Introduction — Apple’s Most Affordable iPad Is Still a Strong Buy in 2025
When the iPad 8th Generation launched in 2020, it quickly became one of Apple’s most popular tablets thanks to its unbeatable combination of performance, simplicity, and value. Powered by the A12 Bionic chip and paired with Apple’s long-term software support, it offered everything most people needed for school, work, and entertainment — at a price far below the iPad Air and iPad Pro.
Fast forward to 2025, and the iPad 8th Gen continues to shine in the budget segment. Now supporting iPadOS 26, it remains smooth, responsive, and fully compatible with the latest apps, games, and features. Even better, according to UpTrade’s Price Tracker, Certified Used or Refurbished iPad 8th Gen models start at just $130+, making it one of the most affordable modern tablets with current software support.
For students, families, and anyone needing an inexpensive tablet that still feels fast and reliable, the iPad 8th Gen is one of the best-value devices you can buy in 2025.
iPad 8th Gen Overview and Key Features
The iPad 8th Generation retains the classic, beloved iPad design — a durable aluminum body, a responsive 10.2-inch Retina Display, and the familiar Touch ID home button. While it may not have the edge-to-edge look of newer iPads, it delivers an excellent combination of performance and practicality at a low cost.
Here are the standout features:
A12 Bionic Processor
The same powerful A12 chip used in the iPhone XS series and iPad Air 3. Even in 2025, it handles everyday tasks smoothly, including browsing, streaming, note-taking, video calls, and light gaming.
10.2” Retina Display
Bright, sharp, and perfect for watching videos, reading, and productivity work.
Apple Pencil (1st Gen) Support
Great for drawing, annotating PDFs, or taking handwritten notes — ideal for students.
Smart Keyboard Compatibility
Transforms the iPad into a lightweight laptop alternative for writing and schoolwork.
8MP Rear Camera + 1.2MP FaceTime Camera
Basic but perfectly adequate for scanning homework, attending Zoom classes, and video chats.
iPadOS 26 Support
The iPad 8th Gen runs Apple’s latest iPadOS version in 2025, giving it updated features, improved multitasking, stronger security, and ongoing app compatibility.
10-Hour Battery Life
Long-lasting performance for school, travel, or home use.
Despite being five years old, the iPad 8th Gen continues to deliver impressive real-world performance, making it a practical and affordable choice for many types of users.
Performance and Software Support (iPadOS 26)
The iPad 8th Generation continues to perform surprisingly well in 2025 thanks to the A12 Bionic chip — a processor that was years ahead of its time when it launched and still holds up for modern tasks today. While it isn’t as fast as the M-series iPads, it remains more than capable for everyday users, students, and even light professional work.
Smooth Everyday Performance
Under iPadOS 26, the A12 Bionic delivers reliable speed for:
- Web browsing and research
- Email, messaging, and productivity apps
- YouTube, Netflix, and streaming services
- Note-taking with Apple Pencil
- Light photo editing and small creative projects
Apps launch quickly, animations remain smooth, and multitasking features such as Split View and Slide Over work without noticeable lag.
Gaming and Graphics
The A12 still handles popular games comfortably, including:
- Roblox
- Minecraft
- Call of Duty Mobile
- Genshin Impact (medium settings)
It’s not designed for heavy 3D gaming like newer iPad Pro models, but it performs admirably for casual to mid-level titles.
iPadOS 26 Support and Longevity
One of the biggest strengths of the iPad 8th Gen is its continued support for iPadOS 26 in 2025. This gives users:
- Stronger privacy and security
- Improved multitasking tools
- Updated widgets and home screen customization
- New Notes, Safari, and Messages features
- Ongoing compatibility with updated apps
Because Apple typically supports iPads for 6–8 years, the iPad 8th Gen is expected to remain compatible with future updates until 2026 or 2027, and then continue receiving security patches for additional years.
