IPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020): Everything You Need To Know
Hey tech enthusiasts! Let's dive deep into the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020), a device that's still making waves in the tablet world. This powerhouse of a tablet, released in 2020, isn't just about bigger screens; it's a statement. It's a blend of cutting-edge technology and sleek design, aimed at users who demand the best in performance, display quality, and versatility. Whether you're a creative professional, a student, or someone who just loves to consume content, the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) has a lot to offer. In this comprehensive guide, we'll unpack everything you need to know about this remarkable device. From its stunning display and blazing-fast performance to its innovative features and potential drawbacks, we'll leave no stone unturned. Get ready to explore the world of the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) and discover if it's the perfect tablet for you.
Unveiling the Design and Build Quality of the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020)
Let's kick things off by taking a closer look at the design and build quality of the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020). Apple has always been known for its minimalist and elegant design language, and this iPad Pro is no exception. The device features a sleek, flat-edged design with rounded corners, crafted from a single piece of aluminum. This gives it a premium feel and a solid build that can withstand everyday use. The 12.9-inch Liquid Retina display dominates the front of the device, surrounded by slim bezels that maximize the viewing area. The display is not only large but also incredibly vibrant and sharp, making it ideal for everything from browsing the web to editing photos and videos. On the back, you'll find the Apple logo and a camera module that houses the dual-camera system and the LiDAR scanner. The overall design is clean, modern, and undeniably Apple. The build quality is top-notch, as you'd expect from a product in this price range. The aluminum construction feels sturdy and durable, and the device feels great in your hands. However, it's worth noting that the large size of the 12.9-inch model might not be for everyone. It can be a bit unwieldy to hold and use with one hand, especially for extended periods. The device is available in two colors: Space Gray and Silver, both of which look fantastic. The choice of color is really a matter of personal preference, as both options complement the design beautifully. The iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) is a testament to Apple's commitment to design excellence. It's a device that looks and feels premium, with a build quality that's second to none. The combination of a sleek design, a stunning display, and robust construction makes it a pleasure to use and a joy to behold. The attention to detail is evident throughout, from the carefully crafted aluminum chassis to the perfectly aligned ports and buttons.
Size and Portability
When we talk about the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020), one of the first things that comes to mind is its size. Let's face it, this is a large tablet. The 12.9-inch display means it's not the most portable device out there. It's significantly bigger than the smaller iPad models and even the 11-inch iPad Pro. This size, of course, has its pros and cons. On the plus side, you get a massive screen that's perfect for media consumption, content creation, and multitasking. Everything looks larger and more immersive. However, the downside is that it can be a bit cumbersome to carry around. It's not the kind of tablet you'll easily slip into a small bag or hold comfortably with one hand for long periods. If portability is a top priority, this might not be the best choice for you. You'll need a larger bag to accommodate it, and using it on the go might require some getting used to. Despite its size, Apple has done a good job of keeping the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) relatively thin and light. It's not as heavy as you might expect, and the slim bezels help to minimize the overall footprint. However, it's still a sizable device, and that's something to consider before you buy. If you're primarily going to use it at home or in the office, the size won't be as much of an issue. But if you plan to use it on the go frequently, you might want to think about whether the benefits of the larger display outweigh the drawbacks of its size. The Smart Keyboard Folio and Magic Keyboard accessories add even more bulk, which is something else to factor in. The overall portability is a trade-off. You gain a larger, more immersive display, but you sacrifice some of the convenience of a smaller, more portable tablet. It's all about what you prioritize in your tablet experience.
Diving into the Display and Audio Capabilities
The display and audio capabilities of the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) are where this device truly shines. Apple has equipped this tablet with a stunning Liquid Retina display that offers exceptional visual quality. The 12.9-inch size provides ample space for all your content, whether you're watching movies, editing photos, or simply browsing the web. The display features a high resolution, vibrant colors, and incredible brightness. This means that everything looks sharp, detailed, and incredibly immersive. The display also supports ProMotion technology, which dynamically adjusts the refresh rate up to 120Hz. This results in smoother scrolling, more responsive gaming, and an overall more fluid user experience. ProMotion makes a noticeable difference, especially when you're using the Apple Pencil. The display is also incredibly accurate, making it ideal for creative professionals who need precise color reproduction. The audio experience is equally impressive. The iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) features a four-speaker audio system that delivers rich, immersive sound. The speakers are strategically placed to create a wide soundstage, making it feel like the audio is coming from all around you. The sound quality is excellent, with clear highs, balanced mids, and surprisingly deep bass. This makes it perfect for watching movies, listening to music, or playing games. The audio experience is further enhanced by the iPad Pro's ability to automatically adjust the audio output based on the orientation of the device. Whether you're holding it in landscape or portrait mode, the audio will always sound great. Overall, the display and audio capabilities of the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) are top-notch. The combination of a stunning display and a powerful audio system creates an incredibly immersive experience. Whether you're a content creator, a media enthusiast, or someone who just enjoys a great user experience, you'll appreciate the quality of this tablet.
