If you haven’t seen it yet, Apple has introduced two new iPads: the M3 iPad Air and the latest 11th-generation iPad. As a user who prioritizes iPads, these latest releases bring even more potential at an accessible price point! A significant advantage is that they are internal upgrades, which means your accessories from earlier models will still be compatible with these refreshed iPads. Check out my top recommended accessories for getting the most out of your new iPad Air!
Before diving in, here’s a quick look at the best prices available for the new M3 iPad Air and the iPad 11. For budget-conscious shoppers, Amazon consistently offers the best deals on both new and older iPads!
This is my favorite accessory for the iPad. Released last year, it’s become an essential part of my desk setups. At first glance, it seems like just a well-made magnetic stand for your iPad, but it has a hidden feature that distinguishes it from others: it has pin connectors in the magnetic plate that allow for passthrough charging! This function effectively transforms your stand into a wireless charging hub for your iPad!
- Supports 18W fast charging
- 360-degree vertical pivot
- 90-degree horizontal adjustments
- Constructed from CNC-machined aluminum alloy, designed to endure over 100,000 folds
- Folds flat for easy transportation
The X33 stand fits any iPad equipped with pin connectors, and it’s worth noting that the M3 iPad Air version is also compatible with the M2 model! You can find it on their website or on Amazon for $89.
While I adore the Apple Pencil, I recognize it comes with a hefty price tag. The Pencil Pro is priced at $129 from Apple, though you can find discounts on Amazon. However, if you’re seeking a stylus that excels at note-taking and occasional sketching—essentially functioning as a mouse pointer—the Jamjake Pencil is a great option. It offers roughly 95% of the Apple Pencil’s performance for only $19!
- Includes palm rejection
- 1.5mm precision pen tip
- Magnetic attachment to the iPad (charging via USB-C)
This is another of my favorite accessories for any iPad, not just the Air. This simple dongle allows you to use your iPad as a secondary display for any HDMI device—ideal for gaming or presentations. I’ve created videos and posts about it before, so be sure to check them out. This $20 dongle, used with the free Orion app, allows you to connect your Xbox, PlayStation, Switch, or Mac and use your iPad as a display. I’ve even used it as a portable screen for my Xbox! Don’t miss the video below!
Like the Apple Pencil, I appreciate the Magic Keyboard; however, the new versions tailored for the M2/M3 iPad Airs start at $269 for the 11-inch model and $319 for the 13-inch variant. You could buy an entire iPad 10th or 11th generation for that amount! Although there haven’t been any brands that successfully replicated the pin connector for the Magic Keyboard, several companies have produced Bluetooth alternatives. My top pick is by Typecase, with the 13-inch version priced at $102 and the 11-inch at $99. You can enjoy similar features at roughly a third of the cost!
- RGB backlighting on keys
- Full function row
- Multi-touch trackpad experience
- Charges via USB-C
- Space for Apple Pencil storage
If you’re in the market for an alternative to the Magic Keyboard, this is definitely the way to go!
A few years ago, Apple allowed regular (non-MFI-certified) controllers to connect to iPads, significantly broadening the gaming accessory market. As a fan of mobile gaming, particularly for intense gaming sessions using a controller, I particularly admire 8Bitdo. They produce unique, budget-friendly retro controllers in various styles. The 8Bitdo Zero 2 is particularly compact, comes in pastel colors, and features all essential buttons for just $16.
Lastly, it’s crucial to keep that stunning display clean. Paperlike’s all-in-one cleaning kit is ideal for this purpose. The spray bottle and cleaning cloth are combined for convenience, preventing misplacement. Simply detach the bottle from the protective case, spray the screen a few times, and use the microfiber lining on the bottle to wipe it clean! It’s straightforward and makes a great gift for anyone with an iPad!
Final Thoughts
As I mentioned earlier, all of these accessories will work with the previous M2 iPad Air, and many will even be compatible with the 10th and 11th generation iPads! Be sure to verify compatibility on each product page. I’d love to hear your thoughts on this list and whether you own any of these items! Are you planning to get a new iPad? Which model catches your eye? Let’s chat in the comments below!
