IPad 9th Gen (2021) Review: Still Worth It In 2024?

So, you're thinking about grabbing an iPad in 2024, and the 9th generation iPad (released in 2021) has caught your eye, huh? Let's dive deep into whether this trusty tablet is still a worthwhile investment or if you should be looking at some of its newer siblings. We're going to break down everything from its performance and display to its battery life and overall value. Let's get started, shall we?

Design and Display: A Familiar Friend

The design of the 9th generation iPad is classic iPad. It's got that familiar aluminum build that feels solid in your hands. Now, it might not win any awards for groundbreaking design, but its robustness is appreciated. You've got the classic thick bezels around the screen, which some might consider dated, but they do give you a place to grip the device without accidentally triggering something on the display. Think of it as functional, not flashy.

The 10.2-inch Retina display is where you'll be spending most of your time, and it's generally quite good. It's an LED-backlit Multi-Touch display with IPS technology, meaning you get decent viewing angles and vibrant colors. The resolution of 2160 x 1620 pixels gives you a pixel density of 264 ppi, which is sharp enough for most tasks. Whether you're browsing the web, watching videos, or playing games, the display holds up pretty well. It also supports the first-generation Apple Pencil, which is excellent for note-taking or sketching.

One notable feature is the True Tone technology. This automatically adjusts the color temperature of the display to match the ambient lighting in your environment. It's a subtle feature, but it makes a noticeable difference in reducing eye strain, especially during extended use. It makes the screen appear more natural and comfortable to look at, whether you're in a brightly lit room or a dimly lit one. However, keep in mind that the display is not laminated, so you might notice a slight air gap between the glass and the display itself. This isn't a deal-breaker, but it's something to be aware of if you're used to higher-end iPads with laminated displays.

The display's brightness is adequate for indoor use, but it can struggle a bit in direct sunlight. If you plan on using your iPad primarily outdoors, you might find yourself needing to find some shade to see the screen clearly. Overall, the display is a solid performer for everyday tasks, but it's not the most cutting-edge technology available.

Performance: The A13 Bionic Still Holds Up

Under the hood, the 9th generation iPad is powered by Apple's A13 Bionic chip. This is the same chip that powered the iPhone 11 series, and while it's not the latest and greatest, it still provides plenty of power for most tasks in 2024. You'll be able to breeze through everyday activities like browsing the web, sending emails, streaming videos, and using social media apps without any noticeable lag.

Gaming is also quite decent on the A13 Bionic. You can play most games available on the App Store without any major issues, although you might need to lower the graphics settings on some of the more demanding titles to maintain a smooth frame rate. The chip's Neural Engine also helps with machine learning tasks, such as image recognition and augmented reality experiences.

The A13 Bionic offers a noticeable performance bump over its predecessor, the A12 Bionic, found in the 8th generation iPad. You'll notice faster app launch times, smoother multitasking, and an overall more responsive experience. While it might not be as blazing fast as the M1 or M2 chips found in the newer iPad models, the A13 Bionic is still more than capable for the majority of users.

It's important to remember that technology marches on, and newer iPads will undoubtedly offer even better performance. However, for the price, the A13 Bionic in the 9th generation iPad provides a sweet spot of performance and affordability. It's a chip that can handle everyday tasks with ease and even tackle some more demanding workloads without breaking a sweat. If you're not a power user who needs the absolute latest and greatest, the A13 Bionic will serve you just fine.

Battery Life: All-Day Endurance

Battery life is another area where the 9th generation iPad shines. Apple claims up to 10 hours of web surfing on Wi-Fi or watching video, and in real-world use, that claim holds up pretty well. You can easily get through a full day of moderate use without needing to reach for a charger. Whether you're taking notes in class, reading ebooks on your commute, or streaming movies on the couch, the 9th generation iPad has the endurance to keep up.

Of course, battery life will vary depending on your usage patterns. If you're playing graphics-intensive games or constantly streaming videos at maximum brightness, you'll likely see the battery drain faster. However, even with heavier usage, you should still be able to get a solid 7-8 hours of use out of it.

