IPad 9th Gen (2023): Still Worth It?
So, you're thinking about snagging an iPad 9th generation in 2023? Good choice! Even though it's not the newest kid on the block, this tablet still packs a serious punch for the price. In this review, we're diving deep into whether the iPad 9th gen holds up in today's tech landscape. We'll cover everything from its performance and display to its battery life and overall value. Let's get started, shall we?
Design and Display: A Classic Look That Works
The iPad 9th gen rocks a classic design that's instantly familiar. We're talking about the iconic home button with Touch ID, chunky bezels (yes, they're still there!), and a sturdy build quality that can withstand the occasional bump and grind. It's not the most modern-looking tablet, sure, but there's something comforting about its simplicity.
Let's talk about the display, a 10.2-inch Retina display that's sharp, vibrant, and easy on the eyes. Whether you're binging your favorite shows, browsing the web, or getting some work done, the screen looks great. The colors are accurate, and the brightness is sufficient for most indoor environments. While it's not as fancy as the laminated displays on the newer iPads, which reduce glare and improve viewing angles, the iPad 9th gen's display is still perfectly adequate for everyday use. Plus, it supports the first-generation Apple Pencil, which is a huge bonus for note-takers and creative types. For students, artists, or anyone who loves handwriting, this feature alone makes the iPad 9th gen a winner.
Durability is another key factor. The iPad 9th gen feels solid and well-built. The aluminum chassis can handle everyday wear and tear without feeling flimsy. While it's not waterproof or dustproof, it's definitely more robust than some of the cheaper tablets out there. This makes it a great option for families with kids or anyone who needs a reliable tablet that can withstand a bit of abuse.
Performance: More Than Enough Power for Everyday Tasks
Under the hood, the iPad 9th gen is powered by the A13 Bionic chip. Now, this isn't the latest and greatest processor from Apple, but it's still incredibly capable. The A13 Bionic chip delivers snappy performance for everything from browsing the web and streaming videos to playing games and running productivity apps. You won't experience any noticeable lag or stuttering during everyday tasks, and even more demanding apps like Procreate and iMovie run smoothly.
Compared to its predecessor, the iPad 8th gen, the iPad 9th gen offers a significant performance boost. Apps launch faster, multitasking is smoother, and games run at higher frame rates. This makes it a worthwhile upgrade if you're coming from an older iPad. And while it might not be as powerful as the newer iPads with M1 or M2 chips, the iPad 9th gen still holds its own against many of its competitors in the same price range.
For gamers, the iPad 9th gen is a surprisingly capable device. Games like Fortnite, PUBG Mobile, and Call of Duty: Mobile run smoothly with decent graphics settings. While you might not be able to max out the settings on every game, the overall gaming experience is enjoyable. The large display and comfortable form factor also make it a great device for mobile gaming. Plus, with Apple Arcade, you get access to a library of hundreds of games that are optimized for iPad.
Battery Life: All-Day Power for Work and Play
Battery life is another area where the iPad 9th gen shines. Apple claims up to 10 hours of battery life for web browsing, video playback, and music listening, and in my testing, that claim holds up. You can easily get through a full day of work or school on a single charge, even with heavy use. Whether you're taking notes in class, working on a presentation, or watching videos on your commute, the iPad 9th gen has the stamina to keep up with you.
Compared to some of the smaller tablets on the market, the iPad 9th gen's larger battery capacity makes a big difference. You don't have to worry about constantly topping up the battery, which is a huge convenience. And even if you do run low on power, the iPad 9th gen charges relatively quickly with the included charger.
The long battery life also makes the iPad 9th gen a great travel companion. You can use it to watch movies on long flights, read books on the beach, or navigate in unfamiliar cities without worrying about running out of power. Just be sure to pack a portable charger if you plan on using it heavily for multiple days without access to an outlet.
Software and Features: iPadOS Magic
The iPad 9th gen runs on iPadOS, Apple's tablet-optimized operating system. iPadOS is packed with features that make the iPad a versatile device for both work and play. You get access to a wide range of apps from the App Store, including productivity apps like Microsoft Office and Google Docs, creative apps like Procreate and iMovie, and entertainment apps like Netflix and Spotify. The iPad 9th gen also supports multitasking features like Split View and Slide Over, which allow you to run multiple apps side by side.
One of the standout features of iPadOS is its support for the Apple Pencil. The iPad 9th gen is compatible with the first-generation Apple Pencil, which allows you to take handwritten notes, create digital art, and annotate documents with precision. The Apple Pencil integrates seamlessly with iPadOS, and there are plenty of apps that take advantage of its capabilities. If you're a student, artist, or anyone who loves handwriting, the Apple Pencil is a must-have accessory.
Another great feature of iPadOS is its tight integration with other Apple devices. You can easily share files and photos between your iPad, iPhone, and Mac using iCloud, and you can even use your iPad as a second display for your Mac with Sidecar. This makes the iPad a seamless part of the Apple ecosystem.
Value for Money: An Affordable Entry into the iPad World
One of the biggest selling points of the iPad 9th gen is its price. It's one of the most affordable iPads you can buy, making it a great entry point into the Apple ecosystem. Despite its low price, the iPad 9th gen offers a premium experience with its powerful processor, vibrant display, and long battery life. It's a great value for students, families, and anyone who needs a reliable tablet for everyday use.
Compared to some of the other tablets on the market, the iPad 9th gen offers a better combination of price and performance. While there are cheaper Android tablets available, they often lack the polish and features of iPadOS. And while there are more powerful iPads available, they come at a much higher price. The iPad 9th gen strikes a sweet spot between price and performance, making it a great choice for budget-conscious buyers.
Of course, the iPad 9th gen isn't perfect. It lacks some of the features of the newer iPads, such as a laminated display, a faster processor, and USB-C connectivity. But for most people, these omissions are not deal-breakers. The iPad 9th gen still offers a great overall experience at a price that's hard to beat.
Who is it for?
The iPad 9th gen is perfect for:
- Students: It's a great tool for taking notes, reading textbooks, and doing research.
- Families: It's a great device for watching videos, playing games, and browsing the web.
- Casual users: It's a great tablet for everyday tasks like checking email, social media, and online shopping.
- Budget-conscious buyers: It's one of the most affordable iPads you can buy.
Conclusion: Still a Solid Choice in 2023
So, is the iPad 9th gen still worth it in 2023? Absolutely! While it may not be the newest or most powerful iPad on the market, it still offers a great combination of performance, features, and value. It's a reliable and versatile tablet that can handle everyday tasks with ease. Whether you're a student, a family, or a casual user, the iPad 9th gen is a solid choice that won't break the bank.
Sure, it has those chunky bezels and the older A13 chip, but honestly, for the price, you're getting a fantastic device. Plus, with iPadOS updates still rolling out, you're not missing out on the latest software features. If you're looking for an affordable and dependable tablet, the iPad 9th gen is definitely worth considering in 2023. You get the Apple ecosystem experience without the premium price tag. And let's be real, that's a win-win in our book!