Ipad 5th Generation Vs. Current: Comparing The Features And Performance

The iPad has revolutionized the way we consume media, stay connected, and accomplish tasks. With the release of each new generation, Apple has consistently pushed the boundaries of innovation, offering users more powerful hardware, enhanced features, and a refined user experience. In this comprehensive comparison, we pit the iPad 5th generation against the current iPad models to help you decide which one is the best fit for your needs and budget.

Design and Display:

The iPad 5th generation, released in 2017, sports a classic and elegant design with a 9.7-inch Retina display. Its aluminum unibody construction provides a sturdy and premium feel, while the slim profile makes it easy to carry around.

The current iPad, released in 2021, features a more modern and sleek design with slimmer bezels and a larger 10.2-inch Retina display. The Liquid Retina display offers improved color accuracy and brightness, making it ideal for watching videos, playing games, and browsing the web.

Performance and Hardware:

The iPad 5th generation is powered by the A9 chip, which provides solid performance for everyday tasks such as browsing the web, checking email, and playing casual games. However, more demanding tasks like video editing or graphic design may require a more powerful device.

The current iPad features the A13 Bionic chip, which delivers a significant performance boost compared to the A9 chip. This makes the current iPad capable of handling even the most demanding tasks, including video editing, 3D modeling, and gaming.

Storage and Battery Life:

The iPad 5th generation comes with storage options of 32GB and 128GB. While this may be sufficient for basic users, those who need more storage for apps, photos, and videos may find it limiting.

The current iPad offers storage options of 64GB and 256GB, providing more flexibility for users with varying storage needs. Additionally, the current iPad boasts improved battery life, lasting up to 10 hours on a single charge, compared to the iPad 5th generation’s 9 hours of battery life.

Cameras and Multimedia:

The iPad 5th generation features an 8MP rear camera and a 1.2MP front-facing camera. The rear camera is capable of taking decent photos and videos, while the front-facing camera is suitable for video calls and selfies.

The current iPad has a 12MP rear camera with autofocus and a wider aperture, resulting in better image quality, especially in low-light conditions. The front-facing camera has been upgraded to a 12MP sensor, offering improved video call quality and enhanced selfies.

Software and Features:

The iPad 5th generation runs on iPadOS 15, which offers a wide range of features and functionalities. However, it may not receive updates for as long as the current iPad, which runs on iPadOS 16 and is eligible for future software updates.

The current iPad comes pre-installed with iPadOS 16, offering a host of new features such as Stage Manager, improved multitasking, and enhanced collaboration tools. Additionally, the current iPad supports the Apple Pencil (2nd generation), which provides a more natural and precise drawing and writing experience.

Price and Value:

The iPad 5th generation is available at a lower price point compared to the current iPad. However, it is important to consider the trade-offs in terms of performance, features, and longevity.

The current iPad offers a more powerful processor, a larger and better display, improved cameras, and longer battery life. It also comes with more storage options and is eligible for future software updates. While it is more expensive than the iPad 5th generation, it provides better value for the money in the long run.

Which iPad Should You Choose?

The decision between the iPad 5th generation and the current iPad ultimately depends on your needs and budget. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option and are willing to compromise on performance and features, the iPad 5th generation might be a suitable choice. However, if you prioritize performance, a larger display, better cameras, and the latest software features, the current iPad is the better investment.

Beyond the Comparison: Additional Considerations

In addition to the factors discussed above, here are a few other aspects to consider when making your decision:

• Accessories: Consider the availability and compatibility of accessories such as cases, keyboards, and screen protectors.
• Personal Preferences: Think about your individual preferences in terms of design, size, and weight.
• Future-Proofing: If you plan to use your iPad for several years, opting for the current iPad may be a wiser choice due to its longer expected software support.

Frequently Discussed Topics

Q: Is the iPad 5th generation still worth buying?

A: The iPad 5th generation is still a capable device for basic tasks, but its performance and features may not be sufficient for more demanding users.

Q: How long will the iPad 5th generation receive software updates?

A: Apple typically provides software updates for its devices for around 5-6 years after their release. However, this may vary depending on the device and the specific software version.

Q: Is the current iPad compatible with the Apple Pencil (1st generation)?

A: No, the current iPad is only compatible with the Apple Pencil (2nd generation).

Q: Which iPad is better for gaming?

A: The current iPad with its more powerful A13 Bionic chip and larger display is better suited for gaming compared to the iPad 5th generation.

Q: Which iPad is better for students?

A: The current iPad with its larger display, improved performance, and support for the Apple Pencil (2nd generation) is a better choice for students who need a device for note-taking, research, and creative projects.