Apple iPad Pro review, release date, specs & Black Friday deals: not as powerful as predicted but at least iPad Air 2 gets $150 off

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Nov 27, 2015 05:30 AM EST

Apple's iPad Pro was released earlier this month to mixed reviews.

Forbes labels the new device as a "failure" in the 12-inch tablet category, feeling more as simply "a bigger iPad or "a bigger iPhone." With the massive screen, users have more place to work on but offers no major differences over their other products.

MacWorld says comparing sales between the iPad Pro 2 and Microsoft Surface Pro would be unfair as the latter had a three-year headstart. The source would like to give it 3 weeks for sales to pick up.

Tim Cook does say that the device is no Mac replacement. Venture Beat's review confirms this by showing both the iPad Pro's impressive aspects while.

With a 64-bit A9x processor and 4 GB RAM installed inside the tablet, the iPad Pro is able to handle running two apps at the same. It's also great for playing movies and games with its crisp stereo speakers and graphics.

On the other hand, it does not have 3D Touch, a feature which allows users to access additional options when a button is pressed long enough. The feature is currently only available in the iPhone 6S.

Another issue involves charging the device. The source reports that charging the iPad Pro can be frustrating as it takes two hours to fully charge the device on its own.

Users can make typing and doodling on the iPad Pro easier and more comfortable by installing first-party accessories such as the Smart Keyboard and Apple Pencil. However, priced at $169 and $99 respectively, users will end up with a device that's more expensive than the MacBook Air.

For those who are looking for a less expensive option, there is the iPad Air 2. Several deals are available in time for Black Friday, with some retailers offering price cuts as much as $150.

According to Mac Rumors, Sam's Club is one such retailer. Users can get a chance to purchase a basic Wi-Fi iPad Air 2 model for $349.

Staples is giving a $125 discount on a 16 GB Wi-Fi only unit, pricing the iPad Pro 2 at $374. A 64 GB unit is currently priced at $449, offering a discount of $150.

At Best Buy, the 16 GB and 64 GB Wi-Fi only iPad Air 2 units are priced at $399 and $499 respectively, offering a discount of $100 for each unit. The 128GB model with Wi-Fi can be purchased for $574, a $125 discount from its original price.

Target offers a $150 gift card for buyers who purchase any of their iPad Air 2 units.

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