A year difference, a world of difference
A year's difference between two iPads. Sounds like nothing. The 2019 and 2020 iPads look identical, cost about the same as refurbished models , and share the same screen size. Yet, there's a world of difference between these two tablets. Not in the design, not in the display, but in something you only notice when you actually use them.
The A12 Bionic chip in the 2020 version versus the A10 Fusion in its predecessor—it sounds like technical nonsense. But here's the surprise: that single year determines whether your tablet will still run smoothly or start to falter in two years. Whether you'll get that new iPadOS update or not. Whether your refurbished iPad is a smart buy or a bad one. That single year makes the difference between frustration and satisfaction.
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The processor makes the difference
At the heart of every iPad is the processor. The 2019 iPad runs on the A10 Fusion chip, while the 2020 model has the A12 Bionic. This technical detail makes more of a difference than you might think. Apps launch faster, multitasking is smoother, and graphic-intensive tasks run smoothly. The difference is especially noticeable with more demanding apps like video editors or modern games.
The A12 Bionic isn't just an upgrade. This chip offers up to 40% better performance and 50% better graphics capabilities compared to its predecessor. In practice, this means the newer tablet is more future-proof. It will still run smoothly in two years, while the older model might start to slow down with new software updates.
Screen and body: identical twins
Visually, the two tablets are virtually indistinguishable. The 10.2-inch Retina display with a resolution of 2160 x 1620 pixels is identical. True Tone technology automatically adjusts the color temperature based on the ambient light. Whether watching movies, browsing photos, or reading—the experience is virtually identical.
The aluminum casing feels premium on both models. Available in silver, space gray, and gold, they have the same dimensions and weight. The physical home button with Touch ID is in the same place, as are the Lightning connector and 3.5mm headphone jack. Without the packaging, you wouldn't know which version you're holding.
Cameras for everyday use
The 8-megapixel rear camera is identical on both iPads. It's perfectly adequate for scanning documents, taking notes, or capturing memories. The front camera has undergone a slight improvement on the 2020 model. Although both are 1.2 megapixels, the newer version delivers slightly better image quality during video calls.
Neither tablet is intended for professional photography. The cameras are primarily functional: FaceTime, document scanning, and casual photography. Don't expect miracles, but they're more than adequate for iPad standards.
Battery: work all day long
Apple promises up to 10 hours of Wi-Fi browsing time for both models. In practice, both tablets easily achieve this. The more efficient A12 chip in the newer model might squeeze an extra half hour out of the battery, but the difference is marginal. For most users, this means charging in the morning and using it all day without worry.
Software support determines the lifespan
The 2020 iPad came with iPadOS 14, while its predecessor came with iPadOS 13. This may seem like a small difference, but it has major implications for the future. Apple supports devices with updates for an average of five to six years. The newer model will therefore receive new features and security updates for a longer period.
Currently, both tablets run the latest iPadOS version without any problems. But in two years? Then the older model might no longer receive updates. This is an important consideration for anyone who plans to use their tablet for years to come.
Price difference and value
As a refurbished model , the price difference between the two tablets is often a few tens to a hundred euros. Is that difference worth the added value? For heavy users, it is. The improved performance, extended software support, and future-proofing justify the extra cost.
For basic tasks like browsing, watching Netflix, and email, the 2019 version remains a solid choice, especially considering the significant price difference. The device still performs perfectly well for everyday tasks and will continue to do so for years to come.
Usage scenarios highlighted
Student or pupil
For educational purposes, the 2020 model is preferred. Multitasking between different apps, researching while taking notes, preparing presentations—everything runs a little more smoothly. The extended software support means the tablet will last the entire study period.
Home use and entertainment
For Netflix, YouTube, social media, and casual browsing, the 2019 version is perfectly adequate. The screen is identical, the speakers sound the same. The only noticeable difference is when launching apps, but for entertainment, this hardly matters.
Creative work
Both tablets support the first-generation Apple Pencil. They're equally good for drawing and note-taking. With more demanding creative apps like Procreate or Adobe software, the newer model performs noticeably better. Complex edits are faster, and layers load more smoothly.
Gaming
Modern games clearly benefit from the A12 Bionic. Higher frame rates, better graphics, and shorter load times. Casual games run fine on both, but for serious gaming, the 2020 model is the better choice.
Sustainability and environment
Apple uses recycled materials in both tablets. The aluminum casing is largely made of recycled aluminum. In terms of sustainability, both models are built the same. Choosing a refurbished model is always a sustainable choice—you're giving a device a second life.
The extended software support of the 2020 model means you can use the device longer before needing a replacement. This may offset the slightly higher purchase price.
Practical considerations
Both iPads work with the same accessories. The Smart Keyboard, cases, and the first-generation Apple Pencil—everything is interchangeable. This makes switching later easier if you already have accessories.
Availability does vary. The 2019 version is only available refurbished, while the 2020 model is available both new and refurbished. Refurbished models have been thoroughly inspected and often come with a warranty, making the purchase more secure.
Conclusion: one year, world of difference
The choice between these two iPads is about more than just the price difference. The 2020 model offers tangible advantages: better performance thanks to the A12 Bionic, extended software support, and greater future-proofing. For power users, students, and gamers, the investment is worth it.
The 2019 model remains a capable tablet for everyday use. It will perform satisfactorily for years to come, whether for email, browsing, watching video, or light work. If the price difference is significant and your needs are modest, this is the smart choice.
Ultimately, your usage and budget will determine the best option. Both tablets offer the typical iPad experience: reliable, user-friendly, and high-quality. That one-year difference makes more of a difference than you might think, but both options remain solid choices in their price range.
Making the right choice
The choice between the 2019 and 2020 iPads is simpler than it seems. For those who use their tablet intensively —studying, gaming, creative work—the A12 Bionic chip in the 2020 model justifies the extra price. The improved performance and extended software support make all the difference.
For everyday use like browsing and watching movies, the 2019 version remains an excellent choice. Both refurbished iPads offer great value for money. It all depends on what you want to do with them and how long you plan to use them.
