Top critical review
3.0 out of 5 starsOK Performance, But Lacking Innovation and Power
Reviewed in the United States on April 16, 2024
The Apple iPad (9th Generation) is a reliable device that offers the basic functionality you'd expect from an Apple product. The A13 Bionic chip provides decent performance for everyday tasks like browsing the web, watching videos, and using apps. The 10.2-inch Retina display is bright and clear, delivering good color accuracy and crisp visuals which are great for media consumption.
However, there are a few areas where this model feels a bit dated compared to newer tablets on the market. The storage option I chose, 64GB, can be limiting if you like to download lots of apps or store media directly on the device. An upgrade to more storage would make it more versatile.
The camera setup with a 12MP front and an 8MP back camera is adequate for video calls and casual photos, but don’t expect the high-quality results seen in newer iPad models or flagship smartphones. Also, while the all-day battery life is advertised, heavy usage noticeably drains the battery faster than some other tablets.
Additionally, the design hasn’t changed much from previous generations. If you’re looking for cutting-edge aesthetics or innovations like those found in the iPad Pro line, this might not excite you. I had a 5 year old iPad Pro from 2017 and felt like it was a better performing design and tablet, which was disappointing considering it was 7 years old when compared to this modern-gen ipad.
In conclusion, while the iPad (9th Generation) is a solid entry-level tablet that does what it promises, it lacks the excitement of newer features and enhancements seen in other models and doesn't feel like a next-gen tablet compared to higher powered alternatives from even 5+ years ago. It earns three stars from me for performing well in basic tasks and reliability, but it doesn’t stand out in the current market.
