Comparison iPad 7 and iPad 8: Differences and Similarities

iPad 7 and iPad 8 Specifications

We do not want to base this comparison on pure numbers, since in the end we believe that experience is more than important when evaluating a purchase such as an iPad. However, we believe that it is interesting to know what the exact specifications of each one are.

As you will see, there are not really many differences between the two teams, so at first this resolves many doubts as to whether it is worth the jump from one to the other. However, we will analyze the highlights in the following sections.

Similar designs? No, identical

There is little to highlight about the design of these equipment, since they have the same dimensions, colors and aesthetics in general. Both are built with the classic shape of the iPad, with a metallic back and a front in which the screen is the protagonist without neglecting the slightly thicker edges than in more expensive versions. The classic Apple Home button is present in both, integrating Touch ID in addition to its functions as a button. On the right side we find the volume buttons and on the upper one the lock / unlock / on / off buttons.

Screens more than enough

We are not analyzing products with very high prices or the approach of these iPads are the same as those of the ‘Pro’ models, so from the outset it is understood that there will be certain components that will not have the latest technologies. The IPS screens on these iPads that Apple calls “Retina displays” are an example of this. Are they the best? Not even close, but they are more than perfect for the approach of these devices and what those who buy it need.

We did not find any difference between the two generations, neither for technical nor practical purposes. Therefore it is evident that we cannot say anything about one and not the other. In both cases, the resolution and screen brightness seem more than suitable to be able to enjoy movies, series, review our photos or play video games, although in the latter there is something to highlight regarding performance.

Big leap in performance with the A12 Bionic

We closed the previous point with a clarification regarding performance in video games. In the iPad 2020 we find a significant leap in the processor that helps the experience at certain times such as playing to be much better. Although this is not the only point where it shows, since having made a two-generation jump on this chip and having adopted the A12 Bionic with its Neural Engine has more advantages.

For the rest of the features we have already said that it is not an iPad focused on professional tasks, but it really is not due to a lack of power because when it is required it appears. Those who perform tasks such as advanced photo or video editing can be satisfied with a considerable improvement in rendering times that is preceded precisely by the A12 Bionic chip. It is still not the most recommended equipment for these daily jobs, but if it is sporadic, you can hardly make any complaint.

At the performance level of the system in general, we also see improvements in the opening of applications and other types of loads. In addition, this chip is a guarantee of iPadOS updates for many years . Although it is not the most current chip, incorporating improvements such as its neural motor make it a longer-lived processor than predecessors such as the A11 Bionic or the A10 Fusion that precisely mounts the iPad 2019.

Same experience in portability

Despite increasing weight, the eighth-generation iPad represents no change from the seventh. The 7 grams more in the WiFi version and 3 grams in the WiFi + Cellular are anecdotal. Both devices are extremely comfortable when it comes to taking them anywhere in the house, as well as transporting it on trips or using it in somewhat more uncomfortable places than usual, such as public transport.

Sufficient autonomy for all

Apple does not offer specific data about the capacity of its batteries, so without knowing this data we have to take into account the efficiency of the processor in conjunction with the software and the use made of the iPad. Both have on paper an autonomy of up to 10 hours of uninterrupted use and the truth is that both fulfill it to a great extent. It is really difficult to reach those hours of use, no matter how intensive the work is done, so they really have a battery for more than a day . And yes, we name it in the plural because in this case there is hardly any difference between the two generations either. Yes, it is true that the A12 Bionic manages this section a little better than the A10 Fusion, but it is not a really outstanding difference that goes beyond an hour in most cases.

Memory could be a problem

We are not going to fool ourselves and is that 32 GB today is a really small capacity for most uses. This is something that both generations have sinned from, although 128GB already seems like a more reasonable capacity. However, if it still seems small to you, you will have no choice but to make a larger outlay and opt for an iPad Air.

There are cloud storage services such as Apple’s own iCloud and many others that could solve the ballot in many cases. Some users may not even need any of this if they use the iPad for online actions such as surfing the Internet or enjoying streaming content. But in other cases, a few applications, photos and other files that you store will see that it falls short.

iPadOS shines in all its glory on both

After a memory lime, touch a sand with iPadOS. The operating system of these iPads is just as fantastic as in the most powerful versions of Apple tablets. There are no trimmed functions in these computers and although the performance of the same is not as fast in the end, you cannot say that there is a function that is not available. In addition, in both cases, updates are expected for several years, in which interesting news is expected that will allow many to even do without computers.

Apple Pencil and Smart Keyboard Fantastic!

Since Apple extended the compatibility of its stylus to new iPad that were not ‘Pro’ we can enjoy an infinity of actions with the Apple Pencil . It is first generation, yes, but it works very well on both teams. You can easily take notes by hand, draw or carry out specific actions in some apps with total ease. The experience has improved with firmware updates of this accessory and it is almost like writing on paper, although it must be recognized that in this case the Apple Pencil 2 looks much more in the ‘Air’ and ‘Pro’ models, but it is another story .

Something similar happens with the Smart Keyboard , a keyboard that, although initially strange due to its construction material or deficiencies such as the lack of backlighting, ends up being an essential accessory for those most active in writing with the iPad. The key travel and the touch of the membrane end up making the user experience better and on top of that, it is even resistant to liquids.

In any case, it must be said that the compatibility with mice and keyboards from other manufacturers is really good. Either by Bluetooth or through adapters, these perform very well in the iPad 2019 and 2020 making them very prominent elements for use.

Is it worth going from iPad 7 to iPad 8?

Not bluntly. And not because the device is not good, since after all it is an improved version of the previous one. The processor has taken an important leap that is noticeable and the experience will be even better, but really this and other small differences cannot really be considered as a compelling reason to renew it. If you have problems with your iPad 2019 or something similar that does not have an easy and cheap solution, then yes, this iPad will remind you a lot of the other and you will enjoy a little more. In any other case, the change is not recommended, since despite being the cheapest model we do not believe that it is worth that outlay due to the few differences.

If you think that the seventh generation iPad has fallen short, you may not need the eighth but an even more powerful version such as the iPad Air 2020 or even the iPad Pro.

When to buy the iPad 2019 or 2020

If you do not have any of these iPads and you are undecided about them, the recommendation in this case would be to opt for the most recent model. And not because the former could not satisfy you, but because of the fact that it is the only one officially sold at Apple. While it is true that there are stores that continue to sell the previous generation, the price difference is not as great as might be expected and therefore it is better to opt for the latter, also guaranteeing greater longevity due to processor issues as we discussed in their respective pulled apart.

However, if you found a good offer for the iPad 2019 or even found a private seller in buying and selling portals, the purchase would also be smart. At the end of the day, and as a conclusion to this comparison, both models are very similar for practical purposes to say bluntly that 2020 is much better than 2019.