How often should you update your tablet? | Tech Reddy

Apple releases a new iPad model every year, whether it’s the iPad Pro, iPad Air, iPad Mini, or the vanilla iPad. In addition, other manufacturers such as Samsung, Amazon and Lenovo make tablets and release new versions.

But does that mean you have to upgrade your tablet every time a new one comes out? So how often should you buy a new tablet?

When it is no longer supported

For most people, tablets are primarily for entertainment. They use the tablet’s larger screen to watch movies, listen to music, play games, or read e-books. Its larger screen is also useful for video calls – especially among families. So if you mainly use your tablet for these tasks, you won’t need to upgrade as often.

For most users, the best time to upgrade a tablet is when it is no longer supported. So if you look at Apple’s tablets, the first generation iPad Pro is still supported and will last for seven years. And if you’re interested in Android tablets, the Samsung Tab line gets at least four years of security updates.

If your tablet is intended for light use only, these devices can serve you for many years. The only reason to upgrade your tablet is when support is discontinued. While an older tablet may still be useful, it may not have received the latest security and OS updates, leaving your data vulnerable. So take care of your tablet and even if you don’t use it much, you should update it when it loses support.

Each time he takes irreparable damage

Although many companies block third-party repairs for their products, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t get your broken devices repaired. If your device suffers repairable damage, such as a broken screen or broken battery, you should take it to a trusted service center before disposing of it.

Your first option should always be to bring it to an authorized service center, or if you’re handy with tools, try the brand’s self-service program. However, if repair is no longer cost-effective or your self-repair program is putting you off, it’s time to get a new device.

If you want to use a clean device, don’t throw away your broken tablet even after buying a new one. Instead, you can repair it cheaply and use your old tablet for other purposes, such as a dedicated smart home hub or digital photo frame.

Every time it is difficult to use

As tablets are computers, they generally get more powerful with each passing generation. So it’s common for app developers to take advantage of improved hardware. However, older hardware has a hard time running these new applications.

So, if the apps you’re using are slowing down your tablet, consider upgrading. For example, if you use your tablet to play FPS games and you’re lagging behind because your old tablet can’t keep up with it, then you need to upgrade your tablet.

Another reason to upgrade your tablet is if you’re running low on storage. Even if you clear system data and other data to free up space, it can only do so much.

Although some tablets have a MicroSD slot that allows for memory expansion, most popular models do not have this feature. So if you’re running out of space and can’t delete other apps and data, your only option is to get a new tablet with a larger storage capacity.

When newer versions have the functionality you need

While most people use their tablets for entertainment, others use their devices professionally. If you use your tablet for work and the next-generation tablet has a feature that’s useful for you, you should upgrade.

For example, if you create artwork on an iPad 4, you may benefit from upgrading to an iPad Pro with Apple Pencil. Another example is if you’re using a fourth-generation iPad Pro with an Apple A12Z chip for video editing. The iPad Pro powered by the Apple M1 is a worthy upgrade, as it allows for increased productivity and allows you to be more productive.

However, if a tablet has a new feature that you like and find useful, you shouldn’t automatically buy it. If you’re replacing your old tablet, it just makes sense to go for an upgrade. But if you’re getting a new tablet just for that new feature, you should first consider the cost of getting that new tablet and the value it adds to your workflow.

Every other generation

If you have the budget, or your company pays for your hardware, it makes sense to upgrade your devices every generation, which is usually every two years. That way, you will have the best tool for your needs.

Even if you can, it doesn’t make much sense to update your tablet every time a new one comes out. Finally, tablets are expensive, with the 12.9-inch iPad Pro model costing up to $999. In addition, most generational updates are evolutionary in nature and rarely add incremental improvements worth purchasing.

It was only when Apple launched the M1-powered iPad Pro that it was recommended to upgrade to the latest generation iPad Pro, even if your tablet is a generation behind it.

How often do you need to update?

It may be tempting to upgrade your tablet every time a new one comes out, but there’s no point in doing so. At the very least, you should keep your tablet at least one generation before upgrading to the latest version.

You should also consider your use cases before choosing when to upgrade your device. After all, technology is becoming more powerful, enabling these devices to last longer. So if your current device is still working fine, you may not need to upgrade.

But if you really want to upgrade your tablet every year, you are free to do so. Just make sure you trade in your old one; that way, you’ll save a little on the cost of your new tablet and help reduce e-waste.

Alternatively, you can sell or donate your old tablet to someone in need. Either way, make sure you remove all data from your old tablet to ensure the safety of your personal information.