Apple iPad 9th gen (2021) Review: A13 Bionic Powerhouse – 64GB, WiFi + 4G LTE
The Apple iPad 9th generation (2021) arrived with a refresh that, while subtle on the surface, packs a significant punch thanks to the inclusion of the A13 Bionic chip. This review dives deep into my experience using the 64GB, WiFi + 4G LTE, Space Gray model (International Version) for several weeks, putting it through its paces for both everyday tasks and more demanding applications.
The iPad 2021 (9th Generation) boasts a surprisingly capable feature set for its price point. The A13 Bionic chip is the star of the show, delivering noticeable performance improvements over its predecessor. Beyond the processing power, the inclusion of 4G LTE allows for seamless connectivity on the go. The Retina display, while not boasting the ProMotion technology found in higher-end models, remains crisp and vibrant for media consumption and everyday use. The 8MP rear camera and 12MP front-facing camera offer decent image quality for casual photography and video calls.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Expandable Memory Type | No Expandable Memory |
| Secondary Camera Resolution | 12 MP |
| Processor Speed | 2.65 GHz |
| RAM Size | 3 GB |
| Battery Size | 8557 mAh |
| Internal Memory | 64 GB |
| Version | International Version |
| Screen Size | 10.2 in |
| Primary Camera Resolution | 8 MP |
| Colour Name | Space Gray |
| Charging Type | Lightning Port |
| SIM Count | Single SIM |
| SIM Type | Nano SIM |
| Connection Type | Wifi+Cellular |
| Display Type | Retina Display |
| Operating System | iOS |
| Tablet Screen Size | 10.1 – 11 Inches |
| Secondary Camera | 12 MP & Above |
| Model Year | 2021 |
| Voice Calling Capability | yes |
| Processor Number | A13 Bionic |
| Network Frequency Band | LTE |
| Processor Name | Apple |
| Number of Cores | Hexa Core |
| Camera Type | Primary Camera + Secondary Camera |
| Model Number | Apple iPad 9th gen |
| Model Name | iPad 2021 (9th Generation) |
The A13 Bionic chip truly shines. I experienced smooth multitasking, quick app loading times, and impressive graphics performance when playing games. The battery life also exceeded my expectations, consistently lasting a full day even with heavy use. The speakers, while not the loudest, offer decent audio quality for watching videos or listening to music. Web browsing was quick and responsive, and I didn’t encounter any lag or stuttering during my testing period. The 64GB of storage proved sufficient for my needs, but users with extensive media libraries might want to consider the higher storage option.
Pros:
- Powerful A13 Bionic chip provides excellent performance.
- Long-lasting battery life.
- Crisp and vibrant Retina display.
- 4G LTE connectivity for on-the-go access.
- Affordable price point for the features offered.
Cons:
- Limited storage options (64GB might be insufficient for some users).
- Lacks the advanced features found in higher-end iPad models (e.g., ProMotion display).
- Lightning port instead of USB-C.
The Apple iPad 9th generation (2021) is a compelling tablet offering excellent value for its price. The A13 Bionic chip provides a significant performance boost, making it a joy to use for everyday tasks and media consumption. While it lacks some of the advanced features of its more expensive siblings, it compensates with solid performance, long battery life, and a user-friendly experience. I would wholeheartedly recommend this iPad to anyone looking for a reliable and capable tablet without breaking the bank.
