iPad 10 (2022, A14 series) vs iPad 9 (2021, A13 series)
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iPad 10 (2022, A14 series)
Starting at
£254.50£349.00 new
iPad 9 (2021, A13 series)
Starting at
£161.78£369.00 newWhat's the difference between the iPad 10 (2022, A14 series) and iPad 9 (2021, A13 series)?
iPad 10 (2022, A14 series) vs iPad 9 (2021, A13 series) comes down to the RAM, screen size and screen type. Refurbished, the iPad 9 (2021, A13 series) starts at £161.78, £92.72 less than the iPad 10 (2022, A14 series). The iPad 10 (2022, A14 series) is the newer model, released in 2022.
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- The iPad 10 (2022, A14 series) has more RAM: 4 GB vs 3 GB.
- The iPad 10 (2022, A14 series) has a bigger screen: 10.9 inch vs 10.2 inch.
- Screen type: Liquid Retina display on the iPad 10 (2022, A14 series), Retina display on the iPad 9 (2021, A13 series).
iPad 10 (2022, A14 series) vs iPad 9 (2021, A13 series) specs
The iPad 10 (2022, A14 series) and iPad 9 (2021, A13 series) both support the same maximum iPadOS version and software update period, making them equally durable in software terms. The iPad 10 offers a larger and higher resolution screen with a Liquid Retina display, suited for those wanting more screen space and sharper visuals. It also has a faster processor and more RAM, which helps with multitasking and app performance. The iPad 10 supports newer Bluetooth and uses USB-C connections, appealing to users who prefer current standards and accessories. The iPad 9 keeps the Lightning connector and includes SIM card support, which suits those wanting cellular connectivity. Both handle everyday tasks well, and each suits different preferences in screen size, connectivity, and multimedia features.
iPad 10 (2022, A14 series) vs iPad 9 (2021, A13 series) price
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iPad 10 (2022, A14 series) vs iPad 9 (2021, A13 series) battery life and software updates
Both iPads offer the same maximum operating system support and software update duration, ensuring long-term use with the latest features and security. The iPad 10 was released in 2022 and the iPad 9 in 2021.
Software Support
The iPad 10 and iPad 9 both support iPadOS 18 and will continue receiving software updates up to iPadOS 27. This means either device will stay current with Apple's improvements and security patches for years to come.
Release Year
The iPad 10 came out in 2022 and the iPad 9 in 2021. This places them close in release dates, so their durability related to software and compatibility will be comparable.
Maximum operating system supported
Software updates
Year of release
iPad 10 (2022, A14 series) vs iPad 9 (2021, A13 series) performance
Performance differences are defined by the processor, RAM, and storage options. These affect how smoothly the devices run apps and handle multitasking or storage needs.
Processor Speed
The iPad 10 has the Apple A14 Bionic processor, while the iPad 9 uses the A13 Bionic. The A14 is a newer chip, providing more power for demanding apps and faster overall performance, which suits users who run multiple apps or more intensive tasks.
Memory Capacity
With 4 GB of RAM, the iPad 10 keeps more apps open and running smoothly compared to the iPad 9's 3 GB. This helps with multitasking and switching between apps without slowdowns.
Storage Options
Both iPads come in 64GB and 256GB storage options. This means you can choose a size that fits your needs for apps, media, and files whether you prefer the iPad 10 or iPad 9.
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RAM
iPad 10 (2022, A14 series) vs iPad 9 (2021, A13 series) screen
Screen quality differences affect how much space you have for viewing and the sharpness of images. Both have True Tone for natural colours and the same brightness level.
Screen Size and Resolution
The iPad 10 offers a larger 10.9 inch screen with a resolution of 2360 x 1640 pixels. The iPad 9 has a smaller 10.2 inch screen with 2160 x 1620 pixels. The iPad 10's larger and sharper display suits users who want more room for reading, watching videos, or working on documents.
Display Type
The iPad 10 features a Liquid Retina display, while the iPad 9 has a Retina display. Both have the same pixel density of 264 ppi and 500 nits brightness, so the main difference is the screen size and resolution rather than brightness or sharpness.
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iPad 10 (2022, A14 series) vs iPad 9 (2021, A13 series) camera
Camera and video features differ between the two iPads, particularly in front camera resolution and video recording capabilities.
Front Camera Quality
The iPad 10 has a 12 megapixel front camera, capturing more detail than the iPad 9's 8 megapixel front camera. This suits users who take selfies or make video calls and want sharper images.
