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Product Description
Color: Pink
Amazon.com
The #1 Learning Tablet Just Got Better! (Ages 3-9 Years)
• Front-and-back cameras and video recorders
• Leveled reading experiences to help reading skills grow
• Creative play for unlimited exploration and discovery
• 4GB of memory
• 325+ game cartridges & downloadable apps*
*Five apps included. All additional games and apps sold separately
New! LeapPad2
LeapPad2 inspires kids to create and explore with front-and-back cameras and video recorders, 4GB of memory, a faster processor and a library of 325+ game cartridges and downloadable apps.* Unlock your child's imagination and potential with eBooks, videos, music, creativity studios, games and more!
Five Apps Included
The LeapPad2 learning tablet comes with five apps that encourage creativity and non-stop learning fun.* Create and nurture your very own pet in Pet Pad, direct your own animated cartoons in the exclusive Cartoon Director app, learn and sing along to LeapFrog Learning Songs and make masterpieces in the interactive Art Studio. You can also select one of four popular apps to download free to your tablet!
So Many Ways to Play
Touch the screen with a finger to bring characters and words to life. Tap, draw and write with the stylus, or turn, twist and shake the tablet for exciting motion-based play! Videos and music add to the fun for endless engagement anywhere.
Compatible with Cartridges or Explore the App Center
LeapPad2 works with a library of more than 325 game cartridges and apps.* Shop for LeapFrog Explorer game cartridges, or expand the fun right from your home computer by downloading new adventures from the LeapFrog App Center, a library full of amazing educational and age-appropriate apps for kids!
The Highest-Quality Educational Content
LeapFrog learning apps and games are designed by educational experts, who create innovative, immersive experiences that keep kids challenged and inspired! From math and science to creativity and friendship, kids can explore hundreds of skills at just the right pace for them. Parents can even enter their child's math sets and spelling lists into select games, for extra practice as they play!
Experience a New Way to Read
Characters spring to life with amazing animation, reading levels adjust the challenge to keep kids engaged and learning, while touching the text sounds out words to help build phonics, comprehension and vocabulary skills. Voice recording, motion-based play and other innovative features turn reading into an interactive experience as children progress with our new Learn to Read series and other exciting Ultra eBooks!
Learn to Read and Ultra eBooks sold separately.
Imagine, Create and Share
With a new front-and-back camera and video recorder - plus 4 GB of memory - the sky's the limit for creative play! Children can create masterpieces in the Art Studio, edit pictures they've taken in the Photo Studio and create, direct and narrate their own animated movies in the new included Cartoon Director app!
See and Share Achievements
Our groundbreaking LeapFrog Learning Path lets you see specific details of your child's play and learning, including areas where your child excels or needs more support. Emails provide tailored learning tips and let you share your child's progress and achievements!
Learn in Style - Everywhere
From fashionable skins and cases to kid-friendly headphones and more, choose from a range of accessories to make LeapPad2 your own. The AC Adapter and all-new Recharger Pack help extend the play, for endless fun and learning everywhere you go!
Accessories sold separately.
What's in the Box:
- LeapPad2 Explorer Learning Tablet (4GB Memory)
- 2 Built-in Cameras & Video Recorders
- LeapFrog Learning Songs App (5 Songs Included)
- Pet Pad Writing App
- Cartoon Creativity App†
- Art Studio App†
- Free App Download†
- USB Cable
†Internet connection required. To download these apps, you must install the LeapFrog Connect Application and complete registration.
Innovative Learning Approach
LeapFrog learning games, apps and eBooks are designed by our in-house educational experts and grounded in the latest research for the richest possible learning experience. By promoting learning through play, we tap into children's natural curiosity, inspiring them to explore.
Batteries not included. Rechargeable battery pack sold separately. The NPD Group / Consumer Tracking Service; PS Electronic Learning, Learning Tablet Brands as defined by LeapFrog, Dollars, Annual 2011 *5 apps included (some require an Internet connection to download). All additional games and apps sold separately. Not all games and apps available in all countries; some not available until year-end 2012.
Trademark Information:
LeapFrog®
LeapFrog Explorer™
Product Description
The #1 learning tablet just got better! LeapPad2 Explorer™ inspires kids to imagine and explore with front-and-back cameras, 4 GB of memory and a library of 325+ apps for limitless learning and fun!
· Explore a library of 325+ LeapFrog Explorer cartridges and downloadable apps, including innovative book apps, videos, music, creativity apps and more! LeapPad2 comes with 5 apps: Pet Pad, LeapFrog Learning Songs, Cartoon Director, Art Studio and one app of your choice. Works with LeapFrog Explorer™ cartridges and apps (sold separately).
