Apple's 2021 iPad model, the 9th generation of the company's popular tablet line, has recently seen a significant price drop across major retailers. This budget-friendly device is now available for an unprecedented low price of $199, making it an even more attractive option for consumers looking for an affordable yet capable tablet.
A Closer Look at the Deal
The 9th generation iPad, featuring a 10.2-inch display, is currently being offered at a $130 discount from its original price. This deal applies to both the 64GB and 256GB storage configurations, though only for the Wi-Fi models. Best Buy and Amazon are among the retailers offering this promotional price, which represents a new all-time low for this particular iPad model.
Is It Still a Good Buy in 2023?
Despite being released in 2021, the 9th gen iPad still holds its own in today's tablet market, especially at this price point. Here's what you need to know:
Pros:
- Display: Features a beautiful 10.2-inch Retina display with True Tone technology
- Headphone Jack: Retains the 3.5mm audio port, a rarity in modern devices
- Battery Life: Offers consistently solid battery performance
- Price: At $199, it's significantly cheaper than its successor and most Android competitors
Cons:
- Design: Features an older design with larger bezels compared to newer models
- Port: Still uses the Lightning port instead of USB-C
- Performance: Powered by the A13 Bionic chip, which is capable but not cutting-edge
- Camera: Modest camera performance compared to newer models
Performance and Practicality
While the A13 Bionic processor may not be Apple's latest chip, it still outperforms many Android tablets in the same price range. For everyday tasks such as web browsing, video streaming, and light productivity work, this iPad remains more than capable.
Who Should Buy?
This iPad is an excellent choice for:
- Students looking for an affordable device for schoolwork
- Casual users who primarily use tablets for media consumption
- Anyone on a budget who wants to enter the Apple ecosystem
Conclusion
At $199, the 9th generation iPad offers exceptional value. While it may not have the bells and whistles of the latest models, its combination of a quality display, solid performance, and now an incredibly low price make it a compelling option for many users. However, potential buyers should act quickly, as this deal is likely to be short-lived and stock may deplete rapidly.
Update: Tuesday August 20 13:07
Apple is exploring strategies to expand its iPad market share in India, including long-term financing options, a potential refurbished units program, ecosystem development through partnerships, and retail expansion in smaller cities. The company aims to balance affordability with its premium brand image in this price-sensitive market. These initiatives could potentially increase the appeal and accessibility of iPads, including older models like the 9th generation iPad, to a broader range of Indian consumers. The current $199 deal for the 9th gen iPad on Amazon represents a significant 40% discount from its regular price of $329, making it an attractive option for price-conscious buyers in various markets.