If you were considering picking up a second-hand 2nd or 3rd generation iPad, you might be wondering, "Would a brand new 2nd or 3rd Gen iPad still run well in 2019?" Let's take a closer look to help you make an informed decision.
First off, these older iPad models can still offer a decent performance for everyday tasks. The 2nd-gen iPad, released in 2011, was a significant upgrade over the original model. With its dual-core A5 chip and 512MB of RAM, it can handle web browsing, email, and media consumption without major issues. However, as newer apps and software updates require more processing power, you may experience some slowdowns when multitasking or running demanding applications.
Moving on to the 3rd-gen iPad, introduced in 2012, it brought a Retina display and the powerful A5X chip with quad-core graphics. This model can still provide a good user experience for tasks like streaming videos, reading e-books, and casual gaming. The improved display and graphics performance make it a solid choice for media consumption, although it may struggle with more recent games or demanding apps that require newer hardware.
It's important to note that both the 2nd and 3rd generation iPads have reached their end-of-life in terms of software support. They are stuck on older versions of iOS due to hardware limitations, which means you won't be able to update to the latest iOS versions or run the newest apps that require higher system requirements. This could limit your ability to access certain features or security updates offered in newer software releases.
In terms of connectivity, these older iPads lack some of the modern features found in newer models. For example, they do not support newer Wi-Fi standards like ac, which could impact your internet speeds if you have a high-speed connection at home. Additionally, the lack of features like Touch ID or Face ID means you'll be relying on the traditional passcode for device security.
If you're on a budget and mainly need a device for basic tasks like web browsing, email, and media consumption, a 2nd or 3rd generation iPad could still be a viable option in 2019. However, if you rely on specific apps that require the latest iOS updates or prioritize performance for more demanding tasks, you might find these older models lacking in some areas.
Ultimately, the decision will depend on your specific needs and budget. Investing in a newer model like the iPad Air or iPad Pro would offer you better performance, software support, and modern features, but if you're looking for a budget-friendly option for light usage, a 2nd or 3rd generation iPad could still serve you well in 2019.