When deciding between the iPad 10th generation and the 9th generation, it’s important to know the key differences and improvements Apple made in the latest model. Both iPads meet different needs and budgets, so the decision depends on your personal preference and specific requirements. Overall, the iPad 10th generation is a big upgrade over the 9th generation in design, display, performance, and connectivity. It’s a more future-proof choice, aligning with the latest technology trends and user needs.
However, the 9th generation iPad remains a reliable and budget-friendly option for basic tablet needs. Your choice should consider your specific requirements, how you plan to use it, and your budget.
1. Design & Display
- iPad 9th Gen (2021)
- Classic iPad look with Home button + Touch ID.
- 10.2-inch Retina display (2160×1620).
- Larger bezels, Lightning connector.
- Compatible with the 1st-gen Apple Pencil (Lightning).
- iPad 10th Gen (2022)
- Modern design with flat edges and no Home button.
- 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display (2360×1640).
- Slimmer bezels, USB‑C port.
- Works with Apple Pencil (1st-gen, via USB-C adapter) and Magic Keyboard Folio.
👉 Verdict: The 10th gen looks and feels more modern, with a larger, brighter screen and USB‑C. The 9th gen feels dated but still functional.
2. Performance
- iPad 9th Gen: A13 Bionic chip (same as iPhone 11).
- iPad 10th Gen: A14 Bionic chip (same as iPhone 12).
Both are fast enough for browsing, streaming, and light gaming, but the A14 gives the 10th gen a bit more headroom for multitasking and future iPadOS updates.
3. Cameras
- iPad 9th Gen
- Rear: 8MP wide camera.
- Front: 12MP Ultra Wide with Center Stage (landscape orientation not optimized).
- iPad 10th Gen
- Rear: 12MP wide camera (better photos and 4K video).
- Front: 12MP Ultra Wide landscape camera (better for video calls).
👉 Verdict: The 10th gen is much better for video calls and casual photography.
4. Accessories
- iPad 9th Gen: Supports Smart Keyboard and 1st-gen Apple Pencil (Lightning).
- iPad 10th Gen: Supports Magic Keyboard Folio and 1st-gen Apple Pencil (USB‑C adapter required).
Neither supports the 2nd-gen Apple Pencil, which is a downside compared to iPad Air/Pro.
5. Battery Life
Both offer around 10 hours of web browsing/video playback. No major difference here.
6. Software & Longevity
- Both run iPadOS 18 (2025).
- The A14 chip in the 10th gen should get longer software support than the A13 in the 9th gen.
7. Price (as of 2025)
- iPad 9th Gen: Starts at $329 (still Apple’s budget option) (source: MacRumors).
- iPad 10th Gen: Starts at $449.
That’s about a $120 difference.
8. Which Should You Buy in 2025?
- Choose iPad 9th Gen if:
- You want the cheapest iPad.
- You don’t mind the old design and Lightning port.
- Your main use is browsing, streaming, or casual apps.
- Choose iPad 10th Gen if:
- You want a modern design with USB‑C.
- You do a lot of video calls (landscape camera is a big win).
- You want better performance and longer software support.
- You plan to use the Magic Keyboard Folio.
✅ Bottom Line
- The iPad 9th Gen is still the best budget iPad in 2025.
- The iPad 10th Gen is the better long-term investment, with a modern design, USB‑C, better cameras, and more power.
If you can stretch the budget, go for the 10th gen. Otherwise, the 9th gen remains a solid entry-level iPad.
Comparing iPad Generations: 9th vs. 10th
Key Specifications and Differences
| Feature | iPad 9th Generation (2021) | iPad 10th Generation (2022) |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 10.2 inches | 10.9 inches |
| Resolution | 2160 x 1620 pixels | 2360 x 1640 pixels |
| Chip | A13 Bionic | A14 Bionic |
| Front Camera | 12MP Ultra Wide | 12MP Ultra Wide (Landscape) |
| Rear Camera | 8MP Wide | 12MP Wide |
| Storage Options | 64GB, 256GB | 64GB, 256GB |
| Colors | Silver, Space Gray | Silver, Pink, Blue, Yellow |
| Authentication | Touch ID | Touch ID (Top Button) |
| Connector | Lightning | USB-C |
| Cellular Support | Optional | Optional |
| Starting Price (Wi-Fi) | $329 | $449 |
Design and Display
The 10th generation iPad gets a major design overhaul with a larger 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display, slimmer bezels, and a more modern, squared-off look. It also introduces new colors like Pink, Blue, and Yellow. The 9th generation retains the classic iPad design with a Home button and Touch ID sensor on the front.
