Unveiling iPad 97 2018 Specs Prices Pros & Cons

General Overview of the Apple iPad 9.7 (2018)

The Apple iPad 9.7 (2018) represents a harmonious blend of practical performance with affordability. Announced and released on March 27, 2018, it captures the essence of the iPad's legacy, serving both educational and entertainment purposes with ease. Designed with a focus on simplicity and user-friendliness, this tablet is especially aimed at a broader audience, from students to casual users seeking a capable device for everyday tasks.

Design and Build Quality

The design of the iPad 9.7 (2018) showcases Apple's commitment to quality craftsmanship and aesthetics. With dimensions of 240 x 169.5 x 7.5 mm and a weight of 469 grams for the Wi-Fi model and 478 grams for the LTE variant, the iPad strikes a balance between portability and solid build quality. Its glass front and aluminum back give it a sleek, premium feel, while the aluminum frame adds durability, ensuring it can withstand daily use. Available in three classic colors—Silver, Gold, and Space Gray—the device appeals to a wide range of tastes.

Display Characteristics

A standout feature of this iPad is its display. It sports a 9.7-inch IPS LCD screen that delivers vibrant colors and wide viewing angles, crucial for both multimedia consumption and productivity tasks. With a resolution of 1536 x 2048 pixels at a 4:3 ratio, and a density of approximately 264 pixels per inch, the display ensures sharp, clear images. Additionally, the screen is protected by scratch-resistant glass with an oleophobic coating, which helps minimize fingerprints and smudges, thereby maintaining visibility under direct light.

Performance: Processor and Software

Under the hood, the iPad 9.7 (2018) is equipped with the Apple A10 Fusion chipset. This 16 nm processor features a Quad-core 2.34 GHz configuration, split between two high-performance Hurricane cores and two energy-efficient Zephyr cores, which together ensure seamless multitasking and efficient energy use. It originally launched with iOS 11.3 but has successfully upgradable capabilities up to iPadOS 17.5.1, providing users with the latest updates and features Apple has to offer.

Memory and Storage Options

The iPad comes in two storage variants: 32GB and 128GB, both paired with 2GB of RAM. While the lack of a card slot might be seen as a limitation by some, iCloud provides Apple's robust cloud storage solution, ensuring that users will not run into storage issues easily. This integrated storage system is sufficient for most users' needs, including apps, games, and multimedia files.

Camera Capabilities

Although the iPad is not primarily marketed as a photography device, it still offers decent camera features. The rear camera is equipped with an 8 MP sensor with an f/2.4 aperture and a 31mm focal length. This camera supports autofocus and HDR, delivering solid image quality for both photos and videos. It can capture video at 1080p at 30fps and 720p at 120fps, with stereo sound recording and HDR capabilities.

The front camera is a 1.2 MP sensor with an f/2.2 aperture, suitable for video calls and basic selfies. It features face detection and HDR, capturing video at 720p at 30fps. While these camera specs may not compete with a smartphone, they are more than adequate for casual photography and video calling needs.

Connectivity Options and Networking

The iPad 9.7 (2018) supports a wide array of connectivity options. It can connect to Wi-Fi using the 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac standards, with dual-band capabilities allowing for stable and fast connections. For Bluetooth, it utilizes version 4.2 with A2DP, EDR, and LE support, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices from headphones to keyboards.

For navigation, the Wi-Fi + Cellular model is equipped with GPS and GLONASS, providing accurate positioning for maps and location-based services. The tablet supports a wide array of 4G LTE bands, ensuring reliable device connectivity in various global regions. However, it lacks NFC and radio, which are more niche functionalities in a tablet device.

Audio and Sound

Audio performance is crucial for a comprehensive multimedia experience. The iPad 9.7 features stereo speakers that deliver clear and amplified sound, enhancing entertainment experiences. It also includes a 3.5mm headphone jack, accommodating users who prefer traditional wired audio solutions.

Battery Life

One of the standout practical features of the iPad 9.7 is its battery life. The device is powered by a non-removable Li-Po 8827 mAh battery (32.9 Wh), which is capable of delivering up to 10 hours of talk time for multimedia usage. This longevity is crucial for those using the iPad on the go, be it for work, study, or leisure, without the constant need for recharging.

Additional Features

Security and usability are enhanced with a front-mounted fingerprint sensor, ensuring quick and secure device access. Additional sensors include an accelerometer, gyro, compass, and barometer, expanding the range of functionalities and applications, particularly in augmented reality and fitness tracking applications.

The device is priced attractively, with models starting around 350 EUR, making it a competitive option within its product category.

Conclusion

The Apple iPad 9.7 (2018) may not push any radical technological boundaries, but it excels at providing a well-rounded, accessible, and reliable tablet experience. With its balanced design, capable performance, and updated software support, it meets the needs of a variety of users, from students needing a study companion to families looking for a shared device. It embodies Apple's holistic approach where design, functionality, and quality intersect, ensuring that the iPad remains a valued product in the Apple lineup.