The Liquid Retina Display
The Liquid Retina display on the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) is a standout feature. It's more than just a screen; it's a window into a world of vibrant colors, incredible detail, and smooth performance. The technology behind this display is what sets it apart. It uses advanced LCD technology to deliver stunning visuals. The high resolution ensures that everything looks sharp and crisp, with text appearing incredibly clear and images looking lifelike. One of the key features of this display is its support for ProMotion technology. This dynamically adjusts the refresh rate of the screen, up to 120Hz. This means that when you're scrolling through web pages, playing games, or using the Apple Pencil, everything feels incredibly smooth and responsive. It's a subtle but significant difference that enhances the overall user experience. The display also boasts excellent color accuracy and wide color support. This makes it ideal for creative professionals who need to work with accurate colors. Whether you're editing photos, designing graphics, or creating videos, the Liquid Retina display ensures that your work looks its best. The brightness levels are impressive, allowing you to use the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) comfortably in various lighting conditions. Even in direct sunlight, the display remains clear and easy to read. Furthermore, the display has anti-reflective coating, reducing glare and further improving visibility. This is a crucial feature for anyone who plans to use the tablet outdoors or in brightly lit environments. The Liquid Retina display is a significant selling point. It's a display that's designed to impress, with features that cater to both everyday users and creative professionals. It's a key part of what makes the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) such a joy to use.
Performance and Hardware Specs of the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020)
Let's move on to the performance and hardware specs of the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020), which is a key area. This iPad Pro is powered by the A12Z Bionic chip, a powerhouse that delivers impressive speed and efficiency. The A12Z Bionic chip features an 8-core CPU and an 8-core GPU, providing a significant boost in performance compared to previous iPad models. This translates to incredibly fast multitasking, smooth gaming, and seamless performance for demanding applications. Whether you're editing 4K videos, running complex simulations, or simply browsing the web, the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) can handle it with ease. The device is available with different storage options, ranging from 128GB to 1TB. This gives you plenty of space for all your apps, files, and media. The choice of storage capacity depends on your individual needs. If you plan to store a lot of large files, such as videos and photos, or if you plan to install many apps, you'll want to opt for a higher storage capacity. The iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) also features a USB-C port, which offers fast data transfer speeds and allows you to connect to a wide range of accessories. You can connect external displays, hard drives, and other devices with ease. The device supports Wi-Fi 6 for faster wireless connectivity, and it also offers optional cellular connectivity, so you can stay connected on the go. The iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) also includes Face ID for secure authentication and convenient unlocking. This is a fast and reliable way to access your device and protect your data. The performance of the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) is truly remarkable. The combination of the A12Z Bionic chip, ample storage, and fast connectivity makes it a powerful and versatile device. It's a tablet that can handle anything you throw at it, from everyday tasks to demanding professional workflows.
The A12Z Bionic Chip: Powerhouse Performance
The A12Z Bionic chip is the heart and soul of the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020), and it's what gives this tablet its exceptional performance. This chip is not just about raw power; it's about efficiency and optimization. The 8-core CPU in the A12Z Bionic chip delivers a significant performance boost. It allows for lightning-fast multitasking, enabling you to switch between apps seamlessly and run multiple tasks simultaneously without any lag. Whether you're editing videos, working on complex spreadsheets, or simply browsing the web, the A12Z Bionic chip ensures a smooth and responsive experience. The 8-core GPU is equally impressive. It provides outstanding graphics performance, making the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) an excellent device for gaming and other graphically intensive applications. Games look stunning, with vibrant visuals and smooth frame rates. The A12Z Bionic chip also enhances the performance of creative apps. It allows for faster rendering times and more complex effects, making it easier for creative professionals to create and edit content on the go. The chip is optimized for machine learning tasks, which means that the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) can handle advanced features such as facial recognition and augmented reality with ease. The A12Z Bionic chip also contributes to the device's battery efficiency. Despite its impressive performance, the chip is designed to conserve battery life, allowing you to use your iPad Pro for extended periods without needing to recharge. The A12Z Bionic chip is a testament to Apple's engineering prowess. It's a powerful and efficient chip that elevates the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) to a whole new level of performance. It ensures that the tablet can handle any task you throw at it, from everyday use to demanding professional workloads.
