iPad 5 (2017, A9 series) Vs iPad 6 (2018, A10 series)

The iPad 2017 (5th generation) and iPad 2018 (6th generation) are two consecutive tablet models from Apple, released in March 2017 and March 2018, respectively. While they share a similar design and the familiar iPadOS operating system, the newer iPad 2018 introduced an updated internal processor and added support for the Apple Pencil, marking a notable difference in their capabilities. Both devices run on Apple's iPadOS, offering a consistent user experience across their software environments.

When considering the longevity of these tablets, their release dates and subsequent software support are key factors. The iPad 2017, released in March 2017, has received major iPadOS updates up to iPadOS 16.7.15 as of March 2026. The iPad 2018, launched a year later in March 2018, is supported up to iPadOS 17, indicating a slightly longer expected period of official software updates.

• Software Support: The iPad 2018 is expected to receive one additional year of major iPadOS updates compared to the iPad 2017, offering extended software longevity.
• Repairability: Both models share a similar construction, suggesting comparable ease of repair. Their design, which includes a non-laminated display, can sometimes simplify screen replacements compared to models with fused displays.
• Practical Lifespan: Users can expect both devices to remain functional for everyday tasks for several years, though the iPad 2018's newer processor and longer software support may provide a more fluid experience for a slightly extended period.

The performance difference between the iPad 2017 and iPad 2018 primarily stems from their internal processing units. The iPad 2017 features an A9 processor, while the iPad 2018 is equipped with a more advanced A10 Fusion processor.

• Processing Capabilities: The iPad 2018's A10 Fusion processor offers a noticeable improvement in speed and efficiency, particularly when handling more demanding applications, complex multitasking, or augmented reality experiences. The iPad 2017's A9 processor capably handles general tasks like web browsing, email, and media consumption.
• Multitasking and Responsiveness: Both devices come with 2GB of RAM, allowing for split-screen multitasking. However, the iPad 2018's more capable processor contributes to a smoother overall system responsiveness, especially when switching between multiple active applications.
• Storage Options: Both models were available with 32GB or 128GB of internal storage, providing choices for users based on their content storage needs.

Both the iPad 2017 and iPad 2018 feature identical display specifications, offering a consistent visual experience.

• Display Technology: Both tablets are equipped with a 9.7-inch LED-backlit IPS Retina display, providing a resolution of 2048 x 1536 pixels at 264 pixels per inch. This results in clear and detailed visuals for reading, browsing, and media consumption.
• Visual Experience: The displays offer good color reproduction and viewing angles typical of IPS technology. However, neither model features a fully laminated display or an anti-reflective coating, which can lead to more noticeable glare in bright environments and a slight gap between the glass and the LCD panel.
• Brightness and Refresh Rate: Both screens operate at a standard 60Hz refresh rate, providing a smooth experience for most interactions. Brightness levels are suitable for indoor use, though the lack of anti-reflective coating might impact outdoor visibility.

The camera systems on the iPad 2017 and iPad 2018 are largely similar, offering comparable capabilities for photography and video recording.

• Camera System: Both models feature an 8-megapixel rear camera capable of recording 1080p HD video at 30 frames per second. The front-facing camera on both is a 1.2-megapixel FaceTime HD camera, suitable for video calls and basic selfies, recording 720p video.
• Photography Performance: In good lighting conditions, both cameras produce acceptable images for a tablet. However, they are not designed for advanced photography and may struggle in low-light environments, showing less detail and more noise.
• Audio Experience: Both iPads include stereo speakers, providing a decent audio output for media consumption. The microphone quality is suitable for video calls and voice recordings.