Performance and Cameras
The A14 Bionic chip in the 10th generation iPad offers a noticeable performance boost over the A13 in the 9th generation. This translates to faster app launches, smoother multitasking, and better gaming performance. Additionally, the 10th generation boasts an improved 12MP Wide rear camera and a landscape-oriented front camera, ideal for video calls.
Connectivity and Accessories
A significant change in the 10th generation is the switch from Lightning to USB-C, providing wider compatibility with accessories and faster charging. However, it no longer supports the first-generation Apple Pencil, requiring the use of a USB-C to Apple Pencil Adapter.
Which One to Choose?
The 10th generation iPad is a compelling upgrade with its modern design, larger display, better performance, and improved cameras. However, the 9th generation remains a solid choice for budget-conscious buyers who prioritize value and don’t mind the older design. Consider your needs and budget to make the best decision.
Overall, the iPad 10th generation is a better choice than the iPad 9th generation if you are looking for the latest features and design. However, the iPad 9th generation is still a good option if you are on a budget and don’t need the latest bells and whistles.
iPad Comparison: 10th Gen vs. 9th Gen
Here is a comparison of the iPad 10th Generation and iPad 9th Generation:
| Feature | iPad 10th Generation | iPad 9th Generation |
|---|---|---|
| Price (Starting) | $449 | $329 |
| Display | 10.9″ Liquid Retina LCD, 2360 x 1640 pixels (264 ppi) | 10.2″ Retina LCD, 2160 x 1620 pixels (264 ppi) |
| Processor | A14 Bionic chip | A13 Bionic chip |
| Camera: | ||
| Rear: 12MP wide | Rear: 8MP wide | |
| Front: 12MP Ultra Wide (Landscape mode) | Front: 12MP (Landscape mode) | |
| Storage | 64GB, 256GB | 64GB, 256GB, 512GB |
| Battery Life | Up to 10 hours of web browsing or video playback | Up to 10 hours of web browsing or video playback |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 6, 5G (optional) | Wi-Fi 5, 4G LTE |
| Ports | USB-C | Lightning |
| Design | Flat edges, rounded corners, no Home button | Curved edges, rounded corners, Home button with Touch ID |
| Stylus Support | 1st-gen Apple Pencil (adapter needed) | 1st-gen Apple Pencil |
| Keyboard Compatibility | Magic Keyboard, Smart Keyboard Folio | Smart Keyboard |
| Software | iPadOS 16 | iPadOS 15 (upgradable to iPadOS 16) |
Additional Notes:
- The iPad 10th generation has a slightly larger and higher-resolution display than the iPad 9th generation.
- The iPad 10th generation has a faster processor than the iPad 9th generation, but the difference in performance is likely not noticeable for most users.
- The iPad 10th generation has a better front-facing camera than the iPad 9th generation, with a wider field of view and Center Stage support.
- The iPad 10th generation has a USB-C port, while the iPad 9th generation has a Lightning port.
- The iPad 10th generation has a more modern design than the iPad 9th generation, with flat edges and no Home button.
- The iPad 9th generation starts at a lower price point than the iPad 10th generation, but the 64GB model of the 9th generation is often discounted, making the price difference less significant.
iPad 10th Generation: A Modern Powerhouse
The iPad 10th Generation redefines the entry-level iPad experience with a modern design and powerful upgrades. Ditch the chunky bezels and Home button – this sleek tablet boasts flat edges, rounded corners, and a larger 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display for an immersive viewing experience. Under the hood, the A14 Bionic chip delivers a performance boost, handling everything from everyday tasks to creative pursuits with ease.
- Immersive Display: Enjoy vibrant visuals and ample screen real estate on the larger Liquid Retina display with True Tone technology.
- Next-Gen Connectivity: Future-proof yourself with blazing-fast Wi-Fi 6 and optional 5G for streaming, downloading, and staying connected on the go.