Software and User Experience
Let's explore the software and user experience of the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020). The iPad Pro runs on iPadOS, Apple's operating system specifically designed for tablets. iPadOS is built on the foundation of iOS, but it has been optimized for the larger screen and unique features of the iPad. The user interface is intuitive and easy to navigate. It features a customizable home screen, with support for widgets and app libraries. Multitasking is a key strength of iPadOS. You can use Split View to run two apps side by side, and you can use Slide Over to quickly access other apps without leaving your current app. iPadOS also offers excellent integration with other Apple devices and services. You can easily share files between your iPad, iPhone, and Mac, and you can seamlessly access your iCloud data. The Apple Pencil (sold separately) is a crucial part of the iPad Pro experience. It allows for precise drawing, writing, and navigation. The Apple Pencil is incredibly responsive and accurate, making it perfect for creative tasks, note-taking, and annotating documents. The iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) also supports the Magic Keyboard (sold separately), which transforms the tablet into a laptop-like experience. The Magic Keyboard features a built-in trackpad, backlit keys, and a comfortable typing experience. This makes the iPad Pro ideal for productivity tasks, such as writing emails, creating documents, and working on spreadsheets. The iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) offers a seamless and intuitive user experience. iPadOS is well-optimized for the tablet form factor, and the integration with Apple's ecosystem is excellent. Whether you're a casual user or a professional, you'll appreciate the ease of use and the wide range of features.
iPadOS: The Tablet Experience
iPadOS is what brings the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) to life, offering a unique and optimized experience for tablet users. It's not just a scaled-up version of iOS. iPadOS has been specifically designed to leverage the larger screen size and the unique capabilities of the iPad. One of the key features of iPadOS is its enhanced multitasking capabilities. The Split View feature allows you to run two apps side by side, making it easier to work on multiple tasks simultaneously. This is great for comparing information, taking notes while watching a video, or working on a document while referencing other materials. The Slide Over feature allows you to quickly access other apps without leaving your current app. You can swipe in from the side to bring up a list of apps, and you can easily switch between them. This is perfect for checking your email, responding to messages, or quickly accessing other apps without disrupting your workflow. iPadOS also offers excellent support for the Apple Pencil. With the Apple Pencil, you can draw, write, and navigate with incredible precision. iPadOS includes features such as Scribble, which allows you to handwrite directly into text fields. iPadOS seamlessly integrates with other Apple devices and services. You can easily share files between your iPad, iPhone, and Mac using AirDrop. You can access your iCloud data, including photos, videos, and documents, on all your devices. The iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) runs on iPadOS, which is optimized for the tablet form factor. It offers a smooth, intuitive, and feature-rich experience that enhances your productivity, creativity, and entertainment.
Camera Capabilities
The camera capabilities of the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) are surprisingly impressive, making it more than just a tablet for media consumption and work. The device features a dual-camera system on the back, comprising a 12MP wide camera and a 10MP ultra-wide camera. This setup allows for versatile photography and video recording, providing you with options for capturing a wide range of scenes. The wide camera is your go-to for standard photos and videos. It captures detailed and vibrant images, even in challenging lighting conditions. The ultra-wide camera lets you capture expansive shots, perfect for landscapes, group photos, and architectural shots. It offers a wider field of view, allowing you to fit more into the frame. The iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) also includes a LiDAR scanner, which enhances its augmented reality (AR) capabilities. The LiDAR scanner measures the distance to surrounding objects, creating a more detailed 3D map of the environment. This results in more realistic AR experiences, with more accurate object placement and tracking. The front-facing camera features a 7MP sensor, which is great for video calls and selfies. It offers good image quality, even in low-light conditions. The camera also supports Face ID, which allows you to securely unlock your device and authenticate purchases. The iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) is not primarily designed as a camera, but its camera system is more than capable. The combination of the dual-camera system, the LiDAR scanner, and the front-facing camera makes it a versatile device for photography, video recording, and AR experiences. Whether you're taking photos, recording videos, or participating in video calls, you'll appreciate the quality of the cameras on the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020).
