Is 5th Generation iPad Good? A Comprehensive Review
Thinking about snagging a 5th generation iPad? You’re not alone! It’s a popular tablet that still finds its way into many hands. But with newer models available, you might be wondering: is the 5th generation iPad still a good buy in today’s market? We’ll break it down for you, covering everything from its performance and display to its battery life and overall value.
This iPad, released in 2017, holds a special place in Apple’s history. It was a solid mid-range offering at the time, designed to bring the iPad experience to a wider audience. But technology moves fast! We’ll explore if it still holds up against the competition and if it can meet your needs. Consider this your complete guide!
We’ll look at the specs, compare it to other iPads, and help you decide if it’s the right choice for you. Whether you’re a student, a casual user, or someone looking for a tablet for entertainment, we’ll give you the insights you need. Let’s get started!
iPad 5th Generation: A Closer Look
The 5th generation iPad, released in March 2017, was a significant step forward for the entry-level iPad line. It brought improvements in several key areas, making it a compelling option for those seeking a tablet experience without breaking the bank. Let’s delve into its features and specifications.
Design and Build Quality
The 5th generation iPad adopted a similar design language to the iPad Air 2, with a sleek, unibody aluminum construction. This design offered a premium feel, despite its more affordable price point. The rounded edges made it comfortable to hold, and the overall build quality felt solid and durable. The device was available in a few different colors, typically silver, gold, and space gray, offering a range of aesthetic choices.
The design was a major selling point. It felt premium and well-built, and it was a noticeable step up from previous entry-level iPads. The build quality contributed to the tablet’s longevity, as it was designed to withstand the wear and tear of daily use.
Display
The 9.7-inch Retina display was a highlight of the 5th generation iPad. With a resolution of 2048 x 1536 pixels, it offered a crisp and vibrant viewing experience. The display was bright enough for use in various lighting conditions, making it suitable for reading, watching videos, and browsing the web. The color accuracy was good, and the viewing angles were wide, ensuring a pleasant experience for multiple viewers.
The Retina display was a significant upgrade from older iPad models. It made everything on the screen look sharper and more detailed. The display was ideal for consuming media and engaging in creative tasks.
Performance
The 5th generation iPad was powered by the A9 chip, the same chip that was used in the iPhone 6s and 6s Plus. While not the most powerful chip at the time of its release, the A9 chip provided a smooth and responsive user experience. It handled everyday tasks like web browsing, email, and social media with ease. It could also run a variety of games and apps without significant lag.
The A9 chip offered a good balance of performance and efficiency. It provided enough power for most users’ needs. It wasn’t designed for heavy-duty gaming or video editing, but it excelled in general use.
Storage Options
The 5th generation iPad was offered in two storage options: 32GB and 128GB. The 32GB option was suitable for users who primarily used the iPad for basic tasks and didn’t store a lot of media locally. The 128GB option was a better choice for users who needed more storage for apps, games, photos, and videos. The lack of expandable storage (like a microSD card slot) meant that users had to carefully consider their storage needs at the time of purchase. (See Also: Why Is My Ipad Turning On And Off Repeatedly )
Storage options were limited. It was crucial to choose the right storage capacity based on your expected usage. Cloud storage was an alternative, but it relied on a stable internet connection.
Battery Life
Apple typically claims around 10 hours of battery life for its iPads, and the 5th generation iPad generally lived up to that promise. The battery life was sufficient for a full day of typical usage, including web browsing, video streaming, and light gaming. The battery performance was one of the strengths of this iPad, making it a reliable companion for on-the-go use.
The battery life was impressive. It allowed users to enjoy the iPad without constantly worrying about finding a power outlet.
Cameras
The 5th generation iPad featured an 8MP rear camera and a 1.2MP front-facing camera. The rear camera was capable of taking decent photos and videos in good lighting conditions. The front-facing camera was adequate for video calls and selfies. While the cameras weren’t the highest quality, they were sufficient for most users’ needs.
The cameras were functional but not exceptional. They were good enough for casual use and video calls, but they didn’t excel in low-light situations.
Connectivity
The 5th generation iPad supported Wi-Fi (802.11a/b/g/n/ac) and Bluetooth 4.2. Cellular models were also available, offering 4G LTE connectivity. The Wi-Fi performance was generally reliable, and the Bluetooth connectivity allowed for pairing with accessories like headphones and keyboards. The availability of a cellular model was a significant advantage for users who needed internet access on the go.
