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

The iPad 9th generation (2021) is still around, and many people are wondering if it’s still worth buying. Well, let's dive deep into a comprehensive review of the iPad 9th Generation, launched in 2021, to determine if it holds up in today's rapidly evolving tech landscape. This review will cover everything from design and display to performance, battery life, and overall value. By the end, you’ll have a clear picture of whether this iPad suits your needs.

Design and Display

When it comes to design, the iPad 9th generation sticks to the classic iPad look, which, honestly, isn't a bad thing. It features a familiar aluminum build that feels sturdy and reliable. You've got the home button with Touch ID, which some people still prefer over Face ID. It's available in two colors: Silver and Space Gray. The bezels are a bit thicker compared to newer iPads, but that's a trade-off for the lower price point. For many users, this design is perfectly functional and comfortable for everyday use. The dimensions are 9.8 x 6.8 x 0.3 inches, and it weighs around 1.07 pounds, making it portable enough to carry around without feeling cumbersome. The build quality is typical Apple – solid and dependable.

The display is a 10.2-inch Retina display with a resolution of 2160 x 1620 pixels, resulting in a pixel density of 264 ppi. This provides sharp and clear visuals, making it great for reading, watching videos, and browsing the web. The screen also supports True Tone technology, which adjusts the color temperature based on your surroundings, reducing eye strain. While it's not as vibrant or color-accurate as the displays on the iPad Air or iPad Pro, it's still a very good screen for the price. Brightness levels are adequate for indoor use, although you might struggle a bit in direct sunlight. The display is not laminated, meaning there's a slight gap between the glass and the display itself, which can be noticeable when using the Apple Pencil. However, this is a minor issue for most users and doesn't detract significantly from the overall viewing experience. The Retina display is a key feature that makes this iPad a worthwhile purchase, especially for those upgrading from older models.

Performance

Under the hood, the iPad 9th generation is powered by the A13 Bionic chip. While it's not the latest and greatest, it's still a capable processor that can handle most tasks with ease. You can smoothly run multiple apps, play games, and even do some light video editing without significant lag. The A13 Bionic offers a noticeable performance boost over the previous generation, making it a worthwhile upgrade for those using older iPads. In terms of benchmarks, the A13 Bionic scores competitively with other devices in its class, providing a solid user experience. The Neural Engine in the A13 chip also enhances machine learning tasks, improving the performance of apps that utilize AI features. Whether you're streaming videos, browsing the web, or working on documents, the iPad 9th generation delivers a responsive and efficient performance.

The iPad 9th generation comes with 3GB of RAM, which is sufficient for most everyday tasks. However, power users who tend to juggle multiple demanding apps might find it limiting. The base model starts with 64GB of storage, which may not be enough for users who plan to store a lot of photos, videos, and apps. Fortunately, there's also a 256GB option available, which is a more practical choice for those with extensive storage needs. The combination of the A13 Bionic chip and the available storage options makes the iPad 9th generation a versatile device for both casual and more demanding users. The iPad also supports multitasking features like Slide Over and Split View, allowing you to work on multiple apps simultaneously, enhancing productivity. The performance capabilities ensure that this iPad remains a relevant and useful device in 2024.

Battery Life

One of the standout features of the iPad 9th generation is its impressive battery life. Apple claims up to 10 hours of web surfing on Wi-Fi or watching video, and in real-world testing, it generally lives up to that claim. You can easily get through a full day of moderate use without needing to recharge. Even with more intensive tasks like gaming or video editing, the battery life is still respectable. This makes it a great device for students, travelers, and anyone who needs a reliable tablet that can last throughout the day. The included 20W USB-C power adapter allows for relatively fast charging, so you can quickly top up the battery when needed. The long battery life is a significant advantage, especially when compared to other tablets in its price range. Whether you're using it for work, entertainment, or a combination of both, the iPad 9th generation won't leave you scrambling for a charger in the middle of the day. The battery performance alone makes it a worthwhile investment for many users.

Cameras

The iPad 9th generation features an 8MP Wide back camera with an f/2.4 aperture. While it's not going to compete with the cameras on high-end smartphones, it's perfectly adequate for basic photography and video recording. The camera can capture decent photos in good lighting conditions, and it supports features like HDR and Panorama. It can also record 1080p HD video at 25 fps or 30 fps. For casual snapshots and video calls, the rear camera is more than sufficient. The front-facing camera is a 12MP Ultra Wide camera with a 122-degree field of view, which is a significant upgrade over the previous generation. This makes it ideal for video conferencing, especially with the Center Stage feature, which automatically adjusts the frame to keep you in view as you move around. The improved front camera is a welcome addition, particularly for those who frequently use their iPad for video calls or online meetings. The camera performance is a practical feature that enhances the overall user experience.

Software and Features

The iPad 9th generation runs on iPadOS, which is specifically designed for iPads. iPadOS offers a user-friendly interface with features like multitasking, widgets, and Apple Pencil support. The software is regularly updated with new features and security enhancements, ensuring that your iPad stays up-to-date. One of the key features is the Apple Pencil support, which allows you to take notes, sketch, and annotate documents with precision. The iPad 9th generation is compatible with the first-generation Apple Pencil, which is sold separately. The combination of iPadOS and Apple Pencil support makes this iPad a great tool for students, artists, and anyone who needs to take notes or create content on the go. The Smart Keyboard support is another useful feature, allowing you to connect a physical keyboard for more efficient typing. The software and features provide a seamless and productive user experience.

Value and Conclusion

So, is the iPad 9th generation (2021) still worth buying in 2024? The answer is a resounding yes, especially if you're looking for an affordable and reliable tablet for everyday use. It offers a good balance of performance, features, and battery life at a reasonable price. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of the latest iPad models, it's still a solid performer that can handle most tasks with ease. It is particularly well-suited for students, families, and anyone who needs a versatile tablet for work, entertainment, and communication. The value proposition is undeniable, making it one of the best budget-friendly tablets on the market.

In conclusion, the iPad 9th generation remains a compelling choice in 2024. Its durable design, capable performance, long battery life, and user-friendly software make it a worthwhile investment. While it may not be the flashiest tablet out there, it gets the job done and offers excellent value for the money. If you're on a budget or simply don't need the advanced features of the more expensive iPad models, the iPad 9th generation is definitely worth considering. It's a reliable and versatile tablet that will serve you well for years to come. Guys, this iPad is a solid, dependable option!