· Capture your world in two ways with front and back cameras/video recorders! Trace, create and play by using your finger or the included stylus on the brilliant 5" touch screen, control the action in games with motion-based play and record your own voice with a built-in microphone!
· With a faster processor and 4 GB of memory, you can now keep more personal creations and apps at your fingertips, including innovative book apps that provide a fully interactive reading experience with visual say-it, sound-it support and state-of-the-art gameplay; an all-new Cartoon Director app to create, direct and narrate your own animated movies; music to listen to; and Art and Photo studios to inspire imaginations.
· Draws from more than 2500 skills in subjects like reading, art, music, language and culture, science, geography, mathematics, health and more. LeapPad2 automatically adjusts the learning to each and every child, asking more challenging questions as children's skills develop. Progress is remembered from game to game so the learning and fun keep moving forward!
· Parents can connect to the free, online LeapFrog
· Explore a library of 325+ LeapFrog Explorer cartridges and downloadable apps, including innovative book apps, videos, music, creativity apps and more! LeapPad2 comes with 5 apps: Pet Pad, LeapFrog Learning Songs, Cartoon Director, Art Studio and one app of your choice. Works with LeapFrog Explorer™ cartridges and apps (sold separately).
· Capture your world in two ways with front and back cameras/video recorders! Trace, create and play by using your finger or the included stylus on the brilliant 5" touch screen, control the action in games with motion-based play and record your own voice with a built-in microphone!
· With a faster processor and 4 GB of memory, you can now keep more personal creations and apps at your fingertips, including innovative book apps that provide a fully interactive reading experience with visual say-it, sound-it support and state-of-the-art gameplay; an all-new Cartoon Director app to create, direct and narrate your own animated movies; music to listen to; and Art and Photo studios to inspire imaginations.
· Draws from more than 2500 skills in subjects like reading, art, music, language and culture, science, geography, mathematics, health and more. LeapPad2 automatically adjusts the learning to each and every child, asking more challenging questions as children's skills develop. Progress is remembered from game to game so the learning and fun keep moving forward!
· Parents can connect to the free, online LeapFrog
Customer Reviews
Most Helpful Customer Reviews
774 of 789 people found the following review helpful
By sixseven
Color Name:Green|Amazon Verified Purchase
Durability:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Educational:
4.0 out of 5 stars
Fun:
5.0 out of 5 stars
We gave the original leappad to my 4yo daughter last Christmas. She absolutely loved it. In fact she loved it a little too much, as it started to interfere with bedtime. Unfortunately I accidentally left her leappad on an airplane. She was crushed.
Fast forward to a few weeks ago. I saw the announcement for the leappad2 and thought this might be a way to make up for my mistake. We preordered from Amazon, and it arrived today. If you have the original leappad, here are some differences that I noticed:
* I couldn't open the box without tearing/cutting it. Leapfrog seems to have glued down every flap. I was hoping to open it, download the apps, configure it, and repackage it so i could wrap it up as a present. But that wasn't possible without damaging the box.
* It is definitely faster/snappier. The upgraded CPU is a noticeable improvement.
* The battery covers are significantly improved. With the old one, you could use the stylus to pop off the covers. The new ones snap firmly into place. There's no way my daughter will be able to remove these...
* Just like the original, you get to pick one app. But I'm pretty sure the app selection has changed. The choices now are roly poly picnic, hamster music, a leapfrog video, or an ebook.
* Unlike the original leappad, The package only comes with one stylus, which is already connected to the leappad with the included string.
* Leapfrog appears to have added a new connector for the stylus string below the stylus slot. This should help children who are lefties. (like my daughter)
That's all I can think of for now. I'll update this review as my daughter plays with it. I am certain she is going to love the front camera.
PS - I am just an average person that actually paid for this. I'm not some professional mommy-blogger that got a free 'sample' in exchange for writing a glowing review. All of these reviews that predate 8/1/2012 seem a little contrived, don't you think?
EDIT #1 (8/3/2012) - Within the leappad connect app, I could install all apps that I PURCHASED for our original leappad on to the new one. It would not allow me to install the free, selectable app that came with the purchase of the original leappad.
EDIT #2 (8/5/2012) - If you search the internet you can find two codes for two free apps, "Alphabet Soup", and "The Book of Super Awesome Stuff." I had previously downloaded these apps to our first (lost) leappad. Leappad Connect would not allow me to install these on the new Leappad 2. Not sure why. I am going to open a support ticket with Leap Frog. I've already had an open ticket regarding the lost leappad, so this might be related to that. I guess what I'm saying is that this might not be a problem for others...
EDIT #3 (8/8/2012) - One of my daughter's favorite apps is the Music app. There are 5 songs that are preloaded. She plays them all the time. She loves music, so I can't wait for the official MP3 upgrade thats supposed to come out this fall. I hope Leapfrog will not overcharge for it...