Why Software Support Matters
Owning a device that’s still fully supported means:
- Apps won’t break with future updates
- Banking, school, and productivity apps remain compatible
- Security risks are minimized
- The tablet lasts longer before needing replacement
This is a huge advantage compared to older iPads like the 6th or 7th Gen, which no longer support iPadOS 26.
Design and Display Quality
The iPad 8th Generation may have an older design compared to Apple’s latest edge-to-edge iPads, but its build quality and display still hold up extremely well in 2025 — especially for its price.
Classic and Durable Design
The iPad 8th Gen features Apple’s timeless aluminum unibody construction:
- Solid and premium feel
- Lightweight enough for students and travelers
- Resistant to bending and daily wear
- Familiar Touch ID home button for quick unlocking
While it doesn’t have Face ID or ultra-thin bezels like the iPad Air and iPad Pro, many users still appreciate the simplicity and reliability of the classic design.
10.2-Inch Retina Display
The 10.2-inch Retina Display remains one of the best screens you can get at this price point. It offers:
- 2160 x 1620 resolution (264 PPI)
- Excellent brightness for indoor and classroom use
- Accurate colors for video watching and photo viewing
- Sharp text for reading and note-taking
This display is ideal for:
- Streaming YouTube, Netflix, Disney+
- Reading eBooks and textbooks
- Web browsing and research
- Drawing or digital art with Apple Pencil
Apple Pencil (1st Gen) Experience
Although it doesn’t support the newer Apple Pencil models, the 1st Gen Apple Pencil works smoothly for:
- Handwriting and digital notes
- Diagrams and math homework
- Basic sketching and creative projects
Latency is slightly higher than on newer iPads with ProMotion displays, but still very good for everyday tasks.
Where It Falls Short
Compared to newer iPads:
- No laminated display (slight gap between glass and screen)
- No wide-color (P3) support
- No 120Hz ProMotion refresh rate
But at $130+, these trade-offs are completely reasonable — and the display still outperforms most low-cost Android tablets in 2025.
Battery Life and Charging
One of the strongest advantages of the iPad 8th Gen in 2025 is its excellent battery performance. Despite being five years old, it continues to deliver reliable, all-day endurance that easily outperforms most budget and midrange tablets.
All-Day Battery Life
Thanks to the efficiency of the A12 Bionic chip and Apple’s ongoing software optimizations under iPadOS 26, the iPad 8th Gen consistently offers:
- Up to 10 hours of mixed use (web browsing, video streaming, email, apps)
- 8–9 hours of online schooling or productivity use
- Multiple days of standby time with minimal battery drain
For students, casual users, and families, this level of endurance removes the need to constantly recharge.
Performance During Heavy Tasks
Under heavier workloads such as:
- 3D gaming
- Video streaming at maximum brightness
- Multitasking with Split View
- Apple Pencil sketching sessions
The device still maintains solid endurance, typically providing:
- 6–7 hours of screen-on time under sustained heavy use
This is impressive for a tablet originally released in 2020.
Charging Speed
The iPad 8th Gen supports:
- 20W fast charging (USB-C power adapter supported even though the port is Lightning)
- Full charge in about 2.5 hours
- 50% charge in roughly 45 minutes
While it doesn’t have USB-C or the ultra-fast charging of the latest iPad Pro models, its charging speed is perfectly adequate for daily use.
Why Battery Still Matters in 2025
Even though newer iPads come with more advanced chips and USB-C ports, the iPad 8th Gen’s battery performance remains competitive because:
- iPadOS 26 is well-optimized for A-series chips
- The 10.2” non-ProMotion display consumes less power
- The A12 Bionic is engineered for efficiency
- Many users don’t require more than 10 hours of daily use
In short, the iPad 8th Gen continues to offer dependable, long-lasting power for school, entertainment, and work — making it one of the best-value tablets for battery reliability in 2025.
iPad 8th Gen vs iPad 7th Gen — Which Is Better?
