Apple has created an intense dilemma when choosing the latest iPads with the launch of the 10th-generation iPad. This new model has a new design, increased screen size, higher performance, and modern innovations such as 5G connectivity and a USB-C port. However, this comes with a higher price tag and can be considered a high-end device starting at $449. Still, the 9th-generation iPad sticks around for $329 as a dependable, more affordable option without all the bells and whistles. In this comparison, you will find out which design you like more: minimalistic, technologically advanced, or more affordable and traditional.
Differentiation Between iPad 9th Gen & 10th Gen
If you need clarification on the 9th-generation iPad and the 10th-generation iPad, you must consider your preferences. Every device has specific features suited to various clients, depending on their financial situation and power requirements, among other factors. Take a closer look at the following comparison to determine what differentiates these two iPads.
Feature |
iPad 9th Generation |
iPad 10th Generation |
Display |
10.2-inch Retina display |
10.9-inch Liquid Retina display |
Resolution |
2160 x 1620 pixels at 264 ppi |
2360 x 1640 pixels at 264 ppi |
Brightness |
500 nits SDR max |
500 nits SDR max |
Chip |
A13 Bionic chip |
A14 Bionic chip |
CPU |
6-core CPU |
6-core CPU |
GPU |
4-core GPU |
4-core GPU |
Neural Engine |
8-core Neural Engine |
16-core Neural Engine |
Rear Camera |
8MP Wide camera |
12MP Wide camera |
Video Recording (Rear Camera) |
1080p HD video at 25 fps or 30 fps |
4K video recording at 24, 25, 30, or 60 fps |
Front Camera |
12MP Ultra Wide front camera |
12MP Landscape Ultra Wide front camera |
Center Stage |
Yes |
Yes |
Touch ID |
In Home button |
In top button |
Connector |
Lightning |
USB-C |
Speakers |
Stereo speakers |
Landscape stereo speakers |
Wi-Fi |
Wi-Fi 802.11ac |
Wi-Fi 6 |
Cellular |
4G LTE |
5G |
Apple Pencil Support |
Apple Pencil (1st generation) |
Apple Pencil (USB-C) |
Keyboard Support |
Smart Keyboard |
Magic Keyboard Folio |
Battery Life |
Up to 10 hours on Wi-Fi, 9 hours on cellular |
Up to 10 hours on Wi-Fi, 9 hours on cellular |
Capacity |
64GB, 256GB |
64GB, 256GB |
Dimensions (Height x Width x Depth) |
250.6 mm x 174.1 mm x 7.5 mm |
248.6 mm x 179.5 mm x 7 mm |
Weight (Wi-Fi) |
487 grams (1.07 pounds) |
477 grams (1.05 pounds) |
Weight (Wi-Fi + Cellular) |
498 grams (1.09 pounds) |
481 grams (1.06 pounds) |
Check Out: iPad vs iPad Air: A Simple Comparison to Help You Choose the Best for You
1) Design and Display
The iPad 10th Gen can be admired for its sleek design; it has an increased screen size of 10.9-inch screen, while the other has a 10.2-inch display. Screen size is the significant difference between both devices. For those who prefer portable devices, this change in size is quite noticeable. Owing to the reduction in bezel size and the lack of the Home button, the iPad 10 has a more stylish design than the iPad 9, which has chunkier bezels and a traditional Home button.
2) Color Options
If you like colors, the iPad 10th Gen comes in Blue, Yellow, Pink, and Silver. On the other hand, the iPad 9 still seems rather dull with its silver and space grey options, which is more than welcome for those who don't want anything too flashy.
3) Connectivity and Ports
Introducing the future, the iPad 10 shifts to a USB-C port, which aligns with other modern Apple gadgets. This change makes it possible to use more accessories and easily fit into setups that already use USB-C, which the iPad 9 does not have. Instead, it sticks with the Lightning port, which is excellent for people still using older devices but may need to be more convenient for those moving to USB-C.
