Is The Ipad Air Worth Upgrading From The 9th Gen Or Should You Wait

If you're using an iPad 9th generation, you're already in possession of a solid device—capable, reliable, and still supported by Apple with the latest iPadOS updates. But as newer models like the iPad Air (5th and upcoming 6th generations) enter the market with faster chips, better displays, and enhanced features, the question arises: is it time to upgrade? Or should you hold off for a more significant leap?

This decision hinges on more than just raw specs. It’s about how you use your iPad, what you expect from it, and whether the improvements justify the cost. Let’s examine the real-world differences, assess who benefits most from an upgrade, and determine if now is the right moment—or if waiting could bring even greater value.

Performance Leap: M1 Chip vs A13 Bionic

The most dramatic difference between the iPad 9th gen and the current iPad Air (5th gen) lies under the hood. The 9th gen runs on the A13 Bionic chip—the same processor found in the iPhone 11. While still competent for everyday tasks like browsing, email, video streaming, and light note-taking, it begins to show its age when multitasking or running demanding apps.

In contrast, the iPad Air 5 (released in 2022) features Apple’s M1 chip, the same powerhouse used in MacBook Airs and earlier iPad Pros. This isn’t just a minor bump—it's a generational leap in processing power, graphics performance, and machine learning capabilities.

Feature	iPad 9th Gen	iPad Air 5th Gen
Chip	A13 Bionic	M1
CPU Performance	Baseline (1x)	~2.5x faster
GPU Performance	Baseline	~4x faster
Neural Engine	8-core (A13)	16-core (M1)
RAM	3GB	8GB

The M1 enables smoother split-screen workflows, faster app launches, and better performance in creative apps like Procreate, Affinity Designer, and LumaFusion. For users who edit videos, sketch digitally, or rely on complex spreadsheets, this upgrade pays immediate dividends.

Tip: If you frequently switch between multiple apps or use external keyboards and trackpads, the extra RAM and CPU headroom in the iPad Air will make your workflow feel significantly snappier.

Display and Design: Subtle but Meaningful Upgrades

Visually, both devices share a 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display, but there are key differences. The iPad 9th gen uses a standard LED-backlit IPS panel with a 60Hz refresh rate and narrower color gamut. The iPad Air matches that size but improves brightness (up to 500 nits), supports P3 wide color, and offers better anti-reflective coating.

While neither has ProMotion (120Hz), the Air’s screen feels crisper and more vibrant, especially when viewing HDR content or editing photos. The design itself is also more modern: slimmer bezels, USB-C port (vs. Lightning), and support for the second-generation Apple Pencil without needing to attach and charge via the side.

That last point matters. On the 9th gen, pairing and charging the first-gen Pencil requires plugging it into the Lightning port—a clunky process that interrupts use. The iPad Air allows magnetic attachment and wireless charging, making the stylus far more seamless to use.

Real Example: A Student’s Workflow Upgrade

Consider Maya, a university student who uses her iPad 9th gen for lectures, PDF annotations, and collaborative notes. She often experiences lag when switching between Zoom, Notability, and Safari. Her first-gen Pencil frequently disconnects, and she forgets to charge it because it doesn’t magnetically snap on.

After upgrading to the iPad Air, she notices near-instant app switches, smoother handwriting recognition, and the convenience of having her Pencil always attached and charged. Lecture capture with audio syncing in Notability runs flawlessly. The improved screen clarity also reduces eye strain during long study sessions.

For Maya, the upgrade wasn’t about chasing specs—it solved real pain points in her daily routine.

Accessories and Ecosystem Compatibility

The iPad Air opens doors to a broader ecosystem of accessories. Its USB-C port supports faster data transfer, external storage, and even some camera imports—something the Lightning port on the 9th gen severely limits.

It also works with the Magic Keyboard Folio and other third-party keyboard cases designed for slim iPads. The added RAM allows for more robust desktop-class browsing in Safari, making web-based tools like Google Workspace, Figma, or Canva more responsive.

“With iPadOS becoming increasingly capable, the hardware needs to keep up. The M1 chip transforms the iPad Air from a consumption device into a true productivity tool.” — David Ng, Mobile Tech Analyst at GadgetInsight

If you’re using your iPad as a laptop replacement—even part-time—the Air’s compatibility with trackpads, external monitors (via adapters), and advanced multitasking makes it a far more viable option.

Checklist: Should You Upgrade?

