Introduction — One of the Best Budget iPads in 2025
When the iPad 9th Generation launched in 2021, it quickly became Apple’s most popular and best-selling tablet — thanks to its excellent balance of performance, features, and price. It offered meaningful upgrades over the iPad 8th Gen, including the faster A13 Bionic chip, a vastly improved 12MP Ultra-Wide front camera with Center Stage, and a more natural-looking True Tone display.
Fast forward to 2025, and the iPad 9th Gen remains one of the best-value tablets on the market. It fully supports the latest iPadOS 26, continues to run apps smoothly, and offers long-term software longevity at a very affordable price point. According to UpTrade’s Price Tracker, Certified Used or Refurbished iPad 9th Gen models start around $180+, making it an ideal choice for students, families, and casual users who want a modern iPad experience without overspending.
For buyers who need a reliable tablet for school, entertainment, productivity, or travel, the iPad 9th Gen stands out as one of the best budget-friendly options in Apple’s lineup for 2025.
iPad 9th Gen Overview
The iPad 9th Generation builds on the classic iPad design while adding key upgrades that make it significantly more capable than older entry-level models. It keeps the familiar 10.2-inch form factor but enhances it with True Tone technology, a much better front camera, and improved performance.
Here are the standout elements of the iPad 9th Gen:
A13 Bionic Processor — Fast and Reliable in 2025
The same chip used in the iPhone 11 lineup, offering:
- Smooth multitasking
- Faster app launches
- Better graphics performance
- Great longevity for future iPadOS updates
10.2-Inch Retina Display with True Tone
True Tone dynamically adjusts color temperature based on ambient light, making reading, browsing, and watching content more comfortable on the eyes.
12MP Ultra-Wide Front Camera with Center Stage
A massive upgrade from the 1.2MP camera on the 8th Gen.
Center Stage automatically keeps you centered during FaceTime and Zoom calls — perfect for students and families.
Apple Pencil (1st Gen) + Smart Keyboard Support
Compatible with the same accessories students and professionals rely on:
- Annotate documents
- Take handwritten notes
- Write essays and emails with the Smart Keyboard
iPadOS 26 Support
The iPad 9th Gen runs the latest iPadOS version in 2025, benefiting from:
- Stronger privacy and security
- Updated multitasking tools
- Better Files, Notes, and Safari features
- Improved app compatibility
Long Battery Life
Up to 10 hours of usage for school, travel, or entertainment.
Storage Options
Available in:
A meaningful improvement over the 32GB base storage on the 8th Gen.
Performance and Software Support (iPadOS 26)
The iPad 9th Generation remains surprisingly fast and reliable in 2025, thanks to the A13 Bionic chip — the same processor used in the iPhone 11 lineup. While it’s not in the same league as the M-series chips found in premium iPads, the A13 delivers more than enough power for everyday tasks and light productivity.
Smooth Everyday Performance
Under iPadOS 26, the iPad 9th Gen handles all common tasks with ease, including:
- Web browsing and research
- Email, messaging, and productivity apps
- Streaming videos and online learning
- Note-taking with Apple Pencil
- Light photo editing and creative apps
- Multitasking with Split View and Slide Over
Apps load quickly, animations are smooth, and the overall experience feels responsive — even in 2025.
Gaming and Graphics
The A13 Bionic provides strong GPU performance for:
- Roblox
- Minecraft
- Call of Duty Mobile
- Genshin Impact (medium settings)
It’s not meant for the most demanding 3D titles on high settings, but for most users — especially students and casual gamers — it performs beautifully.
iPadOS 26 Support
The iPad 9th Gen fully supports iPadOS 26, giving users:
- Improved multitasking tools
- Updated widgets and app enhancements
- Strong privacy and security protections
- Better performance optimizations
- Ongoing compatibility with banking, school, and productivity apps
Because Apple typically provides 6–8 years of updates, the iPad 9th Gen is expected to receive major updates until 2027 or 2028, along with additional security patches. This makes it one of the most future-proof budget tablets available.
Design and Display Quality (Retina + True Tone)
The iPad 9th Gen continues Apple’s classic design language — a durable aluminum body, a lightweight feel, and the reliable Touch ID home button. While it doesn’t look as modern as the iPad Air or Pro models, its simplicity remains a major selling point for students and families who prefer familiarity and ease of use.
Solid, Reliable Build
The aluminum unibody design provides:
- Excellent durability
- Premium feel
- Resistance to daily wear
- Comfortable handling for long study or reading sessions
Touch ID remains fast and dependable for unlocking, app purchases, and secure logins.
10.2-Inch Retina Display with True Tone
The display is one of the strongest features of the iPad 9th Gen. It offers:
- 2160 × 1620 resolution (264 PPI)
- Straight text for reading and note-taking
- Accurate colors for streaming and browsing
- Great brightness for indoor and classroom use
- True Tone, which adjusts color temperature based on ambient light
True Tone makes reading and watching more comfortable, especially in nighttime or warm lighting environments.