- Creative Companion: Capture stunning photos and videos with the upgraded 12MP wide rear camera and Ultra Wide front camera, perfect for selfies and video calls.
- Universal Port: Embrace the versatile USB-C port for charging, data transfer, and connecting to a wider range of accessories.
- Modern Design: Experience a sleek and comfortable aesthetic with flat edges, a seamless display experience, and vibrant color options.
iPad 9th Generation: A Timeless Value
The iPad 9th Generation remains a reliable and budget-friendly option for light users or those seeking a familiar iPad experience. While it holds onto the classic design with bezels and a Home button, its 10.2-inch Retina display delivers crisp visuals and remains comfortable to hold. The A13 Bionic chip provides enough power for daily tasks and casual gaming, while the familiar Lightning port offers charging and accessory compatibility.
- Proven Performance: The A13 Bionic chip offers reliable performance for browsing, email, streaming, and everyday tasks.
- Classic Design: The familiar design with bezels and a Home button provides a comfortable grip and ease of use for those accustomed to traditional iPads.
- Lightning Port: Enjoy the convenience of the widely-used Lightning port for charging and connecting to your existing accessories.
- Budget-Friendly: The starting price point makes the iPad 9th Generation a great choice for first-time iPad users or those on a tighter budget.
- Timeless Familiarity: For those who prefer a traditional iPad experience and don’t require the latest features, the 9th generation offers a familiar and comfortable option.
Design and Build
The iPad 10th generation boasts a modern design, taking cues from the iPad Air. It features flat edges and uniform bezels around the display, offering a more contemporary look. The Touch ID has been moved to the power button on the top edge, allowing for more screen space. In contrast, the 9th generation iPad retains the classic iPad design with rounded edges and larger bezels, including the traditional Touch ID home button at the bottom of the display.
Display Quality
The 10th generation iPad comes with a 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display, offering a resolution of 2360 x 1640 pixels. This results in a vibrant and sharp display, suitable for various multimedia purposes. The 9th generation, on the other hand, has a slightly smaller 10.2-inch Retina display with a resolution of 2160 x 1620 pixels. Both models feature Apple’s True Tone technology and a typical max brightness of 500 nits, but neither has a fully-laminated display or anti-reflective coating.
Performance and Hardware
Under the hood, the 10th generation iPad is powered by the A14 Bionic chip, providing a noticeable performance boost over the 9th generation’s A13 Bionic chip. This difference becomes evident in multitasking and more demanding applications. The 10th generation also steps up with 4GB of RAM compared to the 3GB in the 9th generation, offering smoother performance with multiple apps and tabs.
Camera and Audio
Both iPads feature a 12MP Ultra Wide front-facing camera with Center Stage, but the 10th generation positions the camera on the longer side for better framing during video calls in landscape mode. The rear camera on the 10th generation is a 12MP Wide camera, capable of 4K video recording, while the 9th generation settles for an 8MP Wide rear camera with 1080p video recording capabilities.
Connectivity and Accessories
A significant change in the 10th generation iPad is the switch to a USB-C port, aligning it with the broader Apple ecosystem. The 9th generation still uses the Lightning connector. Both models support the first-generation Apple Pencil, but an adapter is needed for the 10th generation due to the USB-C port. Additionally, the 10th generation iPad offers Bluetooth 5.2 and Wi-Fi 6, compared to Bluetooth 4.2 and Wi-Fi 5 in the 9th generation.
Battery Life and Storage
Both iPads promise up to 10 hours of battery life for web browsing or video watching. They are available in 64GB and 256GB storage options, catering to different needs for space.
Software and Longevity
Both iPads run on iPadOS, with the 9th generation initially launching with iPadOS 15 and the 10th with iPadOS 16. They are upgradable to the latest iPadOS versions, ensuring access to new features and security updates. However, the 10th generation is likely to receive updates for a longer period, given its newer hardware.
Price and Value
The 10th generation iPad starts at a higher price point than the 9th generation, reflecting its updated features and design. The choice between the two models often boils down to budget constraints and specific needs. The 9th generation iPad remains a solid choice for basic tasks and those looking for a more affordable Apple tablet experience. In contrast, the 10th generation is a more future-proof option with its updated design, better performance, and USB-C connectivity.
