IPad Pro 2017: Still Worth Buying In 2022?

Hey tech enthusiasts! Ever wonder if that older iPad Pro is still a viable option? Well, let's dive deep into the iPad Pro 2017 and see if it's still a good buy in 2022. We'll be looking at its specs, performance, what it's good for, and, of course, whether it makes sense to snag one now. So, grab your coffee, and let's get started!

Unveiling the iPad Pro 2017: A Blast from the Past

Alright, guys, before we get into the nitty-gritty, let's rewind and take a look at the iPad Pro 2017. This tablet hit the scene a few years back, and back then, it was a beast! Apple really went all out to make it a powerhouse. You had options for different screen sizes, like the 10.5-inch and the 12.9-inch models, both of which were gorgeous with their Retina displays. Under the hood, we found the A10X Fusion chip, which was a significant upgrade from its predecessors. This chip was all about speed and efficiency, making the iPad Pro 2017 super snappy for all sorts of tasks.

The design was pretty sleek too, with those slim bezels and the overall premium feel that we've come to expect from Apple products. The addition of the Smart Connector was a big deal, allowing you to connect the Smart Keyboard easily. You could also pair it with the first-generation Apple Pencil, which opened up a whole new world for creative work and note-taking. It was a seriously capable device for both work and play. The iPad Pro 2017 also featured a great camera, which was a highlight for many users who enjoyed taking photos or using video calls. The sound was also quite impressive, with its quad-speaker setup.

So, when you consider all these features, it's easy to see why the iPad Pro 2017 was such a hit. It wasn't just a tablet; it was a versatile tool that could handle a lot of different jobs. From browsing the web and streaming videos to handling complex tasks, it had the chops to get it done. The performance, design, and features all came together to create a device that was ahead of its time. Now, the big question is: does this legacy still hold up in the fast-paced world of 2022? Let's break it down.

Performance: Does the A10X Fusion Still Pack a Punch?

Alright, let's get to the heart of the matter: performance. When it comes to the iPad Pro 2017, the A10X Fusion chip is the main player. Now, you might be wondering if it can still keep up in 2022. The answer is, surprisingly, yes! While it might not be as blazing fast as the latest iPad Pros with their M-series chips, the A10X Fusion is still no slouch. It can handle most everyday tasks with ease. Stuff like web browsing, checking emails, streaming videos, and running a bunch of apps simultaneously? No problem. The tablet still feels very responsive and smooth.

You can even play some pretty demanding games on it, though you might not get the absolute highest graphics settings in the newest titles. However, the experience is still perfectly enjoyable. If you're a heavy user who often works with complex apps like video editing software or graphic design tools, you might notice the difference between the A10X and the newer chips. But for most folks, the A10X Fusion provides a solid and reliable performance.

Also, consider that iPads have always been known for their great software optimization. Apple really knows how to make their hardware and software work well together. That means the iPad Pro 2017 can do a lot more with its specs than you might think. It’s not just about the raw numbers; it’s about how well everything works together. This optimization helps keep the tablet running smoothly and efficiently. In short, the iPad Pro 2017 still delivers a pretty awesome performance for its age. It’s a workhorse that can handle a lot of different tasks, making it a great option for many users in 2022.

Software and Updates: Staying Relevant in the Apple Ecosystem

Okay, let's talk about software and updates. This is a super important aspect when deciding if an older device is worth the purchase. With the iPad Pro 2017, you're likely to get the latest versions of iPadOS. Apple is generally pretty good at supporting older devices with software updates, which is fantastic news! It means you'll have access to the latest features, security patches, and improvements that keep your iPad running smoothly and securely.

Of course, there might come a time when Apple stops supporting the iPad Pro 2017 with the newest major software updates. But, even then, the tablet should continue to function well. All the core apps will still work, and you will be able to download new ones. This ensures your iPad Pro 2017 remains a useful tool for various tasks. Also, it’s worth noting that even if the iPad Pro 2017 does reach the end of its update cycle, it will still be able to run a ton of apps from the App Store. Apple's app ecosystem is huge, with many apps specifically designed for older devices. Therefore, you'll still have access to a massive library of software to make the most of your iPad. So, in terms of software support, the iPad Pro 2017 holds up pretty well in 2022. You’ll get access to the latest software for a good while, and even when support ends, the iPad will remain functional, with a huge selection of apps ready to go.

