iPad 8 Review

The Apple iPad 8 released on 8th September 2020, is one of the latest iPad for those in search of a more affordable option compared to iPad Pro and iPad Air. This model comes with a super-fast Apple A12 bionic processor making it an ideal choice if you’re looking for an affordable but fast iPad.

Since most iPads are fairly identical, it’s vital to understand what you’re purchasing, especially the core features of the device. In this review, you’ll get comprehensive information about all you need to know about this iPad.

What’s Inside the Box?

In addition to the tablet, you’ll also find a USB Power Adapter, lighting to USB cable, and a couple of stickers.

Overview

Apple iPad (8th generation) specifications

• Screen: 10.2in 2160×1620 Retina display (264ppi)
• RAM: 3GB
• Operating system: iPadOS 14
• Storage: 32 or 128GB
• Processor: Apple A12 Bionic
• Dimensions: 250.6 x 174.1 x 7.5mm
• Camera: 8MP rear, 1.2MP selfie camera
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi 5 (4G optional, eSim), Bluetooth 4.2, Lightning
• Ports: Lightning charging port, Smart Connector for Apple’s Smart Keyboard case, 3.5mm headphone jack,
• Battery life: Up to 10 hours on Wi-Fi only
• Authentication: Touch ID
• Weight: 490g (4G version: 495g)

What Sets Apart iPad 8 From the Rest Of the Devices?

This 8th-generation iPad includes thick borders framing its screen on its top and bottom sides. Its appearance is like Apple’s older iPhones and iPads.

The iPad also has a touch ID home button that’s located below the display. This makes iPad 8 different from iPad Pro 2020 and iPad Air, which include borderless screens, flat edges, and a sleeker design similar to the latest iPhones. This notwithstanding, iPad 8 still has the build quality and polished design you’d expect to find in an iPad, although it may not be as premium as the iPad Air.

iPad 8 has a screen of 10.2 inches, which is smaller than iPad Air’s 10.9-inch screen. But its screen is large enough if you’re looking for a full-size tablet. Its picture quality is also excellent, especially if you need the device to read news, watch Netflix, or browse photos.

Features

Here are some of the salient features of iPad 8:

Segment down by categories: Screen, Sound, Processor, Camera, Battery, etc. 

Battery Life

On average, the iPad’s battery lasts for 10 hours on a single charge but it can last up to 12 hours depending on your usage. If your top priority in a tablet is battery life, this iPad won’t disappoint. The iPad’s battery life is one of its chief selling points.

Camera

The iPad has an 8MP camera on its back that can shoot 720p or 1080p video at 30 frames per second. Its FaceTime camera is 1.2 MP. The camera is less sharp than the 1080p and 7MP cameras found on iPad Air and iPad mini. This could be a major downside considering that people are nowadays relying on mobile devices and laptops to make video calls, attend meetings and online classes.

Design and Display

The 8th-generation iPad has adopted the shape of the older generation Apple iPads, with its thick borders framing its screen on either end. It also features a Touch ID home button below its display. The iPad is also similar to the 7th generation model since it doesn’t come in any new colors. Its screen is 10.2 inches, making it smaller than that of the 10.9 inch iPad Air.

 iPad 8 comes with a 264 PPI and a 1620 x 2160 resolution. Its display is as fine as what you’d find in iPad 7. Although it may not be as sharp as iPad Pro, it’s sufficient for everyday content creation and consumption.

Performance

Performance is one of the key features that distinguished the 8th generation iPad from other models. The iPad includes an A12 biotin chip. It’s the same chip you’ll find in iPhone XR and XS, as well as in 5th-generation iPad Mini and 3-rd generation iPad Air. Because of its upgraded chip, iPad 8 offers better performance than iPad 7. It loads faster, offers enhanced multitasking performance, and its gaming performance is better. 

The tablet is an excellent device for gaming. Although this iPad isn’t as fast as iPad Air, it offers the right blend of affordability and performance, making it suitable for most tasks.

Enhanced Apple Pencil Experience

The 8-generation iPad’s Apple Pencil is more responsive than what you’d find on the previous models. It doesn’t come with the slight delays you may experience on the previous iPad models. This feature makes it an excellent tool for artists, students, or even note-takers. It’s also ideal for those playing games using a pencil.

Unlocking Methods

Just like the typical iPad, the 8th-generation iPad includes a physical button and an embedded fingerprint scanner. The iPad recognizes fingerprints faster and records a minimal percentage of false positives.

Speakers

iPad 8 comes with two speakers which are better than what you’d find in competitor models. Unfortunately, they are located on the same side thus you won’t hear real stereo separation when you’re watching your movies as is the case with iPad Pro.

Who Is This Device For?

The 8th-generation iPad is ideal for most casual tasks. It’s the perfect device for those looking for a general-purpose tablet for browsing the web, watching movies, and reading the news. You can also use the tablet to play games, edit tasks and many students are choosing iPad 8 due to it’s budget pricing and flexability. 

