Apple: Should I buy the new iPad or the cheaper 2021 model?

The 10th-generation iPad is only a few weeks old, and its significant improvements have delighted Apple fans. Alongside its fresh design and extra colour options, the new iPad also features improvements on the inside. But are these changes worth the extra money, or does last year's model offer better value thanks to its considerably lower price?

Let's compare prices! The 10th-generation iPad starts at 629€, while the 9th-generation model starts at 469€, for the 64GB versions in both cases. For many, this price increase puts it out of reach.

Larger screen

The screen is one of the most important features of a tablet. This year's iPad has some noteworthy upgrades. The biggest change is that Apple has removed the thick bezels at the top and bottom of the screen. The screen now stretches almost edge to edge, just like on the iPad Air and iPad Pro. This gives the tablet a more modern design.

The screen on the 10th-generation iPad is slightly larger than that of the previous model, measuring 10.9 inches diagonally, compared with its predecessor's 10.2 inches. It also has a higher resolution, at 2,360 by 1,640 pixels, but the pixel density remains at 264ppi. The other features are unchanged, with 500 nits of brightness, LED backlights, an oleophobic coating and True Tone technology.

At the same time, Apple has adjusted the dimensions to accommodate the larger screen. The new iPad measures 24.87 by 18 by 0.71 centimetres (height by width by thickness), while the corresponding figures for last year's model were 24.89 by 12.27 by 0.74. Finally, the new design forced Apple to remove the Touch ID button. The fingerprint sensor is now in the power button, on the long side.

Faster processor

Once again this year, Apple has moved the iPad to a chip from the year after its predecessor's, specifically from the 2019 A13 Bionic to the 2020 A14 Bionic. The A14 has twice as many Neural Engine cores, with 16 compared with the previous model's eight, giving the new iPad additional capabilities.

Noticeably improved cameras

The new iPad offers a noticeable improvement over the previous-generation model when it comes to cameras. Apple has added a 12MP main camera with an f/1.8 aperture on the back, while last year's model has an 8MP camera with an f/2.4 aperture. This means higher-resolution shots and better low-light performance for the new iPad.

As well as photos, videos will also have a higher resolution. The new iPad can record 4K video at 60fps, while the older model tops out at 1080p at 40fps.

Which model should I choose?

The new ipad may be an improvement over the previous model, but its price is considerably higher. The 9th-generation iPad is still available, and its price may drop further. If high performance matters to you, the new chip will be useful, but it won't change the way you use your iPad. The choice is yours!