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Lure of the iPad Air

Apple's new iPad Air has a lot going for it, and there's one thing in particular about it that's calling my name.
Written by James Kendrick, Contributor
iPad Air light
Image: Apple

When Apple unveiled the iPad Air I was impressed, but found no compelling reason to buy one. My iPad 4 is still a great tablet for both work and play, and I'm invested in accessories for it that would not work with the newest iPad. As good as my current iPad is, the longer I think about it there is one feature that has me leaning to buy the iPad Air.

That feature can be summed up in one word: pound. As in, the iPad Air weighs one pound. Yes, it's thinner and faster than my iPad 4, but it's that impressive weight that is calling to me. 

See also: Dirty little secret about tablets: The platforms are basically equalYes Lenovo, there is a better way for tabletsNew iPad mini: I pass | iPad Air: Color me surprised

I've used dozens of tablets from many vendors and running all the platforms. I use them heavily for all the typical tablet functions, and I've been known to use tablets for my work. As similar as I find all tablets for my purposes, one physical aspect rises above all the others.

I am a firm believer, based on heavy usage, that tablets must be as light as possible. They are used in the hands and weight is a significant factor in determining if the user experience is good or not. That's why the one pound weight of the iPad Air is a very big deal.

My iPad 4 is a relative porker when compared to the iPad Air. The newest iPad weighs little more than the iPad mini, while providing a bigger screen. That's like getting more with little weight penalty, and that's got me seriously considering a new iPad.

I like both my iPad mini and Galaxy Note 8.0, and a big reason why is the light weight. They are comfortable to hold for long periods, and why I often carry one or the other over the iPad 4.

The iPad Air is only slightly heavier than those smaller tablets. I suspect if I had an iPad Air I would bring it with me most of the time for the bigger screen. It would make functions like watching video and surfing the web better than with the smaller tablets.

I doubt I'm the only one considering an iPad Air given the weight. Tablets are always better when they are lighter, so the iPad Air is calling my name. I have a feeling I won't be able to hold out much longer.

See related: 

iPad Air: No Apple keyboard needed

2 keyboards for iPad Air: ZAGGkeys Folio and ZAGGkeys Cover

Two keyboard cases for iPad mini from ZAGG change the game

9 best iPad keyboards (hands on): March 2013

Definitive guide to keyboards for iPad and iPad mini

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