Studying in a Malaysian university today requires more than textbooks and notes. With online lectures, Zoom calls, and cloud-based learning platforms becoming the norm, students need a powerful yet portable digital companion—and the iPad fits this role perfectly.
But with newer iPads often costing thousands of ringgit, many students are now turning to second-hand iPads in Malaysia for a smarter and more sustainable option.
That’s where CompAsia Malaysia comes in.
As a trusted leader in the pre-owned tech space, CompAsia Malaysia provides genuine, tested, and certified Apple products, including popular models like the iPad Air 4, iPad 9th Gen, and iPad Air 5, all at a fraction of the original price. And with flexible installment plans, extended warranty coverage, and a commitment to quality, students can now own a device without burning through their student loans or savings.
Let’s take a closer look at the top three budget iPads for university students in Malaysia — with everything you need to make an informed decision.
1. iPad Air 3 – Power & Portability Combined
The iPad Air 4 hits the sweet spot between performance, design, and value. Released in 2019, it’s still one of the most popular models thanks to its A12 Bionic chip, sleek design, and 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display — perfect for students who want performance on a budget.
Key Features:
- A12 Bionic chip (same as iPhone 12 series)
- All-screen design with Touch ID on the top button
- Compatible with Apple Pencil 2 and Magic Keyboard
- USB-C port for faster charging and data transfer
- Available in multiple colors
This device can easily handle multitasking between Google Docs, Zoom classes, research tabs, and even light creative work like photo editing or note-taking with Apple Pencil.
At CompAsia, the iPad Air 4 price in Malaysia can be up to 50% lower than new retail prices, making it a steal for students who want long-term value.
➡️ Shop iPad Air 3 on CompAsia Malaysia
2. iPad 10th Generation – A Budget-Friendly Workhorse
If you’re after an entry-level iPad with no fuss and maximum reliability, the standard iPad is still a champion in its own right.
The 10th Gen iPad (2022) offers a large display, fast processors, and compatibility with 1st-gen Apple Pencil — making them great for writing essays, reading PDFs, or attending online lectures.
Highlights:
- 10.9" (10th Gen) Retina Display
- A14 Bionic chip for strong performance
- iPadOS with multitasking capabilities
- Long battery life (up to 10 hours)
- Best value-for-money Apple tablet
Whether you're a first-year student or doing your master's, this iPad is reliable, durable, and affordable — especially when bought second-hand from CompAsia Malaysia.
➡️ Find the best deals on the iPad 10 on CompAsia Malaysia
3. iPad Air 5 – Future-Proofing for the Long Haul
If you're in a tech-heavy course like design, architecture, engineering, or media production, you’ll appreciate the extra performance from newer devices like the iPad Air 5 or the upcoming iPad Air M2.
These models boast M1 or M2 chipsets — the same processors powering MacBooks — and are ideal for running advanced apps like Adobe Illustrator, Procreate, or even coding software.
What You Get:
- M1 chip (Air 5)
- 10.9” or 11” Liquid Retina display
- 5G support (Air 5)
- Center Stage front camera for video calls
- Latest iPadOS experience
While these models are newer and a bit pricier, CompAsia aims to offer them soon in certified second-hand condition, allowing students to experience cutting-edge technology for less than RM1,499–RM1,899 depending on stock and condition.
➡️ Buy iPad Air 5 at CompAsia Malaysia
Why Buy Second-Hand iPads from CompAsia?
When buying second-hand, trust and transparency are crucial. CompAsia offers:
✅ 32-step quality check to ensure functionality
✅ Up to 12 months warranty
✅ Certified pre-owned — not just used or “as-is”
✅ Flexible payment plans (via Atome, PayLater, etc.)
✅ Optional ReNew+ Plan for future upgrades
✅ Access to InstaCover for extended device protection
We’re more than a marketplace — we’re a movement towards smarter, greener tech use. By choosing CompAsia, you’re not only saving money but also reducing e-waste and supporting a more sustainable future.
Bonus: Answering Your FAQs About iPads for Students
Q1: What's the difference between regular iPad and iPad Air?
The iPad Air offers a better display, faster processor (A14 or M1), and compatibility with newer accessories compared to the regular iPad.
Q2: Which iPad is best for students?
The iPad Air 4 is a great choice for its balance of performance and price. The standard iPad 9th Gen is better if you're on a tighter budget.
Q3: What is the disadvantage of iPad Air?
The iPad Air lacks some premium features like Face ID and the 120Hz display seen in the iPad Pro line.
Q4: How old is the iPad Air?
The first iPad Air was released in 2013. The iPad Air 4 came out in 2020, while the iPad Air 5 launched in 2022.