IPad Pro 12.9 (2018): Review, Specs, And More

Hey everyone! Let's dive deep into the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2018). This device isn't just an iPad; it's a powerhouse designed for creatives, professionals, and anyone who wants a top-tier tablet experience. We're going to break down everything you need to know, from its stunning display and blazing-fast performance to its design quirks and overall value. So, grab your favorite beverage, and let's get started!

Design and Build Quality

The design of the 2018 iPad Pro 12.9-inch was a significant departure from previous models. Apple ditched the curved edges for a more industrial, squared-off design, reminiscent of the iPhone 5. This new design isn't just about aesthetics; it also serves a functional purpose, allowing for a larger display in a smaller footprint. The bezels are noticeably thinner, contributing to a more immersive viewing experience. The all-screen design is truly captivating. The removal of the home button is another key change, with Apple opting for Face ID as the primary biometric authentication method.

The build quality is, as you'd expect from Apple, top-notch. The entire device is crafted from aluminum, giving it a premium feel and a reassuring heft. It feels incredibly solid in hand, and there's no flex or creaking to be found. The attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the design, from the precisely machined speaker grilles to the perfectly aligned buttons. While the sharp edges might take some getting used to, they contribute to the iPad Pro's distinctive and modern look. Durability is always a concern with such a large device, but the aluminum construction should hold up well to everyday wear and tear. However, a case is always recommended to protect against accidental drops and scratches. Apple's Smart Keyboard Folio and Smart Folio provide excellent protection while adding functionality. The overall design and build quality of the 2018 iPad Pro 12.9-inch are exceptional, setting a new standard for tablet design. The sleek, modern aesthetic, combined with the premium materials, makes it a device that you'll be proud to own and use.

Display: A Visual Feast

The display is arguably the star of the show. The 12.9-inch Liquid Retina display boasts a resolution of 2732 x 2048 pixels, resulting in a pixel density of 264 pixels per inch (ppi). This means that everything looks incredibly sharp and detailed, from text to images to videos. But it's not just about the resolution; the display also features ProMotion technology, which dynamically adjusts the refresh rate up to 120Hz. This makes scrolling and animations incredibly smooth and responsive. Whether you're browsing the web, sketching with the Apple Pencil, or watching a movie, the display is a joy to behold.

The color accuracy is also outstanding, with the display covering the P3 wide color gamut. This means that colors are vibrant and lifelike, making it ideal for creative professionals who need accurate color representation. The display also supports True Tone technology, which automatically adjusts the color temperature based on the ambient lighting. This makes the display more comfortable to view in different environments. Brightness is also excellent, with a maximum brightness of 600 nits. This ensures that the display is easily visible even in bright sunlight. The anti-reflective coating is also highly effective at reducing glare, making it easier to use the iPad Pro outdoors. Whether you're a photographer, a video editor, or simply someone who appreciates a great display, the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2018) will not disappoint. It's one of the best tablet displays on the market, offering a stunning visual experience that is unmatched by its competitors. The combination of high resolution, ProMotion technology, wide color gamut, and True Tone makes it a true visual feast.

Performance: Powerhouse Performance

Under the hood, the 2018 iPad Pro 12.9-inch is powered by Apple's A12X Bionic chip. This chip is an absolute beast, delivering performance that rivals many laptops. It features an 8-core CPU and a 7-core GPU, making it incredibly fast and responsive. Whether you're multitasking, editing photos, or playing graphics-intensive games, the iPad Pro handles everything with ease. The A12X Bionic chip also includes a Neural Engine, which accelerates machine learning tasks. This allows for features like Face ID and augmented reality to perform seamlessly. The performance of the 2018 iPad Pro is truly impressive, making it a viable alternative to a traditional laptop for many tasks.

In terms of benchmarks, the A12X Bionic chip consistently outperforms its competitors. It scores significantly higher than other tablets and even rivals some laptops in CPU and GPU performance. This translates into real-world performance gains, such as faster app loading times, smoother multitasking, and more responsive gaming. The iPad Pro also features ample RAM, with 4GB on the 64GB and 256GB models and 6GB on the 512GB and 1TB models. This ensures that you can run multiple apps simultaneously without experiencing any slowdown. The storage options are also generous, with options ranging from 64GB to 1TB. This allows you to store all your files, photos, and videos without worrying about running out of space. The combination of the A12X Bionic chip, ample RAM, and generous storage options makes the 2018 iPad Pro a performance powerhouse. It's capable of handling even the most demanding tasks with ease, making it an ideal device for creatives, professionals, and anyone who needs a high-performance tablet.

