2021 Apple IPad Pro 12.9-inch: Review & Specs

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2021 Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch: A Deep Dive Review

Hey there, tech enthusiasts! Today, we're diving deep into the 2021 Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch. This isn't just another tablet; it's a powerhouse designed to blur the lines between a tablet and a laptop. Whether you're a creative professional, a student, or someone who loves consuming content on the go, this iPad Pro promises a premium experience. So, let's unbox the details and see what makes this device tick.

Design and Display: A Visual Feast

The iPad Pro 12.9-inch boasts a stunning Liquid Retina XDR display. What does that even mean? Well, it's Apple's fancy term for a mini-LED display that delivers incredible brightness, contrast, and color accuracy. We're talking about a peak brightness of 1600 nits in HDR mode, which means vibrant and lifelike visuals whether you're watching movies, editing photos, or playing games. The ProMotion technology dynamically adjusts the refresh rate up to 120Hz, making scrolling and animations buttery smooth. Trust me, once you experience this display, it's hard to go back. The slim bezels give you more screen real estate, making it perfect for multitasking and immersive content consumption.

Speaking of design, the iPad Pro maintains Apple's signature sleek and minimalist aesthetic. The aluminum enclosure feels premium and robust, giving you confidence when you're carrying it around. It's available in Silver and Space Gray, both classic choices that exude sophistication. The squared-off edges provide a comfortable grip, and the overall build quality is top-notch. However, keep in mind that the 12.9-inch model is noticeably larger and heavier than its 11-inch sibling, so it might not be the most comfortable for one-handed use over extended periods. But hey, the immersive display is worth the trade-off!

Performance: M1 Unleashed

At the heart of the 2021 iPad Pro lies the M1 chip, the same silicon that powers some of Apple's MacBooks and iMacs. This isn't your typical tablet processor; it's a beast that delivers desktop-class performance. The M1 chip features an 8-core CPU and an 8-core GPU, providing a significant performance boost compared to previous iPad Pro models. Whether you're editing 4K videos, creating complex 3D models, or running demanding applications, the iPad Pro handles it all with ease. Multitasking is a breeze, and you can seamlessly switch between apps without any lag or slowdown. The M1 chip truly transforms the iPad Pro into a portable workstation.

But the M1 chip isn't just about raw power; it's also incredibly efficient. The iPad Pro offers all-day battery life, allowing you to work or play for hours without needing to plug in. This is a game-changer for professionals who need to stay productive on the go. The M1's Neural Engine also enhances machine learning tasks, such as image recognition and natural language processing, making the iPad Pro smarter and more intuitive. Apple has truly optimized the M1 chip for the iPad Pro, resulting in a seamless and responsive user experience. Guys, believe me, the performance is just stellar!.

Features and Functionality: Beyond the Basics

The 2021 iPad Pro is packed with features that enhance its versatility and functionality. One of the standout features is Thunderbolt/USB 4 support, which allows you to connect to a wide range of external devices, such as high-resolution displays, external storage, and audio interfaces. This expands the iPad Pro's capabilities and makes it a viable alternative to a traditional computer for many tasks. The inclusion of 5G connectivity ensures fast and reliable internet access on the go, so you can stay connected wherever you are.

The iPad Pro also supports the second-generation Apple Pencil, which magnetically attaches to the side of the device for charging and storage. The Apple Pencil offers precise and responsive input, making it ideal for artists, designers, and note-takers. The Smart Keyboard Folio and Magic Keyboard provide a comfortable typing experience and transform the iPad Pro into a laptop-like device. These accessories enhance the iPad Pro's productivity and make it a more versatile tool for work and play. These features really add to the value and make it more than just a tablet.

Camera and Audio: Capturing and Creating

The 2021 iPad Pro features a dual-camera system on the rear, consisting of a 12MP wide camera and a 10MP ultra-wide camera. The cameras capture detailed and vibrant photos and videos, and the ultra-wide lens allows you to get creative with your shots. The LiDAR scanner enhances augmented reality experiences and improves the accuracy of depth sensing. On the front, there's a 12MP ultra-wide camera with Center Stage, which automatically keeps you in the frame during video calls. This is a fantastic feature for remote workers and anyone who frequently uses video conferencing.

The iPad Pro also boasts a four-speaker audio system that delivers immersive and high-quality sound. Whether you're watching movies, listening to music, or playing games, the audio experience is top-notch. The microphones are also excellent, ensuring clear and crisp audio during video calls and recordings. Apple has paid attention to detail in the camera and audio departments, making the iPad Pro a great device for content creation and consumption. The audio and camera quality are surprisingly good for a tablet.

Software: iPadOS Refined

The 2021 iPad Pro runs on iPadOS, Apple's operating system designed specifically for iPads. iPadOS offers a user-friendly interface, seamless multitasking, and a wide range of features optimized for the iPad's larger screen. The Files app provides easy access to your files and folders, and the multitasking features allow you to work on multiple apps simultaneously. Apple regularly updates iPadOS with new features and improvements, ensuring that your iPad Pro stays up-to-date and performs optimally.

With iPadOS 15 and later, Apple introduced even more features that enhance the iPad Pro's productivity and versatility. Quick Note allows you to jot down notes from anywhere on your iPad, and Focus mode helps you minimize distractions and stay focused on your tasks. These software enhancements make the iPad Pro an even more powerful and efficient tool for work and play. However, some users still find iPadOS to be more limited than macOS, especially when it comes to advanced desktop-class tasks. But overall, the software is well-optimized and intuitive.

Pros and Cons: Weighing the Options

Before we wrap up, let's take a look at the pros and cons of the 2021 Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch:

Pros:

  • Stunning Liquid Retina XDR display with ProMotion technology
  • Blazing-fast M1 chip for desktop-class performance
  • All-day battery life
  • Thunderbolt/USB 4 support for connecting to external devices
  • 5G connectivity for fast internet access on the go
  • Excellent camera and audio quality
  • Support for Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard

Cons:

  • Relatively expensive compared to other tablets
  • iPadOS may be more limited than macOS for some users
  • The 12.9-inch model can be bulky for some users

Alternatives: What Else is Out There?

If the 2021 iPad Pro 12.9-inch isn't quite the right fit for you, here are a few alternatives to consider:

  • Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (2021): Offers similar features and performance in a more compact size.
  • Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra: A large-screen Android tablet with a vibrant display and powerful performance.
  • Microsoft Surface Pro 8: A versatile 2-in-1 device that runs Windows and offers a laptop-like experience.

Conclusion: Is the 2021 iPad Pro Worth It?

So, is the 2021 Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch worth the investment? Absolutely, if you're looking for a premium tablet that offers unparalleled performance, a stunning display, and a wide range of features. It's a powerhouse that can handle demanding tasks with ease and is perfect for creative professionals, students, and anyone who wants the best tablet experience. However, keep in mind that it's relatively expensive, and iPadOS may not be suitable for everyone. But if you're willing to spend the money, the iPad Pro is a fantastic device that can truly transform the way you work and play. It's a top-tier tablet that sets the standard for the competition.