Apple iPad Pro 9.7 (2016)
Apple iPad Pro 9.7 (2016)
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Specifications
Certified Quality & Packaging
Apple iPad Pro 9.7-inch (2016)
Quick Facts
Specification | Details |
|---|---|
Launch year | 2016 |
Display | 9.7-inch Retina IPS display |
Resolution | 2048 × 1536 pixels at 264 ppi |
Processor | Apple A9X chip |
Memory | 2GB RAM |
Storage | 32GB, 128GB or 256GB |
Rear camera | 12MP Wide |
Front camera | 5MP FaceTime HD |
Battery | 27.5Wh; up to 10 hours of web browsing or video over Wi-Fi |
Connectivity | Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 4.2; optional 4G LTE cellular |
Charging port | Lightning |
Weight | 437g for Wi-Fi; 444g for Wi-Fi + Cellular |
Colours | Silver, Gold, Space Grey or Rose Gold |
Overview
The Apple iPad Pro 9.7-inch was introduced in 2016 as a smaller alternative to the original 12.9-inch iPad Pro. Its fully laminated Retina display supports P3 wide colour, True Tone and Apple Pencil (1st generation).
The A9X chip and 2GB of RAM are now best suited to lighter tasks such as reading, browsing, media playback and older applications. Four-speaker audio, a Smart Connector and a headphone jack add useful entertainment and accessory features.
When buying a used unit, inspect the display for scratches, bright spots, discolouration and touch-response problems. Test the battery, cameras, speakers, microphones, Lightning port, headphone jack, buttons and Touch ID, and confirm that Activation Lock has been removed.
Key Highlights
1. Fully Laminated Retina Display
The 9.7-inch Retina display has a 2048 × 1536 resolution, P3 wide colour and True Tone. Its laminated construction places displayed content closer to the glass than on many standard iPads from the same period.
Why it matters:
Displays clear text and images
Produces vibrant colour for photos and videos
Adjusts colour temperature to match surrounding light
Reduces reflections with an anti-reflective coating
Supports precise input with Apple Pencil
2. Four-Speaker Audio and Accessory Support
The tablet includes four speakers, a Smart Connector and support for Apple Pencil (1st generation). It also retains a physical Home button with Touch ID and a 3.5mm headphone jack.
Why it matters:
Produces stereo sound in either orientation
Works with compatible Smart Keyboard accessories
Supports handwritten notes and digital drawing
Connects wired headphones without an adapter
Provides fingerprint authentication through Touch ID
3. 12MP Camera with 4K Video
The rear 12MP camera supports Focus Pixels, a True Tone flash and video recording at up to 4K and 30 frames per second. Its 5MP front camera provides basic FaceTime and selfie functions.
Why it matters:
Captures more detailed images than many older iPads
Records video at up to 4K resolution
Includes a flash for supported low-light situations
Supports document scanning with autofocus
Provides a front camera for video calls
Key Features Explained
Feature | What it offers |
A9X chip | Provides basic performance for browsing, reading and compatible media applications |
Retina display | A 9.7-inch IPS screen with 2048 × 1536 resolution |
P3 wide colour | Displays a broader colour range for photos, videos and artwork |
True Tone | Adjusts the screen’s colour temperature according to surrounding light |
Touch ID | Unlocks the tablet and approves supported purchases through the Home button |
12MP rear camera | Captures photos and records video at up to 4K resolution |
Four-speaker audio | Adjusts stereo output according to the tablet’s orientation |
Headphone jack | Connects standard 3.5mm wired headphones without an adapter |
Apple Pencil support | Works with Apple Pencil (1st generation) for notes and drawing |
Smart Connector | Supports compatible Smart Keyboard accessories without separate pairing |
Compare Related Models
