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:
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A12 Bionic chip (same as iPhone 12 series)
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All-screen design with Touch ID on the top button
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Compatible with Apple Pencil 2 and Magic Keyboard
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USB-C port for faster charging and data transfer
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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:
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10.9" (10th Gen) Retina Display
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A14 Bionic chip for strong performance
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iPadOS with multitasking capabilities
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Long battery life (up to 10 hours)
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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:
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M1 chip (Air 5)
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10.9” or 11” Liquid Retina display
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5G support (Air 5)
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Center Stage front camera for video calls
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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.
Q5: Are Air 4 and Air 5 the same?
Not quite. The Air 5 includes an M1 chip and 5G support, while the Air 4 runs on the A14 Bionic and has LTE.
Q6: How old is the iPad Air 4?
It was released in October 2020, making it 4–5 years old in 2025 — still very capable.
Q7: What size is the iPad Air 4 gen?
It has a 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display with wide color and True Tone.
Q8: Is the iPad 4 discontinued?
Yes, the original iPad 4 (2012) is discontinued. Modern Air models like the 4th, 5th, and soon 6th Gen are still in circulation and supported by iPadOS.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right iPad as a student depends on your academic needs and budget. Whether you're after the value of the iPad 9th Gen, the versatility of the iPad Air 4, or the power of the upcoming iPad Air M2, there’s a perfect match waiting for you — and it doesn’t have to cost a fortune.