IPad 9th Gen (2021) Review: Still Worth It In 2024?
Hey everyone! Today, we're diving deep into the iPad 9th Generation (2021). Is it still a relevant tablet in 2024, or has time passed it by? Let's find out!
Design and Display
Let's kick things off with the design and display of the iPad 9th generation. The design is classic iPad, folks. We're talking about those iconic thick bezels around the screen. Some might call them dated, but honestly, they give you a solid place to grip the iPad without accidentally touching the display. It is available in two colors: Space Gray and Silver. The build quality feels robust, which is reassuring, especially if you're prone to dropping things (like yours truly!).
The 10.2-inch Retina display is, well, a Retina display. Colors are vibrant enough, and the sharpness is perfectly adequate for everyday tasks like browsing the web, watching videos, or reading ebooks. It's not going to blow you away with fancy features like ProMotion (Apple's adaptive refresh rate tech), but it gets the job done. The screen also gets reasonably bright, making it usable in most indoor environments. However, direct sunlight can be a bit of a challenge. One cool addition is the True Tone technology, which adjusts the screen's color temperature to match the ambient light in your surroundings. This makes the display easier on the eyes, especially during long reading sessions. While it may not have the bells and whistles of the newer iPad models, the display is still perfectly functional and enjoyable for most users. If you're looking for a tablet primarily for content consumption and light productivity, the iPad 9th generation's display holds up surprisingly well, even in 2024. For those who prioritize a modern, edge-to-edge display with smoother scrolling, you might want to consider other options.
Performance
Under the hood, the iPad 9th generation is powered by the A13 Bionic chip. Now, this isn't the latest and greatest Apple silicon, but don't let that fool you. The A13 Bionic is still a capable performer. Everyday tasks like browsing the web, streaming videos, and using social media apps are a breeze. Multitasking is also handled reasonably well, allowing you to switch between apps without significant lag. When it comes to gaming, the A13 Bionic can handle most titles without any issues. More demanding games might require you to lower the graphics settings, but overall, the gaming experience is still enjoyable. The A13 Bionic also brings improvements to machine learning capabilities, which enhances features like Live Text (the ability to copy text from images). While it might not be the fastest chip on the block anymore, the A13 Bionic provides enough power for the vast majority of users.
However, if you're a power user who needs to edit videos, create complex graphics, or run demanding applications, you might find the A13 Bionic a bit limiting. In those cases, you'd be better off with an iPad powered by a newer chip, such as the A14 Bionic or M1. But for the average user, the A13 Bionic offers a smooth and responsive experience. Plus, the A13 Bionic is known for its energy efficiency, which contributes to the iPad 9th generation's excellent battery life. In summary, the performance of the iPad 9th generation is still quite respectable in 2024, especially considering its price point. It's a great option for those who want a capable tablet without breaking the bank.
Cameras
The cameras on the iPad 9th generation are decent, but they're not exactly a highlight. The rear camera is an 8MP wide camera, which is fine for scanning documents or taking quick snapshots. However, it's not going to replace your smartphone's camera. Image quality is acceptable in good lighting conditions, but it deteriorates in low light. The front-facing camera is a 12MP Ultra Wide camera, which is a significant improvement over the previous generation. It also supports Center Stage, a feature that automatically adjusts the camera to keep you in the frame during video calls. This is a particularly useful feature for those who frequently use their iPad for video conferencing. While the cameras on the iPad 9th generation are not the best on the market, they're perfectly adequate for basic tasks like video calls and document scanning. If you're serious about mobile photography, you'll probably want to stick to your smartphone.
Let's get real, guys, you're not buying an iPad for its groundbreaking camera tech, right? It's more for those quick video calls with family or scanning documents for work. The front-facing camera's Center Stage is a neat touch, though. It keeps you in the frame when you're moving around, which is super handy during video chats with family. So, while the camera system isn't winning any awards, it's sufficient for everyday needs.
Software and Features
The iPad 9th generation runs on iPadOS, Apple's tablet operating system. iPadOS is intuitive and user-friendly, making it easy to navigate and use. It also offers a range of features specifically designed for tablets, such as multitasking gestures, Split View, and Slide Over. The iPad 9th generation is also compatible with the first-generation Apple Pencil and the Smart Keyboard. The Apple Pencil is great for taking notes, sketching, and drawing, while the Smart Keyboard turns the iPad into a more productive device for typing and writing. One of the biggest advantages of owning an iPad is access to Apple's ecosystem of apps and services. The App Store has a vast selection of apps optimized for the iPad, covering everything from productivity to entertainment. Apple also provides excellent software support, with regular updates and security patches. This means that your iPad 9th generation will continue to receive new features and improvements for years to come. Overall, the software experience on the iPad 9th generation is excellent, thanks to iPadOS and Apple's commitment to software support.
Battery Life
Battery life on the iPad 9th generation is fantastic. You can easily get through a full day of use on a single charge, even with moderate to heavy usage. Apple claims up to 10 hours of surfing the web on Wi-Fi or watching video, and that's pretty accurate in real-world testing. This makes the iPad 9th generation a great option for students, travelers, or anyone who needs a tablet that can last all day long. The efficient A13 Bionic chip and the optimized software contribute to the iPad 9th generation's impressive battery life. When it's time to recharge, the included 20W power adapter will get you back up to full power in a reasonable amount of time. Overall, battery life is one of the iPad 9th generation's strongest points.
Value
Okay, let's talk value. The iPad 9th Gen is known for being one of the most affordable iPads you can buy. And honestly, that's its biggest selling point. You're getting a solid, reliable tablet experience without completely emptying your wallet. For students, families, or anyone who just wants a tablet for casual use, it's a fantastic option. Sure, it might not have all the bells and whistles of the iPad Air or iPad Pro, but it nails the basics. Plus, with Apple's excellent software support, you know you'll be getting updates for years to come. That makes it a smart investment, in my book. So, is the iPad 9th Gen still a good value in 2024? Absolutely!
Who is this iPad for?
So, who should consider buying the iPad 9th generation in 2024? Well, it's a great option for students who need a reliable tablet for taking notes, reading textbooks, and doing research. It's also a good choice for families who want a tablet for entertainment, education, and communication. The iPad 9th generation is also suitable for seniors who want an easy-to-use device for browsing the web, checking email, and staying connected with loved ones. However, if you're a professional who needs a powerful tablet for demanding tasks like video editing or graphic design, you'll probably want to consider a more powerful iPad, such as the iPad Air or iPad Pro. Similarly, if you're a gamer who wants the best possible gaming experience, you might want to look at an iPad with a faster processor and a better display. But for the average user, the iPad 9th generation is a great all-around tablet that offers excellent value for money.
Conclusion
So, is the iPad 9th Generation (2021) still worth buying in 2024? In short, yes, especially if you're on a budget and need a reliable tablet for everyday tasks. It's not the flashiest or the most powerful iPad out there, but it gets the job done and does it well. You're getting a solid display, decent performance, and that classic iPad experience we all know. For casual users, students, and families, it remains a fantastic option. Don't expect it to replace a high-end laptop or be a gaming powerhouse, but for the price, it's hard to beat. If you're looking for an affordable entry into the iPad ecosystem, the 9th Gen is still a smart choice!