iPad 5 (2017, A9 series) vs iPad 8 (2020, A12 series)

The longevity of a tablet is often determined by its release date and the duration of software support it receives. The iPad 2017 and iPad 2020, being released three years apart, have different expectations for their practical lifespan.

• Release Timeline: The iPad 2017 (5th generation) was introduced in March 2017, while the iPad 2020 (8th generation) followed in September 2020. This three-year difference in release directly impacts their remaining support cycles.
• OS Support Duration: The iPad 2017 launched with iOS 10.3.2 and received major iPadOS updates up to iPadOS 16.7.15. It is unlikely to receive iPadOS 17, with security updates potentially ceasing in late 2025 or 2026. In contrast, the iPad 2020, starting with iPadOS 14, is currently supported up to iPadOS 17.2 and is expected to continue receiving major updates for several more years, potentially until iPadOS 19, with security updates extending possibly until 2027.
• Practical Lifespan: Users seeking the longest possible software support and compatibility with the latest applications will find the iPad 2020 offers a significantly extended practical lifespan compared to the iPad 2017. The newer model's hardware is also better equipped to handle future software demands.

The performance capabilities of these two iPad models are a key differentiator, primarily due to the advancements in their internal processing units.

• Processor Capabilities: The iPad 2017 is powered by the Apple A9 chip, while the iPad 2020 features the more advanced Apple A12 Bionic chip, which also includes a Neural Engine. The A12 Bionic offers a substantial increase in processing power and efficiency.
• Real-world Usage: For everyday tasks such as web browsing, email, and media consumption, both devices perform adequately. However, the iPad 2020 provides a noticeably smoother experience when running more demanding applications, engaging in graphically intensive games, or multitasking with multiple apps open simultaneously. The additional 1GB of RAM in the iPad 2020 (3GB vs 2GB in the iPad 2017) also contributes to better multitasking fluidity.
• System Responsiveness: The iPad 2020 exhibits faster app loading times and a more responsive overall user interface, making it better suited for users who frequently switch between applications or rely on their tablet for productivity tasks that require more computational power.

Both the iPad 2017 and iPad 2020 feature Apple's Retina display technology, providing clear visuals, though there are differences in size and display characteristics.

• Display Technology: Both models utilize an IPS LCD panel, known for offering good color accuracy and wide viewing angles.
• Resolution and Clarity: The iPad 2017 has a 9.7-inch display with a 2048x1536 pixel resolution, while the iPad 2020 features a slightly larger 10.2-inch display with a 2160x1620 pixel resolution. Both maintain a pixel density of 264 pixels per inch (ppi), ensuring sharp text and images.
• Viewing Experience: The iPad 2017's display is not fully laminated and lacks an anti-reflective coating, which can lead to more reflections in bright environments. The iPad 2020's display, while also not fully laminated, includes an oleophobic coating to resist fingerprints and offers a slightly more expansive viewing area due to its larger size. Both offer similar peak brightness levels.

The camera systems on the iPad 2017 and iPad 2020 are designed for functional use rather than advanced photography, with largely similar specifications.

• Camera System Capabilities: Both iPads are equipped with an 8-megapixel rear camera and a 1.2-megapixel front-facing camera. These specifications are suitable for everyday tasks such as document scanning, casual photos, and video calls.
• Photography Performance: In well-lit conditions, both cameras capture adequate images. Neither model is optimized for low-light photography, where image quality may degrade with increased noise and reduced detail.
• Video Recording: Both devices support 1080p video recording at 30 frames per second with their rear cameras, and 720p video recording with their front cameras, making them suitable for basic video capture and communication.

Beyond the core components, several practical features and design elements distinguish the iPad 2017 and iPad 2020, impacting their overall utility and user experience.

• Connectivity Options: Both models offer Wi-Fi connectivity (802.11a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band) and are available in Wi-Fi + Cellular configurations for mobile data access. Both also include Bluetooth 4.2 for connecting wireless accessories.
• Port Types: Both iPads feature a Lightning port for charging and data transfer, and they both retain the 3.5mm headphone jack, offering compatibility with a wide range of audio accessories.
• Accessory Support: A significant advantage of the iPad 2020 is its compatibility with the 1st generation Apple Pencil and the Smart Keyboard. This expands its functionality for note-taking, drawing, and typing, making it a more versatile tool for productivity and creative tasks. The iPad 2017 does not support these accessories.
• Dimensions and Weight: The iPad 2017 measures 240 x 169.5 x 7.5 mm and weighs 469g (Wi-Fi model). The iPad 2020 is slightly larger and heavier at 250.6 x 174.1 x 7.5 mm and 490g (Wi-Fi model), reflecting its larger screen size. Both remain portable for daily use.