Six years after its release, the Apple iPad 6th Generation still runs smoothly. With this kind of rapid technology development, a lot of users are confused lately about whether the model they own is still good to buy in 2024 or not. In this article, we have reevaluated the iPad 6th Gen to see if it can still deliver the standards and expectations that today’s devices can offer. Even with its newer models packed with all the latest features, the 2018 iPad is a robust, value-oriented, balance-of-performance budget winner for those who do not need the latest and greatest, but are looking for a good bet between raw power and a pocket-friendly price.
Performance and Software
The 2018 iPad has the A10 Fusion chip and it still provides enough processing power to do things like browsing, email, streaming, and light gaming. This device also supports iPad OS 16, so users will get plenty of functions from it that we have seen on newer models running iPad OS 16. As for its usability, it is smooth, though less convenient when it comes to handling heavy, power-hungry apps or multitasking, as newer models with more powerful chips are.
Design and Display
Most users like the classic design of iPad 6th Gen. It comes with a 9.7-inch retina display allowing you to get very crisp visuals on the videos you watch, pictures to view, and just the basic drawing activities. The home button supplies a familiar Touch ID sensor for secure unlocking and payment options. The design may breathe a little more tradition in 2024, but it is still a very functional, or user-friendly design.
Battery Life and Cameras
Battery life, one of the iPad’s standout features, means you get up to 10 hours on a single charge, 75 percent greater than most laptops. It is great for a long work day, or extended media consumption, or even for travel. The 8MP rear and 1.2MP front cameras are old now by contemporary standards but will serve nicely for casual snaps, video calls, and educational use.
Limitations of the iPad 6th Gen
Of course, the 2018 iPad has some shortcomings. There is no real advanced processing power like the iPad Air (2022) or modern perks such as Face ID, larger display, or even a USB C port. Additionally, it only works with the 1st generation Apple Pencil, but it’s much less responsive than the 2nd generation one. Since you are at high-performance user or someone who is interested in all features, the iPad 6th Gen might not be the best bet for you.
Who Should Consider the 2018 iPad?
If you are a consumer looking for an iPad on a budget or if you only intend to use the tablet for simple things like internet browsing, streaming media, or taking notes then this iPad will be perfect for you. New surface material means you would not feel too far behind from the latest iPadOS. As long as you do not need the latest bells and whistles, the 2018 iPad still offers fantastic value in 2024 to users.
Feature Comparison
To give a clearer picture of where the 2018 iPad stands against newer models:
| Feature | iPad 6th Gen (2018) | iPad Air (2022) |
| Chip | A10 Fusion | M1 |
| Display | 9.7-inch Retina | 10.9-inch Liquid Retina |
| Cameras | 8MP Rear, 1.2MP Front | 12MP Rear, 12MP Ultra-Wide Front |
| Biometrics | Touch ID | Touch ID (Top Button) |
| Charging Port | Lightning | USB-C |
| Apple Pencil Support | 1st Generation | 2nd Generation |
Real-World Usage and Versatility
The 2018 iPad is a multimedia and productivity tool in everyday usage. It sports a Retina display that provides a great movie-watching, web browsing, and app-using experience. Speakers deliver good sound quality, and it is fun for entertainment. Even in terms of productivity, the iPad lends itself to the use of the Smart Keyboard and apps like iWork, which are useful for writing and editing documents. Also, its support for the Apple Pencil gives it an advantage if its users are into drawing, note-taking, or some education-related use cases.
The 2018 iPad’s durability, ease of use, and the app ecosystem have seen educational institutions embracing this tremendous technology for students and teachers alike and continue to do so. More budget-friendly alternatives to the Apple Pencil: The Logitech Crayon stylus provides very affordable options for the Apple Pencil, expanding on its usefulness beyond just for the Apple iPad device.
Connectivity and Technology
Although it is not the latest model, the 2018 iPad features Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and LTE options to guarantee consistent and reliable internet and connectivity capabilities. It is also good for augmented reality apps and FaceTime for video calling, which makes it relevant in today’s rubbles. While the iPad does not have USB-C or 5G support, it still gets the job done when you do not need the speed or range of a true USB-C mobile hotspot.