Which iPad would be the best option for my mom?

[zooby]

I gave my mother my iPad 3 (yes... 3) many years ago and she uses it as her main "computer". She uses it every day and the speed has never affected her one bit (she has a 6S as well). However, I have noticed how slow and slugging it is and my dad has always wanted to upgrade her, but at the right time. He is kinda one of those that swears by "if it's working and isn't broken, it's fine" but we are thinking of upgrading her to the 10.5 Pro because her smart cover broke a few months ago and we were waiting for a big "sweet spot" to get her the new iPad. Would this be a good one to get? I mean, it works and she doesn't complain about the speed, but this seems like a good iPad upgrade since it is fast, has a better screen, and is a redesign.

I was leaning towards the 10.5 because it is a huge redesign but some have advised that it might be an overkill for my mom. But do you think the 9.7 iPad will be future proof for a bit? Also, between the iPad Pro 9.7 that came out last year and the 2017 iPad, which would be the better option? Obviously the 10.5 inch is better than all three, but I am looking into ranking them for value overall.

 

[gobikerider]

I gave my mother my iPad 3 (yes... 3) many years ago and she uses it as her main "computer". She uses it every day and the speed has never affected her one bit (she has a 6S as well). However, I have noticed how slow and slugging it is and my dad has always wanted to upgrade her, but at the right time. He is kinda one of those that swears by "if it's working and isn't broken, it's fine" but we are thinking of upgrading her to the 10.5 Pro because her smart cover broke a few months ago and we were waiting for a big "sweet spot" to get her the new iPad. Would this be a good one to get? I mean, it works and she doesn't complain about the speed, but this seems like a good iPad upgrade since it is fast, has a better screen, and is a redesign.

I was leaning towards the 10.5 because it is a huge redesign but some have advised that it might be an overkill for my mom. But do you think the 9.7 iPad will be future proof for a bit? Also, between the iPad Pro 9.7 that came out last year and the 2017 iPad, which would be the better option? Obviously the 10.5 inch is better than all three, but I am looking into ranking them for value overall.

Both are good options but the 10.5 is rather more future proof with 4gb of ram and cutting edge CPU. The iPad is still decent but that processor is from 2015 and even the A8X edges it out in multicore...2gb doesn't help either I think both will be supported for a relatively similar amount of time but you'll find the 10.5 offering a smoother and responsive experience 4-5 years were as the A9 is going to slow down like iOS devices tend too. Too put it simply you can already stress the iPad to its limits and visibly see the lesser performance... meanwhile the new Pro has insane overhead and just kills everything leaving people wondering when its "full poetenial" will even begin to be used by Apple... because iOS 11 isn't any more of a challenge then iOS 10

 

[44267547]

I was leaning towards the 10.5 because it is a huge redesign but some have advised that it might be an overkill for my mom. But do you think the 9.7 iPad will be future proof for a bit? Also, between the iPad Pro 9.7 that came out last year and the 2017 iPad, which would be the better option? Obviously the 10.5 inch is better than all three, but I am looking into ranking them for value overall.

As you mentioned, the 10.5 iPad internal was a huge redesign internally with the A10X processor, RAM, Tru-Tone display, 120 HZ Promotion display, wide P3 Color gamut, etc. But this specific iPad is very powerful and has the Pencil/Keyboard support. However, ask yourself if your Mom would appreciate all the intended "Pro" features. It also has the upgraded camera from the iPhone 7 with a flash.

That said, the 9.7 iPad Pro is still very capable and it will be supported likely for years to come. It has 2 GB of Ram also and the A9X Processor offers plenty of power. It also adds the ability with Pencil support and a keyboard attachment if you so choose. If you search, you can find some fairly competitive prices for this model either refurbished from Apple with a warranty or used elsewhere.

The 2017 9.7 iPad also has 2 GB of RAM and the A9 processor. This iPad lacks the laminated display, which in brighter conditions, would be problematic with reflectivity. Also, the 2017 iPad does not offer any of the Pro features mentioned above. But it still has power and excellent battery life, which all see years of support.