Battery Life: Keeping the Power On

Alright, let's move on to battery life, which is a key factor. When the iPad Pro 2017 came out, it had impressive battery life, and even today, it still holds up pretty well. In 2022, you can expect to get a full day of use out of it, depending on how you use it. For casual browsing, watching videos, and doing light work, you can easily get several hours of battery life. Even with more demanding tasks, the iPad Pro 2017 can manage to keep going for a good amount of time.

Of course, battery performance degrades over time. If the device is used frequently or has been around for a long time, the battery capacity might not be what it was when it was new. However, the battery life is still sufficient for most users. Apple devices are designed to optimize battery usage, so even with an older device, you should get decent battery life. The iPad Pro 2017 is great for people who are always on the go or need a device that can last throughout the day. So, when it comes to battery life, the iPad Pro 2017 holds its own in 2022, providing a solid performance that is ideal for daily use. Keep in mind that heavy usage will drain the battery faster, but you can still rely on it to last a good amount of time.

Display and Audio: A Visual and Auditory Experience

Let’s chat about the display and audio, which are crucial for the overall experience of using an iPad Pro 2017. The display is a Retina display, which means it offers sharp visuals, vibrant colors, and great clarity. It's awesome for watching movies, browsing photos, and doing creative work. Even though it's not the latest display technology, it still holds up really well, and it provides a fantastic viewing experience. The screen is bright enough to use it comfortably both indoors and outdoors. The colors are accurate, and the text is sharp, making everything look crisp and clear.

The audio quality is also quite impressive. The iPad Pro 2017 features a quad-speaker setup, meaning it has speakers on both the top and bottom of the device. This provides a rich and immersive audio experience, especially when watching videos or listening to music. The sound is clear, and the speakers are loud enough to fill a room. They also work well for video calls. The combination of a great display and quality audio really enhances the overall experience of using the iPad Pro 2017. Whether you're watching your favorite shows, playing games, or just browsing the web, you'll get a visual and auditory experience that's enjoyable and engaging. For the display and audio experience, the iPad Pro 2017 still delivers a solid performance in 2022. It provides a great display quality and awesome audio quality, making it a joy to use for various tasks.

Price and Value: Is It Worth the Money?

Alright, let's talk about the big question: is the iPad Pro 2017 worth the money in 2022? The price is an important factor. If you're buying a used model, you can often find it at a lower price than the newer models. This can make it a very attractive option if you're on a budget. So, the value is there, especially if you get a good deal. When you consider the performance, features, and overall experience, the iPad Pro 2017 still offers a lot for its price point. It can do pretty much everything a newer model can do.

Of course, the price will vary depending on the condition of the tablet, the storage capacity, and whether or not it comes with accessories like the Apple Pencil or the Smart Keyboard. But, in general, you can find it for a reasonable price, which makes it a good deal. If you don’t need the latest and greatest tech, and if you’re looking for a solid tablet without breaking the bank, the iPad Pro 2017 is a great option. Overall, the iPad Pro 2017 can still provide good value in 2022, especially when considering its performance, features, and the price. Buying it can be a smart move, providing you can find it at a fair price.

Should You Buy the iPad Pro 2017 in 2022? Final Verdict

So, after looking at all the factors, should you buy the iPad Pro 2017 in 2022? The answer is: it depends. If you’re looking for a tablet for casual use, like browsing the web, watching videos, and checking emails, then yes, the iPad Pro 2017 is still a great choice. Its performance is still solid, the display is great, and it can handle most of the tasks that an average user would need. Plus, you will get the benefits of the iPadOS ecosystem, which means you have access to a huge selection of apps and features.

However, if you're a power user who needs the very best performance for demanding tasks like video editing, 3D modeling, or gaming, then you might want to consider a newer model. The latest iPad Pros with their M-series chips offer significantly better performance. Also, if you need the latest features and the longest software support, then the newer models are the better choice. In the end, the iPad Pro 2017 remains a solid choice. It's a great value for those looking for a capable and affordable tablet. It offers a balance of performance, features, and price that makes it still relevant in 2022. If you find one at a good price and it meets your needs, you can certainly go for it!