Top critical review
2.0 out of 5 starsSub-par screen resolution, re-design irritating, not good for those with poor fine motor skills
Reviewed in the United States on April 25, 2024
I'm really disappointed. I've had my previous iPad since 2019. It's still working OK, but no longer holds a battery charge. But I expected a big improvement in this new device. Instead, the screen resolution seems worse then the 2019 model, no sound performance improvement (volume is poor), the camera placement on the back is awkward for holding the device, the slightly bigger size is uncomfortable, and I miss the home button terribly.
Not a good choice for disabled users with low fine motor skills:
The case assortment is minimal. That may not be a big deal to some people, but I have nerve damage in my arms and hands and require a case that is easy to grip. For anyone out there with fine motor skill problems, I'd seriously warn against this device. Go to a store and test it out. The lackmof home button really slows down switching between apps, and I can't do the basic gestures. I've programmed in some easier ones with the accessibility options, but it's not ideal. The width in landscape mode is so uncomfortable to hold, and the lack of a "buffer" area around the screen means I keep hitting the screen by mistake.
When I opened my box, there were fingerprints on the shiny parts of the device, which makes me wonder if Amazon sent me a used one. I won't be buying expensive electronics from Amazon in the future. I'll do it in person in a store.
My advice: skip this one:
I wish I'd waited a few months and gotten whatever new device, 11th Gen, comes out next, as this was so underwhelming. As far as I can tell, there are no new features, yet it is physically harder to use. I keep reaching for and using my 2019 iPad instead of this new one. It took me so long to get a properly fitting case that I missed the return window.