All three iPads are very good, and you likely couldn't go wrong with any of them, as they will see continued iOS support. That said, I think it really comes down if your Mom would appreciate the "Pro" features in the iPad Pro lineup. Otherwise, the 2017 9.7 iPad is likely a cheaper option at $329.00, but it does again, lack the laminated display which would Could be an issue in brighter lighting.

My opinion, is the iPad Pro lineup might be offering many features your Mom may not take advantage of for the amount of money you might spend, which in all likeliness, leaves you down to the 2017 9.7 iPad that still has the necessary speed and abilities she would appreciate. But the Pro line offers all the advantages if you think your Mom would appreciate that.

 

[Cheffy Dave]

I gave my mother my iPad 3 (yes... 3) many years ago and she uses it as her main "computer". She uses it every day and the speed has never affected her one bit (she has a 6S as well). However, I have noticed how slow and slugging it is and my dad has always wanted to upgrade her, but at the right time. He is kinda one of those that swears by "if it's working and isn't broken, it's fine" but we are thinking of upgrading her to the 10.5 Pro because her smart cover broke a few months ago and we were waiting for a big "sweet spot" to get her the new iPad. Would this be a good one to get? I mean, it works and she doesn't complain about the speed, but this seems like a good iPad upgrade since it is fast, has a better screen, and is a redesign.

I was leaning towards the 10.5 because it is a huge redesign but some have advised that it might be an overkill for my mom. But do you think the 9.7 iPad will be future proof for a bit? Also, between the iPad Pro 9.7 that came out last year and the 2017 iPad, which would be the better option? Obviously the 10.5 inch is better than all three, but I am looking into ranking them for value overall.

[doublepost=1499406395][/doublepost]Get her the 10.5, she'll be thrilled, and She's your MOM

 

[rdy0329]

If money is not an object, she’ll appreciate the added screen real estate as well as faster overall performance while actually reducing the weight of the device. This is a win-win. While at it, get her a smart keyboard too.

 

[LiveWireless]

Compared to the iPad 3 she is really going to appreciate the reduced weight of the new models. I think the weight might be what she appreciates the most. I would say it is between the iPad 2017 and the 10.5" pro. If you want to splurge and get her the pencil too then the 10.5 would be really great. She won't know if she likes using the pencil to keep the screen cleaner, and just a different experience until she uses it for a while so you don't know until you buy it. I would not go with the 9.7 because if you need pro features the 10.5 is the way to go.

 

[rui no onna]

Personally, if I were buying an iPad for my mom now, I'd get her the 2017 iPad 9.7 128GB LTE. She wouldn't appreciate any of the Pro 10.5 features for her usage. She didn't see what the big deal was with retina when I swapped her iPad 2 32GB WiFi for the iPad 3 64GB LTE and the Pencil would be just another accessory she'll need to charge. However, the extra storage (she likes having all her photos and videos on device) and always on internet without needing to futz with settings, she'll make use of. Granted, the LTE is an ongoing expense for me.

 

[Mackinjosh]

Having used the 5th gen and the 10.5, I gotta say I'd choose the 10.5 for one big reason - the color temp on the 10.5 is easier on the eyes. The 5th gen is so cool(temp), I find it strains my eyes when I use it in a dark room.

 

[spiderman0616]

I'm not sure what your mom does with her iPad, but it will largely depend on that. If she's just looking at Facebook and Safari all day, an iPad Pro is way overkill. The 2017 standard iPad would be the way to go in that case.

My parents had "beige box" PCs in their house for years, and went iPad-only back in 2011. They had the iPad 2 at first and later upgraded to the iPad Air 2, which is what they still use now. They have never done any content creation on their PCs or their iPads, so I always advise them to not spend the money on a Pro model. In fact, they don't even have a keyboard for their iPad--they've both gotten used to typing on the screen (which I can't imagine doing full time, but that's for another thread.)

