IPad Pro 2018 (12.9) Review: Still Worth It?

Hey guys! Let's dive into the iPad Pro 2018 (12.9-inch)! Even though it's not the newest kid on the block anymore, it still packs a serious punch. We're going to break down what makes this tablet so special, why it might still be a great option for you, and what you should consider before buying one in today's market. We'll cover everything from its blazing-fast performance and stunning display to its design, accessories, and overall value. So, buckle up, and let's get started!

Design and Display: A Visual Feast

When it comes to design, the iPad Pro 2018 (12.9-inch) is a real head-turner. It boasts a sleek, minimalist aesthetic with its slim bezels and all-screen design. The rounded corners and flat edges give it a modern, premium feel that's just a joy to hold. Apple really nailed the design here, creating a device that looks as good as it performs. And speaking of performance, let's talk about that gorgeous display. The 12.9-inch Liquid Retina display is simply stunning. Colors are vibrant and accurate, blacks are deep, and the ProMotion technology makes scrolling and animations buttery smooth. Whether you're watching movies, editing photos, or just browsing the web, the display is a treat for the eyes. The high resolution ensures everything looks crisp and detailed, making it perfect for creative tasks like graphic design and video editing. The screen's brightness is also excellent, making it easily viewable in various lighting conditions, even outdoors. This makes it a versatile device you can use anywhere. The fully laminated display minimizes glare, which is another plus. The anti-reflective coating further enhances the viewing experience, reducing distractions and making it easier to focus on your content. Overall, the design and display of the iPad Pro 2018 are top-notch, offering a premium and immersive experience that's hard to beat.

Performance: Still a Powerhouse

Under the hood, the iPad Pro 2018 (12.9-inch) is powered by Apple's A12X Bionic chip, and let me tell you, this thing is a beast. Even by today's standards, it delivers incredible performance, handling demanding tasks with ease. Whether you're editing 4K videos, playing graphics-intensive games, or running multiple apps simultaneously, the iPad Pro doesn't break a sweat. The A12X Bionic chip features an 8-core CPU and a 7-core GPU, providing plenty of power for both processing and graphics. This means you can expect smooth and responsive performance in virtually any application. The Neural Engine also contributes to improved machine learning capabilities, enhancing features like Face ID and augmented reality experiences. Multitasking is a breeze on the iPad Pro 2018, thanks to its ample RAM. You can seamlessly switch between apps without any lag or slowdown. This makes it ideal for professionals who need to juggle multiple tasks at once. The iPad Pro 2018's performance is not just about raw power; it's also about efficiency. The A12X Bionic chip is designed to optimize power consumption, allowing you to get the most out of your battery life. This is especially important for a device that you'll likely be using on the go. Even after several years since its release, the iPad Pro 2018 remains a formidable performer, capable of handling almost anything you throw at it. It's a testament to Apple's engineering prowess and the longevity of their silicon.

Accessories: Unleash the Potential

To truly unlock the potential of the iPad Pro 2018 (12.9-inch), you'll want to consider investing in some accessories. The Apple Pencil (2nd generation) is a must-have for creatives. It attaches magnetically to the side of the iPad Pro and charges wirelessly, making it incredibly convenient to use. The pencil offers precise and responsive input, perfect for drawing, sketching, and taking notes. The Smart Keyboard Folio is another essential accessory. It provides a comfortable typing experience and also doubles as a protective cover for the iPad Pro. The keyboard connects magnetically and doesn't require any charging or pairing. If you prefer a more traditional keyboard experience, you might want to consider the Magic Keyboard. It features a floating cantilever design and a trackpad, turning your iPad Pro into a laptop-like device. While it's more expensive than the Smart Keyboard Folio, it offers a more versatile and comfortable typing experience. There are also a variety of third-party accessories available, such as cases, screen protectors, and USB-C hubs. A USB-C hub can be particularly useful for connecting external storage devices, displays, and other peripherals. Investing in the right accessories can significantly enhance your iPad Pro experience and make it even more productive and enjoyable to use. These accessories transforms your iPad into a versatile workstation. Whether you're a student, creative professional, or just someone who wants to get the most out of their tablet, these accessories are well worth the investment.

