The iPad (8th Generation), released in September 2020, combines power and affordability with its 10.2-inch Retina display. Equipped with the A12 Bionic chip, it delivers a 40% CPU boost and twice the graphics capability of its predecessor, ensuring smooth multitasking and gaming.
Supporting the first-generation Apple Pencil and smart keyboard, it enhances productivity and creativity.
Available in 32GB and 128GB storage options, this iPad offers a versatile solution for students, professionals, and casual users seeking a reliable and efficient tablet experience.
Table of Contents
Key Specifications briefly
- Display: 10.2-inch Retina display with 2160 x 1620 resolution at 264 pixels per inch (ppi).
- Processor: A12 Bionic chip with 64-bit architecture and Neural Engine.
- Storage Options: 32GB and 128GB.
- Camera: 8 MP rear camera and 1.2 MP front-facing FaceTime HD camera.
- Battery Life: Up to 10 hours of web surfing on Wi-Fi.
- Operating System: Ships with iPadOS 14, upgradeable to newer versions.
- Weight: 490 grams (Wi-Fi model), 495 grams (Wi-Fi + Cellular model).
- Price: Starting at $329 (USD).
Release Date and Price
The iPad (8th Generation) was released on September 18, 2020. It launched with a starting price of $329 for the 32GB Wi-Fi model, offering an affordable entry point for users seeking powerful features. The 128GB model was available for $429, catering to those needing extra storage.
With its A12 Bionic chip and support for the Apple Pencil and Smart Keyboard, the iPad (8th Generation) provides excellent value, making it a top choice for students and professionals alike.
Design and Display
The iPad 8th Generation retains the classic design that has defined Apple’s tablets for years. It features a 10.2-inch Retina display with a resolution of 2160 x 1620 pixels and a pixel density of 264 pip.
The display is bright and sharp and offers excellent color accuracy, making it ideal for watching videos, browsing the web, and working on creative projects. The 10.2-inch size provides ample screen real estate for multitasking, especially with the iPad OS’s split-view functionality.
Physically, the iPad 8th Generation is nearly identical to its predecessor, measuring 250.6 x 174.1 x 7.5 mm and weighing 490 grams for the Wi-Fi model (495 grams for the Wi-Fi + Cellular model). It retains the familiar aluminum anybody, providing durability and a premium feel.
The device also includes a Touch ID fingerprint sensor embedded in the home button, offering a secure and convenient way to unlock the tablet and authenticate purchases.
Performance and Processor
One of the most significant upgrades in the iPad 8th Generation is the inclusion of the A12 Bionic chip. This processor represents a substantial leap in performance compared to the A10 Fusion chip found in the iPad 7th Generation.
The A12 Bionic chip, with its 6-core CPU and 4-core GPU, delivers faster performance in both everyday tasks and applications that are more demanding. This makes the iPad 8th Generation capable of handling everything from web browsing and streaming to photo editing and light gaming with ease.
The A12 Bionic also features the Neural Engine, which enhances machine-learning capabilities, enabling improved performance in tasks like photo recognition and augmented reality. This makes the iPad 8th Generation not only faster but also smarter, with more advanced features becoming accessible to users.
Software and Productivity
The iPad 8th Generation runs iPad OS, Apple’s dedicated operating system for iPads, which is designed to maximize productivity and ease of use. With iPad OS, users can take advantage of features like multitasking, Slide Over, and Apple Pencil support.
The iPad 8th Generation supports the first-generation Apple Pencil, making it a great tool for note-taking, drawing, and marking up documents.
Additionally, the iPad 8th Generation is compatible with Apple’s Smart Keyboard, thanks to the Smart Connector. This allows the tablet to be used as a lightweight laptop alternative, ideal for students and professionals who need a portable device for typing and productivity on the go.
Camera and Audio
The iPad 8th Generation comes with an 8MP rear camera that can capture 1080p HD video at 30 fps. While it is not a replacement for a high-end smartphone camera, it is sufficient for everyday photography, scanning documents, and recording videos.
The 1.2MP FaceTime HD front camera supports 720p video recording, making it adequate for video calls and selfies, though not as advanced as the front-facing cameras on Apple’s newer devices.
Audio is delivered through dual speakers, providing clear sound quality for watching videos, listening to music, or making FaceTime calls. While it lacks the immersive audio experience of the iPad Pro’s quad-speaker setup, the sound quality is more than sufficient for casual use.
Battery Life
Apple claims that the iPad 8th Generation offers up to 10 hours of battery life for web browsing, video playback, or listening to music on Wi-Fi, and up to 9 hours on the cellular model. In real-world usage, the iPad 8th Generation consistently meets these expectations, making it a reliable device for all-day use.
This long-lasting battery is a key feature for students, travelers, and anyone who needs their tablet to last throughout the day without frequent recharging.