If your mom is an artist or does lots of document creation or anything like that though, the 10.5" Pro is a fantastic option IF you're willing to throw in for the Pencil and a Smart Connector compatible keyboard. Without those two things, the Pro is kind of only half-Pro. If she's an audiophile or someone who notices things like ProMotion or P3 support, those are features in the Pro's favor as well.
[doublepost=1499446231][/doublepost]

Personally, if I were buying an iPad for my mom now, I'd get her the 2017 iPad 9.7 128GB LTE. She wouldn't appreciate any of the Pro 10.5 features for her usage. She didn't see what the big deal was with retina when I swapped her iPad 2 32GB WiFi for the iPad 3 64GB LTE and the Pencil would be just another accessory she'll need to charge. However, the extra storage (she likes having all her photos and videos on device) and always on internet without needing to futz with settings, she'll make use of. Granted, the LTE is an ongoing expense for me.

My parents could never tell the difference between retina and non-retina iPads and they don't even know how to pull up multitasking in split screen or slideover. In fact, I don't think they even know their iPad does that.

 

[rui no onna]

My parents could never tell the difference between retina and non-retina iPads and they don't even know how to pull up multitasking in split screen or slideover. In fact, I don't think they even know their iPad does that.

My parents complained about the slideover thing. They kept accidentally bringing it up when they just want to scroll. I have since disabled the feature on their iPads.

 

[MarkB786]

I gave my mother my iPad 3 (yes... 3) many years ago and she uses it as her main "computer". She uses it every day and the speed has never affected her one bit (she has a 6S as well). However, I have noticed how slow and slugging it is and my dad has always wanted to upgrade her, but at the right time. He is kinda one of those that swears by "if it's working and isn't broken, it's fine" but we are thinking of upgrading her to the 10.5 Pro because her smart cover broke a few months ago and we were waiting for a big "sweet spot" to get her the new iPad. Would this be a good one to get? I mean, it works and she doesn't complain about the speed, but this seems like a good iPad upgrade since it is fast, has a better screen, and is a redesign.

I was leaning towards the 10.5 because it is a huge redesign but some have advised that it might be an overkill for my mom. But do you think the 9.7 iPad will be future proof for a bit? Also, between the iPad Pro 9.7 that came out last year and the 2017 iPad, which would be the better option? Obviously the 10.5 inch is better than all three, but I am looking into ranking them for value overall.

Think about a Mini.

 

[Lucky11]

Another vote for 2017 standard iPad.

 

[yep-sure]

An iPad Pro seems like way overkill for basic content consumption.

The 2017 iPad sounds perfect.

 

[zooby]

Both are good options but the 10.5 is rather more future proof with 4gb of ram and cutting edge CPU. The iPad is still decent but that processor is from 2015 and even the A8X edges it out in multicore...2gb doesn't help either I think both will be supported for a relatively similar amount of time but you'll find the 10.5 offering a smoother and responsive experience 4-5 years were as the A9 is going to slow down like iOS devices tend too. Too put it simply you can already stress the iPad to its limits and visibly see the lesser performance... meanwhile the new Pro has insane overhead and just kills everything leaving people wondering when its "full poetenial" will even begin to be used by Apple... because iOS 11 isn't any more of a challenge then iOS 10

As you mentioned, the 10.5 iPad internal was a huge redesign internally with the A10X processor, RAM, Tru-Tone display, 120 HZ Promotion display, wide P3 Color gamut, etc. But this specific iPad is very powerful and has the Pencil/Keyboard support. However, ask yourself if your Mom would appreciate all the intended "Pro" features. It also has the upgraded camera from the iPhone 7 with a flash.

That said, the 9.7 iPad Pro is still very capable and it will be supported likely for years to come. It has 2 GB of Ram also and the A9X Processor offers plenty of power. It also adds the ability with Pencil support and a keyboard attachment if you so choose. If you search, you can find some fairly competitive prices for this model either refurbished from Apple with a warranty or used elsewhere.