Speaking of overcharging... I was in Target the other day and was surprised to see two "Recharger Packs" for the Leappad 2 on sale. They were $40 each. $40!!! Come on Leapfrog! $30 is at the high-end of what I will pay for a battery. Replacement laptop batteries are cheaper than this. They should be more like $20. It's antics like this that will drive loyal customers to the flood of cheap android devices that will be coming in the next several months...
EDIT #4 (8/17/2012) - This is my last edit. My daughter LOVES the new creativity app. Basically it lets you create animated stories. You get to pick the background, props, and characters. From there you can add movement and action, and a dialog. You can use the camera to replace the face of the characters with a photo. I was impressed. I've also seen that many of the apps are lefty friendly, meaning it will allow you to turn the leappad over so the string isn't stretched when using the left hand. I'm happy with the purchase, and my daughter is happy too.
I have little doubt these will be a hot item this Christmas. If you are thinking you want to get this for your child, don't wait. Otherwise the scalpers will be your only option. (That, or waiting until after Christmas.
Fast forward to a few weeks ago. I saw the announcement for the leappad2 and thought this might be a way to make up for my mistake. We preordered from Amazon, and it arrived today. If you have the original leappad, here are some differences that I noticed:
* I couldn't open the box without tearing/cutting it. Leapfrog seems to have glued down every flap. I was hoping to open it, download the apps, configure it, and repackage it so i could wrap it up as a present. But that wasn't possible without damaging the box.
* It is definitely faster/snappier. The upgraded CPU is a noticeable improvement.
* The battery covers are significantly improved. With the old one, you could use the stylus to pop off the covers. The new ones snap firmly into place. There's no way my daughter will be able to remove these...
* Just like the original, you get to pick one app. But I'm pretty sure the app selection has changed. The choices now are roly poly picnic, hamster music, a leapfrog video, or an ebook.
* Unlike the original leappad, The package only comes with one stylus, which is already connected to the leappad with the included string.
* Leapfrog appears to have added a new connector for the stylus string below the stylus slot. This should help children who are lefties. (like my daughter)
That's all I can think of for now. I'll update this review as my daughter plays with it. I am certain she is going to love the front camera.
PS - I am just an average person that actually paid for this. I'm not some professional mommy-blogger that got a free 'sample' in exchange for writing a glowing review. All of these reviews that predate 8/1/2012 seem a little contrived, don't you think?
EDIT #1 (8/3/2012) - Within the leappad connect app, I could install all apps that I PURCHASED for our original leappad on to the new one. It would not allow me to install the free, selectable app that came with the purchase of the original leappad.
EDIT #2 (8/5/2012) - If you search the internet you can find two codes for two free apps, "Alphabet Soup", and "The Book of Super Awesome Stuff." I had previously downloaded these apps to our first (lost) leappad. Leappad Connect would not allow me to install these on the new Leappad 2. Not sure why. I am going to open a support ticket with Leap Frog. I've already had an open ticket regarding the lost leappad, so this might be related to that. I guess what I'm saying is that this might not be a problem for others...
EDIT #3 (8/8/2012) - One of my daughter's favorite apps is the Music app. There are 5 songs that are preloaded. She plays them all the time. She loves music, so I can't wait for the official MP3 upgrade thats supposed to come out this fall. I hope Leapfrog will not overcharge for it...
Speaking of overcharging... I was in Target the other day and was surprised to see two "Recharger Packs" for the Leappad 2 on sale. They were $40 each. $40!!! Come on Leapfrog! $30 is at the high-end of what I will pay for a battery. Replacement laptop batteries are cheaper than this. They should be more like $20. It's antics like this that will drive loyal customers to the flood of cheap android devices that will be coming in the next several months...
EDIT #4 (8/17/2012) - This is my last edit. My daughter LOVES the new creativity app. Basically it lets you create animated stories. You get to pick the background, props, and characters. From there you can add movement and action, and a dialog. You can use the camera to replace the face of the characters with a photo. I was impressed. I've also seen that many of the apps are lefty friendly, meaning it will allow you to turn the leappad over so the string isn't stretched when using the left hand. I'm happy with the purchase, and my daughter is happy too.
I have little doubt these will be a hot item this Christmas. If you are thinking you want to get this for your child, don't wait. Otherwise the scalpers will be your only option. (That, or waiting until after Christmas.
336 of 347 people found the following review helpful
Color Name:Green|Amazon Vine™ Review
(What's this?)
Durability:
4.0 out of 5 stars
Educational:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Fun:
5.0 out of 5 stars
I was really excited to receive the new LeapPad2 because I saw the recommended age changed for 4-9 years to 3-9 years. My son just turned 3.
