iPad 8th vs 9th Generation: Which iPad Should You Buy?
Are you in the market for a new tablet and torn between two popular choices? The iPad lineup offers a range of options, but deciding between the iPad 8th generation and the 9th generation can be tricky.
Both tablets share some similarities, but the 9th generation boasts notable upgrades. This comparison will delve into the key differences, helping you make an informed decision and choose the perfect iPad for your needs.
We’ll examine the performance, display quality, camera capabilities, and overall value of both the iPad 8th generation and its successor. By the end, you’ll know exactly which iPad is the better fit for your lifestyle and budget.
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | iPad 8th | 9th gen |
|---|---|---|
| Release Year | 2020 | 2021 |
| Chip | A12 Bionic | A13 Bionic |
| Display Size | 10.2-inch | 10.2-inch |
| Display Resolution | 2160 x 1620 | 2160 x 1620 |
| Storage Options | 32GB, 128GB | 64GB, 256GB |
| Front Camera | 1.2MP | 12MP Ultra Wide |
| Rear Camera | 8MP | 8MP |
| Apple Pencil Support | 1st Generation | 1st Generation |
| Smart Keyboard Support | Yes | Yes |
| Wi-Fi | 802.11ac | 802.11ac |
| Bluetooth | 4.2 | 4.2 |
| Operating System | iPadOS | iPadOS |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Processor
- iPad 8th: Features the A12 Bionic chip. This chip provides decent performance for everyday tasks and older games. However, it can struggle with more demanding applications and multitasking compared to newer chips.
- 9th Generation: Equipped with the A13 Bionic chip, offering a significant performance boost over the A12. This translates to smoother performance in apps, better gaming capabilities, and improved multitasking.
- Winner: 9th Gen
Display
- iPad 8th: Features a 10.2-inch Retina display with a resolution of 2160 x 1620 pixels. The display is bright and vibrant, suitable for media consumption and general use. However, it lacks some of the advanced display technologies found in newer models.
- 9th Generation: Also boasts a 10.2-inch Retina display with the same resolution. It gains True Tone technology, which automatically adjusts the display’s color temperature to match the ambient lighting, making it easier on the eyes.
- Winner: 9th Gen
Front Camera
- iPad 8th: Includes a 1.2MP FaceTime HD camera. It’s adequate for video calls but the image quality is not as sharp or detailed as newer cameras.
- 9th Generation: Upgrades to a 12MP Ultra Wide front camera with Center Stage. Center Stage automatically pans and zooms to keep you in the frame during video calls, and the improved camera offers significantly better image quality.
- Winner: 9th Gen
Storage Options
- iPad 8th: Offered with storage options starting at 32GB or 128GB. This may be limiting for users who store a lot of media or plan to use demanding applications.
- 9th Generation: Comes with base storage options of 64GB or 256GB. This provides more storage capacity for apps, media, and files, catering to a wider range of user needs.
- Winner: 9th Gen
Apple Pencil Compatibility
- iPad 8th: Supports the 1st generation Apple Pencil. This provides a basic drawing and note-taking experience.
- 9th Generation: Also supports the 1st generation Apple Pencil.
- Winner: Tie
Operating System
- iPad 8th: Ships with iPadOS, receives software updates.
- 9th Generation: Ships with iPadOS, receives software updates.
- Winner: Tie
Price
- iPad 8th: Typically available at a lower price point, especially on the used market. This makes it a more budget-friendly option.
- 9th Generation: Generally more expensive than the 8th generation, reflecting its improved features and performance.
- Winner: 8th Gen (if budget is a primary concern)
Connectivity
- iPad 8th: Supports Wi-Fi 802.11ac and Bluetooth 4.2.
- 9th Generation: Supports Wi-Fi 802.11ac and Bluetooth 4.2.
- Winner: Tie
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Performance | 9th generation |
| Storage Options | 9th generation |
| Front Camera | 9th generation |
| Value | iPad 8th |
What They Have in Common:
- Display Size: Both iPads feature the same 10.2-inch Retina display, offering a crisp and vibrant visual experience for everyday tasks and media consumption.
- Apple Pencil Support: Both generations are compatible with the 1st generation Apple Pencil, enabling users to take notes, draw, and annotate documents with precision.
- Smart Keyboard Support: Both iPads support the Smart Keyboard, transforming them into more versatile devices for typing and productivity.
- Operating System: Both iPads run on iPadOS, providing a consistent user interface and access to the latest features and app updates.
- Rear Camera: Both iPads have an 8MP rear camera, suitable for taking photos and videos in various lighting conditions.
iPad 8th vs 9th Generation Buying Guide
Performance and Processing Power
The iPad 8th generation is powered by the A12 Bionic chip, a capable processor for everyday tasks like browsing, streaming, and light gaming. However, the iPad 9th generation boasts the A13 Bionic chip, offering a significant performance boost. This translates to faster app loading times, smoother multitasking, and improved performance in graphically demanding applications. The A13 chip also contributes to a more responsive user experience overall, making the 9th generation a better choice for those who prioritize performance.
The 9th generation’s improved chip also allows it to handle more complex tasks, such as editing photos and videos, with greater ease. If you plan to use your iPad for creative work or more demanding applications, the performance difference between the A12 and A13 chips is quite noticeable. The 9th generation offers a more future-proof performance profile, ensuring it remains capable for a longer period.