The 2017 9.7 iPad also has 2 GB of RAM and the A9 processor. This iPad lacks the laminated display, which in brighter conditions, would be problematic with reflectivity. Also, the 2017 iPad does not offer any of the Pro features mentioned above. But it still has power and excellent battery life, which all see years of support.

All three iPads are very good, and you likely couldn't go wrong with any of them, as they will see continued iOS support. That said, I think it really comes down if your Mom would appreciate the "Pro" features in the iPad Pro lineup. Otherwise, the 2017 9.7 iPad is likely a cheaper option at $329.00, but it does again, lack the laminated display which would Could be an issue in brighter lighting.

My opinion, is the iPad Pro lineup might be offering many features your Mom may not take advantage of for the amount of money you might spend, which in all likeliness, leaves you down to the 2017 9.7 iPad that still has the necessary speed and abilities she would appreciate. But the Pro line offers all the advantages if you think your Mom would appreciate that.

[doublepost=1499406395][/doublepost]Get her the 10.5, she'll be thrilled, and She's your MOM

If money is not an object, she’ll appreciate the added screen real estate as well as faster overall performance while actually reducing the weight of the device. This is a win-win. While at it, get her a smart keyboard too.

Compared to the iPad 3 she is really going to appreciate the reduced weight of the new models. I think the weight might be what she appreciates the most. I would say it is between the iPad 2017 and the 10.5" pro. If you want to splurge and get her the pencil too then the 10.5 would be really great. She won't know if she likes using the pencil to keep the screen cleaner, and just a different experience until she uses it for a while so you don't know until you buy it. I would not go with the 9.7 because if you need pro features the 10.5 is the way to go.

Personally, if I were buying an iPad for my mom now, I'd get her the 2017 iPad 9.7 128GB LTE. She wouldn't appreciate any of the Pro 10.5 features for her usage. She didn't see what the big deal was with retina when I swapped her iPad 2 32GB WiFi for the iPad 3 64GB LTE and the Pencil would be just another accessory she'll need to charge. However, the extra storage (she likes having all her photos and videos on device) and always on internet without needing to futz with settings, she'll make use of. Granted, the LTE is an ongoing expense for me.

Having used the 5th gen and the 10.5, I gotta say I'd choose the 10.5 for one big reason - the color temp on the 10.5 is easier on the eyes. The 5th gen is so cool(temp), I find it strains my eyes when I use it in a dark room.

I'm not sure what your mom does with her iPad, but it will largely depend on that. If she's just looking at Facebook and Safari all day, an iPad Pro is way overkill. The 2017 standard iPad would be the way to go in that case.

My parents had "beige box" PCs in their house for years, and went iPad-only back in 2011. They had the iPad 2 at first and later upgraded to the iPad Air 2, which is what they still use now. They have never done any content creation on their PCs or their iPads, so I always advise them to not spend the money on a Pro model. In fact, they don't even have a keyboard for their iPad--they've both gotten used to typing on the screen (which I can't imagine doing full time, but that's for another thread.)

If your mom is an artist or does lots of document creation or anything like that though, the 10.5" Pro is a fantastic option IF you're willing to throw in for the Pencil and a Smart Connector compatible keyboard. Without those two things, the Pro is kind of only half-Pro. If she's an audiophile or someone who notices things like ProMotion or P3 support, those are features in the Pro's favor as well.
[doublepost=1499446231][/doublepost]
My parents could never tell the difference between retina and non-retina iPads and they don't even know how to pull up multitasking in split screen or slideover. In fact, I don't think they even know their iPad does that.

Another vote for 2017 standard iPad.

An iPad Pro seems like way overkill for basic content consumption.

The 2017 iPad sounds perfect.

Thank you guys for your responses! I am going to wait until next week as there will be a sale in a couple of retailers I shop at to see. Both are great options for sure!

Now, in terms of size - she has the 32 GB right now and is barely using 10 GB. That being said... she does not have iCPL enabled and she has much more pics on her phone. Should I go with the 64 or 256 OR if I get her the regular iPad - the 32GB or 128GB?

 

[44267547]

Thank you guys for your responses! I am going to wait until next week as there will be a sale in a couple of retailers I shop at to see. Both are great options for sure!

