IPad Pro 12.9 (3rd Gen): Review, Specs, & More
Hey guys! Let's dive into the world of the iPad Pro 12.9 (3rd generation), released in 2018. This powerhouse of a tablet was a game-changer when it hit the market, and it still holds its own today. We’re going to explore everything this iPad has to offer, from its stunning display and blazing-fast performance to its design, features, and overall value in today's tech landscape. Whether you're a creative professional, a student, or just someone who loves cool gadgets, this review is for you. So, buckle up, and let's get started!
Design and Display: A Visual Feast
When it comes to design, the iPad Pro 12.9 (3rd generation) is a real head-turner. Apple ditched the rounded edges of previous models for a sleek, industrial design with flat edges and slim bezels. This not only makes the iPad look incredibly modern but also contributes to a more immersive viewing experience. The build quality is top-notch, as you'd expect from Apple, with a premium aluminum finish that feels great in the hand.
Liquid Retina Display
The star of the show is undoubtedly the 12.9-inch Liquid Retina display. This screen is absolutely gorgeous, with vibrant colors, incredible clarity, and a resolution of 2732 x 2048 pixels. What makes it even better is Apple's ProMotion technology, which dynamically adjusts the display's refresh rate up to 120Hz. This means smoother scrolling, more responsive gaming, and an overall more fluid user experience. Whether you're watching movies, editing photos, or just browsing the web, the iPad Pro's display is a treat for the eyes.
Bezels and Form Factor
Compared to its predecessors, the 3rd generation iPad Pro significantly reduced the bezels surrounding the display. This not only gives it a more modern look but also makes the screen feel larger and more immersive. Despite its large screen size, the iPad Pro remains surprisingly portable, thanks to its slim profile and lightweight design. It's easy to slip into a bag and take with you on the go, making it a great option for anyone who needs a powerful device that can keep up with their fast-paced lifestyle.
Face ID
Another notable design feature is the inclusion of Face ID. Apple replaced the traditional Home button with its advanced facial recognition system, allowing you to unlock your iPad with just a glance. Face ID is not only convenient but also incredibly secure, making it a great way to protect your personal data. Plus, it works seamlessly with Apple Pay, allowing you to make secure purchases with ease.
Performance: Power Under the Hood
Okay, let's talk about what's under the hood. The iPad Pro 12.9 (3rd generation) is powered by Apple's A12X Bionic chip, and let me tell you, this thing is a beast. The A12X Bionic is an octa-core processor that delivers incredible performance, whether you're editing 4K videos, playing graphics-intensive games, or multitasking between multiple apps. It's paired with a powerful GPU that can handle even the most demanding tasks with ease.
A12X Bionic Chip
The A12X Bionic chip is a game-changer. It's not just fast; it's incredibly efficient. This means you can get through a full day of work or play without having to worry about your battery dying. The chip also features Apple's Neural Engine, which accelerates machine learning tasks, making the iPad Pro even smarter and more responsive. Whether you're using Siri, taking photos, or playing augmented reality games, the Neural Engine helps the iPad Pro deliver a seamless and intuitive experience.
Storage Options
The iPad Pro 12.9 (3rd generation) comes in a variety of storage options, ranging from 64GB to a whopping 1TB. This means you can choose the amount of storage that's right for you, whether you need a lot of space for storing large files or just a basic amount for everyday use. Keep in mind that the storage is not expandable, so it's important to choose wisely.
Multitasking Capabilities
One of the things that makes the iPad Pro so great is its multitasking capabilities. With features like Slide Over and Split View, you can easily work with multiple apps at the same time. This is incredibly useful for anyone who needs to juggle multiple tasks, whether you're researching for a project, writing a report, or just staying on top of your emails. The iPad Pro's large screen and powerful processor make multitasking a breeze.
Features and Accessories: Enhancing the Experience
The iPad Pro 12.9 (3rd generation) isn't just about power and performance; it's also packed with features that enhance the overall user experience. From its advanced camera system to its support for the Apple Pencil and Smart Keyboard Folio, this iPad has a lot to offer.
