iPad 5 (2017, A9 series) vs iPad 7 (2019, A10 series)

The iPad 2017, also known as the 5th generation iPad, and the iPad 2019, or 7th generation iPad, represent two distinct iterations of Apple's entry-level tablet line. Released two years apart, these devices share a common operating system, iPadOS, but the 2019 model introduces a larger display, an updated processor, and expanded accessory compatibility. This comparison will explore the practical differences between these two tablets to help users determine which model best suits their needs.

The lifespan of a tablet is often influenced by its release date and the duration of software support it receives, alongside its physical resilience.

• Release Timeline: The iPad 2017 was released in March 2017, while the iPad 2019 followed in September 2019, giving the latter a two-year advantage in its lifecycle.
• Software Longevity: The iPad 2017 launched with iOS 10.3.2 and is upgradable to iPadOS 16.7.12, with its support expected to end around March 2026. The iPad 2019, starting with iPadOS 13.1, can be updated to iPadOS 18.x, suggesting a longer period of software updates and access to newer features.
• Physical Durability: Both models feature an aluminum back and frame with a glass front. While neither boasts advanced durability features like Ceramic Shield, their construction provides a solid feel for everyday use.

Performance differences between these two iPads largely stem from their internal processing capabilities and available memory, impacting how smoothly they handle various tasks.

• Processing Power: The iPad 2017 is equipped with a processor that handles general tasks, web browsing, and light applications effectively. The iPad 2019 features a more advanced processor, offering improved speed and responsiveness for everyday operations, multitasking, and more demanding applications.
• Multitasking and App Handling: The iPad 2017 comes with 2GB of RAM, which is sufficient for basic multitasking. The iPad 2019 increases this to 3GB of RAM, allowing for a smoother experience when switching between multiple applications and handling more complex workflows.
• Storage Options: Both models were available with 32GB or 128GB of internal storage, providing choices for users based on their content and application needs.

The visual experience on a tablet is primarily defined by its display, and these two iPads offer similar core technology with a notable size difference.

• Display Technology and Resolution: Both iPads feature an IPS LCD Retina display with a pixel density of 264 pixels per inch (ppi), ensuring sharp text and clear images. The iPad 2017 has a 9.7-inch screen with a resolution of 2048 x 1536 pixels. The iPad 2019 upgrades to a 10.2-inch screen with a resolution of 2160 x 1620 pixels, offering more screen real estate.
• Brightness and Viewing Experience: Both models offer a brightness of up to 500 nits, providing good visibility in various indoor lighting conditions. However, neither display is fully laminated, which means there is a slight gap between the glass and the LCD panel, potentially leading to more reflections compared to higher-end models.
• Advanced Display Features: The iPad 2019, like its predecessor, does not include advanced display features such as True Tone or Wide Color (DCI-P3), which are found in more premium iPad models.

While tablets are not typically primary photography devices, their cameras serve practical purposes for video calls, document scanning, and casual photo capture.

• Rear Camera Capabilities: Both the iPad 2017 and iPad 2019 are equipped with an 8-megapixel rear camera with an f/2.4 aperture. This camera is suitable for capturing documents, augmented reality experiences, and everyday photos in good lighting. Video recording is supported at 1080p resolution at 30 frames per second.
• Front Camera for Communication: For video conferencing and selfies, both models feature a 1.2-megapixel front-facing camera with an f/2.2 aperture. This camera is adequate for FaceTime and other video call applications, recording 720p video.
• Audio Experience: Both iPads include stereo speakers, providing a decent audio output for media consumption and video calls. They also retain a 3.5mm headphone jack for private listening.