iPad 5 (2017, A9 series) vs iPad Air 4 (2020, A14 series)

The iPad 2017, also known as the 5th generation iPad, was introduced in March 2017, serving as an entry-level tablet. The iPad Air 2020, or 4th generation iPad Air, arrived in October 2020, positioning itself as a more advanced option. While both devices operate on Apple's iPadOS, they differ significantly in their design, internal processing capabilities, and display technology. Choosing between them often comes down to balancing modern features with foundational tablet functionality, with quality-assured refurbished options providing an eco-friendly alternative for both models.

The longevity of a tablet is influenced by its release timeline, software support, and hardware capabilities. These two iPads, released three years apart, offer different expectations for their practical lifespan.

• Release Timeline and Age: The iPad 2017 was released in March 2017, making it a considerably older device compared to the iPad Air 2020, which launched in October 2020. This age difference directly impacts their remaining software support and overall hardware relevance.
• OS Support Duration: The iPad 2017 received major iPadOS updates up to iPadOS 16, indicating that its cycle for significant new software features has likely concluded. In contrast, the iPad Air 2020, with its newer processor, is expected to receive several more years of major iPadOS updates, extending its functional lifespan for current applications and features.
• Practical Lifespan: While both devices are built with durable aluminum enclosures, the iPad Air 2020's more modern internal components and extended software support mean it is better equipped to handle evolving application requirements and security updates for a longer period. The iPad 2017 remains functional for basic tasks, but its ability to run newer, more demanding applications may be limited.

The performance difference between these two iPad models is substantial, primarily due to the generational leap in their internal processing units and memory configurations.

• Storage Options: The iPad 2017 was available with 32GB or 128GB of internal storage, suitable for basic app installations and media. The iPad Air 2020 offers more generous base storage options of 64GB and 256GB, catering to users with larger app libraries, extensive media collections, or professional files.
• Processor Capabilities: The iPad 2017 features a processor that capably handles everyday tasks such as web browsing, email, and casual gaming. However, for more intensive applications or complex multitasking, users may experience slower loading times and less fluid operation. The iPad Air 2020, equipped with a significantly more advanced processor, delivers a much more responsive experience, smoothly managing demanding applications, graphic-intensive games, and efficient multitasking.
• RAM Implications for Multitasking: The iPad 2017 includes 2GB of RAM, which can limit the number of applications that can remain active in the background without needing to reload. The iPad Air 2020 doubles this with 4GB of RAM, allowing for more seamless switching between multiple applications and a smoother overall multitasking experience.

The display is a primary point of interaction with any tablet, and these two iPads offer distinct visual experiences.

• Display Technology and Clarity: The iPad 2017 features a 9.7-inch IPS LCD Retina display with a resolution of 2048 x 1536 pixels, providing clear visuals for general use. The iPad Air 2020 steps up to a 10.9-inch Liquid Retina IPS LCD display with a higher resolution of 2360 x 1640 pixels, maintaining a similar pixel density but offering a larger canvas.
• Advanced Display Features: A key difference lies in the display construction and features. The iPad 2017's display is not fully laminated and lacks an anti-reflective coating, which can result in a noticeable gap between the glass and the display panel, and increased reflections in bright environments. The iPad Air 2020 boasts a fully laminated display with an anti-reflective coating, reducing glare and making the screen appear closer to the touch. It also includes True Tone technology, which adjusts the display's color temperature to match ambient light, and supports a wider P3 color gamut for more vibrant and accurate colors.
• Brightness and Refresh Rate: The iPad Air 2020 offers a typical brightness of 500 nits, contributing to better visibility in various lighting conditions. Both models feature a standard 60Hz refresh rate, which provides a smooth experience for most content, though it does not offer the enhanced fluidity of higher refresh rate displays found in some more premium tablets.

While tablets are not typically primary photography devices, their camera systems are important for video calls, document scanning, and casual photography. The audio experience also varies between these models.

• Camera System Capabilities: The iPad 2017 is equipped with an 8-megapixel rear camera capable of 1080p video recording and a 1.2-megapixel front-facing camera for video calls. The iPad Air 2020 features a more advanced 12-megapixel wide rear camera that supports 4K video recording, offering greater detail and flexibility for capturing moments. Its front-facing camera is a 7-megapixel sensor, providing clearer images for video conferencing and selfies.
• Photography Performance: The iPad Air 2020's camera system generally delivers improved image quality, particularly in well-lit conditions, with better detail and color reproduction compared to the iPad 2017. Its enhanced front camera also provides a noticeable upgrade for video calls.
• Audio Output: The iPad 2017 features stereo speakers, typically located on the bottom edge, providing adequate sound for media consumption. The iPad Air 2020 enhances the audio experience with landscape stereo speakers, which deliver a more immersive soundstage when holding the tablet horizontally, suitable for watching movies or playing games.