air does not come with Face ID and instead uses Touch ID, which is located on the power button. You need to leave your finger over the button for about a second, but other than that it is responsive.
Replacing your laptop?
With the Magic Keyboard and the Apple Pencil, the device can be utilised by power users who want to use their tablet as a replacement for their laptop. But while the iPad excels as a media device, using it as a full-fledged computer takes a bit of getting used to.
On the plus side, the Magic Keyboard (RM1,349) is probably one of the best feeling mobile keyboards out there, utilising the same mechanism as what’s available on the latest MacBooks. It is backlit, making it very usable in low-light situations. The construction is also very sturdy.
But, it is not a full-sized keyboard, which takes a bit of getting used to. For example, there is no escape key or row of function keys. iPad OS has its shortcuts that need to be learned.
Likewise, the trackpad – despite its relatively small size – feels good. It has a smooth glass surface and has a satisfying click.
Veteran Apple users will be able to pull off all sorts of gesture controls that will remove the need for a mouse. For amateurs to the OS, it takes some time to learn the tricks, but learning the gestures can be very satisfying.
The Magic Keyboard supports either the latest iPad Air or the iPad Pro, both of which connect to the device via magnets, which to the layman seems borderline sci-fi, but then again we’re talking about handheld computers.
The keyboard also functions as a case, and while it is sturdy, the number of ways it can be configured is limited. Unlike folio-style cases that can be used on the go, the Magic Keyboard is firmly committed to transforming the iPad into a laptop replacement.
The keyboard/case is quite heavy as far as these things go, weighing as much as the tablet itself. This is most likely to balance it when used as a laptop. But unlike laptops which have most of their weight on the bottom half, the iPad in the Magic Keyboard is top-heavy, making it a little unwieldy to use on your lap.
The case itself looks good, but after a few weeks has become a bit of smudge and fingerprint magnet. Annoyingly, it is very difficult to open one-handed and will take two hands to open. It’s likely a protective measure, but in practice is less than convenient. But, the USB-C charging port is quite convenient.
The second-generation Apple Pencil (RM549) is more of a niche accessory for a certain segment of power users. Artists and graphic designers will likely find its responsiveness very useful in their chosen fields.
The Pencil feels nice and light and can be magnetically attached to the top of the iPad (also where it is charged).
For the average user, there is quite a learning curve when it comes to fully utilising the Pencil to its strengths. When it comes to note-taking, the device is very impressive, being able to convert handwriting (within reason) into text in just a few seconds. Handwriting is also possible in some apps, though more testing is required.
But in practice, typing away on the keyboard feels a lot more quick and convenient. That might be a matter of preference, but it means the Apple Pencil is more optional and isn’t a necessity for most users.
Conclusion
This newest model of the iPad Air is very impressive and will likely impress many prospective users who don’t necessarily need the extra muscle of the Pro model. As a media device, it is very impressive, and as a productivity machine, it is nearly as good.
The Magic Keyboard brings the tablet to as close to a laptop replacement as it ever has. Coming together in an eye-pleasing package, the combination of devices is very satisfying to use, with the keyboard and trackpad ranking up there with the best on the market. Of course, this comes at a premium price that is nothing to scoff at. – The Vibes, March 30, 2021
