Apple iPad 9 vs 10: Which iPad Should You Buy?
Are you in the market for a new tablet and torn between the Apple iPad 9 and the newer iPad 10? Choosing the right iPad can be a tough decision, especially with the constant advancements in technology and the varying needs of users. This comparison will help you navigate the key differences and determine which iPad model best suits your requirements.
We’ll dive deep into the specifications, features, and overall performance of both the Apple iPad 9th generation and the Apple iPad 10th generation. From the display quality and processing power to the design and battery life, we’ll cover all the essential aspects to guide your buying decision. Get ready to explore the strengths and weaknesses of each model.
Whether you’re a student, a creative professional, or simply looking for a device for entertainment and everyday tasks, understanding the nuances of the apple ipad 9 vs 10 is crucial. This comparison will provide you with the insights you need to make an informed choice. Let’s get started and find the perfect iPad for you!
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | iPad 9 | iPad 10 |
|---|---|---|
| Screen Size | 10.2-inch | 10.9-inch |
| Processor | A13 Bionic chip | A14 Bionic chip |
| RAM | 3GB | 4GB |
| Storage Options | 64GB, 256GB | 64GB, 256GB |
| Front Camera | 12MP Ultra Wide | 12MP Ultra Wide (landscape) |
| Rear Camera | 8MP Wide | 12MP Wide |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Cellular (optional) | Wi-Fi, Cellular (optional) |
| Apple Pencil Support | 1st generation | 1st generation (with adapter) / USB-C |
| Display Technology | Retina Display | Liquid Retina Display |
| Audio | Stereo Speakers | Landscape Stereo Speakers |
| Charging Port | Lightning | USB-C |
| Operating System | iPadOS | iPadOS |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Display
- Apple iPad 9: Features a 10.2-inch Retina display with True Tone technology. It offers good color accuracy and brightness for everyday use. However, the bezels are relatively thick compared to modern tablets.
- 10: Boasts a larger 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display with thinner bezels and a landscape orientation front-facing camera. This provides a more immersive viewing experience and is ideal for video calls and content consumption.
- Winner: 10
Processor
- Apple iPad 9: Powered by the A13 Bionic chip, which provides sufficient performance for basic tasks, web browsing, and some gaming. It may struggle with more demanding applications.
- 10: Equipped with the A14 Bionic chip, offering a significant performance boost over the A13. This results in faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and improved gaming capabilities.
- Winner: 10
Design
- Apple iPad 9: Retains the classic iPad design with thick bezels and a Home button. It has a Lightning port for charging and data transfer.
- 10: Features a more modern design with thinner bezels, a landscape orientation front-facing camera, and a USB-C port. The Home button is removed and Touch ID is incorporated into the power button.
- Winner: 10
Connectivity
- Apple iPad 9: Utilizes a Lightning port for charging and data transfer and supports Wi-Fi 802.11ac and Bluetooth 4.2.
- 10: Upgrades to a USB-C port for faster charging and data transfer. It supports Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2.
- Winner: 10
Camera
- Apple iPad 9: Offers an 8MP rear camera and a 12MP ultrawide front-facing camera. The quality is adequate for basic photos and video calls.
- 10: Features a 12MP rear camera and a 12MP ultrawide front-facing camera in landscape orientation. Improves photo and video quality, especially for video calls.
- Winner: 10
Apple Pencil Compatibility
- Apple iPad 9: Supports the 1st generation Apple Pencil, which requires a separate adapter for charging and pairing.
- 10: Supports the 1st generation Apple Pencil, which requires a separate adapter for charging and pairing.
- Winner: Tie
Storage Options
- Apple iPad 9: Available in 64GB and 256GB storage configurations.
- 10: Available in 64GB and 256GB storage configurations.
- Winner: Tie
Price
- Apple iPad 9: Generally more affordable, making it a good value for budget-conscious buyers.
- 10: More expensive than the 9th generation, reflecting its improved features and design.
- Winner: 9
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Display | iPad 10 |
| Performance | iPad 10 |
| Design | iPad 10 |
| Front Camera | iPad 10 |
| Connectivity | iPad 10 |
| Value | iPad 9 |
What They Have in Common:
- Operating System: Both iPads run on iPadOS, providing a consistent user experience with access to the App Store and features like multitasking and widgets.
- Storage Options: Both iPad models offer the same storage configurations, allowing users to choose between 64GB and 256GB of internal storage to store apps, photos, and videos.
- Wi-Fi and Cellular Options: Both iPads are available in Wi-Fi only and Wi-Fi + Cellular models, giving users flexibility in how they connect to the internet.
- Apple App Ecosystem: Both models fully integrate with the Apple ecosystem, including iCloud, Apple services (like Apple TV+, Apple Music, and Apple Arcade), and seamless integration with other Apple devices.
- Camera Capabilities: Both iPads feature front and rear cameras, enabling users to take photos, record videos, and participate in video calls.
Apple iPad 9 vs 10 Buying Guide
Performance and Processing Power
The iPad 9 relies on the A13 Bionic chip, a capable processor for everyday tasks like web browsing, email, and light gaming. It’s a proven performer, but it’s starting to show its age compared to newer chips. The iPad 10, on the other hand, boasts the A14 Bionic chip, providing a significant performance boost. This translates to smoother multitasking, faster app loading times, and improved performance for more demanding applications. The difference is noticeable, especially if you plan on using your iPad for creative tasks or resource-intensive games. The A14 offers a noticeably better user experience.