Firstly, we own the original LeapPad, which was a huge disappointment. My main complaint was how slow it was. The LeapPad2, I'm happy to report, is much quicker! Not as quick as an iPad, but quicker than the original version. Setting both side by side the LeapPad2 reaches the main screen and loads games much quicker. Also, the resolution on the LeapPad2 is significantly clearer than the original.
Right out of the box I had to add 4 AA batteries (not included) and connect to a computer for setup; all easy enough. I was able to download some new apps for my son and gave it to him to play with the next morning.
The included stylus is easy for him to use, but he still prefers to use his finger. I imagine he'll want to use the stylus more as he gets older. I like that the games are educational and challenging. At the moment he's obsessed with Jewel Train; trying to connect the tracks so the train can make it to the station. He also likes to trace the alphabets in PetPad, and "read" his Thomas Ultrabook.
The original LeapPad used the stylus to click open the battery compartment. LeapPad2 just has sliding compartments. My son can't open it, so that's a plus. Also, the new way helps him hold the LeapPad better because it creates a raised backing for his hands.
The original LeapPad came with two styluses, LeapPad2 only one. LeapPad2 has an optional rope loop on the bottom for lefties. My 3 year old is a righty, but my 16 month old is leaning towards a leftie; since they'll have to share this it's good to have the option.
The front and back camera is a nice touch. My son isn't into using it yet, but I love that when he is, he can click away on his LeapPad2 and have fun.
As a parent I like LeapFrog's Learning Path. When you plug in your child's device on your computer it will tell you what games your child has played, how long they have played them, and how successful they were. It's a nice touch.
My only problem at the moment is that not all of our games are showing. All of the games I purchased are there, but the games that automatically come with the LeapPad2 are not (any advice?). For instance, we should have Roly Poly Picnic. I saw it before I added my son's account to the device, and now it's not there. We have plenty of memory space, so I don't know where it went or how to get it back without paying for it. Also, I think the MP3 Player app should be included, and not have to pay an additional $3.75 for it. One thing to know, is when you buy this device, don't expect a user manual, it doesn't come with one.
- I wish the LeapPad2 had an internal rechargeable battery.
- I wish it came with the required 4 AA batteries.
- I wish it came with a wall charger.
- I wish it came with 2 stylus' in case we loose/break one.
- I wish it had rubber around the sides for less chance of slipping out of a child's hand (though you can purchase a Gel Skin for it).
- I wish the apps were cheaper.
AND...
- I wish I had a case.
Overall this is a great educational product for little kids and keeps my son off my iPad. Really love it and recommend it. Certainly something my sons will grow with. I'm giving it 4 stars out of 5 because I'm always going to wish it would respond quicker when starting and loading, and the apps were cheaper. My son would give it 5 billion stars because he likes it so much.
And just so you wont have to search for these, here are two FREE app codes:
The Book of Super Awesome Stuff (e-book): 5813 1140 1518 1413
Alphabet Stew (game): 5813 0790 4610 4973
Firstly, we own the original LeapPad, which was a huge disappointment. My main complaint was how slow it was. The LeapPad2, I'm happy to report, is much quicker! Not as quick as an iPad, but quicker than the original version. Setting both side by side the LeapPad2 reaches the main screen and loads games much quicker. Also, the resolution on the LeapPad2 is significantly clearer than the original.
Right out of the box I had to add 4 AA batteries (not included) and connect to a computer for setup; all easy enough. I was able to download some new apps for my son and gave it to him to play with the next morning.
The included stylus is easy for him to use, but he still prefers to use his finger. I imagine he'll want to use the stylus more as he gets older. I like that the games are educational and challenging. At the moment he's obsessed with Jewel Train; trying to connect the tracks so the train can make it to the station. He also likes to trace the alphabets in PetPad, and "read" his Thomas Ultrabook.
The original LeapPad used the stylus to click open the battery compartment. LeapPad2 just has sliding compartments. My son can't open it, so that's a plus. Also, the new way helps him hold the LeapPad better because it creates a raised backing for his hands.
The original LeapPad came with two styluses, LeapPad2 only one. LeapPad2 has an optional rope loop on the bottom for lefties. My 3 year old is a righty, but my 16 month old is leaning towards a leftie; since they'll have to share this it's good to have the option.
The front and back camera is a nice touch. My son isn't into using it yet, but I love that when he is, he can click away on his LeapPad2 and have fun.
As a parent I like LeapFrog's Learning Path. When you plug in your child's device on your computer it will tell you what games your child has played, how long they have played them, and how successful they were. It's a nice touch.
