iPad 2019 vs 2020: The Differences
You're faced with a choice. The refurbished iPad models from 2019 and 2020 look virtually identical at first glance. The weight difference is negligible, and their appearance is indistinguishable. Yet, under the hood, there's a world of difference. The new A12 chip in the 2020 iPad not only delivers noticeably better performance in games and apps, but also directly impacts the longevity of your investment. And with the addition of the Neural Engine and handy accessories , the 2020 version offers more innovation than you might expect. The only question is: are these improvements worth the extra cost for your needs?
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At first glance, the 2019 and 2020 iPads look virtually identical. They have the same dimensions, screen size, and resolution. Even the weight difference is barely noticeable, weighing just a few grams. The 2020 version is slightly heavier because it's made entirely of recycled aluminum, a step toward more sustainable production. But otherwise, the tablets are identical in design.
The key difference lies in the processor. The 2020 iPad features the more powerful A12 Bionic chip, while its predecessor had to make do with the older A10. This results in a significant performance boost for the new model. Apps launch faster, and graphically intensive games look better and run more smoothly. Thanks to the faster hardware, you also get updates for longer, extending the lifespan of your purchase.
The 2020 iPad also introduces the Neural Engine to the standard iPad lineup. This smart chip assists with machine learning tasks like augmented reality and facial recognition. While not groundbreaking, it's an interesting addition that opens up new possibilities, especially for AR apps and games.
Faster charging out of the box
A final new feature is the included 20W USB-C charger. This allows the 2020 iPad to charge almost twice as fast as its predecessor. Handy if you're often on the go and want to top up the battery quickly. It's also convenient that you don't need to buy any additional accessories .
Price-quality trade-off
All things considered, the differences between the two iPads aren't earth-shattering, but they are certainly noteworthy. The 2020 edition offers advantages primarily in terms of performance and future-proofing. If you plan to use your tablet intensively for gaming, video editing, or AR applications, the 2020 iPad is definitely worth considering. The faster hardware will deliver noticeably smoother performance and longer battery life.
However, if your usage is more basic—surfing, emailing, watching Netflix—then the 2019 iPad will likely be more than sufficient. It's now available at a very attractive price, especially refurbished . This makes it an attractive option for students, for example, or as a family tablet.
Which iPad is best for you depends heavily on your intended use and budget. The 2019 version still offers excellent value for money, while the 2020 edition is a bit more future-proof. Either way, you'll have a highly capable tablet that will last for years to come, especially if you choose a refurbished model. This can easily save you tens of euros on the new price.
Which iPad is Right for You?
Whether you choose the iPad 2019 or 2020, both tablets offer excellent performance for everyday use. The main difference lies in their future-proofing . With its A12 chip, Neural Engine, and faster charger, the iPad 2020 offers clear advantages for those who intensively use demanding apps and games. But for basic use, the iPad 2019 is still an excellent choice, especially in a refurbished version. So you'll find a suitable iPad for every budget and purpose that will last for years to come.
