Apple iPad 5th Gen (9.7-inch, 2017)

Cheaper price ; Beautiful 9.7-inch screen ; Easy to hold design

Thicker than the Air ; Only A9 chipset ; No 256GB version

The new iPad may not be the most innovative product Apple has ever created, but it's an upgrade on the iPad Air 2 and the new version makes for a fantastic option at an even lower price than iPads of years past.

Fast, smooth performance ; Bright screen and solid blacks ; Rich colours, crisp detail ; Beautiful design ; Good starting price

Screen is rather reflective ; No brand new features

Not the most revolutionary update, but the new, cheaper iPad continues to deliver class-leading performance

Great app ecosystem ; Easy to use interface ; Slick and reliable performance ; Long lasting battery

Screen not quite as good as the iPad Air 2

This iPad offers a solid, consistent tablet experience at the lowest price we’ve seen from Apple in a new, full-size tablet.

Apple's new iPad delivers faster performance and a brighter screen than the model it replaces, at a price that's about half as much as the iPad Pro. Tight integration between the hardware, software and app store makes it easy to use.

It's a bit thicker and heavier than the now defunct iPad Air 2. It lacks the stylus support, better speakers and better screen of the iPad Pro.

Pro and Air 2 owners can skip this one, but for nearly everyone else, the updated iPad is an ideal all-around tablet at a fantastic price.

Respectable battery life ; Sturdy and lightweight ; Beautiful design ; Affordable*

Screen could be less reflecive ; No expandable memory ; No 'raise to wake'

It’s hard not to compare this fifth-generation iPad to the tablets that came before it as it’s essentially a hodgepodge of hardware and components Apple already had lying around with the latest iOS software slapped on top. But a Frankenstein’s monster...

Powerful and snappy in varied use cases ; Slightly thicker body brings practical benefits ; Price is ideal for newcomers and upgraders

Reflective and hollow-sounding display ; Speakers still not up to much ; Rear camera is merely OK

It might look like a regression, but this iPad is affordable and has enough power within to serve you well for years.

Exceptionally powerful ; Timeless, near flawless design ; True Tone makes for a very natural display ; A great tool for arty types

True Tone really needs to be turned off for videos, photos etc ; Far from cheap

It isn't cheap, but the 9.7in iPad Pro is perhaps the perfect tablet

Which budget-friendly iPad is best for you? If budget really is the be-all and end-all, the iPad 2017 is your best bet, because it starts at £339 instead of £419; bear in mind, however, that you're saving £80 because it comes with less storage. Still,...