Connectivity options were good for the time. The Wi-Fi and Bluetooth performance were solid, and the cellular option provided flexibility.
Software
The 5th generation iPad originally shipped with iOS 10. Apple continued to provide software updates for the device for several years, ensuring that it received the latest features and security patches. The iPad is now unable to upgrade past iPadOS 16.7.7. This means that you’ll have access to a good number of apps and features, but you won’t get the very latest features available on newer iPad models.
Software support was a plus. Apple’s commitment to providing updates extended the lifespan of the device.
iPad 5th Generation vs. Newer Models: A Comparison
To determine whether the 5th generation iPad is still a good choice, it’s essential to compare it to newer models. Let’s look at how it stacks up against the competition, focusing on key areas like performance, display, and features. (See Also: Why Does Ipad Turn Off By Itself )
iPad 5th Gen vs. iPad (9th Generation)
The iPad (9th generation), released in 2021, is the direct successor to the 5th generation iPad in terms of the entry-level iPad lineup. It offers significant improvements in several areas:
- Performance: The 9th generation iPad features the A13 Bionic chip, which is significantly faster than the A9 chip in the 5th generation iPad. This results in snappier performance, especially when running demanding apps or games.
- Display: The 9th generation iPad has a slightly larger 10.2-inch display with the same resolution, but it also features True Tone technology, which adjusts the display’s color temperature to match the ambient lighting.
- Cameras: The 9th generation iPad has a significantly improved front-facing camera with a 12MP Ultra Wide camera and Center Stage, which keeps you in frame during video calls. The rear camera remains the same.
- Other Features: The 9th generation iPad supports the first-generation Apple Pencil, providing a great experience for note-taking and drawing.
The 9th generation iPad is a clear upgrade, offering better performance, a slightly improved display, and enhanced camera capabilities. If budget allows, it’s the superior choice.
iPad 5th Gen vs. iPad Air (3rd Generation)
The iPad Air (3rd generation), released in 2019, represents a step up in terms of performance and features. Here’s a comparison:
- Performance: The iPad Air (3rd generation) is equipped with the A12 Bionic chip, which is considerably faster than the A9 chip in the 5th generation iPad.
- Display: The iPad Air (3rd generation) has a larger 10.5-inch display with a higher resolution and fully laminated display with anti-reflective coating.
- Design: The iPad Air (3rd generation) features a thinner and lighter design compared to the 5th generation iPad.
- Other Features: The iPad Air (3rd generation) supports the first-generation Apple Pencil and features Smart Connector for connecting to keyboards.
The iPad Air (3rd generation) offers a more premium experience with its superior performance, display, and design. It’s a better choice if you’re looking for a more advanced tablet.
iPad 5th Gen vs. iPad Mini (5th Generation)
The iPad mini (5th generation), released in 2019, offers a smaller form factor with powerful performance. Here’s a comparison:
- Performance: The iPad mini (5th generation) is equipped with the A12 Bionic chip, the same as the iPad Air (3rd generation).
- Display: The iPad mini (5th generation) has a 7.9-inch display with a higher resolution and fully laminated display with anti-reflective coating.
- Portability: The iPad mini (5th generation) is significantly smaller and lighter than the 5th generation iPad, making it more portable.
- Other Features: The iPad mini (5th generation) supports the first-generation Apple Pencil.
The iPad mini (5th generation) is an excellent choice for those who prioritize portability. It offers similar performance to the iPad Air (3rd generation) in a more compact package.
Comparison Table
Here’s a quick comparison of the key specifications:
| Feature | iPad 5th Gen | iPad (9th Gen) | iPad Air (3rd Gen) | iPad mini (5th Gen) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chip | A9 | A13 Bionic | A12 Bionic | A12 Bionic |
| Display | 9.7-inch Retina | 10.2-inch Retina with True Tone | 10.5-inch Retina with anti-reflective coating | 7.9-inch Retina with anti-reflective coating |
| Storage | 32GB, 128GB | 64GB, 256GB | 64GB, 256GB | 64GB, 256GB |
| Cameras | 8MP rear, 1.2MP front | 8MP rear, 12MP front (Ultra Wide) | 8MP rear, 7MP front | 8MP rear, 7MP front |
| Apple Pencil Support | No | 1st Gen | 1st Gen | 1st Gen |
| Starting Price (at launch) | $329 | $329 | $499 | $399 |
The table highlights the key differences between the different iPad models.
