iPad 9th Gen vs 10th Gen: Which One Should You Buy?
Apple finally released the much-anticipated iPad 10th gen in October 2022. Its features are mind-blowing. The recent model shows a spectacular design and performance change to confuse you about which one to buy in 2023. Hence, I’ve made a detailed comparison of iPad 9th gen vs. 10th gen.
However, these changes have made the current model a bit more expensive than its previous versions. The article solves your puzzle by comparing the two iPads. So deep dive into the article to gain more insights about the same.
iPad 9th Gen vs. iPad 10th Gen: What‘s the difference?
There are many upgrades in the new iPad 10th gen. It had smaller bezels and colors and a better camera system with 12MP at the back and front. In addition, the Bionic A14 chipset performs brilliantly. However, the new iPad Gen 10 is around $100 costlier than the Gen 9.
Design
The iPad (10th gen) has modeled itself based on the iPad Air. Therefore, the design looks unique compared to the iPad (9th gen). For example, the front side consists of flat edges, which are pretty different from the rounded edges of the iPad (9th gen). In addition, it has uniformed bezels on its display, while its predecessor has larger bezels.
The rear end of the new iPad features a single camera lens, but it’s much bigger in size and efficiency than the older one. In addition, the newer iterations in the design provide a seamless look to the iPad (10th gen).
The iPad (9th gen) is only available in two Silver colors and Space gray. The latest model is available in four colors – Blue, Pink, Yellow and Silver. The positioning of the Smart Connector on the left edge has been retained for both models. Overall, the iPad (10th gen) is very lightweight, short, and slim compared to the iPad (9th gen), which is wider and much bulkier.
Display
The technical specifications related to the iPad (10th gen) are as follows. It is a liquid retina display averaging around 10.9 Inches and provides ~264 ppi density. This results in a spectacular viewing experience with breathtaking angles and magnificent colors.
Comparing these specifications with the 9th gen iPad shows a display with ~264 ppi density and 10.2 inches in size. Thus the iPad (10th gen) provides a slightly bigger screen with similar quality.
The display of both models retains various features, which are as follows. First, the Apple True Tone Technology powers both these models. In addition, the display has an oleophobic, fingerprint-resistant coating that is constant for both models.
Hardware and Specs
Hardware and software are the most crucial aspects which you must consider before purchasing an Apple device. Although there are various benchmarks for comparing these differences, we will focus on the primary components which should affect your buying decision.
– Chipset
The iPad (10th gen) directly provides a technological upgrade compared to its previous version. An A13 Bionic chip powers the iPad (9th gen), while the A14 Bionic chip powers the iPad (10th gen). Thus, the newer version gives the user an upgrade in its processing system, directly affecting the device’s speed and functionality.
– Camera
The rear camera on the iPad (9th gen) is an 8-megapixel snapper, while the iPad (10th gen) has a 12-megapixel sensor which also supports 4K video recording.
The technical specifications of the front camera on both models are identical: a 12-megapixel sensor paired with Apple’s unique Center Stage feature. In addition, the older iPad positions the front camera at the top of the display like all the previous models. However, the iPad (10th gen) positions the front camera around the right edge.
– Apple Pencil
The Apple Pencil (first generation) is seamlessly compatible with both iPad versions. However, you’ll need an adapter for the Apple Pencil with the iPad (10th gen) because it needs lightning to charge itself.
– Connectivity
The iPad (10th gen) is fully compatible with 5G technology and Wi-Fi, while its predecessor is compatible with 4G technology. Moreover, the Bluetooth connectivity provided by the iPad (9th gen) is 4.2, while the iPad (10th gen) provides 5.2 Bluetooth connectivity. Hence, upgrading to the newer iPad (10th gen) is fully compatible with the recent advances in connectivity tech.
Software
Both the iPad model runs on iPadOS 16, which signifies that the entire experience for both users will be identical. Thus, although the newer model has highly efficient technology, the overall interface and user experience will be similar.
Price
The new iPad shows an exponential price increase compared to the previous model. For example, the iPad (10th gen) 64 GB Wi-Fi comes at around $449 in the US. On the contrary, the 9th gen iPad costs around $329, more than $100. Thus it clearly shows the exponential price increase around both models.
See our comparison of Macbook Air M1 vs. Air M2.
Conclusion
So, I hope you got the answers to iPad 9th gen vs. 10th gen comparison. The iPad (9th gen) is the best buy due to its low prices. But on the other hand, the 10th Gen iPad is more sensible because it comes with various technical upgrades and is entirely modeled around iPad Air. Thus the new iPad can serve as a middle ground for a slightly higher price paired with better technology and a magnificent design.
