Apple 2017 iPad Review: Budget-Friendly iOS Excellence
Apple’s 2017 iPad redefines value in the tablet market, offering a full-sized iOS experience at an accessible $329 price point. Much like the iPhone SE, this device proves premium functionality doesn’t require premium pricing—a strategic move to compete with Chromebooks and Android tablets.
Why This iPad Stands Out
- Target Audience: Ideal for users seeking core iPad functionality without Pro-level features
- Market Positioning: Bridges the gap between affordability and Apple’s renowned ecosystem
- Historical Context: A long-overdue strategy that could have boosted iPad adoption years earlier
Performance and Battery: Reliable Endurance
Powered by the A9 chip (first seen in iPhone 6S) and 2GB RAM, the 2017 iPad delivers smooth performance for everyday tasks—though it trails the A9X-powered iPad Pro in intensive workloads.
Battery Highlights:
- 16+ hours of mixed usage in real-world testing
- Matches Apple’s 10-hour claim for video playback/web browsing
- 32.4Wh battery charges in line with previous iPad models
Display and Design: Practical Compromises
The 9.7-inch Retina display offers crisp visuals but makes notable concessions:
- Missing Pro Features: No True Tone, full lamination, anti-reflective coating, or wide color
- Tactile Differences: Noticeable finger friction and hollow tapping sound compared to Pro models
- Dimensions: At 7.5mm thick and just over 1 pound, it’s the bulkiest contemporary iPad
Image: 2017 iPad’s minimalist design (Credit: Jordan Novet/VentureBeat)
Audio and Camera: Functional but Unremarkable
- Sound System: Dual speakers (vs. quad on Pro) deliver adequate quality
- Camera: 8MP rear shooter performs decently but can’t match iPhone 7 Plus capabilities
- Design Plus: No camera bump maintains sleek profile
Accessory Limitations and Workarounds
The 2017 iPad lacks some Pro-exclusive features:
- No Smart Connector: Apple’s Smart Keyboard isn’t compatible
- Apple Pencil Support: Not available (third-party styli like Adonit’s $75 Pixel fill the gap)
- Siri Quirk: “Hey Siri” only works when plugged in
Pro Tip: Logitech’s $70 Keys-To-Go Bluetooth keyboard offers a portable typing solution.
The Verdict: Who Should Buy It?
This iPad shines when judged on its own merits rather than compared to Pro models. Key advantages include:
- iOS Multitasking: Split View and Picture-in-Picture work flawlessly
- Screen Real Estate: Maximizes app visibility without premium cost
- Entry Point: Perfect for first-time iPad buyers or budget-conscious users
For those who previously dismissed iPads as overpriced luxury devices, the 2017 model presents a compelling case for tablet ownership. It delivers Apple’s signature build quality and software experience at a price that finally makes sense for mainstream users.
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