Camera Features and Performance
Let's delve deeper into the camera features and performance of the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020). The rear camera system on the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) offers a variety of features that enhance the photography and video recording experience. The 12MP wide camera captures detailed and vibrant images. It supports features like Smart HDR, which automatically enhances the dynamic range of your photos, ensuring that you get the best possible results in challenging lighting conditions. The 10MP ultra-wide camera lets you capture expansive shots. It has a wider field of view, which is perfect for capturing landscapes, group photos, and architectural shots. The camera also supports Portrait mode, which allows you to create photos with a blurred background, giving your subjects a more professional look. The iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) can record video at up to 4K resolution at 60 frames per second. The video quality is excellent, with sharp details and vibrant colors. The device also supports video stabilization, which helps to reduce shakiness and create smoother videos. The LiDAR scanner is a standout feature. It enhances the device's augmented reality (AR) capabilities. The LiDAR scanner measures the distance to surrounding objects, creating a more detailed 3D map of the environment. This results in more realistic AR experiences, with more accurate object placement and tracking. The front-facing camera also offers excellent performance. The 7MP sensor is perfect for video calls and selfies. The camera also supports Face ID, which allows you to securely unlock your device and authenticate purchases. The iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) camera system offers a versatile set of features and impressive performance. The combination of the dual-camera system, the LiDAR scanner, and the front-facing camera makes it a device for photography, video recording, and AR experiences.
Battery Life and Charging
Let's discuss the battery life and charging capabilities of the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020). Apple has always prioritized battery life, and the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) is no exception. The tablet is designed to provide all-day battery life, which means you can typically expect to get through a full day of use on a single charge. The exact battery life will vary depending on your usage patterns. However, if you're using the tablet for typical tasks such as web browsing, email, and video streaming, you can expect to get around 10 hours of battery life. If you're using the tablet for more demanding tasks, such as gaming or video editing, you might see slightly shorter battery life. The iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) comes with a USB-C charging cable and an 18W power adapter. The USB-C port allows for fast charging, so you can quickly top up your battery when needed. The charging speed is relatively fast, and you can expect to charge the battery from 0% to 100% in a few hours. The iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) also supports fast charging with a more powerful charger. If you have a higher wattage charger, you can charge the battery even faster. The battery life is a key strength of the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020). It provides all-day battery life, so you can use the tablet without worrying about running out of power. The USB-C charging port allows for fast charging, so you can quickly top up the battery when needed. The combination of excellent battery life and fast charging makes the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) a great device for on-the-go use.
Battery Performance and Charging Speed
Let's take a closer look at the battery performance and charging speed of the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020). Apple has optimized this tablet to deliver excellent battery life. You can typically expect to get around 10 hours of battery life for general use. This is impressive, considering the large display and powerful processor. The battery life is usually tested by Apple, which involves web browsing, video playback, and other typical usage scenarios. Of course, your actual battery life may vary depending on how you use the device. If you're doing tasks such as playing graphically intensive games, or editing videos, you'll likely see a shorter battery life. The iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) includes a USB-C charging cable and an 18W power adapter. The USB-C port supports fast charging, which means you can quickly charge the battery. The iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) will charge from 0% to 100% within a few hours. If you want to charge your iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) even faster, you can use a higher wattage charger. This is particularly useful if you need to quickly top up your battery before you go out or need the device in a hurry. You can find USB-C chargers with higher wattage ratings that are compatible with the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020). It's also worth noting that the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020), like most modern devices, will intelligently manage its battery charging. It will slow down the charging process once the battery reaches a certain percentage to help preserve its lifespan. Overall, the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) excels in both battery performance and charging speed. The long battery life ensures that you can use the tablet all day, while the fast charging allows you to quickly top up the battery when needed. This combination makes it a great device for productivity, entertainment, and on-the-go use.