Pros and Cons of the 5th Generation iPad
Before making a decision, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of the 5th generation iPad.
Pros:
- Affordable: The 5th generation iPad was initially priced lower than other iPad models, making it a budget-friendly option. This affordability is still a major draw if you are looking at a used model.
- Good Performance for Basic Tasks: The A9 chip provides sufficient power for everyday tasks like web browsing, email, and social media.
- Crisp Retina Display: The 9.7-inch Retina display offers a sharp and vibrant viewing experience.
- Solid Build Quality: The aluminum unibody construction provides a premium feel and durability.
- Long Battery Life: The battery life is generally good, providing a full day of usage.
- Reliable Software Support (for its time): Apple provided software updates for several years, extending the device’s lifespan.
The pros make the iPad 5th generation a compelling choice for those on a budget or for basic use. (See Also: How Do I Wipe My Ipad Clean )
Cons:
- Outdated Processor: The A9 chip is significantly slower than the chips in newer iPad models.
- Limited Storage Options: The storage options are limited to 32GB and 128GB, which may not be enough for some users.
- No Support for Newer iPadOS Features: It’s now unable to upgrade past iPadOS 16.7.7, so you miss out on the latest software features.
- No Apple Pencil Support: The 5th generation iPad does not support the Apple Pencil.
- Older Design: The design is starting to look dated compared to newer iPad models.
The cons are important considerations, especially if you plan to use the iPad for demanding tasks or need the latest features.
Who Is the 5th Generation iPad Good for?
The 5th generation iPad can still be a viable option for certain users. Here’s a breakdown:
Ideal Users:
- Budget-Conscious Buyers: If you’re looking for an affordable tablet for basic tasks, the 5th generation iPad can be a good value, especially if you find it used.
- Casual Users: If you primarily use your iPad for web browsing, email, social media, and watching videos, the 5th generation iPad should meet your needs.
- Students on a Budget: It can be a good option for students who need a tablet for note-taking, reading, and basic productivity tasks, but note the lack of Apple Pencil support.
- Users of Older Apps: If you have older apps that may not be supported on the newest iPads, the 5th generation iPad may be compatible.
These users can still find value in the 5th generation iPad.
Not Ideal Users:
- Users Needing High Performance: If you plan to use your iPad for demanding tasks like gaming, video editing, or running multiple apps simultaneously, the 5th generation iPad may not be powerful enough.
- Users Wanting the Latest Features: If you want the latest features, the newest display technologies, and the best performance, you should consider a newer iPad model.
- Creative Professionals: If you’re a creative professional who relies on the Apple Pencil and powerful processing, the 5th generation iPad is not the right choice.
These users should consider a newer iPad model to meet their needs.
Tips for Buying a Used 5th Generation iPad
If you’re considering buying a used 5th generation iPad, here are some tips to help you make an informed decision:
- Check the Condition: Inspect the device for any physical damage, such as scratches, dents, or screen issues.
- Test the Battery: Ask the seller about the battery health and how long it lasts on a single charge.
- Verify the Serial Number: Check the serial number to ensure that the device isn’t stolen or reported lost.
- Check for iCloud Lock: Make sure the iPad isn’t locked to someone else’s iCloud account.
- Ask About the Accessories: Inquire about the included accessories, such as the charger and cable.
- Compare Prices: Research the average price for used 5th generation iPads to ensure you’re getting a fair deal.
Following these tips can help you find a quality used iPad.
Final Verdict
So, is the 5th generation iPad still good? It depends. For basic tasks like browsing the web, checking email, and watching videos, it can still serve its purpose, especially if you are on a tight budget. However, its age is showing. The A9 chip is noticeably slower than the chips in newer iPads, and the lack of support for the latest features is a drawback.
If you’re looking for a tablet for more demanding tasks, or if you want the latest features and performance, then you’re better off investing in a newer model. Consider the iPad (9th generation) or the iPad Air (3rd generation) for a more modern experience. If portability is key, the iPad mini (5th generation) is a good alternative.
Ultimately, the 5th generation iPad can be a decent choice for those on a tight budget or with very basic needs. Just be aware of its limitations and consider your specific requirements before making a purchase. Make sure to do your research, compare prices, and assess the device’s condition if you are considering a used model. It’s a balance between price and performance. Make the right choice for YOU.
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