Apple Pencil (2nd Generation)
The Apple Pencil (2nd generation) is a must-have accessory for anyone who wants to get the most out of their iPad Pro. It attaches magnetically to the side of the iPad, where it also charges wirelessly. The Apple Pencil is incredibly precise and responsive, making it perfect for drawing, sketching, taking notes, and more. With its tilt and pressure sensitivity, you can create a wide range of effects, from fine lines to broad strokes. Whether you're an artist, a designer, or just someone who likes to doodle, the Apple Pencil is a game-changer.
Smart Keyboard Folio
The Smart Keyboard Folio is another essential accessory for the iPad Pro. It attaches magnetically to the iPad and provides a full-size keyboard for comfortable typing. The Smart Keyboard Folio also doubles as a protective cover, keeping your iPad safe from scratches and bumps. Whether you're writing emails, working on documents, or just browsing the web, the Smart Keyboard Folio makes it easy to get things done.
Camera System
The iPad Pro 12.9 (3rd generation) features a 12MP rear camera that takes great photos and videos. It also has a 7MP TrueDepth front camera that supports Face ID and Animoji. The camera system is more than capable for everyday use, whether you're taking photos of your friends and family, scanning documents, or video conferencing with colleagues.
USB-C Port
One of the biggest changes in the 3rd generation iPad Pro is the switch from Lightning to USB-C. This makes it easier to connect to a wide range of accessories and devices, such as external hard drives, cameras, and displays. The USB-C port also supports fast charging, so you can quickly top up your iPad's battery when you're on the go.
Is the iPad Pro 12.9 (3rd Gen) Still Worth It?
So, here's the million-dollar question: is the iPad Pro 12.9 (3rd generation) still worth buying in today's market? The answer is a resounding yes, with a few caveats. While it's not the latest and greatest iPad Pro, it still offers incredible performance, a stunning display, and a wide range of features that make it a great value for the money.
Performance Considerations
While the A12X Bionic chip is still incredibly powerful, it's not quite as fast as the chips found in the latest iPad Pro models. However, for most users, the difference in performance will be negligible. The iPad Pro 12.9 (3rd generation) can still handle demanding tasks like video editing and gaming with ease.
Price and Availability
One of the biggest advantages of the iPad Pro 12.9 (3rd generation) is its price. Because it's an older model, you can often find it at a significant discount compared to the latest iPad Pro models. This makes it a great option for anyone who wants a high-end iPad without breaking the bank. You can find it on sites like Amazon, eBay, and sometimes even at local used electronic stores. Always compare prices to ensure you're getting the best deal.
Software Updates
Apple continues to support the iPad Pro 12.9 (3rd generation) with the latest software updates, so you can be sure that it will continue to receive new features and security updates for years to come. This is a big advantage over some other tablets, which may not receive updates after a certain amount of time.
Who Is This iPad For?
The iPad Pro 12.9 (3rd generation) is a great option for a wide range of users. It's perfect for:
- Creative professionals: The large display and powerful processor make it ideal for tasks like photo editing, video editing, and graphic design.
- Students: The iPad Pro is a great tool for taking notes, doing research, and working on projects.
- Business users: The Smart Keyboard Folio and multitasking capabilities make it easy to stay productive on the go.
- Anyone who wants a high-end tablet: The iPad Pro offers a premium experience that's hard to beat.
Final Verdict
The iPad Pro 12.9 (3rd generation) is a fantastic tablet that still holds its own in today's market. Its stunning display, powerful performance, and wide range of features make it a great value for the money. While it's not the latest and greatest iPad Pro, it's still a great option for anyone who wants a high-end tablet without breaking the bank. So, if you're in the market for a new iPad, be sure to give the iPad Pro 12.9 (3rd generation) a look. You might be surprised at just how much it has to offer!