Display Quality
Both iPads share the same 10.2-inch Retina display, providing a crisp and vibrant viewing experience. While the core display technology is similar, the 9th generation iPad features True Tone technology. True Tone automatically adjusts the display’s color temperature to match the ambient lighting of your environment. This results in a more natural and comfortable viewing experience, especially in varying lighting conditions.
The difference is subtle but noticeable over time, reducing eye strain and enhancing readability. Whether you’re reading, browsing, or watching videos, True Tone makes the display adapt to your surroundings. The 9th generation’s inclusion of this feature is a significant improvement over the 8th generation and makes a difference in prolonged usage.
Storage Options
The iPad 8th generation offered a base storage option of 32GB, which can quickly fill up with apps, photos, and videos. The 9th generation iPad significantly improves upon this, starting with 64GB of storage. This provides ample space for most users, allowing for more content to be stored directly on the device. Additionally, the 9th generation has a 256GB storage option.
This increased storage capacity is a major advantage for users who create a lot of content, download many apps, or store a large media library. It allows for more flexibility and eliminates the need to constantly manage storage space. Choosing the appropriate storage size depends on individual needs, but the 9th generation gives users more options.
Camera Capabilities
The rear-facing cameras on both iPads are identical, producing satisfactory photos and videos for casual use. However, the front-facing camera sees a significant upgrade in the 9th generation. It features a 12MP Ultra Wide front camera with Center Stage. Center Stage automatically keeps you in frame during video calls, even if you move around.
This feature greatly enhances the video conferencing experience, making it easier for others to see you clearly. The 8th generation has a standard front-facing camera that lacks Center Stage. If you frequently use your iPad for video calls or online meetings, the 9th generation’s camera is a clear advantage. The 9th Gen’s front camera is a big selling point.
Battery Life
Both the 8th and 9th generation iPads offer excellent battery life, typically lasting up to 10 hours of web browsing or video playback. Real-world usage may vary depending on how you use the device. The battery performance of both generations is consistently reliable, making them suitable for all-day use.
While the battery life is similar, the 9th generation may benefit from the more efficient A13 Bionic chip, which can potentially extend battery life slightly. However, the difference is likely negligible in most situations. Both models offer a similar level of battery performance, suitable for extended use. Both iPads are great for on-the-go usage.
Connectivity and Accessories
Both iPads support Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to connect to the internet and accessories such as keyboards and mice. They also both support the first-generation Apple Pencil. This is a crucial accessory for artists and students who want to take notes or create drawings.
The 9th generation iPad offers a more modern user experience, even though both models are compatible with the same Apple Pencil. The 9th generation is likely to receive software updates for a longer period, making it a more future-proof option. The 9th generation is the better choice for those who want a more up-to-date device.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy iPad 8th If…
- You’re on a tight budget and want the most affordable iPad option.
- You primarily use your iPad for basic tasks like browsing, email, and streaming.
- You don’t need the latest processor or more storage.
Buy 9th generation If…
- You want a faster processor for smoother performance, especially for gaming or more demanding apps.
- You need more storage space for apps, photos, and videos.
- You value the improved front-facing camera for better video calls.
- You want the latest iPad model with the most up-to-date features.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between the iPad 8th and 9th generation?
The primary difference is the processor. The 9th generation features the more powerful A13 Bionic chip, providing a significant performance boost compared to the 8th generation’s A12 Bionic. Additionally, the 9th generation has a better front-facing camera with Center Stage and starts with more storage (64GB).
Does the iPad 9th generation support the Apple Pencil?
Yes, both the iPad 8th and 9th generations support the first-generation Apple Pencil. This allows users to take notes, draw, and interact with the iPad in a more creative and intuitive way. The Apple Pencil is a great accessory for both models.
What is Center Stage?
Center Stage is a feature on the 9th generation iPad’s front-facing camera. It uses the ultra-wide lens to automatically keep you in the center of the frame during video calls, even if you move around. This provides a better video conferencing experience.
What are the storage options for the iPad 8th and 9th generation?
The iPad 8th generation offered 32GB and 128GB storage options. The 9th generation starts with 64GB and offers a 256GB option. The 9th generation provides more storage in the base model and more overall storage capacity.
Does the iPad 9th generation have a better display than the iPad 8th generation?
Both iPads have a 10.2-inch Retina display. However, the 9th generation features True Tone technology, which automatically adjusts the display’s color temperature to match the ambient lighting of your environment, leading to a more comfortable viewing experience. This is the biggest difference.
Which iPad is better for gaming?
The iPad 9th generation is better for gaming due to its more powerful A13 Bionic chip. It provides faster loading times, smoother gameplay, and better overall performance in graphically demanding games. The 9th generation offers a superior gaming experience.
Is the iPad 9th generation worth the upgrade from the 8th generation?
Yes, the iPad 9th generation is worth the upgrade for most users. The improved performance, enhanced front camera with Center Stage, and increased base storage make it a more capable and future-proof device. The True Tone display is also a nice upgrade.
Final Verdict
The iPad 9th generation offers significant improvements over the 8th generation, including a faster processor, enhanced front camera with Center Stage, and more storage. While both are excellent tablets, the 9th generation provides a better overall user experience and is a more future-proof choice for most users. The addition of True Tone and more storage is a substantial upgrade.
Winner: iPad 9th Generation