Choosing between Apple’s tablets can be a delightful dilemma. If you’re eyeing an affordable yet capable iPad, you might be comparing the budget-friendly iPad (2017) with the sleek iPad Air. Both offer a fantastic Apple experience, but which one truly aligns with your needs and budget?
The iPad (2017), often referred to as the ‘standard’ iPad, brought a significant refresh to Apple’s entry-level tablet. It aimed to provide a premium iPad feel without the premium price tag. On the other hand, the iPad Air series was known for its incredibly thin and light design, prioritizing portability and a premium aesthetic.
This comparison dives deep into the key differences between the iPad (2017) and the iPad Air, helping you make an informed decision. We’ll explore their performance, display quality, design, and overall value to determine which device deserves a spot in your digital life.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | iPad 2017 | iPad Air |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 9.7-inch | 9.7-inch |
| Display Resolution | 2048 x 1536 pixels | 2048 x 1536 pixels |
| Processor | A9 chip | A7 chip with M7 motion coprocessor |
| RAM | 2GB | 1GB |
| Storage Options | 32GB, 128GB | 16GB, 32GB, 64GB, 128GB |
| Rear Camera | 8MP | 5MP |
| Front Camera | 1.2MP | 1.2MP |
| Battery Life (Video Playback) | Up to 10 hours | Up to 10 hours |
| Weight | 469g (Wi-Fi) / 478g (Cellular) | 469g (Wi-Fi) / 478g (Cellular) |
| Thickness | 7.5mm | 7.5mm |
| Lightning Port | Yes | Yes |
| Touch ID | Yes | Yes |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Processor and Performance
- iPad 2017: Features an A9 chip. This is a capable processor for everyday tasks, but it’s a generation older than the A8X found in the iPad Air 2. It handles most apps and multitasking well, but might show its age with demanding games or heavy video editing.
- iPad Air: Equipped with the A8X chip. This processor was considered very powerful at its release and still holds up well for many tasks. It offers slightly better performance for more intensive applications compared to the A9 in the 2017 iPad.
- Winner: ipad air
Display
- iPad 2017: Boasts a 9.7-inch Retina display with a resolution of 2048 x 1536 pixels. The display is bright and clear, offering good color reproduction for general use. It lacks the fully laminated screen found in some older iPads, which can result in a slight air gap.
- iPad Air: Also features a 9.7-inch Retina display with the same 2048 x 1536 resolution. The iPad Air (likely referring to Air 2 for a fairer comparison) often had a fully laminated display, which reduces glare and makes the screen appear closer to the glass, offering a more premium viewing experience.
- Winner: ipad air
Design and Build
- iPad 2017: Has a slightly thicker and heavier design compared to the iPad Air 2. It retains a more traditional iPad build. While robust, it doesn’t feel as sleek or modern as some of its predecessors or successors.
- iPad Air: Known for its thin and light “Air” design, making it very portable and comfortable to hold for extended periods. The build quality is excellent, and it feels premium in hand. This was a defining characteristic of the Air line.
- Winner: ipad air
Storage Options
- iPad 2017: Typically offered in 32GB and 128GB storage configurations. This provides ample space for most users’ apps, photos, and videos. The lack of a 64GB option might be a slight inconvenience for some.
- iPad Air: Storage options varied across its generations, but often included 16GB, 32GB, 64GB, and 128GB. Having more granular options, especially the 64GB, could be more appealing to users who need more than 32GB but less than 128GB.
- Winner: ipad air
Camera System
- iPad 2017: Features an 8MP rear camera and a 1.2MP front camera. The rear camera is capable of taking decent photos in good lighting conditions and can record 1080p video. The front camera is basic for video calls.
- iPad Air: The iPad Air 2 had a 8MP rear camera and a 1.2MP front camera, similar to the 2017 model. Image quality is generally comparable, with both being adequate for casual snapshots and video conferencing. Neither camera is a standout feature.
- Winner: Tie
Connectivity
- iPad 2017: Supports Wi-Fi and optional Wi-Fi + Cellular models. The cellular models typically used older LTE bands. It includes a Lightning connector for charging and data transfer.
- iPad Air: Also available in Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi + Cellular variants. The Air 2, in particular, supported faster Wi-Fi standards and more advanced LTE capabilities at its release. It also uses a Lightning connector.
- Winner: ipad air
Battery Life
- iPad 2017: Advertised to offer up to 10 hours of battery life for web surfing or watching video. Real-world usage generally aligns with this, providing a full day of moderate use.
- iPad Air: Also generally advertised with around 10 hours of battery life. Performance can be similar, though it may vary slightly depending on specific usage patterns and the exact generation of the iPad Air being compared.
- Winner: Tie
Price and Value
- iPad 2017: Launched as a more budget-friendly option, making it an attractive choice for those seeking a capable iPad at a lower price point. Its value lies in its solid performance for everyday tasks at an accessible cost.
- iPad Air: Being an older model, the iPad Air (especially the Air 2) can now be found at very competitive prices on the used or refurbished market. Its value proposition comes from offering a more premium design and often slightly better performance for its original price point, or a good deal now.
- Winner: ipad 2017
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Performance | iPad 2017 |
| Value (New) | iPad 2017 |
| Storage Options | iPad Air (wider range historically) |
| Design & Build | Tie |
| Display | Tie |
| Battery Life | Tie |
What They Have in Common
- Display Quality: Both iPads boast a 9.7-inch Retina display with a sharp resolution of 2048 x 1536 pixels, offering vibrant colors and clear visuals for everyday use.
