# TLDR Review: iPad (2017, 9.7-inch, Silver)

*Published: 2026-02-08 | Updated: 2026-02-08 | Source: https://shopsavvy.com/reviews-tldr/ipad-(2017-9.7-inch-silver)*

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## Product: iPad (2017, 9.7-inch, Silver)
**Brand:** Apple

## Pros
- The iPad looks and feels like new with no visible wear, providing great value as a renewed device.
- It delivers fast, smooth, and reliable performance suitable for browsing, streaming, school, and work tasks.
- Battery life is strong and lasts all day, supporting extended use without frequent charging.
- The bright, vibrant, and clear 9.7-inch screen offers an excellent visual experience.
- Setup is easy, and the device handles FaceTime and iMessage smoothly when compatible.
- Plenty of storage with 32GB for apps, media, and documents.
- Lightweight and durable, making it convenient for kids and everyday use.
- Highly recommended for those looking for a budget-friendly Apple tablet, especially as a refurbished option.

## Cons
- The iPad runs an older iOS version that may prevent activation of key Apple features like iMessage and FaceTime.
- Compatibility issues arise with some newer apps due to outdated operating system limits.
- Some users experienced significant frustration with Apple support and activation troubles related to the OS version.
- The storage capacity, while decent, may feel limited for users with large media libraries or many apps.
- Being a 2017 model, the device lacks some modern features found in newer iPads, such as improved cameras and processors.

## Bottom Line

This renewed 2017 Apple iPad (9.7-inch, WiFi + Cellular, 32GB) offers excellent value if you want a solid, reliable tablet with a bright screen and long battery life at a budget price. However, its older iOS version can limit access to some essential Apple services like iMessage and FaceTime, so make sure these features are not dealbreakers for you. For a newer experience with broader app compatibility, considering a more recent iPad model might be advisable, but if basic tablet functions and affordability are your priorities, this is a smart pick.

## Pros vs Cons at a Glance

| Pros | Cons |
|------|------|
| The iPad looks and feels like new with no visible wear, providing great value as a renewed device. | The iPad runs an older iOS version that may prevent activation of key Apple features like iMessage and FaceTime. |
| It delivers fast, smooth, and reliable performance suitable for browsing, streaming, school, and work tasks. | Compatibility issues arise with some newer apps due to outdated operating system limits. |
| Battery life is strong and lasts all day, supporting extended use without frequent charging. | Some users experienced significant frustration with Apple support and activation troubles related to the OS version. |
| The bright, vibrant, and clear 9.7-inch screen offers an excellent visual experience. | The storage capacity, while decent, may feel limited for users with large media libraries or many apps. |
| Setup is easy, and the device handles FaceTime and iMessage smoothly when compatible. | Being a 2017 model, the device lacks some modern features found in newer iPads, such as improved cameras and processors. |
| Plenty of storage with 32GB for apps, media, and documents. |  |
| Lightweight and durable, making it convenient for kids and everyday use. |  |
| Highly recommended for those looking for a budget-friendly Apple tablet, especially as a refurbished option. |  |

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*About this review: We pulled together findings from professional and user reviews, and cross-referenced them with ShopSavvy's pricing data from thousands of retailers to give you the short version.*