Product overview iPad: 5th Generation

By Insight Editor / 12 Sep 2018 , Updated on 20 Aug 2019

Apple 9.7-inch iPad Wi-Fi - 5th generation

The new 5th generation iPad 9.7 inch gives you all the iPad functionality you know and love, now with a lower price tag and faster performance.

With the exception of its upgraded A9 processor chip, the iPad 5th generation release is virtually identical to past iPad releases (but it is a little thicker and heavier than the iPad Air^® 2 model). The real defining feature of the iPad 5 is the ground-breaking price tag. The iPad is now more affordable than ever.

iPad 9.7 inch specifications

Operating system: iOS 11
Screen: 9.7 inches; 2048 x 1536 pixel resolution
Dimensions: 6.7 x 9.4 x .3 inches
Weight: 1.03 pounds
Battery life: 10 hours

iPad 5th generation features

Anti-fingerprint Retina^® touchscreen
Apple^® A9 processor
Ports: 1 Lightning port, 1 headphone mini jack
Touch ID
Siri® and Apple Pay^®integration

Frequently asked questions — comparison, storage and voice

What is the difference between the iPad 5th generation and the iPad Air?: The iPad 5 delivers faster performance and brighter Retina display than the iPad Air 2. It is also thicker and slightly heavier, but not enough to notice a big difference. Many reviewers say it is similar in size to the original iPad Air.
Can I add external storage to my iPad?: The iPad 5 has fixed storage that cannot be altered internally. If you need more than the 32GB of storage available with this model, consider upgrading to the 9.7 inch iPad 128 GB model. You can also use external storage via USB.
Does the iPad 5 have voice control?: Yes, the iPad 5th generation is equipped with Siri for voice control capability. Here is a complete list of Siri commands you can try on your iPad.

Frequently asked questions — functionality

Can I print directly from the iPad?: Yes, you can print directly from your iPad. Most apps and web browsers have a print button integrated into the Share menu. In most cases, you just have to make sure your iPad and wireless printer are connected to the same network. Certain wireless printers also give you the option to print from anywhere via the printer’s own branded app.
Can I edit Word® docs and Excel® spreadsheets on my iPad?: Yes, you can open and edit Microsoft® Office 365® files on your iPad. You can also download Microsoft Office for free on your iPad without having to subscribe to Office 365. Just download Microsoft Office for iOS devices from the app store and create a Microsoft ID when prompted.
Can I connect my iPad to external monitors or a TV?: Yes, you can connect your iPad to an external monitor if you have the right adapters. You will likely need either a Lightning to HDMI adapter or an Apple VGA adapter, depending on what type of external display you have. You can also mirror your iPad on your TV using Apple TV.
Can you make phone calls with the iPad?: This iPad 9.7 inch 32GB Wi-Fi model can make FaceTime® calls to any FaceTime-enabled devices via your Wi-Fi connection. However, you cannot make cellular calls with this Wi-Fi only iPad. If you want to be able to make cellular calls with your iPad, you’ll need to upgrade to the Apple 9.7 inch iPad Wi-Fi + Cellular model.

Frequently asked questions — compatibility

Does Flash® work on iPads?: Adobe® Flash is not supported on iPad or other iOS devices due mostly to issues with performance and security on mobile devices.
Does the iPad support an external keyboard and mouse?: Yes and no, respectively. You can use an external keyboard with your iPad, but the iPad does not have a cursor and so it is not compatible with any mouse. We recommend the Apple Wireless Keyboard if you want to be able to type documents on your iPad.
Can the iPad 5th generation read SD cards?: The iPad 5th generation does not have an SD card slot; however, you can still transfer camera photos to your iPad using an SD card as long as you have a Lightning to SD card adaptor.
Does the iPad 5th generation support the Apple Pencil®?: No, this iPad model does not support the Apple Pencil. However, iPad Pro models such as the 9.7 inch iPad Pro 32 GB do support the Apple Pencil.

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All keyword categories: Product overview Apple

Product overview iPad: 5th Generation

iPad 9.7 inch specifications

iPad 5th generation features

Frequently asked questions — comparison, storage and voice

What is the difference between the iPad 5th generation and the iPad Air?

Can I add external storage to my iPad?

Does the iPad 5 have voice control?

Frequently asked questions — functionality

Can I print directly from the iPad?

Can I edit Word® docs and Excel® spreadsheets on my iPad?

Can I connect my iPad to external monitors or a TV?

Can you make phone calls with the iPad?

Frequently asked questions — compatibility

Does Flash® work on iPads?

Does the iPad support an external keyboard and mouse?

Can the iPad 5th generation read SD cards?

Does the iPad 5th generation support the Apple Pencil®?

Discover more

eBook The Power of Technology

eBook Refresh your agency’s IT with Apple

eBook Discover What Mac Can Do

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