Description
Design and Display

The iPad (9th generation) retains the classic design of its predecessor with a 10.2-inch Retina display with a resolution of 2160 x 1620 pixels and 264 PPI (pixels per inch). This high-resolution display offers sharp and vibrant visuals, making it perfect for streaming, browsing, and light gaming.
The True Tone technology, which adjusts the display’s color temperature based on background lighting, enhances the viewing experience.
Despite the dated design with noticeable bezels and a Home button with Touch ID, the iPad (9th Gen) continues to appeal to those who prefer a more traditional look and feel. The device measures 250.6 x 174.1 x 7.5 mm and weighs 487 grams (Wi-Fi model) or 498 grams (Wi-Fi + Cellular model), making it lightweight and portable.
The 256 GB Wi-Fi model is available for $479, and the Wi-Fi + Cellular variant starts at $459.
Performance and Hardware

The iPad 10.2 (2021) runs on the Apple A13 Bionic chipset, the same processor used in the iPhone 11 series. This 7nm+ chipset offers a significant performance boost compared to its predecessor, ensuring smooth multitasking, app usage, and gaming. The CPU consists of a hexa-core configuration (2×2.65 GHz Lightning + 4×1.8 GHz Thunder), while the Apple GPU (4-core graphics) handles demanding graphical tasks with ease. With 3GB of RAM and storage options of 64GB and 256GB, the iPad caters to a variety of storage needs.
Benchmark scores further highlight its capabilities, with AnTuTu reaching 617,292 (v9), GeekBench scoring 3124 (v5.1), and GFXBench achieving 44fps (ES 3.1 onscreen). This level of performance is more than adequate for everyday tasks like video streaming, document editing, and light gaming, as well as demanding applications like photo editing and video rendering.
Software and Features
The iPad 10.2 (2021) comes pre-installed with iPadOS 15, which introduces a host of new features like improved multitasking, a redesigned home screen with widgets, and system-wide Quick Notes. It is upgradable to iPadOS 18.2.1, ensuring long-term software support.
Key features include enhanced multitasking with Split View and Slide Over, Universal Control for seamless interaction with other Apple devices, and access to Apple’s rich app ecosystem, including iMovie, GarageBand, and Keynote. Regular updates provide security enhancements and new features, making the device future-proof.
Camera Performance

The camera setup on the iPad 10.2 (2021) isn’t groundbreaking but is more than sufficient for everyday tasks like video calls, document scanning, and casual photography. The rear camera features an 8MP sensor with an f/2.4 aperture and supports HDR and panorama modes. It can record videos at 1080p@25/30fps and 720p@120fps. The front-facing camera is a 12MP ultrawide sensor with an f/2.4 aperture and a 122° field of view. It supports video recording at 1080p@25/30/60fps and features HDR and Center Stage. Center Stage is particularly useful during video calls, as it automatically pans and zooms to keep you in focus, making it a standout feature for virtual meetings or online classes.
Battery Life and Charging

The iPad 10.2 (2021) is equipped with an 8557mAh (32.4 Wh) battery, which easily lasts a full day of regular usage. Apple’s efficient hardware and software integration ensures minimal battery drain, making it suitable for long hours of streaming, gaming, or productivity tasks. The device uses a Lightning connector for charging and supports USB 2.0.
Connectivity and Audio
Connectivity and audio options on the iPad 10.2 (2021) are robust, catering to modern user needs. It supports Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac with dual-band functionality, Bluetooth 4.2 with A2DP, EDR, and LE, and GPS on the cellular model. The Lightning connector supports magnetic accessories. Audio performance is enhanced by stereo speakers that provide an immersive sound experience, and the inclusion of a 3.5mm headphone jack ensures compatibility with wired headphones.
Pricing and Value
Priced at approximately €430, the iPad 10.2 (2021) is one of the most affordable options in Apple’s lineup. Its combination of features and performance makes it an excellent value for students, professionals, and casual users alike. While it does have some limitations, such as the lack of expandable storage and a slightly dated Bluetooth version, its overall performance and features make it a standout option in its price range.
Conclusion
In summary, the Apple iPad 10.2 (2021) is a versatile and reliable tablet that caters to a wide range of users. With its powerful A13 Bionic processor, excellent software support, and affordable price, it’s an ideal choice for those looking for a high-quality tablet without breaking the bank. While it does have some limitations, its overall performance and features make it a worthwhile investment.
Read the Full Review