Specs Comparison
| Feature | iPad 7th Gen | iPad 8th Gen |
|---|
| Launch Year | 2019 | 2020 |
| Processor | A10 Fusion | A12 Bionic |
| Display | 10.2" Retina | 10.2" Retina |
| Apple Pencil Support | 1st Gen | 1st Gen |
| Smart Keyboard Support | Yes | Yes |
| Rear Camera | 8MP | 8MP |
| Front Camera | 1.2MP | 1.2MP |
| Software Support (2025) | No iPadOS 26 support | Supports iPadOS 26 |
| Battery Life | Up to 10 hours | Up to 10 hours |
| Starting Price (Refurbished) | $110+ | $130+ |
Which Is Better?
At first glance, both tablets appear similar — same display, same accessories, same basic design. But the differences underneath are huge, especially in 2025.
1. Performance: A12 Bionic Is Much Faster
The 8th Gen’s A12 Bionic delivers:
- Faster app launches
- Smoother multitasking
- Better gaming
- Stronger performance in iPadOS 26
The 7th Gen’s A10 is now outdated and struggles with modern apps, making the 8th Gen significantly more usable.
2. Software Support: iPadOS 26 vs End of Life
iPad 8th Gen runs the latest iPadOS 26
iPad 7th Gen does NOT support iPadOS 26
This affects:
- App compatibility
- System security
- Long-term usability
- Access to new features
The lack of iPadOS 26 makes the 7th Gen a poor investment in 2025.
3. Price Gap Is Very Small
7th Gen: $110+
8th Gen: $130+
For just $20 more, the 8th Gen provides:
- A modern processor
- Full 2025 software compatibility
- A much longer lifespan
Verdict: Choose the 8th Gen
Given its small price increase and massive improvement in speed + support, the iPad 8th Gen is the clear winner.
We do not recommend the 7th Gen in 2025.
iPad 8th Gen vs iPad 9th Gen — Worth the Upgrade?
Specs Comparison
| Feature | iPad 8th Gen | iPad 9th Gen |
|---|
| Launch Year | 2020 | 2021 |
| Processor | A12 Bionic | A13 Bionic |
| Display | 10.2" Retina | 10.2" Retina + True Tone |
| Rear Camera | 8MP | 8MP |
| Front Camera | 1.2MP | 12MP Ultra-Wide + Center Stage |
| Apple Pencil Support | 1st Gen | 1st Gen |
| Smart Keyboard Support | Yes | Yes |
| Storage | 32GB / 128GB | 64GB / 256GB |
| Software Support (2025) | iPadOS 26 | iPadOS 26 |
| Expected Update End | 2026–2027 | 2027–2028 |
| Starting Price (Refurbished) | $130+ | $180+ |
Worth the Upgrade?
The iPad 9th Gen improves on the 8th Gen in a few meaningful ways — especially in camera quality and performance.
1. A13 Chip: Faster and Longer Lasting
The A13 Bionic provides:
- Better multitasking
- Smoother performance in heavier apps
- Longer-term app compatibility
While both are fast, the 9th Gen has better longevity.
2. Huge Front Camera Upgrade
This is one of the biggest selling points:
- 8th Gen: 1.2MP (very outdated)
- 9th Gen: 12MP Ultra-Wide with Center Stage
For Zoom, FaceTime, online classes, and family video chats, the 9th Gen is dramatically better.
3. Improved Display with True Tone
The 9th Gen adds True Tone:
- Warms or cools the display based on lighting
- Easier on the eyes indoors
- Better for reading at night
4. Software Support: Slight Advantage
Both support iPadOS 26, but the 9th Gen is expected to receive:
- 1 extra year of major updates
- Longer security patch support
5. Price Difference
8th Gen: $130+
9th Gen: $180+
For $50 more, you get:
- Faster A13 chip
- Much better front camera
- True Tone display
- Longer support
Verdict: Depends on Your Budget
Choose iPad 8th Gen if you want the best performance under $150.
