IPad Pro 12.9 2018: Still Worth It?

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iPad Pro 12.9" 2018: Still Worth It?

Hey everyone! Let's dive into the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2018). It's been a few years since this beast of a tablet hit the market, and you might be wondering: is it still worth your hard-earned cash in today's tech landscape? Well, buckle up, because we're about to find out! We'll explore its specs, performance, what makes it stand out, and whether it holds its own against the newer models and the competition. We'll also cover some crucial aspects to consider, like the iPad Pro 12.9 inch 2018 repair options if something goes wrong. This isn't just about the raw power or the screen size; it's about the overall user experience and how well this tablet fits into your life. Whether you're a creative professional, a student, or just a tech enthusiast looking for a powerful tablet, this article is for you. So, let's get started and see if the 2018 iPad Pro 12.9-inch is still a champion or if it's time to retire it.

Unpacking the Powerhouse: Specs and Features

Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty and take a peek under the hood. The iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2018) boasts some impressive specs that, even today, hold up pretty well. At its heart, you'll find the A12X Bionic chip, a powerhouse that delivers incredible performance for its time. It’s paired with either 4GB or 6GB of RAM, depending on the storage configuration you choose. You could pick up configurations offering 64GB, 256GB, 512GB, or even a whopping 1TB of storage, which is plenty for your apps, games, photos, videos, and all the other digital goodies you might have.

One of the most defining features is, of course, the stunning 12.9-inch Liquid Retina display. It has a resolution of 2732 x 2048 pixels, making everything look incredibly sharp and vibrant. The screen also supports ProMotion technology, which automatically adjusts the refresh rate up to 120Hz. That means smoother scrolling, more responsive gaming, and a better overall experience. The tablet is also compatible with the second-generation Apple Pencil, which magnetically attaches to the side of the iPad and charges wirelessly. The design is sleek and modern, with thin bezels and no home button, making the display feel even more immersive. The design, with its flat edges, still looks pretty modern, even when compared to the newer models. The iPad Pro 12.9 inch 2018 comes with a USB-C port, which is a major upgrade from the Lightning port, making it much easier to connect to other devices and accessories. The camera setup includes a 12MP rear camera and a 7MP front-facing camera. Both cameras are capable of capturing high-quality photos and videos. This iPad also has Face ID for secure unlocking and authenticating apps, and it has four speakers, which deliver immersive audio.

Key Specs Recap

  • Processor: A12X Bionic chip
  • RAM: 4GB or 6GB (depending on storage)
  • Storage: 64GB, 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB
  • Display: 12.9-inch Liquid Retina display with ProMotion
  • Connectivity: USB-C
  • Apple Pencil Support: 2nd generation
  • Cameras: 12MP rear, 7MP front
  • Other Features: Face ID, four speakers

Performance and Real-World Usage

Now, let's talk about what it's like to actually use the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2018) in everyday life. The A12X Bionic chip still packs a punch, even by today's standards. It can handle most tasks with ease, whether you're browsing the web, checking emails, streaming videos, or playing graphically demanding games. The multitasking capabilities are also excellent, thanks to the ample RAM. You can easily switch between multiple apps without experiencing any lag. The ProMotion technology makes the user experience incredibly smooth and responsive. Scrolling through web pages and documents feels fluid and natural, and the animations are crisp. The large 12.9-inch display is fantastic for creative tasks. If you're into drawing, sketching, or photo editing, the screen real estate is very helpful, and the second-generation Apple Pencil is a joy to use. The Apple Pencil attaches magnetically to the side of the iPad Pro, and it charges wirelessly. The display quality is very good, and it’s great for watching videos and movies.

For students, the iPad Pro is a great choice. You can take notes, create presentations, and do research on the go. The size of the screen makes it easier to read documents and textbooks. The USB-C port is also very useful for connecting to external devices such as external hard drives, monitors, and other accessories. One of the major advantages of the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2018) is its excellent battery life. You can typically get a full day of use out of it, even with heavy usage. It's perfect for long trips, workdays, or just relaxing at home without having to worry about finding a power outlet. The speakers deliver immersive audio, making watching movies and listening to music an enjoyable experience. Gaming is also excellent. The powerful A12X Bionic chip handles even the most demanding games with ease, and the large display gives you a great gaming experience.

Using the iPad Pro 12.9" (2018) for...

  • Creative Tasks: Excellent for drawing, sketching, and photo editing.
  • Students: Great for note-taking, creating presentations, and research.
  • Entertainment: Wonderful for watching movies and listening to music.
  • Gaming: Handles demanding games with ease.

The iPad Pro 12.9" (2018) vs. Newer Models

So, how does the 2018 model stack up against the newer iPad Pro models? Well, the newer models, like the ones from 2020, 2021, and 2022, come with improvements. The 2020 models and later got an updated processor, the A12Z Bionic, and then the M1 and M2 chips in the newer generations, which offer even more processing power. This means faster performance in demanding tasks like video editing and 3D rendering. The newer models also feature improved cameras, including an ultrawide lens and a LiDAR scanner, which enhances augmented reality experiences. The display on the newer models have been upgraded as well. The 2021 and 2022 models use mini-LED backlighting in their Liquid Retina XDR displays, which provides even better contrast and brightness, especially for HDR content. These models also feature Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports, which offer even faster data transfer speeds.