My only problem at the moment is that not all of our games are showing. All of the games I purchased are there, but the games that automatically come with the LeapPad2 are not (any advice?). For instance, we should have Roly Poly Picnic. I saw it before I added my son's account to the device, and now it's not there. We have plenty of memory space, so I don't know where it went or how to get it back without paying for it. Also, I think the MP3 Player app should be included, and not have to pay an additional $3.75 for it. One thing to know, is when you buy this device, don't expect a user manual, it doesn't come with one.
- I wish the LeapPad2 had an internal rechargeable battery.
- I wish it came with the required 4 AA batteries.
- I wish it came with a wall charger.
- I wish it came with 2 stylus' in case we loose/break one.
- I wish it had rubber around the sides for less chance of slipping out of a child's hand (though you can purchase a Gel Skin for it).
- I wish the apps were cheaper.
AND...
- I wish I had a case.
Overall this is a great educational product for little kids and keeps my son off my iPad. Really love it and recommend it. Certainly something my sons will grow with. I'm giving it 4 stars out of 5 because I'm always going to wish it would respond quicker when starting and loading, and the apps were cheaper. My son would give it 5 billion stars because he likes it so much.
And just so you wont have to search for these, here are two FREE app codes:
The Book of Super Awesome Stuff (e-book): 5813 1140 1518 1413
Alphabet Stew (game): 5813 0790 4610 4973
418 of 434 people found the following review helpful
Color Name:Pink
Durability:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Educational:
3.0 out of 5 stars
Fun:
5.0 out of 5 stars
If you want a child-friendly tablet-style device, this is the best one on the market as of October 2012. But you have to understand what you're getting and why this is desirable. There are a lot of positive reviews that are a bit inflated, and many negative reviews that are simply unfair in their expectations. Here's my realistic parent-friendly review...
First, the LeapPad is more rugged and more child-friendly compared to an iPad, iPod, or Android tablet. I know parents who prefer to let their kids play apps on those more sophisticated devices, but if you go that route, you're taking a risk with a more expensive and more fragile device. You're also opening up a potential can of worms since those devices usually include unrestricted access to the internet (which may expose your child to inappropriate material or allow him/her to accidentally make purchases, etc.). The LeapPad's more durable casing allows young children to hold and carry it with less likelihood of damage. Since it has a fairly wide bezel all the way around the screen, it also offers space for a child to rest his/her palm when writing with the stylus, with fewer "false taps" that can occur when their palm or fingers touch the screen instead of the stylus. And, of course, since it is not wireless-connectivity enabled, you don't have to worry about your child stumbling across objectionable content or making accidental purchases. You control the content on the device by syncing to your computer and deciding what to install (the sync cable is included, and plugs into a standard USB slot on your computer).
Second, the LeapPad is much more responsive than any of the other child tablets we've tested. We bought our 2.5-year-old daughter a FisherPrice iXL, which was cheaper and came with 6 very basic apps that we thought would be plenty sufficient. However, after a few weeks, she was still struggling to learn how to use the apps due to noticeable lag/unresponsiveness during screen taps. The inconsistent results when she interacted with the screen made it hard for her to learn the interface. Sometimes tapping an icon would do what she wanted, but often, multiple taps would not produce the desired effect. Often, she had to ask "Daddy can you help me draw?" or "Daddy can you help me play music?" in order to access or use a program. When she tried a friend's LeapPad1, however, it was noticeably more responsive, allowing her to understand the interface MUCH better. When we purchased a LeapPad2 we were delighted to find that it's even snappier than the LeapPad1. Within a few hours, our daughter had mastered how to access all of the applications and she also understood about 50 - 60% of the more advanced functions within each program (such as choosing the small, medium, or large eraser in the Art Studio drawing program). I'm certain she learned it so quickly because the screen and stylus respond faster and more consistently (about 95% of all taps register correctly, even in the hands of our 2.5-year old).
Third, the LeapPad has a decent array of basic apps/features already included. When you unbox it, you'll need to install four AA batteries, create a new "profile" for your child, then connect to an Internet-connected computer to load on some of the apps and register the device. The applications included are:
1. CARTRIDGE: which accesses the content on a cartridge, which must be purchased separately
2. PETPAD: allows you to customize the type, color, and features of a small electronic pet, who can then be fed, bathed, or used to learn how to draw upper- and lower-case letters.
3. CAMERA: allows you to use the front- or rear-facing lenses to capture photos or videos of decent quality under ideal lighting conditions (decent enough to delight a young child, that is).
4. MYSTUFF: a consolidated inventory of MyPhotos, MyArt, MyVideos, and MyStories, all of which are created in other apps.
5. MYBOOKS: a bookshelf-style interface that links to eBooks which must be purchased separately
6. MUSIC: a jukebox-style interface that includes one album with five songs about topics like punctuation, vowels, the alphabet, etc.