Display and Visuals
Both iPads offer excellent display quality, but there are some key differences. The iPad 9 features a traditional design with thick bezels around its 10.2-inch Retina display. While the display is bright and vibrant, it’s not as immersive. The iPad 10, on the other hand, sports a larger 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display with thinner bezels and a more modern design, offering a more expansive viewing experience. The iPad 10 also supports a wider color gamut, resulting in more vivid and accurate colors. The enhanced display makes a difference when consuming media.
Design and Portability
The iPad 9 maintains the classic iPad design with a physical Home button and a Lightning port. This design is familiar and functional. The iPad 10, however, embraces a more modern aesthetic, with slimmer bezels, a larger display, and a more streamlined appearance. It also features a USB-C port, which provides faster data transfer and wider compatibility with accessories. Both iPads are relatively lightweight and portable, making them easy to carry around. The design changes make the iPad 10 feel more premium.
Connectivity and Accessories
The iPad 9 offers Wi-Fi and optional cellular connectivity, along with a Lightning port for charging and connecting accessories. It supports the first-generation Apple Pencil. The iPad 10 also offers Wi-Fi and cellular options, but it features a USB-C port, which is more versatile. It supports the first-generation Apple Pencil, but requires a USB-C to Lightning adapter to charge, which is sold separately. The iPad 10 is compatible with the Magic Keyboard Folio, expanding its functionality. The different accessories support add to the versatility of each iPad.
Battery Life and Charging
Both the iPad 9 and iPad 10 offer excellent battery life, typically providing up to 10 hours of web browsing or video playback on a single charge. However, the charging methods differ. The iPad 9 charges via a Lightning port, while the iPad 10 uses USB-C. This means the iPad 10 is more compatible with modern charging cables. The battery performance should be similar for both models in real world use. Both iPads will last a full day of use.
Price and Value
The iPad 9 is generally the more budget-friendly option, making it an excellent choice for users looking for a basic iPad experience without breaking the bank. However, the iPad 10, despite its higher price tag, offers a more modern design, a faster processor, and an enhanced display, which may justify the cost for many users. Consider your budget and the features you need. Carefully review the features and benefits to determine which iPad offers the best value for your specific needs. Assess which factors matter most.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy iPad 9 If…
- You’re on a budget and looking for the most affordable iPad.
- You primarily use your iPad for basic tasks like web browsing, email, and streaming.
- You prefer the traditional home button and Touch ID for unlocking and authentication.
- You already own a 1st generation Apple Pencil.
Buy iPad 10 If…
- You want a larger and more vibrant display with thinner bezels.
- You desire a more powerful processor for smoother performance and more demanding tasks.
- You prefer a more modern design with USB-C for charging and accessories.
- You value the improved front-facing camera placement for video calls.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences between the iPad 9 and iPad 10?
The iPad 10 has a faster A14 Bionic chip, a larger and more modern Liquid Retina display with thinner bezels, and a USB-C port, unlike the iPad 9’s A13 Bionic chip, thicker bezels, and Lightning port. The iPad 10 also supports the Magic Keyboard Folio and offers a more updated design aesthetic. These upgrades contribute to the iPad 10’s overall enhanced performance and user experience.
Which iPad has a better processor?
The iPad 10 has a more powerful A14 Bionic chip. This processor upgrade provides significantly better performance compared to the A13 Bionic chip found in the iPad 9. The A14 Bionic allows for faster application loading, smoother multitasking, and better performance in more demanding games and applications.
Does the iPad 10 support the Apple Pencil?
Yes, the iPad 10 supports the first-generation Apple Pencil. However, it requires a USB-C to Lightning adapter (sold separately) to charge and pair the Apple Pencil, due to the iPad 10 using a USB-C port instead of a Lightning port. The iPad 9 also supports the first-generation Apple Pencil.
What is the display size difference?
The iPad 9 has a 10.2-inch Retina display, while the iPad 10 features a larger 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display. The iPad 10’s display has thinner bezels, which give it a more modern look and feel. The larger display provides a more immersive viewing experience.
Which iPad is more affordable?
The iPad 9 is generally the more affordable option. It provides a great value for those looking for a basic iPad experience without spending too much. The iPad 10, with its upgraded features, comes at a higher price point. Consider your budget and desired features when making your decision.
What are the charging options for each iPad?
The iPad 9 charges via a Lightning port, while the iPad 10 uses a USB-C port. This means the iPad 10 has more modern charging compatibility. Both iPads come with a charging adapter in the box. The USB-C port in the iPad 10 also allows faster data transfer and wider accessory compatibility.
Does the iPad 10 have a Home button?
No, the iPad 10 does not have a physical Home button. It has a more modern design with thinner bezels and the Home button functionality is integrated into the display through gestures, similar to the iPad Air and iPad Pro models. The iPad 9 retains the traditional Home button.
Final Verdict
The iPad 10 offers a compelling upgrade over the iPad 9, with its faster processor, larger display, and modern design. While the iPad 9 remains a solid choice for budget-conscious users, the enhanced performance and features of the iPad 10 make it the better overall tablet. The USB-C port and broader accessory support are additional advantages.
Winner: iPad 10