Apple Pencil and Smart Keyboard Folio

The Apple Pencil (2nd generation) and Smart Keyboard Folio are essential accessories that unlock the full potential of the iPad Pro. The Apple Pencil attaches magnetically to the side of the iPad Pro and charges wirelessly. It offers incredibly low latency, making it feel like you're writing on paper. It's perfect for taking notes, sketching, and creating digital art. The Smart Keyboard Folio is a slim and lightweight keyboard that attaches magnetically to the iPad Pro. It provides a comfortable typing experience and also serves as a protective cover. These accessories transform the iPad Pro into a versatile device that can be used for both work and play. The seamless integration between the hardware and software makes these accessories a joy to use.

The Apple Pencil's pressure sensitivity and tilt recognition allow for a wide range of artistic effects. Whether you're a professional artist or a casual doodler, the Apple Pencil is a valuable tool. The Smart Keyboard Folio's responsive keys and comfortable layout make it ideal for typing long documents or emails. The ability to quickly switch between typing and using the touchscreen makes the iPad Pro a versatile device for productivity. The Smart Keyboard Folio also has a built-in stand that allows you to prop up the iPad Pro at a comfortable viewing angle. The combination of the Apple Pencil and Smart Keyboard Folio makes the iPad Pro a powerful tool for creativity and productivity. They enhance the overall user experience and make the iPad Pro a more versatile device.

Camera and Audio

The 2018 iPad Pro 12.9-inch features a 12MP rear camera and a 7MP front-facing camera. While the cameras aren't the primary focus of the iPad Pro, they are capable of taking good quality photos and videos. The rear camera can record 4K video at up to 60fps, and the front-facing camera is great for video calls and selfies. The iPad Pro also features four speakers, providing excellent audio quality. The speakers are loud and clear, making it great for watching movies, listening to music, and playing games. The camera and audio capabilities of the 2018 iPad Pro are more than adequate for most users.

The rear camera's image stabilization helps to reduce blur when taking photos and videos. The front-facing camera's Retina Flash helps to illuminate your face in low-light conditions. The four speakers provide a wide stereo soundstage, making it great for immersive audio experiences. The iPad Pro also features five microphones, which help to reduce background noise during video calls and recordings. While the camera and audio capabilities of the 2018 iPad Pro may not be the best on the market, they are still very good and more than adequate for most users. They are a welcome addition to an already impressive device.

Battery Life

The battery life of the 2018 iPad Pro 12.9-inch is excellent. Apple claims that it can last for up to 10 hours of web browsing, video playback, or music listening. In real-world use, the battery life is generally consistent with Apple's claims. You can easily get through a full day of work or school without needing to recharge. The iPad Pro also supports fast charging, so you can quickly top up the battery when needed. The excellent battery life makes the 2018 iPad Pro a great device for on-the-go productivity and entertainment.

The battery capacity of the 2018 iPad Pro 12.9-inch is 36.71 watt-hours. The iPad Pro also features intelligent power management, which helps to optimize battery life. The display automatically adjusts its brightness based on the ambient lighting, and the iPad Pro automatically goes into sleep mode when not in use. These features help to conserve battery life and ensure that you can get the most out of your device. The excellent battery life is one of the many reasons why the 2018 iPad Pro is such a great device.

Conclusion: Is the iPad Pro 12.9 (2018) Still Worth It?

So, is the 2018 iPad Pro 12.9-inch still worth it in today's market? Absolutely! While newer models have been released, the 2018 iPad Pro remains a powerful and capable device. Its stunning display, blazing-fast performance, and excellent battery life make it a great choice for creatives, professionals, and anyone who wants a top-tier tablet experience. Plus, you can often find it at a lower price point than the latest models, making it an even more attractive option. If you're looking for a high-end tablet that can handle anything you throw at it, the 2018 iPad Pro 12.9-inch is definitely worth considering.