7. SNEAKPEEKS: a link to various advertisements for add-on content including downloadable and cartridge-style eBooks, games, etc. (Some parents may feel annoyed to have a link to advertisements at all, but I appreciate that they've been confined to an app you must click on to launch. Thankfully, the ads are NOT displayed elsewhere on the device and do NOT intrude upon the functionality or appearance of other apps.)
8. ARTSTUDIO: a simple but decently-featured drawing program much like the basic Paint program on most computers.
9. CREATIVITY: allows you to make short 3-, 4-, or 5-section animated cartoons that include your own photos and voice if desired (this is the most complex app, but plenty accessible for children 4 and older, or with adult assistance).
10. One FREE APP of your choosing from a list of three provided when you sync and register the device. The three options were a game, an eBook, or a video. I had assumed there would already be eBooks on the device, so I chose the free video (a 38-minute tour of the "Letter Factory" that teaches the sounds each letter of the alphabet makes). Had I known the MYBOOKS app would not include an eBook, I would've selected the eBook instead.
Certainly, the LeapPad is a larger investment up front ($99) than many other similar kid-friendly electronics; however, I was pleased to find that the add-ons are lower in price that many competitors. For example, the add-ons for the FisherPrice iXL averaged $25 per title. Although each title included 6 features, the main lure was the eBook and the rest were mainly re-skinned options with very little added content for the built-in programs. That's exactly why we never bought any add-ons for the iXL. With the LeapPad, however, I was delighted to learn that you can buy an eBook alone for approximately $5 - $7.50. So we can buy our daughter three nice eBooks for the price of one add-on title for her FisherPrice iXL. There are also other apps, such as a story creator that allows you to use your own photos and voice to create your own stories, for $20 or less. Although the costs could add up quickly, keep in mind that for a young child like ours, you won't need to buy ANY additional content to keep him/her occupied for many dozens (probably hundreds) of hours. The included apps--especially the PETPAD, ARTSTUDIO, and CAMERA--will keep a lot of three year olds happy for a LONG time. Our daughter spent three hours just walking around the house snapping photos and giggling.
Fourth, the LeapPad interface is very child friendly. The physical buttons are minimalist and positioned well out of the way. They include a POWER button for turning the device on/off, an INCREASE and a DECREASE button for controlling the volume, a four-way NAVIGATION button (presumably for games or navigating menus, but we haven't had to use it at all yet), and a HOME button for returning to the main page. The buttons are sufficiently recessed or placed so that accidental button-presses are very rare. This is important because few things are more frustrating for a child than having their e-activity interrupted because they leaned on a button that returned them to the home screen, or some other such issue. Instead, most of the buttons they'll actually use are on-screen and controlled with the stylus. There are very few redundant buttons (some apps have a virtual home button, despite the device already having a physical button for that purpose) and many response options are standardized (to "accept" an option is always a green checkmark, and to "reject" or "close" an option is always a red X). This is good because it minimizes confusion related to the interface, and it also shows that Leap Frog has invested a lot of care and thought in the design of the apps. The LeapPad also has a built-in gyro to reorient the screen as you tilt/turn the device, as well as to play certain motion-sensitive games.
Fifth, the LeapPad has a very large (2.5"W x 4.5"L), bright, colorful screen. The one major shortcoming here is that it really isn't very suitable for use outdoors in bright sunlight, which washes it out so badly it can't really be used. If you're in shade or normal room-level brightness, however, it is very clear and colorful. Although it is not incredibly high resolution or high contrast, it is definitely crisp enough to provide a very pleasant user experience. Shapes, animations, and videos all render very clearly, without annoying jagged lines or pixelation. Watching the letter factory video we installed for free, there was a slightly muted color cast, much like streaming a video at mid-resolution on Netflix, but the animation was still very colorful and impressively smooth. I don't know if the slight lack of crispness was due to the limitations of the screen or the quality of the video file, but either way it did not detract from the viewing experience.
Sixth, the sound is quite good. Since the front-mounted speaker is aimed directly at the user, the lowest volume setting is still quite audible without being likely to annoy others nearby (It could be fairly described as "airplane friendly" even without the use of headphones!) At the highest volume level, it projects sound well enough to fill a small room, which is great if your child likes to turn on music for a "dance party" with friends or family. There are eight steps in the volume besides mute, so finding an appropriate sound level should not be a problem. One of my greatest complaints about children's electronic toys is usually the lack of sound control, but not so here. Well done Leap Frog!