4) Performance and Power
Both devices run on Apple's A-series chips. At the same time, the 10th generation iPad uses the A14 Bionic Chip, also found in the iPhone 12 series, and offers increased speed and efficiency. This enhancement is a noticeable upgrade over the A13 Bionic Chip in the iPad 9, which, however, still proves to be efficient in different tasks.
5) Connectivity
New to the iPad 10 is Wi-Fi 6 and 5G connectivity support (in the cellular models), which is not available in the iPad 9. Of course, if you want to stay in touch with the latest Internet technologies, the iPad 10 is preferable.
6) Camera
The two iPads have a 12MP front camera supporting Center Stage technology, ensuring the user remains in the frame during video calls. However, the iPad 10 builds on this by placing the camera in landscape orientation, which is perfect for video conferencing. On the same note, the iPad 9 retains the portrait orientation.
7) Accessory Compatibility
The iPad 10 is well-endowed in accessory compatibility; it supports the Apple Pencil First Generation and the Magic Keyboard Folio. Like the iPad 9, the iPad mini also supports the first Generation of the Apple Pencil; however, it supports only the Smart Keyboard, thus limiting its accessories.
Check Out: iPad Air vs iPad 10th Gen: Which One is Right for You?
Why Buy Refurbished Accessories from Roobotech?
Best Prices in Australia
In Roobotech, you can get the best prices for refurbished iPad, iPad Air, or iPad Pro. We offer the best prices so everyone in Australia can afford quality tech. Roobotech has both options of Wifi and Wifi + Cellular of both models. You can buy them here:
Tested and Trusted
Each refurbished item we sell must pass several tests to meet the highest standards. You can rely on Roobotech for quality merchandise that has never been used before.
Variety of Options
For this reason, our inventory comprises various tech gadgets like smartphones, laptops, smartwatches, and accessories, including Cables, Covers, Chargers, and Headphones. Whatever kind of iPad you will use, whether for work or play, we have the accessories that suit your needs.
Excellent Support
At Roobotech, customer satisfaction is our top priority. Our friendly and professional support team is available to answer your questions and solve any problems that may occur during the purchasing process.
Sustainable Shopping
Refurbished products are also way better for the environment, as they minimize electronic waste, making them a better option. Select Roobotech and be part of society's advancement in embracing sustainability while still attaining the best quality.
Final Thoughts
This new iPad 10th Gen is a great device packed with many upgrades and innovative features, and it is sold at $449. Despite this, the iPad 9th Gen is great and highly affordable, with many of the features listed above at a lower price than the iPad Air. Ultimately, it is up to the buyer whether the additional features and looks of the new model are worth the extra cost for their operations. The iPad Air 2022 is also a good buy if you want to splurge.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a 9th-generation iPad different from a 10th-generation iPad?
The 10th Generation iPad has ditched the Touch ID for Face ID, which frees up more space for the screen. The 9th Generation of the iPad has a 10. 2-inch screen with the resolution of 2160 x 1620 while the 10th generation has a 10.9 inch display with a resolution of 2,360 x 1,640.
Is the 9th gen iPad excellent or bad?
I've had it for a year, and the Apple 10.2-inch iPad Wi-Fi - 64GB - Space Gray is a great tablet. It offers a good mix of performance and features. The screen is clear and bright, and 64GB of storage is enough for apps, games, and media.
Should I wait for the 10th-generation iPad?
We've always liked the lower-end iPads for families and kids. The 10th-gen iPad is our favorite now: it has a good mix of features, a better front camera for video calls, USB-C, and a new design at a lower price than last year.
Is the 9th gen iPad discontinued?
Yes, the ninth-generation iPad was discontinued on May 7, 2024, when the iPad Air (6th Generation) and the iPad Pro (7th Generation) were announced. It was the last essential iPad with a home button, Lightning port, and headphone jack.