Is The Ipad 9 7 Really That Much Better Than The Iphone 6s Plus For Everyday Use

The debate between using a tablet versus an older smartphone for daily tasks isn’t as outdated as it might seem. Many people still rely on devices like the iPhone 6s Plus—released in 2015—for essential functions like messaging, browsing, and media consumption. Meanwhile, the iPad (9th generation), launched in 2021, offers a modern entry-level Apple tablet experience at an accessible price. But is the upgrade from the iPhone 6s Plus to the iPad 9 truly transformative for everyday use? The answer depends on how you define “everyday.” For some, portability trumps screen size; for others, productivity demands more real estate.

Performance and Hardware: A Generational Leap

The most immediate difference lies in hardware. The iPhone 6s Plus runs on Apple’s A9 chip with 2GB of RAM, while the iPad (9th gen) features the A13 Bionic chip and 3GB of RAM. This isn't just a minor improvement—it's a six-year leap in processing power and efficiency. Apps open faster, multitasking is smoother, and newer iOS versions are supported longer on the iPad.

Apple officially ended major iOS updates for the iPhone 6s Plus with iOS 15. In contrast, the iPad 9 supports iPadOS 17 and is expected to receive updates into 2025 or beyond. This extended software lifecycle means better security, compatibility with modern apps, and access to features like Split View, Scribble, and improved accessibility tools.

Tip: If you're still using an iPhone 6s Plus, consider upgrading not just for speed but for continued app support—many developers now optimize for iOS 14+.

Screen Size and Usability: Form Follows Function

The iPhone 6s Plus has a 5.5-inch display, which was considered large in 2015. Today, it feels compact compared to even mid-range smartphones. The iPad 9, by contrast, has a 10.2-inch Retina display. That extra space changes how users interact with content.

Reading articles, editing documents, watching videos, or filling out web forms becomes significantly easier on the larger screen. Typing is more accurate, and split-screen functionality allows you to reference one app while working in another—a feature absent on the iPhone 6s Plus due to hardware and OS limitations.

However, portability remains a key factor. The iPhone 6s Plus fits comfortably in one hand and slips easily into pockets. The iPad 9 requires a bag or two hands for sustained use. For users who prioritize mobility over screen real estate, the iPhone may still be preferable despite its age.

Everyday Use Case Comparison

To understand where each device excels, consider common daily activities:

Task	iPhone 6s Plus	iPad (9th Gen)
Web Browsing	Narrow viewport; frequent zooming needed	Full desktop-like layout; easier navigation
Email & Messaging	Functional but cramped interface	Larger keyboard; easier message threading
Video Streaming	Good audio, small screen limits immersion	Immersive viewing with stereo speakers
Document Editing	Possible but awkward without external keyboard	Supports Bluetooth keyboards; usable with Smart Keyboard Folio
Portability	Excellent—one-hand use, pocketable	Moderate—requires case or bag
Battery Life	Average (~1 day with light use)	Strong (~10 hours of continuous use)

For seniors, students, or casual users focused on reading, light research, or entertainment, the iPad 9 provides a far more comfortable experience. But for someone who values always-on connectivity and voice calls without carrying multiple devices, the iPhone 6s Plus retains relevance—especially if it still powers on reliably.

Real Example: Maria’s Transition from Phone to Tablet

Maria, a retired teacher in her late 60s, used her iPhone 6s Plus for years to stay in touch with family and check news. Over time, she found typing replies difficult and often misread text due to the small screen. Her son gifted her an iPad 9, and after initial hesitation, she adapted quickly. With larger text, a wireless keyboard, and FaceTime in landscape mode, her digital independence grew. She now manages her email, shops online, and even takes virtual yoga classes—all with less eye strain and frustration.

This shift highlights a broader trend: tablets can serve as primary computing devices for non-technical users when usability outweighs raw portability.

Expert Insight on Device Longevity and Utility

“Older iPhones like the 6s Plus were built well, but their utility diminishes not because they break—but because the digital world moves on.” — Dr. Alan Reyes, Human-Computer Interaction Researcher, Stanford University

Dr. Reyes emphasizes that usability isn’t just about whether a device turns on, but whether it enables meaningful participation in today’s digital ecosystem. App stores drop support, websites adopt responsive designs incompatible with legacy screens, and new security standards exclude outdated hardware. The iPad 9, though entry-level, sits firmly within current technological norms.

When the iPhone 6s Plus Still Makes Sense

Despite its age, the iPhone 6s Plus isn’t obsolete for everyone. It remains viable under specific conditions:

• As a secondary phone: Useful for kids, travel backups, or dedicated music players.
• In areas with poor connectivity: Its compact size and cellular calling are advantages over Wi-Fi-only iPads.
• For minimalists: Users who only need calls, texts, and a few basic apps may find no reason to upgrade.

But for anyone engaging with modern web services, social media platforms, or productivity tools, the limitations become apparent fast. Slow loading times, app crashes, and lack of biometric updates (Face ID or Touch ID reliability issues) erode confidence in long-term dependability.

Checklist: Is Upgrading to the iPad 9 Right for You?

Before making the switch, ask yourself the following:

1. Do I frequently struggle to read text or tap the right links on my iPhone?
2. Am I unable to install newer versions of essential apps (e.g., banking, health, or shopping)?
3. Would having a larger screen improve my ability to watch videos, write emails, or shop online?
4. Do I already carry a phone and don’t mind adding a second device for home or stationary use?
5. Am I looking for a device that will remain functional and secure for the next 2–3 years?

If you answered “yes” to three or more, the iPad 9 likely offers substantial improvements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the iPad 9 replace my phone for calls and messages?

Not directly. The base iPad 9 model lacks cellular calling capabilities unless linked to an iPhone via Continuity features. You can send iMessages and make FaceTime calls over Wi-Fi, but traditional phone calls require your iPhone nearby.

Is the iPad 9 too big for daily carry?

It depends on your routine. If you regularly carry a purse, backpack, or work bag, the iPad 9 is manageable. However, if you prefer everything in your pocket, it’s less convenient than any smartphone, including the 6s Plus.

Will my old accessories work with the iPad 9?

Most Bluetooth accessories (keyboards, headphones) will pair seamlessly. However, the iPad 9 uses a Lightning port, so older 30-pin adapters won’t work without a converter. Cases and docks are not interchangeable due to different dimensions.

Conclusion: A Meaningful Upgrade for Most

The iPad (9th generation) is not merely “better” than the iPhone 6s Plus—it serves a different purpose. While the iPhone excels as a communication tool, the iPad offers a full-fledged digital lifestyle platform. For everyday tasks involving content consumption, light creation, education, or senior-friendly interfaces, the iPad 9 delivers a noticeably superior experience.

Yes, it’s larger and not a phone. But for users willing to adapt their habits, the trade-off in screen space, performance, and longevity is overwhelmingly positive. The iPhone 6s Plus had its moment. The iPad 9 represents what “everyday use” looks like in 2024 and beyond.

🚀 Ready to simplify your digital life? Evaluate how you use technology daily—and consider whether a modern tablet could reduce frustration and boost productivity. Share your experience or questions below.