The LTE iPad Air 2 release date is here, upgrading Apple's latest entry in the tablet market.

Apple's iPad Air 2 and iPad Mini 3 shipped out to stores last week; the launch is followed by an LTE Air 2 today, widely available in stores. The upgrade offers connectivity to mobile carriers Verizon, Sprint, AT&T, and T-Mobile in the US.

The new LTE iPad Air 2 adds a connectivity option to the Wi-Fi model, with an Apple SIM included. There's a $130 add-on to the price point of the Wi-Fi only model, though.

Gottabemobile compares prices across the variety of iPad models, basically dependent on the internal storage capacity of the device:

"The iPad Air 2 LTE starts at $629 for the 16GB model and is available in 64GB for $729 and 128GB for $829. For most shoppers the 64GB iPad Air 2 offers the best value with ample storage without a huge price jump like the 128GB model."

The report also cautions Apple pickers from going for the 16GB iPad Air 2; editor Adam Mills insists the storage may not be enough for most users.

"Last year, I bought the 16GB iPad Air. All year, I've been regretting that decision. See, over the past year or so, I've slowly filled up my iPad Air with applications and other files like photos, messages, and more. And while the iPad Air itself is great, the storage is a constant headache and a source of immense frustration."

All things considered, the iPad Air 2 is a reasonable upgrade from its predecessor, and CNET recommends purchasing it even for those fickle when it comes to value in specs.

"The iPad Air 2 is a nice refinement and finesse of last year's model, with a bevy of tweaks, enhancements, a much faster processor, and the welcome addition of Touch ID. Simply put: it's still the gold standard for tablets."

Today's LTE iPad Air 2 release date rolls out the tablet on Apple and Best Buy stores, as well as other major retailers.