Accessories and Compatibility
Let's talk about the accessories and compatibility of the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020). Apple offers a range of accessories designed to enhance the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) experience. The Apple Pencil (2nd generation) is a must-have accessory for creative professionals, students, and anyone who enjoys taking notes or sketching. The Apple Pencil offers incredible precision and responsiveness, making it feel like you're writing or drawing on paper. It attaches magnetically to the side of the iPad Pro, where it charges wirelessly. The Magic Keyboard is another essential accessory for productivity users. The Magic Keyboard turns the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) into a laptop-like device, with a built-in trackpad, backlit keys, and a comfortable typing experience. The Magic Keyboard also provides protection for the device. The iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) is also compatible with a wide range of other accessories, including USB-C hubs, external hard drives, and headphones. The USB-C port allows you to connect to a variety of devices, expanding the capabilities of the tablet. The iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) also supports Bluetooth connectivity, so you can easily connect to wireless headphones, speakers, and other devices. The compatibility with these accessories makes the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) a versatile device that can adapt to your individual needs. The accessories offered by Apple and third-party manufacturers make the iPad Pro a more powerful and versatile device.
Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard
The Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard are two of the most popular and useful accessories for the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020). These accessories significantly enhance the functionality and usability of the tablet, making it a powerful tool for a variety of tasks. The Apple Pencil (2nd generation) is a game-changer for creative professionals, students, and anyone who enjoys taking notes or sketching. This Pencil offers incredible precision and responsiveness, making it feel like you're writing or drawing on paper. It's pressure-sensitive and tilt-sensitive, which means that you can create a wide range of effects, such as shading and varying line thickness. The Apple Pencil attaches magnetically to the side of the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020), where it charges wirelessly. This is a convenient feature that ensures that your Apple Pencil is always charged and ready to use. The Magic Keyboard transforms the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) into a laptop-like device. The Magic Keyboard features a built-in trackpad, backlit keys, and a comfortable typing experience. The trackpad is responsive and accurate, making it easy to navigate and interact with the screen. The backlit keys are perfect for typing in low-light conditions. The Magic Keyboard also provides protection for the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020). The design is great and has a sturdy build. The Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard are essential accessories for the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020). The Apple Pencil enhances creativity and productivity, while the Magic Keyboard transforms the tablet into a more versatile device. Whether you're a creative professional, a student, or a productivity enthusiast, these accessories will undoubtedly improve your iPad Pro experience.
Pros and Cons of the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020)
Let's weigh the pros and cons of the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) to provide a balanced overview. This device has a lot to offer, but it's essential to consider its strengths and weaknesses to determine if it's the right fit for your needs.
Pros:
- Stunning Display: The 12.9-inch Liquid Retina display is one of the best you can find on a tablet, with vibrant colors, incredible brightness, and ProMotion technology for smooth performance.
- Powerful Performance: The A12Z Bionic chip offers excellent performance, making it great for multitasking, gaming, and demanding applications.
- Versatile Design: The sleek and modern design with slim bezels gives a premium feel.
- Excellent Accessories: The Apple Pencil (2nd generation) and Magic Keyboard enhance the functionality and productivity of the tablet.
- iPadOS: iPadOS is a well-optimized operating system that is user-friendly and feature-rich.
- Good Battery Life: You can expect a full day of use on a single charge.
Cons:
- Size and Portability: The 12.9-inch size can be large and less portable than other tablets.
- Price: The iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) is an expensive device, especially when combined with accessories.
- Limited Ports: The device only has one USB-C port, which can be limiting for some users.
- Cost of Accessories: The Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard are sold separately and add to the overall cost.
Is the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) Right for You?
So, is the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) right for you? After delving into the details, let's summarize who this tablet is best suited for. This device is the top choice for creative professionals, such as graphic designers, video editors, and artists. The stunning display, powerful performance, and Apple Pencil compatibility make it an ideal tool for these users. The iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) is also excellent for productivity users, such as students, business professionals, and anyone who needs a tablet for work. The Magic Keyboard support, fast performance, and iPadOS features make it a versatile device for tasks like writing, creating presentations, and managing emails. The iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) is also a great choice for media consumers, such as those who enjoy watching movies, TV shows, and playing games. The large display, excellent audio quality, and smooth performance create an immersive experience. If you prioritize portability or if you're on a tight budget, the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) might not be the best choice. The size and price may be deterrents for some users. However, if you are looking for the best tablet experience, with no compromises, the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) is an excellent option. It's a powerful, versatile, and feature-rich device that's sure to impress. It all comes down to your individual needs and budget. If the features align with your requirements, this iPad Pro is a fantastic choice.