IPad 9th Gen (2021) Review: Still Worth Buying?
Hey guys! Today, we’re diving deep into the iPad 9th Generation (2021). Is it still a relevant choice in today's crowded tablet market? Let's find out! This iPad was released in 2021, and while that might seem like ages ago in tech years, it still holds its own for many reasons. We'll look at its design, performance, display, and, most importantly, whether it offers good value for your money in 2024. This review aims to provide you with a comprehensive overview, helping you decide if this older iPad model is the right fit for your needs, especially when newer models are available. We'll consider who this iPad is best suited for and explore its strengths and weaknesses in detail. By the end of this review, you’ll have a clear understanding of what the iPad 9th Generation brings to the table and whether it's a smart purchase for you. So, let’s jump right in and see what this classic iPad has to offer!
Design and Build Quality
Let's kick things off with the design and build quality of the iPad 9th Generation. Spoiler alert: it's pretty much the same as its predecessors. Apple stuck with the classic iPad look, which, honestly, isn't a bad thing. You get that familiar aluminum build that feels solid and durable in your hands. It’s available in two colors: Silver and Space Gray. While these are safe and somewhat bland, they provide a professional and sleek aesthetic that works well in various settings. The bezels around the screen are quite thick compared to newer iPad models, which might feel a bit dated, but they do provide a comfortable grip when holding the device. The physical home button with Touch ID remains a staple, offering a reliable and secure way to unlock your iPad and authenticate purchases. The rear of the iPad is clean, featuring the Apple logo and a single camera lens. Overall, the design is functional and robust, prioritizing practicality over cutting-edge aesthetics. While it may not turn heads with its looks, the iPad 9th Generation is built to last and feels reassuringly solid. The build quality ensures it can withstand everyday use, making it a reliable device for both work and leisure. The familiar design also means that many accessories designed for older iPad models will still be compatible, saving you money on new cases and peripherals. Apple's decision to stick with this design also reflects their focus on affordability, allowing them to keep the price down while maintaining a decent level of quality. So, while it may not be the most stylish tablet on the market, the iPad 9th Generation's design is practical, durable, and familiar, making it a solid choice for those who prioritize function over form.
Display Quality
The iPad 9th Generation features a 10.2-inch Retina display, and honestly, it's still pretty good. The resolution of 2160 x 1620 pixels provides a sharp and clear image, making it great for browsing, watching videos, and even some light photo editing. The colors are vibrant and accurate enough for most users, though it's not quite as color-accurate as the displays on the more expensive iPad models. One of the standout features is the True Tone technology, which automatically adjusts the color temperature of the display to match the ambient lighting in your environment. This makes the screen easier on your eyes, especially when using the iPad in different lighting conditions. However, the display isn't laminated, meaning there's a slight air gap between the glass and the LCD panel. This can result in some reflections and a less immersive viewing experience compared to laminated displays found on higher-end iPads. The brightness is also adequate for indoor use, but it might struggle a bit in direct sunlight. Despite these limitations, the display is more than capable for everyday tasks, providing a pleasant viewing experience for most users. Whether you're streaming your favorite shows, reading ebooks, or working on documents, the screen delivers crisp and clear visuals. The Retina display ensures that text is sharp and images are detailed, enhancing the overall usability of the iPad 9th Generation. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of more advanced displays, it offers a balanced and satisfying visual experience that makes it a worthwhile choice for the price. The inclusion of True Tone technology further enhances its appeal, making it a comfortable device to use for extended periods. So, despite its age, the display on the iPad 9th Generation holds up well, providing a solid foundation for all your tablet needs.
Performance
Under the hood, the iPad 9th Generation is powered by the A13 Bionic chip. While it's not the latest and greatest, it still packs a punch for most everyday tasks. You can expect smooth performance when browsing the web, streaming videos, and running productivity apps like Pages and Numbers. Multitasking is also handled well, allowing you to switch between apps without significant lag. Gaming is also decent; you can play most games without any major issues, although you might need to lower the graphics settings for more demanding titles. Compared to its predecessor, the A13 Bionic offers a noticeable performance boost, making the iPad 9th Generation feel more responsive and snappy. This is particularly noticeable when launching apps and handling complex tasks. While it may not compete with the performance of the latest iPad Air or iPad Pro models, it's more than sufficient for the average user. The A13 Bionic chip also benefits from Apple's excellent software optimization, ensuring that the iPad runs smoothly and efficiently. This combination of hardware and software makes the iPad 9th Generation a reliable and capable device for a wide range of tasks. Whether you're a student taking notes, a professional managing emails, or simply someone who enjoys watching videos and browsing the web, the iPad 9th Generation offers a smooth and responsive experience. The chip's efficiency also contributes to good battery life, allowing you to use the iPad for extended periods without needing to recharge frequently. So, while it may not be the fastest tablet on the market, the iPad 9th Generation delivers solid and dependable performance that makes it a great value for the price.