Video Recording
Video recording on the iPad 10 supports 4K at 60 frames per second, delivering smoother and higher resolution video capture. The iPad 9 records video at 1080p 30 frames per second, which is still good but less detailed and fluid for video creation.
Rear Camera and Speakers
Both iPads have 12 megapixel rear cameras and stereo speakers. This means for photography and audio playback, they offer similar quality.
Front camera definition
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Video recording
iPad 10 (2022, A14 series) vs iPad 9 (2021, A13 series) size and design
Other differences include connectivity, ports, and physical dimensions, which affect how you use the iPad day to day and what accessories work.
Connector and Charging
The iPad 10 uses a USB-C connector, supporting newer accessories and faster data transfer. The iPad 9 retains the Lightning connector, which works with older Apple accessories. This is important if you already own compatible chargers or peripherals.
Bluetooth and Wi-Fi
The iPad 10 supports Bluetooth 5.2 and Wi-Fi 6 802.11ax, offering better wireless performance and connectivity range. The iPad 9 has Bluetooth 4.2 and Wi-Fi 6 802.11a/b/g/n/ac, which still provides solid wireless connections but at earlier standards.
Cellular and SIM
The iPad 9 is unlocked and supports a Nano SIM card, which suits users needing mobile data on the go. The iPad 10 does not have a SIM port, focusing on Wi-Fi use only.
Apple Pencil Compatibility
Both iPads work with the 1st generation Apple Pencil. The iPad 10 also supports the Apple Pencil designed for USB-C, but an adapter is needed to connect the 1st generation Pencil. This benefits users wanting the latest Apple Pencil model.
Dimensions and Weight
The iPad 10 is slightly larger in width at 179.5 mm compared to 174.1 mm for the iPad 9, but it is lighter at 477 g versus 498 g. It is also a bit thinner, measuring 7 mm deep against 7.5 mm. This makes the iPad 10 more comfortable to hold for longer periods despite its larger screen.
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Minimum system requirements mac
Minimum system requirements windows
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iPad 10 (2022, A14 series) or iPad 9 (2021, A13 series): which should you buy?
Buy the iPad 10 (2022, A14 series) if
- you want more RAM (4 GB vs 3 GB)
- you want a bigger screen (10.9 inch vs 10.2 inch)
- you want a lighter build (477 g vs 498 g)
Buy the iPad 9 (2021, A13 series) if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £161.78, £92.72 less than the iPad 10 (2022, A14 series)
What our customers say
Customers who have the iPad 10 (2022, A14 series) say it performs well for browsing, reading, and streaming. The larger screen and sharp colours are appreciated, as is the smooth running of apps. Some mention minor scratches and battery life that lasts a decent amount of time but can feel shorter during continuous video streaming. Overall, users find it well suited for everyday tasks and value the balance of screen size and performance.
Users of the iPad 9 (2021, A13 series) highlight smooth performance and solid battery life that lasts all day for typical use. Many mention the screen is clear and responsive, and the 256GB storage option is popular for holding apps and media. Some note minor marks on the body but say it does not affect use. The device is praised for being reliable for browsing, video calls, and running apps without lag.
Both iPads attract buyers who want dependable tablets for everyday use. The iPad 10 suits those who prioritise a larger screen and newer connectivity, while the iPad 9 appeals to those who want solid performance with cellular support and a slightly smaller size.
iPad 10 (2022, A14 series) vs iPad 9 (2021, A13 series) FAQs
iPad 10 (2022, A14 series) vs iPad 9 (2021, A13 series) comes down to the RAM, screen size and screen type. The iPad 10 (2022, A14 series) has more RAM: 4 GB vs 3 GB. The iPad 10 (2022, A14 series) has a bigger screen: 10.9 inch vs 10.2 inch.
The iPad 9 (2021, A13 series) is cheaper refurbished, from £161.78 compared with £254.50 for the iPad 10 (2022, A14 series).
The iPad 10 (2022, A14 series) is still supported and can run iPadOS 27. The iPad 9 (2021, A13 series) is still supported and can run iPadOS 27.
The iPad 10 (2022, A14 series) adds more RAM (4 GB vs 3 GB), a bigger screen (10.9 inch vs 10.2 inch) and a lighter build (477 g vs 498 g). Refurbished, it costs £92.72 more (from £254.50 vs £161.78).
Both come in 64GB and 256GB refurbished.
