Apple IPad Pro 12.9-inch (2021): A Detailed Review
Hey guys! Today, let's dive deep into the Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2021). This isn't just another tablet; it's a powerhouse that's blurring the lines between tablets and laptops. If you're considering upgrading or just curious about what makes this device tick, you’re in the right place. We'll cover everything from its stunning display and blazing-fast performance to its camera capabilities and overall value. So, buckle up and let’s get started!
Display and Design
When you first set your eyes on the Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2021), the display is the first thing that grabs your attention. It features a Liquid Retina XDR display that uses mini-LED technology. What does this mean for you? Incredible brightness, vibrant colors, and stunning contrast. The display can hit a peak brightness of 1600 nits in HDR mode, making it perfect for watching HDR content or working in bright environments. The 120Hz ProMotion refresh rate ensures that everything feels smooth and responsive, whether you're scrolling through web pages or drawing with the Apple Pencil. The resolution is 2732 x 2048 pixels, resulting in a pixel density of 264 ppi, which means everything looks sharp and detailed. The screen is also fully laminated and has an anti-reflective coating, which reduces glare and makes it easier to use outdoors.
The design of the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2021) is sleek and modern. It has flat edges, similar to the iPhone 12 and iPhone 13 series, giving it a premium and sophisticated look. The build quality is top-notch, with an aluminum unibody that feels solid and durable. It's available in two colors: Space Gray and Silver. The bezels around the display are slim, but not so thin that they cause accidental touches. The front-facing TrueDepth camera system is housed in the top bezel, which supports Face ID for secure authentication. The back of the iPad Pro features a dual-camera setup and a LiDAR scanner. Overall, the design is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, making it a joy to use and look at.
The size and weight of the 12.9-inch iPad Pro are worth considering, especially if you plan to use it on the go. It measures 11.04 inches in height, 8.46 inches in width, and 0.25 inches in thickness, and weighs around 1.5 pounds for the Wi-Fi model and 1.51 pounds for the Wi-Fi + Cellular model. While it's not the lightest tablet on the market, the weight is justified by its large display and powerful internals. It's still portable enough to carry in a backpack or briefcase, but you might want to consider the 11-inch model if you prioritize portability.
Performance and Specs
Now, let's talk about what's under the hood. The Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2021) is powered by Apple's M1 chip, which is the same chip that's found in some of their MacBooks and iMacs. This is a massive upgrade over previous iPad Pro models and brings a whole new level of performance to the tablet. The M1 chip features an 8-core CPU and an 8-core GPU, which deliver blazing-fast performance for everything from everyday tasks to demanding creative workflows. Whether you're editing 4K videos, playing graphics-intensive games, or running complex simulations, the iPad Pro can handle it all with ease. The M1 chip also includes a 16-core Neural Engine, which accelerates machine learning tasks, making the iPad Pro even smarter and more capable.
The iPad Pro (2021) comes with either 8GB or 16GB of RAM, depending on the storage configuration. Models with 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB of storage come with 8GB of RAM, while models with 1TB or 2TB of storage come with 16GB of RAM. The increased RAM allows you to run more apps simultaneously and keep more tabs open in your browser without experiencing any slowdowns. Storage options range from 128GB to 2TB, so you can choose the one that best fits your needs. Keep in mind that the storage is not expandable, so it's better to err on the side of caution and get more storage than you think you'll need. The 2021 iPad Pro also supports Wi-Fi 6 and 5G connectivity, ensuring that you have fast and reliable internet access wherever you go. The battery life is also impressive, with Apple claiming up to 10 hours of web surfing on Wi-Fi or watching video.
To put it simply, the performance of the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2021) is unmatched by any other tablet on the market. The M1 chip provides desktop-class performance in a tablet form factor, making it a powerful tool for creative professionals, students, and anyone who wants the best possible performance. The iPad Pro is not just a tablet; it's a mobile workstation that can handle anything you throw at it.