Where It’s Limited
Compared to higher-end models:
- No laminated display (slight air gap)
- No wide-color P3
- No 120Hz ProMotion
However, at its $180+ refurbished price, these are acceptable trade-offs. The display still outperforms nearly all tablets in this price range.
Camera and Apple Pencil Experience
The iPad 9th Gen delivers one of the most meaningful camera upgrades ever seen in Apple’s budget iPad line — especially for users who rely on video calls for school, work, or family.
12MP Ultra-Wide Front Camera with Center Stage
This is the biggest improvement over the iPad 8th Gen’s outdated 1.2MP front camera. The 12MP Ultra-Wide lens offers:
- Sharper, clearer video quality
- Better low-light performance
- Auto-framing through Center Stage, keeping you centered during calls
This makes it perfect for:
- Zoom classes
- FaceTime with family
- Virtual meetings
- Recording quick video assignments
8MP Rear Camera
While simple, the rear camera works well for:
- Scanning homework
- Taking photos of documents
- Occasional snapshots and video clips
Apple Pencil (1st Gen) Compatibility
The iPad 9th Gen works seamlessly with Apple Pencil (1st Gen), offering:
- Smooth handwriting
- Accurate drawing lines
- Ideal note-taking for school
- Easy annotation of PDFs and documents
This makes it excellent for:
- College students
- Digital planners
- Artists who prefer a budget-friendly setup
While latency isn’t as low as on ProMotion iPads, the writing experience is still excellent for everyday use.
Battery Life and Charging Performance
Battery life remains one of the iPad 9th Gen’s strengths in 2025. Apple’s power-efficient A13 processor and the non-ProMotion display help maximize endurance, making this tablet a reliable all-day companion.
Excellent All-Day Battery Life
Users can expect:
- Up to 10 hours of web browsing or video streaming
- 8–9 hours of school or productivity use
- Multiple days of standby time
This is ideal for classrooms, travel, and home use.
Strong Performance Under Heavy Use
Even under intensive workloads such as:
- Gaming
- Video streaming at max brightness
- Multitasking with Split View
- Apple Pencil sketching
The iPad 9th Gen still delivers around 6–7 hours of screen-on time.
Charging and Power
The iPad 9th Gen supports:
- 20W fast charging (USB-C power adapters supported)
- 0–50% in about 45 minutes
- Full charge in roughly 2.5 hours
Although it still uses a Lightning port rather than USB-C, its charging speed remains perfectly adequate for daily needs.
iPad 9th Gen vs iPad 8th Gen — What’s the Difference?
While the iPad 8th Gen is still an excellent budget tablet in 2025, the iPad 9th Gen delivers several meaningful upgrades that make it the better long-term choice — especially for users who rely on video calls, online learning, and multitasking. The two models look nearly identical on the outside, but the improvements inside the 9th Gen make a noticeable difference in everyday use.
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 |
| Front Camera | 1.2MP | 12MP Ultra-Wide + Center Stage |
| Rear Camera | 8MP | 8MP |
| Apple Pencil Support | 1st Gen | 1st Gen |
| Smart Keyboard Support | Yes | Yes |
| Storage Options | 32GB / 128GB | 64GB / 256GB |
| Software Support (2025) | iPadOS 26 | iPadOS 26 |
| Expected Update End | 2026–2027 | 2027–2028 |
| Starting Price (Refurbished) | $130+ | $180+ |
Key Differences
1. A13 Bionic Chip — Faster, Smoother, and More Future-Proof
The iPad 9th Gen’s A13 chip gives it a clear performance advantage. Compared to the A12 in the 8th Gen, it offers:
- Faster app loading
- Better multitasking
- Improved gaming performance
- Longer software support
Verdict: The 9th Gen provides the smoother experience and lasts longer.
2. Huge Front Camera Upgrade (1.2MP → 12MP Ultra-Wide)
This is arguably the most important upgrade.
- iPad 8th Gen: 1.2MP front camera
- iPad 9th Gen: 12MP Ultra-Wide with Center Stage
Perfect for Zoom classes, FaceTime, and virtual meetings.
Verdict: A dramatic, game-changing improvement.
3. Display Improvements — True Tone Makes a Big Difference
- More comfortable reading
- Less eye strain
- Better color balance
Verdict: A meaningful upgrade.
4. Storage Options — Double the Base Storage
- iPad 8th Gen: 32GB / 128GB
- iPad 9th Gen: 64GB / 256GB
Verdict: The 9th Gen offers far more usable storage.
5. Longer Update Support
- iPad 8th Gen: 2026–2027
- iPad 9th Gen: 2027–2028
Verdict: Extra longevity makes the 9th Gen the better choice.
Recommendation
Choose iPad 8th Gen ($130+) for the best under-$150 tablet.
Choose iPad 9th Gen ($180+) for faster performance, better camera, True Tone, more storage, and longer support.
iPad 9th Gen vs iPad 10th Gen — Should You Spend More?
The iPad 10th Gen offers a modern design, better cameras, USB-C, and a larger display, but costs more at $250+ refurbished. It’s worth considering if you want a more future-proof device.
