iPad Pro
© 2015 Apple
12/1/2016 Update. There are now two sizes of Apple Pencil compatible iPads (called "Pro"). Regular ($600) and large ($800). Note that it is possible to use the Apple Pencil on most regular apps (substituting the pencil for a finger). Note also that it is hard to store the Pencil, and the cap is easy to loose. [2015 Archived content from this point on]. Is the jumbo-sized iPad Pro right for your child, children's library or classroom? Perhaps, but you should know about it's particular strengths and weaknesses. We've been testing a 128 GB iPad Pro provided on loan from Apple, along with the keyboard, cover and Apple Pencil. Here's an overview. The most striking feature, obviously, is the 12.9?inch screen. Compared to a traditional iPad, this seems huge. But it's nearly identical in size to a 13 inch laptop screen -- imagine unhinging the screen from a typical Chromebook or MacBook, and you get the idea of the size. The screen is slippery, sensitive, bright, and incredibly clear (aka "retina display"). Most of the regular apps we've tested work just fine because everything increases proportionally in size. This means larger illustrations, menus and fonts touch points and fonts. It also helps you see the screen from across the room or during circle time. The cameras, speakers and processors have been upgraded when compared to the iPad. When you turn the volume up all the way, you can fill a room with music, no extra speakers needed. Our favorite drawing app is Procreate. While it's not designed for children, it offers the most bang for the buck. The iPad Pro costs a lot, can be heavy and harder for younger children to physically hold. We have yet to see a specialized children's case. The Apple Pencil stylus is great, but it can be paired to only one device. In addition, it's easy to misplace. There is no easy storage or tethering solution. The screen is big and seems to need cleaning more frequently. Besides the pencil, other Peripherals include a full size keyboard (sold extra for $150) that snaps to the edge of the iPad using strong magnets like the Microsoft Surface. Big screens need big batteries; we noticed the iPad Pro takes longer to charge using standard-sized iPad chargers. So far, there are no real surprises, other than the added heft... that is, until you try this iPad with the slippery white stylus, called Apple Pencil ($100, sold extra). The Apple Pencil is sensitive to both tilt and pressure. It has a lithium ion battery that charges quickly from the iPad's battery. Unlike many other capacitive stylus options currently available, this one uses bluetooth to communicate with the iPad. It also has a fine, hard plastic point that is very reponsive. This stylus is the first we've seen that can come close to a fine point in pen, making it a dream for serious or semi-serious artists.
$800, iPad
Teaches: a multi-touch iOS tablet
CTR Rating: 96%