iPad Air 1 In 2020! (Still Worth It?) (Review)

TL;DR

The iPad Air 1 has outdated features but remains serviceable for basic tasks in 2020.

Transcript

well everyone you already know another day another still worth the video and this time we're talking about another iPad I kind of want to just start talking about way more iPads I've owned most of them and there's no point last year I really missed out on reviewing a ton of them and this time around we're talking about the actually the second iPad ... Read More

Key Insights

• 🖤 The iPad Air 1’s design remains visually appealing but lacks modern features such as Touch ID and better screen technology.
• 🙈 The device has not seen significant updates since its release, which hinders its performance with current applications and operating systems.
• 😩 Its battery life is still commendable, allowing for extended usage even after several years of wear.
• 🖤 The lack of Apple Pencil support limits the iPad Air 1’s utility for creative and productive tasks.
• 💄 The device’s camera capabilities are underwhelming compared to modern tablets, making it impractical for serious photography or videography.
• 🏃 Although jailbreaking is compatible with this device, it still runs outdated software, thereby limiting its overall utility.
• 😒 Users might face performance issues when trying to multitask or use resource-heavy applications due to limited RAM and an older processor.

Questions & Answers

Q: What are the main design features of the iPad Air 1?

The iPad Air 1 has a 9.7-inch Retina display and a sleek body design reminiscent of the iPad Pro series. However, users may notice a gap between the glass and the LCD, affecting its overall aesthetic. Although it features a lightning port and headphone jack, the device lacks modern updates like Touch ID and is relatively minimalistic compared to contemporary tablets.

Q: How does the iPad Air 1 perform with modern applications?

Although the iPad Air 1 is equipped with the Apple A7 chip, which was decent at its time, its performance is not optimized for current applications. Users may experience lag and slow responsiveness, particularly when multitasking. The single gigabyte of RAM also limits its capability to efficiently handle more than a couple of applications simultaneously without a noticeable drop in performance.

Q: What limitations are presented by the iPad Air 1’s software?

The iPad Air 1 originally shipped with iOS 7 and is limited to iOS 12, preventing it from accessing newer features and improved security updates found in later iPad models. This software limitation impacts usability for more complex tasks, especially in a landscape that increasingly demands updated software capabilities for optimal performance.

Q: Is the battery life of the iPad Air 1 still impressive today?

Yes, the iPad Air 1 boasts a substantial battery capacity of 8,600 mAh, translating to excellent longevity. Despite some natural degradation over time, the remaining capacity can still provide reliable usage, allowing users to perform basic tasks without frequently needing a charge. Its battery life remains a standout feature compared to similar devices.

Q: How does the camera performance on the iPad Air 1 compare to today’s standards?

The iPad Air 1 features a 5-megapixel rear camera and a 1.2-megapixel front camera, which are inadequate by today’s standards. With no support for 4K video or advanced photography features, the camera is primarily functional for basic video calls and snapshots but falls short for anyone looking for high-quality photography or videography capabilities.

Q: Should someone consider purchasing the iPad Air 1 in 2020?

For casual users with minimal needs, the iPad Air 1 can serve as a budget-friendly media device or for light tasks. However, for students or professionals requiring more robust performance, updated software, or support for accessories like the Apple Pencil, it would be wiser to invest in a later model, such as the iPad Air 2 or newer iterations.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The iPad Air 1, released in 2013, features a solid design but lacks advanced technology found in newer models, making it less appealing today.

• While its battery life remains excellent, software limitations, such as compatibility with only up to iOS 12, hinder its functionality for demanding applications.

• Despite its performance being adequate for casual use, the device lacks modern amenities such as Touch ID and Apple Pencil support, making it a less favorable option for most users.