Model | Launch year | Display | Processor | Rear/front camera | Battery | Storage | Network | Weight |
iPad Pro 9.7-inch | 2016 | 9.7-inch Retina IPS, 2048 × 1536, 60Hz | Apple A9X | 12MP Wide / 5MP FaceTime HD | 27.5Wh; up to 10 hours on Wi-Fi | 32GB–256GB | Wi-Fi 5; optional 4G LTE | 437g Wi-Fi; 444g cellular |
iPad Pro 10.5-inch | 2017 | 10.5-inch Retina IPS, 2224 × 1668, ProMotion up to 120Hz | Apple A10X Fusion | 12MP Wide / 7MP FaceTime HD | 30.4Wh; up to 10 hours on Wi-Fi | 64GB–512GB | Wi-Fi 5; optional 4G LTE | 469g Wi-Fi; 477g cellular |
iPad Air 3rd Gen | 2019 | 10.5-inch Retina IPS, 2224 × 1668, 60Hz | Apple A12 Bionic | 8MP Wide / 7MP FaceTime HD | 30.2Wh; up to 10 hours on Wi-Fi | 64GB or 256GB | Wi-Fi 5; optional 4G LTE | 456g Wi-Fi; 464g cellular |
iPad Pro 11-inch (1st Gen) | 2018 | 11-inch Liquid Retina IPS, 2388 × 1668, ProMotion up to 120Hz | Apple A12X Bionic | 12MP Wide / 7MP TrueDepth | 29.37Wh; up to 10 hours on Wi-Fi | 64GB–1TB | Wi-Fi 5; optional 4G LTE | 468g Wi-Fi; 468g cellular |
Which Model Should You Choose?
Choose this model | If you want |
iPad Pro 9.7-inch | A compact, low-cost iPad with four-speaker audio, a laminated display and Apple Pencil support |
iPad Pro 10.5-inch | A larger 120Hz display, faster processor, more memory and later software support |
iPad Air 3rd Gen | A similar traditional design with a faster processor and support for newer iPadOS versions |
iPad Pro 11-inch (1st Gen) | A modern all-screen design, Face ID, USB-C and Apple Pencil (2nd generation) support |
Alternatives
If you are comparing before buying, you may also want to check these related SellUp Marketplace pages:
Common Questions
Is the iPad Pro 9.7-inch good for everyday use?
It may still handle very light browsing, reading, video playback and basic compatible applications. Its A9X chip and 2GB of RAM can feel slow, and it does not support iPadOS 17 or later.
Does the iPad Pro 9.7-inch support 5G?
No. Wi-Fi + Cellular versions support 4G LTE but not 5G, while Wi-Fi-only models have no cellular connection. Actual LTE speed depends on your Singapore telco plan, compatible nano-SIM or Apple SIM service, coverage and network conditions.
Is the iPad Pro 9.7-inch better than the iPad Pro 10.5-inch?
No. The 10.5-inch model has a larger ProMotion display, faster A10X chip, more memory, improved front camera and support for later iPadOS versions. The 9.7-inch model is smaller and lighter but considerably older.
Does the iPad Pro 9.7-inch support wireless charging?
No. It does not support Qi or MagSafe wireless charging. The tablet and Apple Pencil (1st generation) use the Lightning connection for charging.
Is the iPad Pro 9.7-inch water resistant?
Apple does not provide an official IP water- or dust-resistance rating for this model. Keep it away from liquids and inspect a used unit for moisture damage or corrosion around its Lightning port, headphone jack and buttons.
Is the iPad Pro 9.7-inch worth buying used?
It may only be worthwhile for basic use at a very low price. Its older processor and limited software support reduce its long-term appeal, so check the screen, battery, cameras, speakers, microphones, ports, buttons, Touch ID and Activation Lock status carefully.
Why Buy the Apple iPad Pro 9.7-inch?
The Apple iPad Pro 9.7-inch can still provide a compact laminated display, four-speaker audio and Apple Pencil support for reading, video playback and basic creative work. Its lightweight body is also convenient for handheld use.
It is most suitable when available at a very low price and when current software support is not essential. Buyers wanting stronger performance and broader application compatibility should consider an iPad Pro 10.5-inch or newer model.
Compare Apple iPad Pro 9.7-inch listings on SellUp Marketplace to find the condition, storage size, and price that suits your budget.
