
Apple's iPad lineup consistently delivers top-notch experiences with its robust hardware and smooth operating system. Recently, Apple introduced two new iPad models: the iPad 9 and iPad mini 6. So, if you're looking to invest in the latest 2021 iPad, should you go for the iPad 9 or the iPad mini 6? Let's explore.
This dynamic duo not only differs in appearance but also in terms of processors, cameras, and more. Let's dive into these distinctions with 24h Technology to help you decide which iPad model to go for!
1. iPad 9 and iPad mini 6: Overall Design
Examining the overall design of these two iPad models, you'll find it fascinating how they represent different design philosophies in 2021.
Hands-on with iPad mini 6 (left) and iPad 9 (right). Source: Tech Gear Talk.The iPad 9 retains the familiar design from its predecessor. The bottom edge integrates a Home button with Touch ID for flexible and secure usage.
The back of the iPad 9 is simple yet sophisticated, featuring the iconic Apple logo at the center, creating a prominent highlight for the device. It comes in two classic colors: Gray and Silver, exuding elegance and modernity for the owner.
Back view of iPad mini 6 (left) and iPad 9 (right). Source: Tech Gear Talk.On the other hand, the design of the iPad Mini 6 brings a fresh and modern feel with its sleekness, edge-to-edge display, and slimmer bezels. The 8.3-inch screen size, larger than the previous iPad mini, combined with the wide viewing angles of the IPS panel, enhances your entertainment and creative experience.
In contrast to the iPad 9, the iPad mini 6 supports Touch ID at the top edge, allowing quick access through a single touch, providing more convenient online payments and effective security.

This time, Apple introduces 4 trendy colors for the iPad Mini 6: Gray, White, Purple, and Pink. These options cater to every individual, style, and preference.
2. iPad 9 and iPad mini 6: Connectivity Ports
One noticeable difference between these two iPads lies in the connectivity ports. In the iPad 9, the exclusive 'Apple' Lightning charging port is retained, consistent with most previous versions.
The 3.5mm headphone jack on the edge is a positive feature of the iPad 9. Source: Tech Gear Talk.Meanwhile, in the iPad mini 6 version, Apple upgrades the device's charging port to USB-C for easier connection to various accessories. This enhances flexibility and convenience when linking peripherals, providing the iPad with added versatility.
3. iPad 9 and iPad mini 6: Display Quality
Display of the iPad 9. Source: Tech Gear Talk.According to Tomsguide, the iPad 9 boasts a larger 10.2-inch screen compared to the 8.3-inch display of the iPad mini 6. However, the iPad mini 6 screen offers superior display specifications.
Specifically, the iPad 9 has a resolution of 2160 x 1620 and a pixel density of 264 PPI, while the iPad mini 6 display features a resolution of 2266 x 1488 pixels and a pixel density of 326 PPI.
Display of the iPad Mini 6. Source: Tech Gear Talk.Overall, both screens receive positive evaluations from the author, with a brightness of approximately 500 nits and True Tone technology making iPads user-friendly in various lighting conditions (from indoors to outdoors, in areas with intense lighting).
Hands-on with iPad mini 6 (left) and iPad 9 (right). Source: Tech Gear Talk.However, according to the author, the iPad mini 6 delivers sharp image quality, vibrant colors, and slightly better eye protection coating.
4. iPad 9 and iPad mini 6: Performance
The difference between iPad 9 and iPad mini 6 lies in the generation of chipsets. While the iPad 9 features the A13 Bionic chip first introduced in the iPhone 11, the iPad mini 6 boasts the entirely new A15 Bionic processor, similar to the iPhone 13 Series recently launched this year.
With the A13 Bionic chip on the iPad 9. Source: Tech Gear Talk.The Apple A13 Bionic 6-core chip makes everything faster, enabling smooth web browsing, messaging, and stable multitasking. Its high graphics performance, with a GPU 20% faster, ensures seamless gameplay for immersive RPG experiences.
With the A15 Bionic chip on the iPad Mini 6. Source: Tech Gear Talk.Equipped with the 6-core A15 Bionic chip boasting over 15 trillion transistors, Apple positions itself at the forefront of performance with the iPad mini 6. It promises to deliver impressive multitasking capabilities and improved energy efficiency.
I'll have a more in-depth review of the performance of these two iPads in the next article to share with you all!
5. iPad 9 and iPad mini 6: Camera
Good news for iFans, both the iPad mini 6 and iPad 9 feature a 12 MP front camera with Apple's Center Stage technology. This ensures that you stay centered in the frame even while on the move, helping you create engaging videos to share on social media.
Rear camera on the iPad Mini 6. Source: Tech Gear Talk.However, there will be some differences in the rear camera department. Specifically, the iPad 9 features an 8 MP rear camera, whereas the iPad mini 6 boasts a rear camera with a resolution of up to 12 MP.
On the iPad mini 6, there's a flash with True Tone quad-LED technology to stabilize frame quality in all lighting conditions, but the iPad 9 won't have flash support.
Rear camera on the iPad 9. Source: Tech Gear Talk.As per the author's evaluation, the iPad mini 6 with its wide-angle rear camera with an f/1.8 aperture ensures sharp and vibrant images. The new ISP in the A15 Bionic chip enables Smart HDR 3 for capturing higher-quality photos.
6. iPad 9 and iPad mini 6: Stylus
Source: Tech Gear Talk.In this aspect, the iPad mini 6 continues to shine as it supports the second-generation Apple Pencil—a premium stylus that attaches to the side of the iPad for direct charging. Meanwhile, the iPad Gen 9 still uses the first-generation Apple Pencil, charged through the Lightning port.
Which one to buy: iPad 9 or iPad mini 6?
It's evident that the iPad mini 6 will score many 'plus points' in the eyes of users with its latest processor, modern design, sharp display, slim bezels, premium stylus, and a more diverse color palette compared to the iPad 9.
However, for users who simply need a large screen for basic entertainment or online learning, the iPad 9 is the optimal and cost-effective choice for now. I find the iPad 9, with its 12 MP front camera, to be a suitable device for online learning.
If you had to choose, would you go for the iPad 9 or iPad mini 6? Leave your comments below the article!

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- Impressions of iPad Gen 9: A13 chip, 12 MP front camera, starting from 7.5 million VND.
- Official price of iPad 9 in Vietnam: The cheapest version is under 10 million VND.
- Hands-on with iPad mini 6: Beautiful design, powerful performance, reasonable price.