Software and Features
The iPad 9th Generation runs on iPadOS, which is specifically designed for iPads. This gives you access to a wide range of features, including multitasking capabilities like Split View and Slide Over, which make it easy to work with multiple apps simultaneously. The App Store offers a vast selection of apps optimized for the iPad, covering everything from productivity and creativity to entertainment and education. Apple also provides regular software updates, ensuring that your iPad stays up-to-date with the latest features and security enhancements. One of the standout features is the support for the first-generation Apple Pencil, which allows you to take handwritten notes, sketch, and annotate documents with precision. This makes the iPad a great tool for students and creative professionals alike. The Smart Keyboard Folio is also supported, turning the iPad into a capable productivity machine. The combination of iPadOS and these accessories makes the iPad 9th Generation a versatile device that can adapt to a variety of tasks. Apple's ecosystem integration is another significant advantage, allowing you to seamlessly sync your data and files across all your Apple devices. This makes it easy to start a task on your iPhone and finish it on your iPad, or vice versa. The software experience on the iPad 9th Generation is polished and intuitive, making it easy for both beginners and experienced users to navigate. The user interface is clean and well-organized, and the performance is smooth and responsive. So, with its robust software and extensive feature set, the iPad 9th Generation offers a compelling user experience that enhances its overall value.
Camera Quality
The iPad 9th Generation features an 8MP wide camera on the rear and a 12MP Ultra Wide front camera. While the rear camera is decent for scanning documents and taking quick snapshots, it's not going to replace your smartphone's camera. The image quality is acceptable in good lighting conditions, but it struggles in low light. However, the front camera is a significant upgrade over its predecessor. The 12MP resolution provides sharp and clear 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 and online classes. The front camera also supports 1080p video recording, which is a nice bonus. While the camera quality is not a primary selling point of the iPad 9th Generation, it's adequate for most users' needs. The front camera's improved resolution and Center Stage feature make it a great tool for communication and collaboration. The rear camera is sufficient for basic tasks, such as scanning documents and capturing memories. The iPad 9th Generation camera system is designed to be functional and reliable, rather than exceptional. It provides a solid performance for everyday tasks without trying to compete with high-end smartphone cameras. The focus is on practicality and usability, ensuring that the cameras are easy to use and provide decent results in various scenarios. So, while it may not be a camera powerhouse, the iPad 9th Generation offers a competent camera system that meets the needs of most users.
Battery Life
Battery life is another area where the iPad 9th Generation shines. Apple claims up to 10 hours of battery life for web browsing or video playback, and in my testing, that's pretty accurate. You can easily get through a full day of use on a single charge, making it a great device for travel or long commutes. The iPad also supports fast charging with a 20W USB-C power adapter (sold separately), which can significantly reduce charging times. The efficient A13 Bionic chip contributes to the iPad's impressive battery life, allowing it to sip power even when running demanding apps. This makes the iPad a reliable companion for both work and leisure, ensuring that you can stay productive or entertained without constantly worrying about running out of battery. The long battery life also makes the iPad a great choice for students who need a device that can last through a full day of classes. The ability to fast charge the iPad is a convenient feature that allows you to quickly top up the battery when needed. This can be particularly useful when you're on the go and don't have much time to spare. The iPad 9th Generation battery performance is a key factor in its overall value, providing users with the freedom and flexibility to use the device without limitations. So, with its long battery life and fast charging capabilities, the iPad 9th Generation is a reliable and convenient device that can keep up with your busy lifestyle.
Value and Conclusion
So, is the iPad 9th Generation still worth buying in 2024? The answer is: it depends. If you're on a tight budget and need a reliable tablet for basic tasks like browsing, streaming, and light productivity, then it's still a great option. It offers a good balance of performance, features, and battery life at an affordable price. However, if you need more power, a better display, or support for the second-generation Apple Pencil, you might want to consider the newer iPad models like the iPad Air or iPad Pro. These models offer significant upgrades in terms of performance, display quality, and features, but they also come at a higher price. The iPad 9th Generation is best suited for students, casual users, and anyone who wants a simple and reliable tablet without breaking the bank. It's a great device for reading ebooks, watching videos, taking notes, and staying connected with friends and family. The availability of accessories like the Apple Pencil and Smart Keyboard Folio further enhances its versatility, making it a capable productivity tool. Ultimately, the decision of whether to buy the iPad 9th Generation depends on your individual needs and budget. If you prioritize affordability and functionality over cutting-edge features, then it's still a worthwhile investment. However, if you're looking for the best possible performance and features, you might want to consider spending a bit more on a newer iPad model. So, weigh your options carefully and choose the iPad that best fits your needs and budget.