However, the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2018) still holds its own. The A12X Bionic chip is still a capable processor, and the performance difference might not be noticeable in everyday use for many users. The display quality is still excellent, and the design is still very modern. The 2018 model is also more affordable than the newer models, so it can be a good option if you are on a budget. This is particularly relevant if you're not planning to use the iPad for intensive tasks like professional video editing or gaming. The main advantages of the newer models are the faster processor, improved cameras, and better display. But the 2018 model offers a great balance of performance, features, and price, making it a compelling option for many users. If you are looking for a powerful tablet and do not want to spend a lot of money, the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2018) is still a very good option. It is a good choice for those who are interested in iPad Pro 12.9 inch 2018 repair and are looking for something that won't break the bank.

Key Differences

  • Processor: Newer models have faster processors (M1/M2 vs. A12X)
  • Cameras: Newer models have improved cameras with ultrawide and LiDAR.
  • Display: Newer models have mini-LED backlighting and better contrast.
  • Ports: Newer models have Thunderbolt/USB 4.
  • Price: 2018 model is more affordable.

What to Consider Before Buying

Before you pull the trigger on an iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2018), there are a few things you should consider. First, think about your needs. What will you be using the tablet for? If you need the ultimate power for demanding tasks, you might want to consider the newer models. If you're mostly browsing the web, checking emails, streaming videos, and using productivity apps, the 2018 model will probably be more than enough. The budget is another important consideration. The 2018 model is usually available at a lower price than the newer models. You can often find them refurbished or used, which can save you a significant amount of money. Just make sure to buy from a reputable seller and check the device carefully before purchasing.

Next, take into consideration the storage capacity. Do you need a lot of storage for apps, games, photos, videos, and other files? Consider the storage options (64GB, 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB) and pick the one that fits your needs. Also, think about the accessories you want to use. The iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2018) supports the second-generation Apple Pencil, which is great for creative tasks and note-taking. You can also connect it to a Smart Keyboard Folio or other Bluetooth keyboards for typing. Another factor is the battery life. The 2018 model has excellent battery life, but make sure to check the battery health if you're buying a used device. One of the other important things to consider is the condition of the iPad. If you are buying a used iPad, check the screen for scratches, the body for dents, and the buttons for proper function. Also, do a quick search on the iPad Pro 12.9 inch 2018 repair to see what the costs of possible repairs are.

Key Considerations

  • Needs: What will you use the tablet for?
  • Budget: How much are you willing to spend?
  • Storage: Choose the right storage capacity.
  • Accessories: Consider the Apple Pencil and keyboard support.
  • Condition: Check the battery health and physical condition (if used).

Should You Buy the iPad Pro 12.9" (2018) in 2024?

So, the million-dollar question: is the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2018) still a viable purchase in 2024? The answer is: it depends. If you're on a tight budget and need a powerful tablet for everyday tasks, the 2018 model is still a solid choice. It offers excellent performance, a stunning display, and a great user experience. However, if you need the absolute best performance for demanding tasks like video editing, 3D rendering, or gaming, you should consider the newer models. They have faster processors, improved cameras, and better displays. The newer models are also a better investment in the long run, as they will receive software updates for a longer period of time. But if you find a good deal on a used or refurbished 2018 model, it could be a great value.

Reasons to Buy

  • Affordable: Often available at a lower price point.
  • Performance: A12X Bionic chip still handles most tasks well.
  • Display: Stunning 12.9-inch Liquid Retina display.
  • Features: Supports 2nd generation Apple Pencil and has USB-C.

Reasons to Consider Newer Models

  • Performance: Newer models have faster processors.
  • Features: Improved cameras and displays.
  • Software Updates: Newer models will receive updates for longer.

Where to Buy and What to Look For

If you're sold on the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2018), where should you start looking? You can often find them at various places. Online marketplaces like eBay and Amazon are popular options, but be sure to check the seller's rating and read the description carefully. You can also look for it at local tech stores or electronics retailers, especially if they sell used or refurbished devices. Apple's refurbished store is another great place to look. Apple-certified refurbished products are thoroughly tested and come with a warranty, so you can buy with confidence. When buying a used iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2018), there are a few things to keep in mind. First, check the physical condition of the device. Look for scratches, dents, or other signs of wear and tear.

Inspect the screen for any dead pixels or other imperfections. Check the battery health to make sure it's in good condition. You can usually do this in the settings menu. Make sure the iPad Pro is not Activation Locked. This means it is still tied to the previous owner's Apple ID. Before buying, make sure to ask the seller to unlock the device. Check all the ports and buttons to make sure they are working correctly. Be sure to test the charging port, the volume buttons, and the power button. Look for any damage or other issues. And last but not least, check the iPad Pro 12.9 inch 2018 repair cost if a problem occurs.

Conclusion: Is the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2018) Still a Winner?

So, to wrap things up, the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2018) is still a capable tablet, even in 2024. It offers a great balance of performance, features, and affordability, especially if you can find a good deal on a used or refurbished model. If you're looking for a powerful tablet for everyday tasks like browsing the web, checking emails, streaming videos, and using productivity apps, the 2018 model will still handle the job. The large 12.9-inch display is perfect for creative tasks, students, and anyone who wants a more immersive experience. The A12X Bionic chip still has some punch, and the display is still gorgeous. The support for the second-generation Apple Pencil is a big plus. The battery life is also very good. But if you need the absolute best performance or the latest features, you might want to consider the newer models. Always consider your needs, budget, and the condition of the device before making a decision. No matter what you choose, enjoy your iPad Pro! And if you run into any issues, remember that there are iPad Pro 12.9 inch 2018 repair services available to help keep your device running smoothly.