28x Apple iPad 9.7″ (2017) 32GB WiFi: A Comprehensive Review and Pricing

The Apple iPad 9.7″ (2017) 32GB WiFi remains one of the most recognizable tablets Apple has produced — a device that struck a balance between affordability, performance, and everyday usability. Whether you are considering buying one new, used, or refurbished, this comprehensive review covers everything you need to know: design, display quality, performance, cameras, battery life, connectivity, pricing, and where to find one.

Design and Build Quality

Apple has always been known for its clean, minimalist hardware design, and the iPad 9.7″ (2017) is no exception. The device is built with a sturdy aluminum unibody shell that feels premium in the hand while remaining lightweight enough for extended use. Its compact 9.7-inch form factor makes it easy to carry in a bag or hold during long reading or browsing sessions.

The physical buttons — volume controls, sleep/wake button, and the iconic home button with Touch ID — are all placed intuitively. The Touch ID fingerprint sensor embedded in the home button provides a fast and secure way to unlock the device and authenticate purchases. Despite being a few years old, the build quality of this tablet still holds up well compared to many competitors in its class.

Display

One of the most compelling features of this tablet is its screen. The Apple iPad 9.7″ (2017) sports a 9.7-inch Retina display with a resolution of 2048 x 1536 pixels, delivering sharp, detailed visuals that are well-suited to reading, streaming video, browsing, and creative work alike. Text appears crisp, colors are vibrant, and the display handles a wide range of lighting conditions gracefully.

Apple also included two of its proprietary display technologies in this model. True Tone adjusts the white balance of the screen based on the ambient lighting in your environment, reducing eye strain during prolonged use. Night Shift shifts the display’s color temperature toward warmer tones in the evening, which can help minimize the impact of blue light on your sleep cycle. These features, which were relatively advanced at the time of release, make a meaningful difference in day-to-day viewing comfort.

Performance

Under the hood, the iPad 9.7″ (2017) is powered by Apple’s A9 chip, which was also used in the iPhone 6s and 6s Plus. This processor delivers fast, responsive performance across most everyday tasks — opening apps, browsing the web, streaming media, and working with productivity tools all feel smooth and lag-free.

The device comes with 2GB of RAM and 32GB of internal storage in this particular configuration. It is worth noting that, unlike some Android tablets, the iPad does not support external storage expansion via microSD card — Apple’s iPad lineup uses closed storage, so the 32GB you get is what you have to work with. For users who rely on cloud storage services or stream most of their content, this is generally sufficient. However, if you plan to store a large library of videos, games, or offline content locally, you may want to plan carefully around that limitation.

The tablet runs on Apple’s iOS operating system, which provides a seamless, intuitive interface backed by a robust ecosystem of apps. The tight integration between Apple’s hardware and software means the device runs efficiently, and iOS updates have historically extended the useful lifespan of Apple tablets significantly.

Camera and Video

The iPad 9.7″ (2017) features an 8-megapixel rear camera capable of capturing detailed photos and HD video. While tablets are not the first device most people reach for to take photos, the rear camera performs well for document scanning, video calls, and casual photography. It handles natural light well and produces usable images in most everyday situations.

The 1.2-megapixel front-facing camera is designed primarily for FaceTime and video calls. At this resolution, it is adequate for personal and professional video conferencing, though it is not suited for high-quality selfies by modern standards. For users whose primary use case is communication and productivity rather than photography, both cameras serve their purpose effectively.

Battery Life

Apple rates the battery life of this iPad at up to 10 hours of general use, which holds up well in real-world conditions. Whether you are browsing the web, watching videos, reading e-books, or using productivity apps, the device comfortably gets through a full day on a single charge. For students, commuters, or remote workers who need a device that lasts through long sessions without being tethered to a charger, this is a genuine strength of the device.

Connectivity and Sensors

The WiFi variant of this iPad supports Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to connect to wireless networks and pair accessories such as keyboards, headphones, and speakers. The device also includes GPS, which is useful for navigation and location-based apps even without a cellular connection when paired with a Wi-Fi network.

On the sensor side, the device includes an accelerometer, gyroscope, and ambient light sensor. The accelerometer and gyroscope enable features like automatic screen rotation and support for motion-sensitive apps and games, while the ambient light sensor feeds into the True Tone display adjustments described earlier.

Pricing

In the Pakistani market, the Apple iPad 9.7″ (2017) 32GB WiFi is available at a price range of approximately PKR 45,000 to PKR 50,000. Prices can vary depending on the retailer, the condition of the device (new, used, or refurbished), and your location. It is always a good idea to compare prices across multiple sellers before making a purchase to ensure you are getting fair value.

Where to Buy

The Apple iPad 9.7″ (2017) 32GB WiFi is available through a variety of channels, both online and in physical stores. Some popular places to find this device include:

• Apple Store — for new, certified devices with full warranty support
• Amazon — offering new and certified refurbished options, often at competitive prices
• Daraz — a popular online marketplace in Pakistan with multiple sellers
• OLX — useful for finding second-hand units at lower price points
• Local electronics stores — where you can inspect the device in person before buying

When buying from third-party or second-hand sellers, it is important to verify the device’s condition, check whether the battery has been replaced, and confirm the device is not iCloud-locked before completing a purchase.

Warranty and After-Sales Support

New units of the Apple iPad 9.7″ (2017) 32GB WiFi come with a one-year limited warranty from Apple, which covers manufacturing defects and hardware failures under normal use. Apple also provides a comprehensive range of support options, including online documentation and tutorials, telephone support, and in-person assistance at Apple Store locations and authorized service providers.

For users who want extended coverage, AppleCare+ can be purchased separately to extend the warranty period and add accidental damage protection — a worthwhile consideration for a tablet that may be used on the go.

Full Specifications at a Glance

• Display: 9.7-inch Retina display, 2048 x 1536 pixels
• Processor: Apple A9 chip
• RAM: 2GB
• Internal Storage: 32GB
• Rear Camera: 8-megapixel
• Front Camera: 1.2-megapixel
• Battery Life: Up to 10 hours
• Connectivity: WiFi, Bluetooth, GPS
• Sensors: Accelerometer, gyroscope, ambient light sensor
• Operating System: Apple iOS
• Price: PKR 45,000 – PKR 50,000

Final Verdict

The Apple iPad 9.7″ (2017) 32GB WiFi is a well-rounded tablet that continues to offer real value, particularly at its current market price. Its sharp Retina display with True Tone and Night Shift support, capable A9 processor, reliable all-day battery life, and the stability of Apple’s iOS ecosystem make it a practical choice for students, professionals, and casual users alike. While the 32GB internal storage may feel limiting for power users, those who manage their files wisely or rely on cloud services will find it perfectly workable. If you are looking for a dependable, portable tablet that handles everyday tasks with ease, this device is well worth considering.