Camera and Audio
Let’s get into the camera capabilities of the 2021 iPad Pro. On the rear, you get a dual-camera system consisting of a 12MP Wide camera and a 10MP Ultra Wide camera. The Wide camera has an ƒ/1.8 aperture, while the Ultra Wide camera has an ƒ/2.4 aperture and a 125° field of view. The camera system also includes a LiDAR scanner, which is used for depth sensing and augmented reality applications. The image quality is excellent, with vibrant colors, sharp details, and good dynamic range. The iPad Pro can record videos in up to 4K resolution at 60 frames per second.
The front-facing camera is a 12MP Ultra Wide camera with a 122° field of view. It supports Center Stage, a feature that automatically adjusts the camera to keep you in the frame during video calls. This is especially useful for group calls or when you're moving around. The front camera also supports Face ID for secure authentication. The audio quality on the iPad Pro is also impressive. It has four speakers that deliver wide stereo sound. The sound is clear, loud, and well-balanced, making it great for watching videos, listening to music, or playing games. The iPad Pro also has two microphones that capture clear audio for video calls and recordings.
In short, the camera and audio capabilities of the 2021 iPad Pro are top-notch. The rear cameras take excellent photos and videos, while the front camera is perfect for video calls. The four speakers deliver immersive audio, making it a great device for entertainment and communication. Whether you're a content creator, a student, or just someone who enjoys watching videos, the iPad Pro has you covered.
Software and Features
The Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2021) runs on iPadOS, which is designed specifically for the iPad. iPadOS has a user-friendly interface and supports multitasking features like Slide Over and Split View, which allow you to run multiple apps simultaneously. The 2021 iPad Pro also supports the Apple Pencil (2nd generation), which is a must-have accessory for creative professionals and students. The Apple Pencil attaches magnetically to the side of the iPad Pro and charges wirelessly. It has incredibly low latency, making it feel like you're writing or drawing on paper. The iPad Pro also supports the Magic Keyboard, which is a keyboard case with a built-in trackpad. The Magic Keyboard provides a comfortable typing experience and turns the iPad Pro into a laptop replacement.
One of the standout features of the 2021 iPad Pro is its support for Thunderbolt / USB 4. This allows you to connect to external displays, storage devices, and other peripherals. The Thunderbolt port supports data transfer speeds of up to 40Gbps, making it fast and efficient. The iPad Pro also supports external displays with resolutions up to 6K. The software experience on the iPad Pro is smooth and intuitive. Apple provides regular software updates that bring new features and improvements. The App Store has a wide selection of apps optimized for the iPad, including creative apps like Procreate and LumaFusion, as well as productivity apps like Microsoft Office and Google Workspace. The iPad Pro is also great for gaming, with a wide range of games available on the App Store that take advantage of the M1 chip's powerful graphics capabilities.
Value and Conclusion
So, is the Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2021) worth the investment? The answer is a resounding yes, especially if you're a creative professional, a student, or someone who wants the best possible performance in a tablet. The iPad Pro is expensive, but it offers a unique combination of power, portability, and versatility that no other tablet can match. The M1 chip provides desktop-class performance, while the Liquid Retina XDR display is stunning. The Apple iPad Pro also has a great camera system, excellent audio quality, and supports the Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard. The 2021 iPad Pro runs on iPadOS, which is a user-friendly and intuitive operating system with a wide range of apps available on the App Store.
However, the iPad Pro is not for everyone. If you only need a tablet for basic tasks like browsing the web, watching videos, and checking email, you might be better off with a cheaper iPad model. The iPad Pro is designed for demanding users who need a powerful and versatile device that can handle anything they throw at it. If you're willing to spend the money, the Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2021) is the best tablet on the market. It's a powerful tool that can help you be more productive, creative, and entertained.
In conclusion, the 2021 Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch is a top-tier tablet that offers unparalleled performance and a premium user experience. While it comes with a hefty price tag, its advanced features and capabilities make it a worthwhile investment for professionals and enthusiasts alike. If you're looking for the best of the best, the iPad Pro is definitely worth considering.