iPad 11 (2025, A16 series) vs iPad 9 (2021, A13 series)
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iPad 11 (2025, A16 series)
Starting at
£392.50£429.00 new
iPad 9 (2021, A13 series)
Starting at
£161.78£369.00 newWhat's the difference between the iPad 11 (2025, A16 series) and iPad 9 (2021, A13 series)?
iPad 11 (2025, A16 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, £230.72 less than the iPad 11 (2025, A16 series). The iPad 11 (2025, A16 series) is the newer model, released in 2025.
Refurbished from
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- The iPad 11 (2025, A16 series) has more RAM: 6 GB vs 3 GB.
- The iPad 11 (2025, A16 series) has a bigger screen: 11 inch vs 10.2 inch.
- Screen type: Liquid Retina display on the iPad 11 (2025, A16 series), Retina display on the iPad 9 (2021, A13 series).
iPad 11 (2025, A16 series) vs iPad 9 (2021, A13 series) specs
The iPad 11 offers a faster Apple A16 processor, double the RAM at 6 GB, and a larger 11 inch Liquid Retina display with higher resolution, suited for users who want more power and screen space. The iPad 9 has a simpler Apple A13 Bionic chip, 3 GB RAM, and a smaller 10.2 inch Retina display, fitting those who prefer a compact device for everyday tasks. Storage options vary, with the iPad 11 starting at 128 GB and the iPad 9 having a 64 GB option. The iPad 11 also supports USB Type-C and Bluetooth 5.3, while the iPad 9 uses a Lightning connector and Bluetooth 4.2. Camera and video features also differ, making the iPad 11 better for higher quality video calls and recording.
iPad 11 (2025, A16 series) vs iPad 9 (2021, A13 series) price
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iPad 11 (2025, A16 series) vs iPad 9 (2021, A13 series) battery life and software updates
Durability covers software support and compatibility, which are important for how long your device stays current.
Latest Software Support
Both the iPad 11 and iPad 9 can run iPadOS 18, so you get access to the latest operating system on either device. This means apps and security updates will be available on both, supporting your device's use over time.
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iPad 11 (2025, A16 series) vs iPad 9 (2021, A13 series) performance
Performance affects how smoothly your iPad runs apps, multitasks, and handles storage. The iPad 11 delivers more power and memory, while the iPad 9 offers a larger storage option for those who need it.
Processor Power
The iPad 11 is equipped with an Apple A16 processor, which provides a newer generation of performance compared to the iPad 9's Apple A13 Bionic chip. This suits users who run demanding apps or multitask frequently.
Memory Capacity
With 6 GB of RAM, the iPad 11 keeps more apps open in the background and handles complex tasks more smoothly. The iPad 9's 3 GB RAM is suitable for everyday use like browsing and media consumption.
Storage Options
The iPad 11 starts at 128 GB of storage, with a 256 GB option, which fits users who store lots of files or apps. The iPad 9 is available with 64 GB or 256 GB, making it flexible for those who want a lower initial storage size.
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RAM
iPad 11 (2025, A16 series) vs iPad 9 (2021, A13 series) screen
Screen quality influences how good your display looks and feels during use. Both iPads share some features but differ in size, resolution, and display technology, which affects viewing experience.
Screen Size and Resolution
The iPad 11's 11 inch display offers more screen space for watching videos and working on documents, with a higher resolution of 2360 by 1640 pixels for sharper images. The iPad 9 has a 10.2 inch screen and a 2160 by 1620 pixel resolution, suitable for everyday viewing.
Display Technology
The iPad 11 uses a Liquid Retina display, which can provide more vibrant colours and better viewing angles compared to the iPad 9's Retina display. Both have 500 nits brightness and True Tone, which adjusts colour warmth for comfortable viewing.
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iPad 11 (2025, A16 series) vs iPad 9 (2021, A13 series) camera
Audiovisual features affect how you capture images, make video calls, and enjoy sound. The two iPads differ in camera quality and video recording capabilities, while both have stereo speakers for good sound.
Front Camera Quality
The iPad 11 features a 12 megapixel front camera, capturing more detail for video calls and selfies. The iPad 9's front camera has 8 megapixels, which works well for casual video chats.
Rear Camera and Video Recording
Both iPads have 12 megapixel rear cameras, suitable for photos and scanning documents. The iPad 11 supports 4K video recording at 60 frames per second, which is ideal for high-quality video capture. The iPad 9 offers 1080p recording at 30 frames per second, fitting everyday video needs.
Speakers
The iPad 11 has stereo speakers optimised for landscape orientation, enhancing sound when watching videos or playing games. The iPad 9 has stereo speakers that provide balanced audio for general use.
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iPad 11 (2025, A16 series) vs iPad 9 (2021, A13 series) size and design
This section covers various features that can affect everyday use, such as connectivity, accessories, and physical size. The iPad 11 introduces newer standards and a larger size, while the iPad 9 keeps familiar connections and a compact form.
Connector and Bluetooth
The iPad 11 uses a USB Type-C connector and Bluetooth 5.3, offering faster data transfer and improved wireless connections. The iPad 9 uses a Lightning connector and Bluetooth 4.2, suitable for users with existing Lightning accessories.
Apple Pencil Compatibility
The iPad 11 supports the Apple Pencil with USB-C and the 1st generation Apple Pencil using a USB-C to Apple Pencil adapter. The iPad 9 is compatible with the 1st generation Apple Pencil, which connects via Lightning.
Screen Refresh Rate
Both iPads have a 60 Hz refresh rate, which fits most users for general tasks like browsing and watching videos.
Physical Dimensions and Weight
The iPad 11 measures 248.6 mm by 179.5 mm by 7 mm and weighs 477 g, offering a larger screen in a relatively slim design. The iPad 9 is slightly smaller and thicker at 250.6 mm by 174.1 mm by 7.5 mm and weighs 498 g, making it easier to hold for prolonged periods.
Carrier and SIM
The iPad 11 does not have a SIM port, which suits users who rely on Wi-Fi only. The iPad 9 is unlocked with a Nano SIM slot, fitting users who want mobile data connectivity.
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Minimum system requirements mac
Minimum system requirements windows
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iPad 11 (2025, A16 series) or iPad 9 (2021, A13 series): which should you buy?
Buy the iPad 11 (2025, A16 series) if
- you want more RAM (6 GB vs 3 GB)
- you want a bigger screen (11 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, £230.72 less than the iPad 11 (2025, A16 series)
iPad 11 (2025, A16 series) vs iPad 9 (2021, A13 series) FAQs
iPad 11 (2025, A16 series) vs iPad 9 (2021, A13 series) comes down to the RAM, screen size and screen type. The iPad 11 (2025, A16 series) has more RAM: 6 GB vs 3 GB. The iPad 11 (2025, A16 series) has a bigger screen: 11 inch vs 10.2 inch.
The iPad 9 (2021, A13 series) is cheaper refurbished, from £161.78 compared with £392.50 for the iPad 11 (2025, A16 series).
The iPad 11 (2025, A16 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 11 (2025, A16 series) adds more RAM (6 GB vs 3 GB), a bigger screen (11 inch vs 10.2 inch) and a lighter build (477 g vs 498 g). Refurbished, it costs £230.72 more (from £392.50 vs £161.78).
Refurbished, the iPad 11 (2025, A16 series) comes in 128GB and 256GB, and the iPad 9 (2021, A13 series) in 64GB and 256GB.