Pros and Cons of iPad 8

Pros

• Excellent performance courtesy of its A12 Bionic processor
• Bright and sharp 10.2-inch screen
• Good battery life
• Affordable
• Plenty of apps

Cons

• Lacks USB-C
• A low storage capacity (32GB) for starting model
• Lacks a powerful camera

Comparing iPad 8 to Its Previous Model

iPad 8 vs. iPad 7

Model	iPad 8	ipad 7
Screen	10.2 inch	10.2 inch
RAM	3GB	3GB
Processor	Apple A12 Bionic	A10 Fusion chip with 64-bit architecture
Storage	32 or 128GB	32 or 128GB
Camera	8MP rear, 1.2MP selfie camera	8MP rear, 1.2MP selfie camera
Battery life	Up to 10 hours on Wi-Fi only	Up to 10 hours of surfing the web on Wi-Fi
Weight	1.08 pounds (490g) 4G version:  1.09 pounds (495g)	493 grams
Authentication	Touch ID	Touch ID

The iPad 8th generation comes with lots of improved features such as the Scribble app that can help you convert handwritten content to text. This is enhanced by the A-12 chip that supports machine learning. 

The device also comes with a 10.2 Retina display that makes it easy on your eyes. The tablets have a new look with silver, gray, and gold finishes for that classy touch. 

Comparing iPad 8 to iPad Air 4

Which has a better screen?

iPad Air 4 has a screen of 10.9 inches (2360 x 1640), while iPad 8’s is 10.2 inches (2160 x 1620). Comparing each tablet side by side, there’s a difference iPad Air 4 colors are more vivid and the whole experience feels more premium. 

Which has better performance?

iPad 8 contains A10 Bionic chip while iPad Air 4 has an A14 Bionic chip, which is a 5-nanometer processor. This makes iPad Air 4 more powerful and offers better performance.

A better processor is a huge consideration for most tablet users. Processors command different applications and processes to work simultaneously. When a processor is fast, it also increases your efficiency and productivity. 

Which device is better for gaming?

You can use both devices for gaming. It all depends on your preferences. For example, if you want to play games on a large screen, then the Ipad Air 4 is the best. However, performance-wise, the two devices are perfect for gamers. 

Which has a better camera?

The iPad Air 4 includes a better camera 7MP and 1080P against iPad 8’s 8MP and 720p. This means that if you’re working from home and need to hold several zoom meetings, your colleagues can see you better. 

I’ve personally used the Ipad 8 to hold meetings with clients. Well, the device performs well as I can see the client clearly. In my opinion, both devices can take decent photos and even hold online meetings. 

Verdict after testing both devices

After testing both iPad Air 4 and iPad 8 I’d definitely go for the former because it has superior features such as the big screen, camera, and processor. However, if you’re working on a tight budget iPad 8 should do the trick but overall iPad Air 4 is superior. 

FAQ

What are the main features of the iPad 8?

The 8th-generation iPad has a few improvements over the iPad 7. Its main new feature is the A12 Bionic chip that makes it much faster. The iPad also comes with a USB-C power adapter and a lighting-to-USB-C cable.

What is the storage capacity of the iPad 8?

This software comes in both 32GB and 128GB. You can choose your ideal variant depending on the amount of local storage space you need. For instance, if you plan to use the tablet for online classes or gaming, it’ll be best to pick the 128GB variant.

Can I print from 8th gen iPad?

In the right-hand corner of the notes application, you will see three dots. Tap on the dots and then click send a copy. A Window will pop up with an option to print the note. 

Can iPad 8th Gen replace a laptop?

iPad 8th generation can replace a laptop for basic usage. These are functions like typing, printing, browsing, reading news, sending and receiving of emails, and playing games. This means that you can have a laptop experience from the comfort of your Ipad 8th generation tablet. 

What To Consider When Purchasing an iPad?

When searching for an iPad, consider the following:

Internet Access

iPads can connect to Wi-Fi either via the standard Wi-Fi or through cellular data (LTE). With the latter, you can access the internet from anywhere, while for the former; you can only access the internet when connected to a Wi-Fi network either in your home, office, or in a public place.

Data Storage

Modern iPads range from 32GB to 1TB of storage space. When buying an iPad, consider the amount of space you’ll need. For instance, if you plan to store lots of movies, music, and TV shows on your device, consider purchasing an iPad ranging from 128GB to 1TB.

Size

Size is a matter of taste rather than capacity. Typically, bigger isn’t always better. You can purchase the iPad mini (7.9inch) if you want a small tablet and the 12.9inch iPad Pro if you wish to have a device with a large screen. iPads with a big screen are ideal for playing games or watching films.

Speed

The iPad’s speed depends on its processor and RAM (memory); the faster the better. iPad Air and iPad Pro are some models you can expect to offer amazing speed. When purchasing your tablet, check the relevant specs. For example, iPad 8 has an A12 Bionic chip while iPad Air has an A14 bionic chip.

Battery Life and Camera

Most of the latest iPads have a battery life of up to 10 hours surfing the web. Typically, the large iPads have large batteries which last longer. iPad Pro 12.9inch has a 36.71 watt-hour while the iPad mini features 19.1 watt-hours. Also, consider the iPad’s camera whether 7MPor 8MP.

Final Verdict

The 8-generation iPad for 2020 is not a radical upgrade of its predecessor iPad7. It only features a few improvements, like the processor. This notwithstanding, iPad 8 is an excellent and affordable device for those looking for an ideal tool for reading news, browsing the internet, and gaming. If you want a more powerful tablet, you can consider iPad Pro or iPad Air 4 but be ready to pay more. iPad 8 is a fantastic tablet considering its price and its overall usage. 

Related Articles:

Best Games on iPad
How To Sync iPhone with iPad
Which iPad Should I Pick?
Best Stylus for iPad