Software and Features: iPadOS at its Best

The iPad Pro 2018 (12.9-inch) runs on iPadOS, Apple's dedicated operating system for iPads. iPadOS is designed to take full advantage of the iPad's large display and powerful hardware, offering features like multitasking, drag-and-drop, and Apple Pencil support. One of the standout features of iPadOS is its multitasking capabilities. You can run multiple apps side-by-side in Split View or Slide Over, making it easy to work on multiple projects simultaneously. Drag-and-drop allows you to easily move text, images, and files between apps. This is a huge time-saver for anyone who needs to work with multiple documents or apps at once. Apple Pencil support is another key feature of iPadOS. The operating system is optimized for use with the Apple Pencil, offering features like Scribble, which allows you to handwrite text in any text field. iPadOS also includes a variety of other features, such as Files app, which provides a central location for accessing all of your files, and Safari, which offers a desktop-class browsing experience. The operating system is constantly being updated with new features and improvements, ensuring that your iPad Pro stays up-to-date. Apple's commitment to software support is one of the reasons why the iPad Pro remains a relevant device even years after its release. iPadOS truly elevates the iPad Pro experience, making it a powerful and versatile tool for both work and play.

Battery Life: Power Through Your Day

The iPad Pro 2018 (12.9-inch) offers excellent battery life, allowing you to power through your day without needing to constantly reach for a charger. Apple claims that the iPad Pro can last up to 10 hours on a single charge when browsing the web, watching videos, or listening to music. In real-world usage, battery life will vary depending on your usage patterns. If you're doing demanding tasks like video editing or gaming, you can expect the battery to drain more quickly. However, for most users, the iPad Pro should easily last a full day of moderate use. The iPad Pro charges via USB-C, which is a welcome change from previous iPad models. USB-C allows for faster charging and also provides compatibility with a wider range of accessories. You can also use the iPad Pro to charge other devices, such as your iPhone or Apple Watch. Battery life is an important consideration for any mobile device, and the iPad Pro 2018 delivers in this area. You can confidently take it with you on the go without worrying about running out of power. The combination of efficient hardware and optimized software ensures that you get the most out of your battery life.

Is It Still Worth Buying in [Current Year]?

So, the big question: is the iPad Pro 2018 (12.9-inch) still worth buying in [Current Year]? The answer is: it depends. If you're looking for a powerful and versatile tablet that can handle demanding tasks, the iPad Pro 2018 is still a great option, especially if you can find it at a good price. Its performance is still top-notch, its display is stunning, and it offers excellent battery life. However, if you need the absolute latest and greatest features, such as 5G connectivity or the M1 chip, you might want to consider a newer iPad Pro model. The newer models offer even faster performance, improved battery life, and support for the latest accessories. But keep in mind that they also come at a higher price. If you're on a budget, the iPad Pro 2018 is a fantastic value. It offers a premium experience at a more affordable price point. You'll still get a device that's capable of handling most tasks with ease. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to buy the iPad Pro 2018 depends on your individual needs and budget. Weigh the pros and cons carefully and consider what features are most important to you. If you prioritize performance, display quality, and battery life, and you don't need the absolute latest features, the iPad Pro 2018 is definitely worth considering.

Alternatives to Consider

If you're not sure if the iPad Pro 2018 (12.9-inch) is the right choice for you, here are a few alternatives to consider:

• iPad Pro (M1 or M2): The latest iPad Pro models offer even faster performance and improved features, but they also come at a higher price.
• iPad Air: The iPad Air is a more affordable option that still offers excellent performance and features.
• Samsung Galaxy Tab S8/S8+: Samsung's flagship tablets offer comparable performance and features to the iPad Pro, with the added benefit of Android.

Conclusion: A Timeless Tablet

The iPad Pro 2018 (12.9-inch) is a timeless tablet that still holds up well today. Its powerful performance, stunning display, and excellent battery life make it a great option for anyone looking for a premium tablet experience. While newer models offer some improvements, the iPad Pro 2018 remains a fantastic value, especially if you can find it at a discounted price. If you're looking for a versatile device for work, creativity, or entertainment, the iPad Pro 2018 is definitely worth considering. Just remember to weigh your needs and budget carefully before making a decision.