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First, the LeapPad is more rugged and more child-friendly compared to an iPad, iPod, or Android tablet. I know parents who prefer to let their kids play apps on those more sophisticated devices, but if you go that route, you're taking a risk with a more expensive and more fragile device. You're also opening up a potential can of worms since those devices usually include unrestricted access to the internet (which may expose your child to inappropriate material or allow him/her to accidentally make purchases, etc.). The LeapPad's more durable casing allows young children to hold and carry it with less likelihood of damage. Since it has a fairly wide bezel all the way around the screen, it also offers space for a child to rest his/her palm when writing with the stylus, with fewer "false taps" that can occur when their palm or fingers touch the screen instead of the stylus. And, of course, since it is not wireless-connectivity enabled, you don't have to worry about your child stumbling across objectionable content or making accidental purchases. You control the content on the device by syncing to your computer and deciding what to install (the sync cable is included, and plugs into a standard USB slot on your computer).
Second, the LeapPad is much more responsive than any of the other child tablets we've tested. We bought our 2.5-year-old daughter a FisherPrice iXL, which was cheaper and came with 6 very basic apps that we thought would be plenty sufficient. However, after a few weeks, she was still struggling to learn how to use the apps due to noticeable lag/unresponsiveness during screen taps. The inconsistent results when she interacted with the screen made it hard for her to learn the interface. Sometimes tapping an icon would do what she wanted, but often, multiple taps would not produce the desired effect. Often, she had to ask "Daddy can you help me draw?" or "Daddy can you help me play music?" in order to access or use a program. When she tried a friend's LeapPad1, however, it was noticeably more responsive, allowing her to understand the interface MUCH better. When we purchased a LeapPad2 we were delighted to find that it's even snappier than the LeapPad1. Within a few hours, our daughter had mastered how to access all of the applications and she also understood about 50 - 60% of the more advanced functions within each program (such as choosing the small, medium, or large eraser in the Art Studio drawing program). I'm certain she learned it so quickly because the screen and stylus respond faster and more consistently (about 95% of all taps register correctly, even in the hands of our 2.5-year old).
Third, the LeapPad has a decent array of basic apps/features already included. When you unbox it, you'll need to install four AA batteries, create a new "profile" for your child, then connect to an Internet-connected computer to load on some of the apps and register the device. The applications included are:
1. CARTRIDGE: which accesses the content on a cartridge, which must be purchased separately
2. PETPAD: allows you to customize the type, color, and features of a small electronic pet, who can then be fed, bathed, or used to learn how to draw upper- and lower-case letters.
3. CAMERA: allows you to use the front- or rear-facing lenses to capture photos or videos of decent quality under ideal lighting conditions (decent enough to delight a young child, that is).
4. MYSTUFF: a consolidated inventory of MyPhotos, MyArt, MyVideos, and MyStories, all of which are created in other apps.
5. MYBOOKS: a bookshelf-style interface that links to eBooks which must be purchased separately
6. MUSIC: a jukebox-style interface that includes one album with five songs about topics like punctuation, vowels, the alphabet, etc.
7. SNEAKPEEKS: a link to various advertisements for add-on content including downloadable and cartridge-style eBooks, games, etc. (Some parents may feel annoyed to have a link to advertisements at all, but I appreciate that they've been confined to an app you must click on to launch. Thankfully, the ads are NOT displayed elsewhere on the device and do NOT intrude upon the functionality or appearance of other apps.)
8. ARTSTUDIO: a simple but decently-featured drawing program much like the basic Paint program on most computers.
9. CREATIVITY: allows you to make short 3-, 4-, or 5-section animated cartoons that include your own photos and voice if desired (this is the most complex app, but plenty accessible for children 4 and older, or with adult assistance).
10. One FREE APP of your choosing from a list of three provided when you sync and register the device. The three options were a game, an eBook, or a video. I had assumed there would already be eBooks on the device, so I chose the free video (a 38-minute tour of the "Letter Factory" that teaches the sounds each letter of the alphabet makes). Had I known the MYBOOKS app would not include an eBook, I would've selected the eBook instead.
Certainly, the LeapPad is a larger investment up front ($99) than many other similar kid-friendly electronics; however, I was pleased to find that the add-ons are lower in price that many competitors. For example, the add-ons for the FisherPrice iXL averaged $25 per title. Although each title included 6 features, the main lure was the eBook and the rest were mainly re-skinned options with very little added content for the built-in programs. That's exactly why we never bought any add-ons for the iXL. With the LeapPad, however, I was delighted to learn that you can buy an eBook alone for approximately $5 - $7.50. So we can buy our daughter three nice eBooks for the price of one add-on title for her FisherPrice iXL. There are also other apps, such as a story creator that allows you to use your own photos and voice to create your own stories, for $20 or less. Although the costs could add up quickly, keep in mind that for a young child like ours, you won't need to buy ANY additional content to keep him/her occupied for many dozens (probably hundreds) of hours. The included apps--especially the PETPAD, ARTSTUDIO, and CAMERA--will keep a lot of three year olds happy for a LONG time. Our daughter spent three hours just walking around the house snapping photos and giggling.