Comparison: iPad (7th Generation) vs iPad (8th Generation) vs iPad Air 2
Below is a detailed comparison of the iPad (7th Generation), iPad (8th Generation), and iPad Air 2, presented in a tabular format to highlight their differences and similarities.
| iPad (7th Generation) | iPad (8th Generation) | iPad Air 2 | |
| Colors | Space Gray, Silver, Gold | Space Gray, Silver, Gold | Space Gray, Silver, Gold |
| Display | 10.2 Retina Display, 500 nits | 10.2 Retina Display, 500 nits | 9.7 Retina Display, 400 nits |
| Resolution | 2160 x 1620, 264 ppi | 2160 x 1620, 264 ppi | 2048 x 1536, 264 ppi |
| Antireflective Coating | Not available | Not available | Yes |
| Chip | A10 Fusion | A12 Bionic (6-core CPU, 4-core GPU) | A8X |
| Neural Engine | Not available | 8-core Neural Engine | Not available |
| Camera (Rear) | 8MP Wide, ƒ/2.4 aperture | 8MP Wide, ƒ/2.4 aperture | 8MP Wide, ƒ/2.4 aperture |
| Video Recording | 1080p HD at 30 fps | 1080p HD at 30 fps | 1080p HD at 30 fps |
| Front Camera | 1.2MP FaceTime HD, ƒ/2.4 aperture | 1.2MP FaceTime HD, ƒ/2.4 aperture | 1.2MP FaceTime HD, ƒ/2.2 aperture |
| Authentication | Touch ID in the Home button | Touch ID in the Home button | Touch ID in the Home button |
| Speakers | Stereo | Stereo | Stereo |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 802.11ac, Bluetooth 4.2 | Wi-Fi 802.11ac, Bluetooth 4.2 | Wi-Fi 802.11ac, Bluetooth 4.0 |
| Apple Pencil Support | 1st Generation | 1st Generation | Not available |
| Keyboard Support | Smart Keyboard | Smart Keyboard | Bluetooth keyboards |
| Storage Options | 32GB, 128GB | 32GB, 128GB | 16GB, 64GB, 128GB |
| Battery Life | Up to 10 hours (Wi-Fi), 9 hours (LTE) | Up to 10 hours (Wi-Fi), 9 hours (LTE) | Up to 10 hours (Wi-Fi), 9 hours (LTE) |
| Weight (Wi-Fi) | 1.07 lbs (483 g) | 1.08 lbs (490 g) | 0.96 lbs (437 g) |
| Weight (Wi-Fi + Cellular) | 1.09 lbs (493 g) | 1.09 lbs (495 g) | 0.98 lbs (444 g) |
| Thickness | 0.29 inches (7.5mm) | 0.29 inches (7.5mm) | 0.24 inches (6.1mm) |
| Connector | Lightning | Lightning | Lightning |
| Price (Launch) | Starting at $329 | Starting at $329 | Starting at $499 |
The iPad (8th Generation) is the most powerful with an A12 Bionic chip, perfect for multitasking and demanding apps. It shares a 10.2-inch Retina display with the iPad (7th Generation) but performs better, supporting Apple Pencil (1st Gen) and Smart Keyboard.
The iPad Air 2 is thinner and lighter with a 9.7-inch Retina display but lacks Apple Pencil and Smart Keyboard support. It’s less powerful with an older A8X chip.
Overall, the iPad (8th Generation) offers the best performance and value, while the iPad Air 2 is better for portability.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Affordable price.
- Excellent performance with the A12 Bionic chip.
- High-quality Retina display.
- Long battery life.
- Access to Apple’s ecosystem and apps.
Cons:
- Outdated design with large bezels.
- Base model offers limited 32GB storage.
- Only supports the 1st generation Apple Pencil.
Conclusion
The iPad 8th Generation is a solid upgrade over its predecessor, offering improved performance, a familiar design, and great value. Its A12 Bionic chip ensures smooth and fast operation for a wide range of tasks, from basic web browsing to more demanding applications.
The addition of Apple Pencil and Smart Keyboard support further enhances its versatility, making it a suitable device for both entertainment and productivity.
Whether you are a student, a professional, or someone looking for an affordable yet powerful tablet, the iPad 8th Generation is a compelling choice that delivers on multiple fronts.
FAQs: iPad 8th Generation Review: Powerful Performance
Which is better, an 8th or 9th generation iPad?
The iPad (9th Generation) is better overall due to its A13 Bionic chip, offering faster performance, improved efficiency, and enhanced features like True Tone display. However, the iPad (8th Generation) still provides excellent value for those seeking a capable device for basic tasks at a lower cost.
Is the iPad 8th Gen good for students?
Yes, the iPad (8th Generation) is great for students! Its A12 Bionic chip ensures smooth multitasking, and it supports Apple Pencil (1st Gen) and Smart Keyboard, making it perfect for taking notes, sketching, and working on assignments.
Does the iPad 8th Gen have Face ID?
No, the iPad (8th Generation) does not have Face ID. It uses Touch ID built into the Home button for secure authentication and unlocking.
Can an iPad 8th Gen update to iOS 18?
Yes, the iPad (8th Generation) is expected to support iOS 18, as Apple typically offers long-term software updates for its devices. Always check the compatibility list when a new iOS version is released.
Why does my iPad 8th Generation take so long to charge?
Slow charging on the iPad (8th Generation) may occur due to the use of a lower-wattage adapter, a worn-out cable, or background apps consuming power. Using the original 20W adapter and ensuring no apps run in the background can help speed up charging.
Is the iPad 8th Gen still good?
Yes, the iPad (8th Generation) is still a solid choice for everyday tasks like browsing, streaming, and light productivity. It offers excellent performance with its A12 Bionic chip and supports Apple Pencil and Smart Keyboard, making it versatile and reliable.
