Apple IPad Pro 12.9 (5th Gen) - Worth It In 2024?

So, you're eyeing the Apple iPad Pro 12.9 (5th Generation), huh? Maybe you've found a sweet deal on a used one, or you're just curious if this slightly older tablet can still hang with the cool kids in 2024. Well, buckle up, because we're diving deep into what makes this iPad Pro tick, its strengths, its weaknesses, and whether it's still a worthwhile investment in today's tech landscape.

Display: Still a Visual Treat

Let's kick things off with the star of the show: that stunning 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR display. Seriously, this screen is gorgeous. We're talking mini-LED technology, which means deeper blacks, brighter highlights, and an overall more vibrant and dynamic picture. Whether you're binge-watching your favorite shows, editing photos, or just browsing the web, everything looks fantastic on this display. The ProMotion technology, with its adaptive refresh rate up to 120Hz, makes scrolling and animations buttery smooth, adding to the premium feel. For creative professionals, this display is a game-changer, offering incredible color accuracy and detail for tasks like photo and video editing. Even in 2024, the display holds up remarkably well against newer models and competitors. While newer iPads might boast slightly improved brightness or color accuracy, the difference is often negligible for most users. The immersive quality of the large screen combined with the XDR technology makes it a joy to use for both work and entertainment. If you're someone who values visual fidelity and wants a display that truly pops, the iPad Pro 12.9 (5th Gen) won't disappoint. And let's be real, who doesn't love a good-looking screen? It elevates the entire user experience, making everything from reading articles to playing games more enjoyable. So, if display quality is a top priority for you, this iPad Pro remains a strong contender.

Performance: Powerhouse Performance

Under the hood, the A12Z Bionic chip is a beast. This thing can handle anything you throw at it, from demanding games to complex creative tasks. Video editing? No problem. Graphic design? Easy peasy. Multitasking with a dozen apps open? The A12Z chip laughs in the face of such challenges. Even in 2024, this chip is still incredibly powerful and efficient. You'll be hard-pressed to find any app or task that significantly slows it down. While newer iPads have moved on to the M-series chips, the A12Z still holds its own, providing a fluid and responsive user experience. For most users, the performance difference between the A12Z and the M1 or M2 chips will be minimal in everyday use. The A12Z's neural engine also enables impressive machine learning capabilities, enhancing features like image recognition and augmented reality. This means you can enjoy cutting-edge features and performance without feeling like you're using outdated technology. Whether you're a student, a professional, or just someone who enjoys using their iPad for a variety of tasks, the iPad Pro 12.9 (5th Gen) offers plenty of power to keep you productive and entertained. Trust me, you won't be waiting around for apps to load or struggling with lag. This iPad is all about speed and efficiency.

Features: Still Packed with Goodies

Beyond the screen and the processor, the iPad Pro 12.9 (5th Gen) is loaded with features that make it a joy to use. It supports the 2nd generation Apple Pencil, which magnetically attaches to the side for charging and storage. This is a must-have for artists, note-takers, and anyone who appreciates a precise and natural writing experience. The iPad also features a Thunderbolt / USB 4 port, offering blazing-fast data transfer speeds and support for external displays. This is a game-changer for professionals who need to connect to external storage devices or work with multiple monitors. The camera system is also top-notch, with a 12MP wide camera and a 10MP ultra-wide camera, as well as a LiDAR scanner for enhanced augmented reality experiences. Whether you're taking photos, scanning documents, or exploring AR apps, the iPad Pro delivers impressive results. The iPad also boasts excellent battery life, easily lasting a full day of moderate use. This is essential for anyone who relies on their iPad for work or entertainment on the go. And let's not forget about the quad-speaker audio system, which delivers rich and immersive sound. Whether you're watching movies, listening to music, or playing games, the audio quality is truly impressive. Even in 2024, these features hold up remarkably well, making the iPad Pro 12.9 (5th Gen) a versatile and capable device.

What's Changed Since?

Okay, so newer iPads exist. What do they bring to the table? The biggest upgrade you'll find in newer models is the M1 and M2 chips. These chips offer a significant performance boost, especially in demanding tasks like video editing and 3D rendering. However, as we discussed earlier, the A12Z is still plenty powerful for most users. Newer iPads may also have slightly improved displays, with higher peak brightness or more advanced color accuracy. But again, the difference is often subtle. Another potential upgrade is faster charging speeds. Newer iPads may charge slightly faster than the 5th generation model. Ultimately, the decision of whether to upgrade depends on your individual needs and budget. If you're a professional who needs the absolute best performance, then a newer iPad with an M-series chip might be worth the investment. But if you're a casual user or someone on a budget, the iPad Pro 12.9 (5th Gen) still offers excellent value. Don't get caught up in the hype, the 5th Gen is still a very capable machine.

Price and Value in 2024

Here's where things get interesting. Because it's not the newest model, you can often find the iPad Pro 12.9 (5th Gen) at a significantly lower price than the current generation. This makes it an incredibly attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. You're getting a premium tablet with a stunning display, powerful performance, and a wealth of features, all at a fraction of the cost of a new model. When considering the value proposition, it's important to weigh the cost savings against the potential benefits of a newer iPad. If you can live without the absolute latest and greatest features, the iPad Pro 12.9 (5th Gen) offers excellent bang for your buck. It's a great way to experience the iPad Pro ecosystem without breaking the bank. Plus, you can use the money you save to invest in accessories like the Apple Pencil or a Smart Keyboard Folio, enhancing your overall experience.

Who is it For?

So, who is the iPad Pro 12.9 (5th Gen) for in 2024? It's a great choice for:

• Creative professionals: Photographers, videographers, graphic designers, and artists will appreciate the large, color-accurate display and powerful performance.
• Students: The iPad Pro is a fantastic tool for note-taking, research, and studying. The Apple Pencil makes it easy to annotate documents and create handwritten notes.
• Business users: The iPad Pro can be used for a variety of business tasks, such as email, presentations, and document editing. The Smart Keyboard Folio turns it into a portable workstation.
• Anyone who wants a premium tablet experience: If you value a large, beautiful display, powerful performance, and a wealth of features, the iPad Pro 12.9 (5th Gen) is a great choice.

Final Verdict: Still a Solid Buy

The Apple iPad Pro 12.9 (5th Generation) is still a fantastic tablet in 2024. While it may not have the absolute latest and greatest features, it offers a compelling combination of performance, display quality, and features at a price that's hard to beat. If you're looking for a premium tablet experience without breaking the bank, this iPad Pro is definitely worth considering. *Don't let the