Now, in terms of size - she has the 32 GB right now and is barely using 10 GB. That being said... she does not have iCPL enabled and she has much more pics on her phone. Should I go with the 64 or 256 OR if I get her the regular iPad - the 32GB or 128GB?

If you're questioning how much storage you require for your Mom and you're unsure, I would consider her past usage. I think the 128/256GB would be much more storage then she needs, especially if barely used 10 GB on her last iPad.

I would think the lower storage tier models would offer more than enough for her Needs. But again, take into consideration all of her storage needs.

My opinion, 64 GB sounds like a safe bet and has some extra storage if she needs it, assuming you choose the new iPad Pro.

 

[rui no onna]

Thank you guys for your responses! I am going to wait until next week as there will be a sale in a couple of retailers I shop at to see. Both are great options for sure!

Now, in terms of size - she has the 32 GB right now and is barely using 10 GB. That being said... she does not have iCPL enabled and she has much more pics on her phone. Should I go with the 64 or 256 OR if I get her the regular iPad - the 32GB or 128GB?

Get her $0.99/mo 50GB iCloud storage then when you enable iCPL, just choose "Optimize iPad Storage" instead of "Download and Keep Originals".

 

[rdy0329]

Thank you guys for your responses! I am going to wait until next week as there will be a sale in a couple of retailers I shop at to see. Both are great options for sure!

Now, in terms of size - she has the 32 GB right now and is barely using 10 GB. That being said... she does not have iCPL enabled and she has much more pics on her phone. Should I go with the 64 or 256 OR if I get her the regular iPad - the 32GB or 128GB?

If you are planning on using iCloud Photo Library, opt for a 64GB Pro but you'll also need to subscribe to the 0.99c tier of icloud storage (50GB). That way, you can access any photos taken from any device. If you want the free route, just download google photos on her iPhone & iPad and buy her a 32GB iPad 2017 and just access those photos through GPhotos without actually using up too much storage.

 

[Ghost31]

She obviously needs a 512 gb cellular iPad Pro 12.9 with Smart Keyboard and Apple Pencil.

 

[zooby]

If you're questioning how much storage you require for your Mom and you're unsure, I would consider her past usage. I think the 128/256GB would be much more storage then she needs, especially if barely used 10 GB on her last iPad.

I would think the lower storage tier models would offer more than enough for her Needs. But again, take into consideration all of her storage needs.

My opinion, 64 GB sounds like a safe bet and has some extra storage if she needs it, assuming you choose the new iPad Pro.

Yeah, the 64GB seems like a good option for the Pro. I think I am going to go with it. If I got 32 GB 9.7, that should be ok too, no?

Get her $0.99/mo 50GB iCloud storage then when you enable iCPL, just choose "Optimize iPad Storage" instead of "Download and Keep Originals".

Perfect! She is already subscribed for her backups. If I enable iCPL on her phone/iPad, will the two photo libraries mesh or replace? I think 64GB or 32 GB if I go with the regular iPad should be fine for her then...

If you are planning on using iCloud Photo Library, opt for a 64GB Pro but you'll also need to subscribe to the 0.99c tier of icloud storage (50GB). That way, you can access any photos taken from any device. If you want the free route, just download google photos on her iPhone & iPad and buy her a 32GB iPad 2017 and just access those photos through GPhotos without actually using up too much storage.

She is already on the 50 GB plan for her backups. If I enable iCPL on her phone/iPad, will the two photo libraries mesh or replace? I've been meaning to recently, cause she says she needs to do a cleaning of her photos.

Also, thank you all for the help and tips - very much appreciated!!!

 

[rui no onna]

Perfect! She is already subscribed for her backups. If I enable iCPL on her phone/iPad, will the two photo libraries mesh or replace? I think 64GB or 32 GB if I go with the regular iPad should be fine for her then...

Mesh. It even recognizes duplicate pics on both devices so your iCloud storage doesn't get filled up with multiple copies of the same pictures.