The iPad 9th generation is perfect for low power computing tasks, but is held back by the lightning port and oddly enough the keyboard.

I have been using my iPad for school, it has been invaluable.

It is worth having just to take notes alone. The amount of clutter and lost papers have gone from innumerable to zero.

So let us start with that.

The strongest quality of the iPad is its note writing capability, get GoodNotes and the Apple Pencil then you have the best school simplifier in existence.

Not to mention the apps.

My school uses Canvas Student, and I would go as far to say the computer equivalent is unusable. The app is more informative, easier to use and better formatted than the browser version can dream of.

I think the app is the reason I am doing so well in my classes. I mean you could do it on your phone, but the screen is so small that it is not effective for anything but notifications.

The problem is the iPad 9th generation is the worst iPad for writing.

A case is required to keep the 1st generation Apple Pencil near it. Not to mention the intended charging is this.

Every other iPad supports the second generation apple pencil, which attaches and charges on the side of the iPad.

The strongest reasons to get an iPad is its light package, and writing capabilities.

Unfortunately for the current line up of iPads, the iPad 9th generation is the weakest contender.

Though I am leaving something out, it is the keyboard use.

I started loving the keyboard and trackpad support, the reason I got my original case was for it.

Though it just is not as useful as I thought it would be, the pen is just better for everyday use.

I would not write an essay with it, but the real killer of this iPad is the lightning port.

The Lightning port is representative of the problem with this iPad. It is limited.

I needed a good external microphone, while the iPad was more than capable of using GarageBand, I would have to get a specific microphone just for my iPad.

The iPad can do a-lot of things, but sometimes you just need a Mac or a Pc. If only for convenience.

For me it was using an external microphone and adobe illustrator support is the things that killed the “I only need an iPad” dream.

I believe some students can just use an iPad. I just produce too much visual and audio content for classes and fun for it to be practical for me to use as my only computer.

If I could do all again knowing I would have to get a MacBook Air, I would have gotten the iPad mini instead. Then I would have the better pencil for notes, and art.

It would not only be a separate device with its own purpose, but I could ditch my backpack when I go to class and just keep the iPad mini in my jacket pocket.

Though with both devices in my hand right now, I would say I have never had a better combination of technology to help me complete school.

Universal control has changed the game for these products, but that is another blog post.

In short, the 9th generation iPad is good for a lot, just know its limitations, and know what you really need to do in what ever you do. At least how much trouble you want to go to for a lighter package.