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The 2021 iPad (9th generation) pairs an A13 Bionic chip and a 10.2-inch display with support for Apple Pencil (1st generation) and Apple Smart Keyboard. But A2604 is a regional Wi‑Fi + Cellular model, not a guarantee of compatibility with every carrier, and the exact model is listed as discontinued. Apple confirms the specifications and accessory compatibility; CHOICE’s public page does not reveal its test scores or reviewer verdict, so those cannot be independently summarized here.
What is the iPad 9th generation A2604?
A2604 identifies a Wi‑Fi + Cellular version of the 2021 iPad (9th generation). Apple’s regional technical specifications list LTE bands 1–8, 11–14, 17–21, 25, 26, 28–30, 34, 38–41, and 66 for this model. Band support varies by regional model: do not assume an imported A2604 will work on a particular carrier just because it has a SIM tray.
Apple describes cellular service as data-only. You need a separate data plan, and Apple advises checking carrier compatibility and service availability. Confirm that the carrier can activate the exact A2604 unit where you intend to use it.
How good are the display, performance, and cameras?
Apple introduced the 9th-generation iPad in 2021. Its A13 Bionic chip with Neural Engine powers a 10.2-inch LED-backlit IPS Multi-Touch display. The screen resolution is 2160 × 1620 pixels at 264 ppi, and Apple specifies True Tone and 500-nit brightness. These are manufacturer specifications, not a substitute for checking the condition of a second-hand screen.
#1 Best Overall
Apple lists 64GB and 256GB storage options. The rear camera is 8MP; the front camera is a 12MP Ultra Wide camera with a 122-degree field of view and Center Stage support. For video calls, that front camera and Center Stage are the more distinctive features; the available specifications do not establish how the device performs in independent camera testing.
Does it work with Apple Pencil and Smart Keyboard?
Yes. Apple lists compatibility with Apple Pencil (1st generation) and Smart Keyboard. The Smart Connector on the iPad supports the keyboard attachment. Compatibility does not mean either accessory is included in a particular sale: check the listing and confirm the exact accessory models before paying.
Rank #2
- 10.2-inch Retina display
The iPad has a Home button with Touch ID, a Lightning connector, a Smart Connector, a headphone jack, and—on cellular versions—a SIM tray. Apple’s listed box contents are the iPad, a Lightning to USB-C cable, and a 20W USB-C power adapter. The Pencil and keyboard are accessories, not listed as included in the box.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteWhat are the wireless, size, and battery specifications?
The cellular model weighs 498 grams and measures 250.6 × 174.1 × 7.5 mm. Apple lists Wi‑Fi 5 (802.11ac), Bluetooth 4.2, nano-SIM and eSIM support, and GPS/GNSS on cellular models.
Rank #3
- Gorgeous 10.2-inch Retina display with True Tone - A13 Bionic chip with Neural Engine
- 8MP Wide back camera, 12MP Ultra Wide front camera with Center Stage
- Touch ID for secure authentication and Apple Pay - Stereo speakers
Apple claims up to 10 hours of web browsing on Wi‑Fi or video playback, and up to 9 hours of web browsing over cellular data. Apple says those figures came from tests conducted in August 2021 using preproduction hardware and software. They are manufacturer test claims, not an independent result or a promise about battery life on a used iPad; battery condition varies with age and use.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What does the available review record establish?
CHOICE has a page for this exact configuration and labels it a discontinued model. The page displays A$1,335 and a one-year warranty field, but that price is not a verified current market price. Its Expert Rating, recommendation, test scores, measured battery result, charging time, and tester comments are member-only, so the public record does not support a claim about CHOICE’s verdict or hands-on findings. The page also records a Shop Ethical grade of D, but that alone does not explain the basis for the grade.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Gorgeous 10.2-Inch Retina Display - A12 Bionic Chip with Neural Engine
Rank #4
- Gorgeous 10.2-Inch Retina Display - A12 Bionic Chip with Neural Engine
- 8MP Back Camera, 1.2MP FaceTime HD Front Camera - Stereo Speakers
- 802.11AC Wi-Fi 5 - Lightning Connector for Charging & More Accessories
- Up to 10 Hours of Battery Life/Charge - Touch ID Fingerprint Sensor
- Support for Smart Keyboard and Apple Pencil (1st Generation)
What to check before buying a used or refurbished A2604
- Model and carrier: Verify that the unit is A2604 and ask the intended carrier to confirm band support and activation. Factor in the separate data plan.
- Condition and return terms: Inspect the screen, charging port, buttons, battery condition, and signs of damage. Check the return policy, refurbishment grade, and warranty offered by the seller.
- Storage: Confirm whether the device is 64GB or 256GB and decide whether that capacity suits your apps and files.
- Accessories: Confirm whether the Apple Pencil (1st generation) and Smart Keyboard are actually part of the offer, and check their condition and exact model.
- Total cost: Compare the current asking price with the device’s condition, included accessories, warranty, and any cellular-plan cost. CHOICE’s displayed A$1,335 should not be treated as a current quote.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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