Specs Comparison
| Feature | iPad 9th Gen | iPad 10th Gen |
|---|
| Launch Year | 2021 | 2022 |
| Processor | A13 Bionic | A14 Bionic |
| Display | 10.2" Retina, True Tone | 10.9" Liquid Retina, True Tone |
| Design | Home Button | Modern edge-to-edge |
| Front Camera | 12MP (landscape top) | 12MP (landscape center) |
| Rear Camera | 8MP | 12MP |
| Apple Pencil Support | 1st Gen | 1st Gen (USB-C adapter needed) |
| Keyboard | Smart Keyboard | Magic Keyboard Folio |
| Charging Port | Lightning | USB-C |
| Software Support | iPadOS 26 | iPadOS 26 |
| Expected Update End | 2027–2028 | 2028–2029 |
| Starting Price | $180+ | $250+ |
Key Differences
1. Modern, Edge-to-Edge Design
The 10th Gen uses a modern design with slimmer bezels and no home button.
2. Bigger and Better Display
The 10.9" Liquid Retina display is more immersive and higher resolution.
3. Faster A14 Bionic Chip
Better multitasking and longer software support.
4. Better Cameras
Rear camera jumps from 8MP to 12MP; front camera repositioned for landscape calls.
5. USB-C Port
Modern charging, accessory compatibility, and better longevity.
6. Accessory Changes
Magic Keyboard Folio support elevates typing experience.
7. Price Difference
$70 more brings major design and hardware upgrades.
Recommendation
Choose iPad 9th Gen ($180+) for top value under $200.
Choose iPad 10th Gen ($250+) for modern design, USB-C, and longer lifespan.
Conclusion — Worth Buying in 2025
In 2025, the iPad 9th Generation remains one of Apple’s most reliable and best-value tablets — especially in the Certified Used/Refurbished market. With strong performance from the A13 Bionic chip, a high-quality 10.2-inch Retina display with True Tone, excellent battery life, and full support for iPadOS 26, it delivers everything most students, families, and casual users need.
According to UpTrade’s Price Tracker, Certified Used or Refurbished iPad 9th Gen units start at $180+, making it an excellent middle-ground option between the ultra-low-cost iPad 8th Gen ($130+) and the modernized iPad 10th Gen ($250+). For many buyers, it hits the perfect balance of affordability, speed, and long-term usability.
If you want a dependable, budget-friendly iPad that feels responsive, handles all major apps, and has several years of updates left, the iPad 9th Gen is absolutely worth buying in 2025. For those who want a more modern design or USB-C, the iPad 10th Gen is also a great choice — but the 9th Gen remains the best value for most people.
FAQ: Buying the iPad 9th Gen in 2025
1. How much does the iPad 9th Gen cost in 2025?
According to UpTrade’s Price Tracker, Certified Used or Refurbished iPad 9th Gen models start around $180+, depending on storage size and condition.
2. Does the iPad 9th Gen support iPadOS 26?
Yes. The iPad 9th Gen fully supports iPadOS 26 in 2025 and remains compatible with all major apps and Apple software features.
3. Is the iPad 9th Gen still fast with the A13 chip?
Absolutely. The A13 Bionic is still very capable for browsing, streaming, schoolwork, note-taking, light gaming, and everyday productivity.
4. How long will the iPad 9th Gen receive updates?
The 9th Gen is expected to continue receiving major iPadOS updates until around 2027–2028, and then security patches for additional years.
5. Is the iPad 9th Gen good for students?
Yes — it supports Apple Pencil (1st Gen), Smart Keyboard, and all major school apps. It’s one of the best budget options for note-taking, online learning, and homework.
6. How does the iPad 9th Gen compare to the iPad 8th Gen?
The 9th Gen has a faster A13 chip, a significantly better 12MP front camera with Center Stage, and a True Tone display. It’s worth the extra cost if you can budget for it.
7. Should I get the iPad 10th Gen instead?
The iPad 10th Gen offers a bigger 10.9-inch display, USB-C, and a more modern design. It’s better long-term, but starts at $250+. Choose based on your budget.
8. Is the iPad 9th Gen good for gaming?
Yes — it handles popular games like Roblox, Minecraft, and COD Mobile smoothly. For heavy 3D titles, newer iPads will perform better.
9. Is the iPad 9th Gen good for drawing?
Yes — it works with the Apple Pencil (1st Gen) and is great for handwriting, sketching, and digital note-taking.
10. Is the iPad 9th Gen a good family or household tablet?
Definitely. It’s durable, affordable, and supports all major apps for streaming, reading, and kids’ educational programs.
11. How old is the iPad 9th Gen?
The iPad 9th Gen was released in September 2021, making it about 4 years old in 2025.
12. Is the iPad 9th Gen still supported in 2025?
Yes — it supports iPadOS 26 and has several years of updates remaining.
13. Is the iPad 9th Gen still good in 2025?
Absolutely. Its A13 chip, True Tone display, and modern front camera make it excellent for students, families, and everyday tasks.
14. How many years will an iPad 9th Gen last?
Most iPad 9th Gen units should last 6–7 years total with proper care, depending on battery health and usage patterns.
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