Is the ipad 9th gen still worth it in 2025? That’s the topic of the day, as we’ll dive into the iPad 9th generation and see if it’s relevant this year, especially with the latest iPadOS 26 update.
When the iPad 9th Generation was released in 2021, it quickly became one of the most popular tablets for students, families, and everyday users—thanks to its solid performance, affordable price, and strong software support.
But with the rapid pace of tech innovation, many are now asking: Is the iPad 9th Gen still worth it in 2025?
Let’s explore whether this aging device still holds its value in today’s market.
iPad 9th Gen at a Glance
Before we dive into its relevance in 2025, here’s a quick refresh of the iPad 9’s core specifications:
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Display: 10.2-inch Retina screen
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Chip: A13 Bionic processor
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Storage Options: 64GB and 256GB
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Cameras: 8MP rear camera, 12MP front camera with Center Stage
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OS: Launched with iPadOS 15; supports up to iPadOS 17 and possibly beyond
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Accessories: Compatible with 1st Gen Apple Pencil and Smart Keyboard
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Ports: Lightning connector, Touch ID in Home button
These are the key specifications of the iPad 9th generation, and with these specs, you cannot really say the iPad 9th generation is outdated.
Let’s return to the question of the day.
Is the ipad 9th gen still worth it in 2025?
Yes. The iPad 9th gen still worth it in 2025 because the device is still receiving updates or supported by Apple, and the A13 Bionic processor is still very good in 2025.
Now the question is, what exactly are you using, or planning to use, the iPad for? This question is necessary because the iPad may or may not be suitable for you.
Why am I saying this?
If you plan to use the iPad 9th generation for gaming, especially high-end AAA games like Sniper Elite, Resident Evil, and Grid Legends Deluxe, this iPad is not for you.
If you planned using the iPad for video editing or to replace your computer, this iPad isn’t for you because it is not necessarily fast enough for video editing or to replace your computer.
Let me break it down.
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iPad 9th gen for AAA Games
Here’s the truth, a good number of Apple AAA games like all Resident Evil games, Sniper Elite, Assassin’s Creed Mirage, Grid Legends Deluxe Edition, are not supported on the iPad 9th gen.
This simply means fewer AAA games like this will be supported on the iPad 9th generation.
So if you plan to use the iPad 9th gen for high-end AAA games, it won’t work for you because these games are not supported on A13 Bionic processor.
For AAA games, you need at least M1 processor or better still M2 processor if you’re on a budget.
Don’t Miss:
iPad 9th gen for video editing
For video editing, I don’t recommend iPad 9th gen cause the A13 Bionic processor is way too small though it depends on the type of video you’re editing, and the application.
If you want the best iPad video editing experience, you should target at least an M2 processor.
For M4 chipset, it’s way too much. Better to get a MacBook or a computer.
Even for gaming, the M4 chipset is overkill and not worth it, especially as emulation on iPadOS is limited compared to Android.
iPad 9th gen good for
Despite being four years old, the iPad 9 still runs smoothly for everyday tasks. The A13 Bionic chip—originally used in the iPhone 11—remains capable of handling:
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Web browsing
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Streaming video
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Note-taking
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Light gaming
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Educational apps
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Video conferencing via FaceTime or Zoom
Thanks to iPadOS updates, features like multitasking, app split views, and Center Stage on video calls still function well. However, it’s important to note that software support may begin to phase out in the next couple of years, especially after iPadOS 18 or 26 update.
Who Should Still Consider It?
The iPad 9th Gen may not be cutting-edge in 2025, but it’s still a strong contender for:
Students
Affordable, lightweight, and great for digital textbooks, PDFs, and writing with the Apple Pencil (1st Gen). Perfect for note-taking, browsing, and streaming lectures.
Everyday Users
For general web use, social media, YouTube, and FaceTime, the iPad 9 gets the job done without fuss.
Kids and Families
Parental controls, games, and educational apps work flawlessly. Combined with a rugged case, it’s a great kids’ tablet.
Seniors
Its large screen, physical Home button, and simple interface make it ideal for less tech-savvy users.
Why You Might Still Want It
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Affordable Pricing: Often available under $250 new or even less refurbished.
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Great Front Camera: 12MP with Center Stage keeps video calls smooth and centered.
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Reliable iPadOS Experience: Even older iPads benefit from Apple’s optimized OS.
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Apple Ecosystem: Works seamlessly with iPhones, AirPods, and iCloud.
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Durable and Accessory-Friendly: Tons of compatible cases, keyboards, and styluses.
Where It Falls Short
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Outdated Design: Large bezels and the old Home button layout feel dated next to newer iPads.
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Lightning Port: Still uses the older charging standard, not USB-C.
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Limited Future Updates: Likely to lose iPadOS support in the next 1–2 years from now.
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No Support for Newer Accessories: Only works with the 1st Gen Apple Pencil.
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Not Ideal for Heavy Multitasking or Pro Apps: Slower than newer iPads in productivity or creative tasks.
How long will iPad 9th generation be supported?
The iPad 9th generation appears to have Apple support until 2026.
I won’t be surprised if the A13 Bionic processor continues to receive updates until 2027. But the iPad 9th generation will likely receive updates until 2026.
If you plan to use the iPad 9th generation for three years, I recommend the 10th generation or a newer model because of software updates.
However, if you plan on using the iPad for two years, rest assured you will receive software updates within that time.
Do i recommend the iPad 9th gen in 2025
Yes, I recommend the iPad 9th generation in 2025 as the tablet is still very relevant and useful for day-to-day iPad task.
However, bear in mind that you cannot see a brand-new iPad 9th generation on the Apple Store. But you can get a good one from Amazon or other online stores.
Most likely, you will see a refurbished or used iPad 9th generation. Because of this, I recommend buying from Amazon, especially with their Amazon Renewed Premium program.
This means you have a one-year warranty for the product. Within that year, you can return the product if you detect any defect.
Check out the best prices of iPad 9th generation on Amazon
Remember, if you go for amazon renewed premium, the iPad will look excellent with a minimum battery life of 92%. Though on iPad, Apple doesn’t display the battery life, but bear in mind that the battery life will be good as long as it is Amazon Renewed Premium.
You can also choose Amazon Renewed, as you will get a three-month warranty for the product.
Is the ipad 9th gen still worth it in 2025? Yes, the iPad 9th gen still worth it in 2025 because the apple A13 Bionic processor is still very good and can perform day to day task.
So bear in mind that the iPad 9th gen is still worth buying in 2025 and you can the best price from Amazon.