Choose iPad 9th Gen if you want better cameras, faster performance, and longer updates.
Both are fantastic choices in 2025, but the iPad 9th Gen is the better long-term investment if you can stretch your budget.
Conclusion — The iPad 8th Gen Is Easily One of the Best Budget Tablets in 2025
In 2025, the iPad 8th Generation is one of the strongest budget tablet options you can buy — especially in the Certified Used / Refurbished market. With support for the latest iPadOS 26, the fast and efficient A12 Bionic chip, a sharp 10.2-inch Retina display, and compatibility with Apple Pencil (1st Gen) and Smart Keyboard, it remains a reliable, versatile, and long-lasting device.
According to UpTrade’s Price Tracker, Certified Used or Refurbished iPad 8th Gen models start at just $130+, making it an incredible value for students, families, and everyday users who want modern iPad performance at a low cost.
While the iPad 7th Gen is cheaper at $110+, its lack of iPadOS 26 support makes it a poor choice in 2025. On the other hand, the iPad 9th Gen at $180+ offers a better front camera and longer update support — and is worth considering if you have the budget.
But for the majority of buyers, the iPad 8th Gen hits the perfect balance of price, performance, and longevity, making it highly recommended in 2025.
FAQ: Buying the iPad 8th Gen in 2025
1. How much does the iPad 8th Gen cost in 2025?
According to UpTrade’s Price Tracker, Certified Used or Refurbished iPad 8th Gen models typically start around $130+, depending on storage size and condition.
2. Does the iPad 8th Gen support iPadOS 26?
Yes. The iPad 8th Gen fully supports iPadOS 26 in 2025, ensuring strong app compatibility, new features, and continued security updates.
3. Is the iPad 8th Gen still fast enough for everyday use?
Absolutely. The A12 Bionic chip runs smoothly for browsing, video streaming, note-taking, online school apps, and light gaming.
4. How long will the iPad 8th Gen receive software updates?
The iPad 8th Gen is expected to receive major updates until 2026 or 2027, followed by additional security patches. It still has several good years of usability left.
5. Is the iPad 8th Gen good for students?
Yes — it supports Apple Pencil (1st Gen), the Smart Keyboard, and all major school apps. It’s an excellent budget-friendly option for homework, online learning, and note-taking.
6. How does the iPad 8th Gen compare to the 7th Gen?
The 8th Gen is significantly better thanks to its A12 chip and iPadOS 26 support. The 7th Gen is cheaper but lacks new software updates and is not recommended.
7. Should I upgrade to the iPad 9th Gen instead?
If you can spend $180+, the 9th Gen offers a much better 12MP front camera, slightly faster performance, and longer software support. But the 8th Gen is still a fantastic deal for most users.
8. Is the iPad 8th Gen good for gaming?
Yes — it performs well for casual games like Minecraft, Roblox, and mid-level titles. For the newest high-end 3D games, performance may be more limited.
9. Is the iPad 8th Gen good for drawing?
Yes — it works with the 1st Gen Apple Pencil and is excellent for sketching, handwriting, and digital art, though it lacks the 120Hz ProMotion display found on higher-end models.
10. Is the iPad 8th Gen a good tablet for families?
Definitely. It’s affordable, durable, and supports all major apps for streaming, reading, and kids’ learning programs.
11. How old is an 8th generation iPad?
The iPad 8th Gen was released in September 2020, making it about 5 years old in 2025.
12. Is the iPad 8 still supported?
Yes. The iPad 8th Gen still supports iPadOS 26 in 2025 and is expected to continue receiving updates for another 1–2 years.
13. Is the iPad 8th Gen still good?
Absolutely. It remains one of the best-value iPads thanks to its A12 chip, strong battery life, and full software support. It still handles everyday tasks extremely well.
14. How many years does an iPad 8 last?
Most iPad 8th Gen units should last 6–7 years total, depending on battery health and usage. With continued iPadOS support into 2026 or 2027, it remains a reliable long-term device.
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