The 9th generation iPad charges via a Lightning port, which is a bit dated compared to the USB-C ports found on newer iPad models. However, it's not a major drawback, especially if you already have other Apple devices that use Lightning cables. The included power adapter charges the iPad at a reasonable speed, although it's not as fast as the charging speeds offered by some other tablets.

Overall, the battery life of the 9th generation iPad is excellent. It's a tablet that you can rely on to last through a full day of use without constantly worrying about finding an outlet. This makes it a great option for students, travelers, and anyone who needs a portable device that can keep up with their busy lifestyle.

Camera: Good Enough for Casual Use

The cameras on the 9th generation iPad are decent, but they're not exactly a highlight. The rear camera is an 8MP Wide camera with an f/2.4 aperture. It can take serviceable photos in good lighting conditions, but it struggles in low light. The video recording capabilities are also adequate, with support for 1080p HD video recording at 25 fps or 30 fps.

The front-facing camera is a 12MP Ultra Wide camera with an f/2.4 aperture. This is a significant upgrade over the front camera on the previous generation iPad. The wider field of view is great for video calls, and the Center Stage feature automatically adjusts the frame to keep you in view as you move around. This is particularly useful for video conferencing or online classes.

While the cameras on the 9th generation iPad are not going to win any photography awards, they're perfectly adequate for casual use. You can use them for taking quick snapshots, scanning documents, or video calling with friends and family. However, if you're serious about mobile photography, you'll probably want to look at a different device.

Software and Features: iPadOS Delight

The 9th generation iPad runs on iPadOS, Apple's operating system designed specifically for iPads. iPadOS is known for its user-friendly interface, smooth performance, and a wide range of features that enhance productivity and creativity. You'll have access to the App Store, which offers a vast selection of apps optimized for the iPad's larger screen.

One of the key features of iPadOS is its multitasking capabilities. You can use Slide Over and Split View to run multiple apps side by side, making it easy to work on multiple projects at once. The Files app allows you to easily manage your files and documents, and the Scribble feature lets you handwrite text in any text field using the Apple Pencil.

Apple provides regular software updates for its devices, so you can expect the 9th generation iPad to receive updates for several years to come. This means you'll have access to the latest features and security enhancements, keeping your device up-to-date and secure.

Value: Still a Budget King in 2024?

So, here's the big question: is the 9th generation iPad still a good value in 2024? The answer is: it depends. If you're on a tight budget and need a reliable tablet for everyday tasks, the 9th generation iPad is still a fantastic option. It offers a great combination of performance, battery life, and features at an affordable price.

However, if you're a power user who needs the latest and greatest technology, you might want to consider some of the newer iPad models. The iPad Air and iPad Pro offer faster processors, better displays, and more advanced features, but they also come with a higher price tag.

Ultimately, the 9th generation iPad is a solid all-around tablet that offers excellent value for the money. It's a great choice for students, families, and anyone who needs a portable device for everyday tasks. While it might not be the most cutting-edge tablet on the market, it's a reliable and affordable option that will serve you well for years to come.

Alternatives to Consider

Before you make your final decision, let's take a quick look at some alternatives to the 9th generation iPad:

• iPad 10th Generation: This model features a more modern design, a larger display, and a faster A14 Bionic chip. However, it also comes with a higher price tag.
• iPad Air (5th Generation): The iPad Air offers a powerful M1 chip, a stunning Liquid Retina display, and a thin and light design. It's a great option for those who need more performance and portability.
• Samsung Galaxy Tab A8: This Android tablet offers a large display, good battery life, and an affordable price. It's a good alternative if you prefer the Android ecosystem.

Final Verdict: A Timeless Choice

In conclusion, the iPad 9th generation (2021) remains a relevant and worthwhile device in 2024, especially for those seeking a budget-friendly and reliable tablet. While it may not boast the cutting-edge features of newer models, its solid performance, excellent battery life, and access to the vast iPadOS ecosystem make it a compelling option for everyday tasks, students, and families. If you don't need the latest and greatest technology and prioritize value for money, the iPad 9th generation is still a fantastic choice that will serve you well for years to come.