Fourth, the LeapPad interface is very child friendly. The physical buttons are minimalist and positioned well out of the way. They include a POWER button for turning the device on/off, an INCREASE and a DECREASE button for controlling the volume, a four-way NAVIGATION button (presumably for games or navigating menus, but we haven't had to use it at all yet), and a HOME button for returning to the main page. The buttons are sufficiently recessed or placed so that accidental button-presses are very rare. This is important because few things are more frustrating for a child than having their e-activity interrupted because they leaned on a button that returned them to the home screen, or some other such issue. Instead, most of the buttons they'll actually use are on-screen and controlled with the stylus. There are very few redundant buttons (some apps have a virtual home button, despite the device already having a physical button for that purpose) and many response options are standardized (to "accept" an option is always a green checkmark, and to "reject" or "close" an option is always a red X). This is good because it minimizes confusion related to the interface, and it also shows that Leap Frog has invested a lot of care and thought in the design of the apps. The LeapPad also has a built-in gyro to reorient the screen as you tilt/turn the device, as well as to play certain motion-sensitive games.
Fifth, the LeapPad has a very large (2.5"W x 4.5"L), bright, colorful screen. The one major shortcoming here is that it really isn't very suitable for use outdoors in bright sunlight, which washes it out so badly it can't really be used. If you're in shade or normal room-level brightness, however, it is very clear and colorful. Although it is not incredibly high resolution or high contrast, it is definitely crisp enough to provide a very pleasant user experience. Shapes, animations, and videos all render very clearly, without annoying jagged lines or pixelation. Watching the letter factory video we installed for free, there was a slightly muted color cast, much like streaming a video at mid-resolution on Netflix, but the animation was still very colorful and impressively smooth. I don't know if the slight lack of crispness was due to the limitations of the screen or the quality of the video file, but either way it did not detract from the viewing experience.
Sixth, the sound is quite good. Since the front-mounted speaker is aimed directly at the user, the lowest volume setting is still quite audible without being likely to annoy others nearby (It could be fairly described as "airplane friendly" even without the use of headphones!) At the highest volume level, it projects sound well enough to fill a small room, which is great if your child likes to turn on music for a "dance party" with friends or family. There are eight steps in the volume besides mute, so finding an appropriate sound level should not be a problem. One of my greatest complaints about children's electronic toys is usually the lack of sound control, but not so here. Well done Leap Frog!
DOWNSIDES? Read more ›
Most Recent Customer Reviews
5.0 out of 5 stars
Nice mini pad
I think it should target younger kids,other then that I think it's a great value for this mini pad,I bough one for my granddaughter ,she loves it.
Published 1 day ago by Mamabuck
5.0 out of 5 stars
My 2 yr old loves it
Works great! Arrived very promptly! Worked just as description stated! My son will use it for years! As long as we don't break the screen again....
Published 2 days ago by Flippen
4.0 out of 5 stars
Replacement
This is the second one. The first one was only played with a couple times, and not even roughly, and it stopped working. Hopefully this one lasts longer.
Published 2 days ago by Curtis and Korissa Duff
1.0 out of 5 stars
Unit failed after 4 months and unable to return it
I purchased the unit for my child and after only 4 months, the unit failed and all the recommendations to resolve we're unsuccessful. Read more
Published 2 days ago by Esther K.
5.0 out of 5 stars
This Leap Pad makes a Wonderful Gift
I gave this Leap Pad to my 5 year old granddaughter, she cannot stop playing with. Every time we speak she volunteers how very much she loves it.
Published 2 days ago by Desperate in Conneticut
5.0 out of 5 stars
Daughter loves it
They use their Leap Pads for videos and pics but they also like the games that I allow them to purchase. They are still working and I purchased them for Christmas 2012.
Published 3 days ago by Sheila Anderson
5.0 out of 5 stars
My Kids Love It
My 3 y.o. got this for Christmas and loves the pre-loaded apps and all of the games we've purchased. This device is durable and easy for her to use. Read more
Published 3 days ago by Teaching Mama
5.0 out of 5 stars
App sharing is a great value
About a month ago one of our children received the LeapPad2 as a gift. He absolutely loved it and our only complaint was how annoying it was to police our kids sharing it since... Read more
Published 4 days ago by Krysta
4.0 out of 5 stars
also great for 2 yr olds:)
I love this toy! I bought it for my 1 and a half year old And I don't regret it. We take it to restaurants and when we travel. Also just when she's in the car. Read more
Published 4 days ago by mommabear90
5.0 out of 5 stars
Great
We got just what my daughter wanted. The camera on both sides makes it really easy for her to figure out.
Published 5 days ago by curtisd8
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