Answer these questions honestly to determine if the iPad Air is worth it for you:

• Do you regularly experience lag or app reloads when switching between apps?
• Are you using or considering the Apple Pencil for drawing, note-taking, or markup?
• Do you edit photos or short videos on your iPad?
• Would you benefit from connecting external storage or cameras?
• Are you planning to keep your iPad for 4+ years?
• Do you use Split View or Slide Over frequently?

If three or more apply, the iPad Air likely offers meaningful improvements. If not, your 9th gen may still serve you well for another year or two.

Should You Wait for the iPad Air 6?

Rumors suggest the iPad Air 6 could launch in late 2024 or early 2025, potentially featuring the M2 chip, a 12MP front camera with Center Stage, and possibly even a mini-LED display option. While exciting, these upgrades may not be revolutionary for most users.

The M1 in the current Air remains extremely capable. Even in 2024, it outperforms many laptops in its price range. Unless you need AI-powered features expected in future iPadOS versions (which may leverage M2 or M3 chips), waiting might not yield a dramatic enough improvement to justify delaying.

Additionally, supply chain analysts indicate that Apple may shift focus to the iPad Pro line for major innovations, leaving the Air as a “sweet spot” device rather than a cutting-edge one. That means the next Air might offer refinements—not reinvention.

Tip: If you need a new iPad now for school, work, or travel, don’t let the fear of obsolescence stop you. The current iPad Air will remain relevant and supported through at least 2029.

Future-Proofing Your Investment

Apple typically supports iPads with software updates for around 5–7 years. The iPad 9th gen, released in 2021, will likely receive updates until 2027 or 2028. The iPad Air 5 (2022) should go until 2029 or beyond.

Upgrading now means you’ll benefit from longer support, access to future iPadOS features (like enhanced desktop-class file management or deeper AI integrations), and better app compatibility as developers optimize for M-series chips.

Moreover, resale value drops faster on older architectures. Selling your 9th gen now while demand remains steady (due to its popularity in education) can offset the cost of a new Air. Platforms like Swappa or Apple’s trade-in program still offer $150–$220 depending on condition and storage.

Step-by-Step: How to Decide and Upgrade Smartly

1. Evaluate your usage: Track how often you use your iPad for productivity, creativity, or multitasking over a week.
2. Test limitations: Try opening three apps at once using Split View. Does the system stutter or reload?
3. Assess accessory needs: Are you frustrated by Pencil charging or lack of USB-C flexibility?
4. Check budget: The iPad Air starts at $599, plus $129 for the 2nd-gen Pencil and $299 for the Magic Keyboard Folio. Determine what you’re willing to spend.
5. Sell or trade in: Back up your data, erase your iPad, and sell it before newer models devalue it further.
6. Purchase strategically: Buy during back-to-school promotions or Black Friday for discounts, or consider certified refurbished units from Apple for savings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the iPad Air replace a laptop for most people?

For many users—especially students, casual creators, and mobile professionals—the iPad Air can function as a primary device when paired with a keyboard, trackpad, and cloud services. However, heavy Excel users, developers, or those reliant on desktop-specific software will still need a traditional computer for certain tasks.

Is the Apple Pencil worth it if I don’t draw?

Absolutely. The Pencil enhances note-taking, PDF annotation, form filling, and even precise text editing. Its low latency makes writing feel natural, and features like handwriting-to-text conversion save time. If you take notes regularly, it’s one of the most valuable accessories.

Will the iPad 9th gen stop working soon?

No. Apple continues to support the 9th gen with iPadOS 17 and is expected to deliver iPadOS 18. Performance may slow slightly over time, especially with heavier apps, but it remains functional for basic tasks. It’s only “obsolete” if your needs have outgrown its capabilities.

Conclusion: Make the Move When It Serves You

The iPad 9th gen is still a capable device, and if it meets your needs today, there’s no urgent reason to abandon it. But if you’re hitting performance walls, frustrated by accessory limitations, or looking to get more from your iPad as a productivity tool, upgrading to the iPad Air delivers tangible benefits.

The M1 chip, USB-C, center-stage camera, and seamless Apple Pencil integration aren’t just nice-to-haves—they enable workflows that simply aren’t smooth or practical on older hardware. And while future models will come, they’re unlikely to redefine the category in the way the M1 already has.

🚀 Ready to unlock your iPad’s full potential? Evaluate your current frustrations, calculate the real value of an upgrade, and take the leap when it aligns with your goals—not just the release calendar.