The iPad 9th Gen, released in 2021, remains one of Apple’s most budget-friendly tablets. With its premium design, vibrant display, solid performance, and the latest software updates, it remains relevant even in 2024. Let’s explore its features in detail to help you decide if this device suits your needs.
Design and Build Quality of the iPad 9th Gen
The iPad 9th Gen has a sleek aluminium build that feels both sturdy and premium. At 7.5mm thick and weighing 487g, the tablet feels extremely comfortable for two-hand usage. The 10.2-inch screen is surrounded by noticeable bezels which helps in holding the device. It includes a Touch ID fingerprint sensor on the front, a lightning port for charging, and dual speakers at the bottom. Additionally, the touch ID doubles as a home button and has a tactile click as well.
Display and Audio Experience
On the display front, we get a 10.2-inch Retina IPS LCD with a resolution of 1620 x 2160 pixels. It has superb clarity and sharpness with an adequate brightness of 500 nits. Although it doesn’t support HDR, watching content on this screen is still an enjoyable experience.
Audio-wise, the iPad 9th Gen comes with dual speakers, both located on the same side. While the sound quality is clear and loud, a stereo speaker setup would have enhanced the experience. However, including a 3.5mm headphone jack adds versatility for those who prefer wired audio solutions.
How Does the iPad 9th Gen Perform in 2024?
It is powered by the A13 Bionic chip, which delivers smooth performance across everyday tasks. Usages like heavy multitasking, browsing, or gaming, the tablet handles everything efficiently. Apple’s optimisations ensure lag-free usage even with just 3GB of RAM.
For gamers, titles like PUBG/BGMI or Call of Duty Mobile run smoothly at High graphics settings, that too at 60 FPS. The large screen and responsive touch make it ideal for immersive gaming. The A13 chip continues to provide reliable performance, making the iPad 9th Gen a capable device even three years after its launch.
Latest 2024 Software Update for the iPad 9th Gen
In 2024, the iPad 9th Gen received the iPadOS 18.1 update, a significant improvement over the buggy iPadOS 17. The latest update enhances the tablet’s responsiveness and stability, making multitasking smoother and more efficient. Good to see, that Apple is ensuring the iPad 9th Gen remains relevant, offering a polished experience even as it ages.
Battery Life and Charging Experience
Equipped with an 8557mAh battery, the iPad 9th Gen easily lasts for over a day with moderate use. It offers about 5-6 hours of screen time and can hold its charge on standby for up to two days. The 20W charger takes around three hours to fully charge the device, which is reasonable given the large battery.
iPad 9th Gen Quick Specifications
| Feature | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Display | 10.2″ Retina IPS LCD, 1620 x 2160 pixels, 500 nits |
| Processor | A13 Bionic Hexa-Core, Apple 4-Core GPU |
| RAM & Storage | 3GB RAM; 64GB or 256GB Storage |
| Camera | Rear: 8MP f/2.4, Front: 12MP f/2.4 Ultra Wide |
| Battery | 8557mAh, 20W charging, ~5-6 hours screen time |
| Audio | Dual bottom speakers, 3.5mm headphone jack |
| Ports | Lightning port, Smart Connector for keyboard |
| Software | iPadOS 18.1 (latest in 2024), smooth and stable |
| Build | Aluminum body, 7.5mm thickness, 487g weight |
| Additional Features | Touch ID, Apple Pencil (1st Gen) support |
Is the iPad 9th Gen Still a Budget-Friendly Tablet in 2024?
The iPad 9th Gen remains one of the most affordable ways to experience Apple’s ecosystem. Its durable design, reliable performance, and continued software updates make it a compelling option. It is recommended for students who want to utilize the Apple Pencil for creative purposes. Moreover, even gamers can utilize the A13 Bionic processor for playing the latest mobile gaming titles.
However, limitations like the dated lightning port and lack of modern stereo speakers might deter those seeking the latest features. For a slightly higher budget, newer models with updated hardware might be worth considering.
