iPad Air 1 or Air 2 advice

[charlievb]

Firstly, thanks for taking the time to help me out.

I have just been offered a second hand 16GB iPad Air 1 for pretty cheap (£170). In comparison the iPad Air 2 (second hand) is going for about (£250).

Money isn't a huge issue but my question is whether I need to spend the extra (£80) given my requirements.

My first Q is, do Apple maintain software updates for legacy devices (the Air 1 is now 18 months out of date), or will I find the Air 1 unsupported in a year's time.

My current requirements are a 10" tablet, that I plan to have for the next 12-18 months that can enable me to:

1. Browse the internet
2. Check e-mails
3. Track live news/finance data with apps
4. Stream TV shows
5. Play the occasional game (low graphics intense)
6. Watch/store a few HD films on the device (for when travelling)

 

[Grolubao]

If you care about multitasking, buy the iPad Air 2, otherwise the 1 is just fine

 

[ACG12]

Spend the extra and go Air 2. The extra RAM and faster processor are worth it.

 

[keysofanxiety]

In the interest of longevity I'd suggest paying the extra for the iPad Air 2. Double the RAM, better CPU, better camera -- for £80 you get a lot more reassurance that it won't slow down with newer OS iterations, and that it's an investment more likely to last.

 

[mfm77]

Yeah, I have an Air 1 but still would tell you to buy the Air 2 for the extra RAM and the multitasking support alone.