- Design Language: They share a similar, classic iPad design with rounded corners, a home button with Touch ID, and a Lightning port for charging and data transfer.
- Battery Performance: Both models are rated for up to 10 hours of battery life for web browsing or watching videos, providing a full day of usage for most users.
- Touch Id Fingerprint Sensor: Security and convenience are enhanced on both devices with the integrated Touch ID sensor, allowing for quick and secure unlocking and app purchases.
- Build Materials: Apple utilizes premium aluminum for the chassis of both the iPad 2017 and iPad Air, contributing to their solid feel and durability.
- iOS Ecosystem: Users of either tablet will have access to the vast iOS App Store and all the benefits of Apple’s integrated software ecosystem.
Ipad 2017 Vs Ipad Air Buying Guide
Target Audience and Use Cases
The iPad 2017 is an excellent choice for general consumers, students, and families. Its affordability makes it a fantastic entry-level tablet for web browsing, email, social media, and casual gaming. For those who need a reliable device for everyday tasks without demanding high-end performance, the 2017 iPad offers great value.
The iPad Air, while older, still caters to users who prioritize a lighter and thinner design for portability. It’s suitable for professionals on the go, avid readers, and those who appreciate a more premium feel. If you’re frequently carrying your tablet around or prefer a sleeker form factor, the Air might still be appealing. (See Also: Adobe Pro Vs Docusign )
Performance and Speed
The iPad 2017, with its A9 chip, offers a solid performance for most common applications. It handles multitasking reasonably well and can run most apps and games smoothly. While not the fastest chip Apple has ever produced, it’s more than capable for the average user’s needs.
The iPad Air, equipped with the A7 chip, was groundbreaking for its time but is now significantly outpaced by the A9. For demanding tasks like video editing, intensive gaming, or running multiple heavy applications simultaneously, the iPad 2017 will offer a noticeably smoother and more responsive experience. The Air’s performance will feel dated in comparison.
Display and Design
Both devices feature a 9.7-inch Retina display, offering crisp visuals and vibrant colors. The display quality on the iPad 2017 is excellent for its price point, providing a great viewing experience for media consumption and reading. The screen is bright and clear, making it enjoyable to use indoors and outdoors.
The iPad Air’s design is renowned for its thinness and lightness, making it incredibly comfortable to hold for extended periods. While the iPad 2017 is not significantly thicker or heavier, the Air’s superior portability is a key differentiator. If carrying your tablet frequently is a priority, the Air’s ergonomic design is a significant advantage. (See Also: 40 Vs 32 Tv )
Storage and Connectivity
The iPad 2017 typically came in 32GB and 128GB storage options, which are generally sufficient for most users. It offers Wi-Fi and optional cellular connectivity, ensuring you can stay connected wherever you go. The storage options are adequate for apps, photos, and a moderate amount of media.
The iPad Air also offered similar storage configurations. Connectivity options were also comparable. When choosing between them, consider your personal usage habits. If you store a lot of large files or download many movies, opting for the higher storage capacity on either device is advisable. For most, the standard 32GB on the 2017 iPad should suffice.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy iPad 2017 If…
- You need a reliable tablet for general browsing, media consumption, and light productivity tasks.
- You’re looking for the most budget-friendly entry into the iPad ecosystem.
- You want a slightly more powerful processor (A9 vs A7) for smoother performance in demanding apps.
Buy iPad Air If…
- You are a first-time iPad buyer and want a solid, well-rounded device that was once a flagship.
- You don’t mind a slightly older processor and are primarily using it for basic tasks.
- You can find a good deal on a used or refurbished model and are comfortable with potentially less longevity in terms of future software updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which iPad is better for students?
For most students, the iPad 2017 is the more practical choice. Its affordability makes it accessible for tighter budgets, and its performance is more than adequate for note-taking, research, writing papers, and educational apps. While the iPad Air is lighter, the performance difference and newer technology of the 2017 model make it a better long-term investment for academic use.
Can the iPad Air still run the latest apps?
The iPad Air, with its older A7 chip, can still run many apps, but it may struggle with more demanding or graphically intensive applications. Apple’s software updates also eventually phase out support for older hardware. While it can access the App Store, newer apps or those requiring higher processing power might not be compatible or will run poorly. (See Also: Lansky Vs Work Sharp )
Is the iPad 2017 good for reading?
Yes, the iPad 2017 is very good for reading. Its 9.7-inch Retina display offers a clear and comfortable viewing experience for e-books, articles, and magazines. The screen brightness and resolution are excellent, and the performance is smooth enough to navigate through reading apps and web pages without lag.
Which is better for gaming: iPad 2017 or iPad Air?
The iPad 2017 is significantly better for gaming than the iPad Air. The A9 chip in the 2017 model offers much higher processing power and better graphics capabilities compared to the A7 chip in the Air. This means newer and more graphically demanding games will run smoother and with better frame rates on the iPad 2017.
Which iPad has better battery life?
Both the iPad 2017 and the iPad Air are generally rated for around 10 hours of battery life on a single charge for Wi-Fi use. In real-world testing, battery performance can vary based on usage. However, the iPad 2017, being a newer device with a more efficient chip, might offer slightly more consistent or marginally better longevity for similar tasks.
Final Verdict
While the iPad Air was a celebrated device for its portability, the iPad 2017 stands out as the superior option for most users today. Its more powerful A9 chip delivers significantly better performance, ensuring smoother multitasking and the ability to run newer applications and games. The 2017 model offers a more modern and capable experience at a more accessible price point, making it the clear winner for everyday use, students, and casual users.
Winner: Ipad 2017