IPad Pro 12.9 256GB (2021): Review & Best Deals

Hey everyone! Today, we’re diving deep into the iPad Pro 12.9-inch 256GB (2021). This powerhouse of a tablet has been making waves, and for good reason. If you're contemplating whether to invest your hard-earned cash in this gadget, stick around as we dissect everything it has to offer. We'll cover performance, display quality, battery life, and who exactly this device is perfect for. So, let’s get started!

What Makes the iPad Pro 12.9" (2021) Stand Out?

Let's kick things off with a general overview. The iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2021) is more than just a tablet; it's a creative canvas, a mobile workstation, and an entertainment hub all rolled into one sleek package. What truly sets it apart is the inclusion of Apple's M1 chip, which brings desktop-level performance to a tablet form factor. This means you can effortlessly run demanding apps like Procreate, Adobe Photoshop, and LumaFusion without breaking a sweat. The stunning Liquid Retina XDR display with its mini-LED technology delivers unparalleled visual fidelity, making everything from streaming movies to editing photos an absolute joy. Plus, with 5G connectivity on cellular models, you can stay connected and productive wherever you go. But is it worth the premium price tag? That's what we’re here to find out.

Performance: The M1 Chip Advantage

When it comes to performance, the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2021) truly shines, thanks to the M1 chip. This isn't just a spec bump; it's a complete paradigm shift. The M1 chip features an 8-core CPU and an 8-core GPU, delivering up to 50% faster CPU performance and up to 40% faster GPU performance compared to the previous generation. What does this mean in real-world use? Well, for starters, you can handle complex tasks like 4K video editing and 3D rendering with remarkable ease. Multitasking is a breeze, even with multiple demanding apps running simultaneously. Gaming is also a standout experience, with smooth frame rates and stunning graphics on even the most graphically intensive titles. The 256GB of storage provides ample space for all your files, apps, and media, ensuring you don't have to constantly worry about running out of space. And with 8GB of RAM, the iPad Pro can handle even the most demanding workflows without skipping a beat. The M1 chip also brings advanced machine learning capabilities to the iPad Pro, enabling features like on-device Siri processing and enhanced image processing. This makes the iPad Pro not just a powerful device, but also a smart one. Whether you're a creative professional, a student, or simply someone who demands the best performance from their devices, the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2021) will not disappoint.

Display: Liquid Retina XDR in All Its Glory

The display on the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2021) is nothing short of breathtaking. The Liquid Retina XDR display utilizes mini-LED technology, which packs over 10,000 LEDs into the display, allowing for incredibly precise control over brightness and contrast. This results in stunning HDR performance, with incredibly deep blacks and bright, vibrant colors. The display also supports ProMotion technology, which automatically adjusts the refresh rate up to 120Hz for incredibly smooth scrolling and responsiveness. Whether you're watching movies, editing photos, or simply browsing the web, the display on the iPad Pro delivers an unparalleled visual experience. The wide color gamut (P3) ensures accurate color reproduction, making it ideal for creative professionals who need precise color accuracy. The display also features Apple's True Tone technology, which automatically adjusts the color temperature of the display to match the ambient lighting conditions, reducing eye strain and making it more comfortable to use for extended periods. With a peak brightness of 1600 nits, the display is also incredibly bright, making it easy to see even in direct sunlight. The anti-reflective coating further enhances visibility by reducing glare and reflections. The combination of all these features makes the Liquid Retina XDR display on the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2021) the best display you can find on a tablet.

Battery Life: Power That Lasts

Battery life is always a crucial consideration when choosing a tablet, and the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2021) delivers impressive endurance. Apple claims that the iPad Pro can provide up to 10 hours of web browsing or video playback on a single charge, and in real-world testing, this claim holds up remarkably well. Even with heavy usage, including tasks like video editing and gaming, you can easily get through a full day of use without needing to recharge. The efficient M1 chip plays a significant role in maximizing battery life, as it consumes less power than previous-generation processors. The iPad Pro also supports fast charging, allowing you to quickly top up the battery when needed. The included 20W USB-C power adapter can charge the iPad Pro from 0% to 50% in about an hour. While battery life can vary depending on usage patterns and settings, the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2021) offers excellent battery life that should satisfy even the most demanding users. Whether you're working on the go, traveling, or simply relaxing at home, you can rely on the iPad Pro to keep you powered up throughout the day.

Who is the iPad Pro 12.9" (2021) For?

The iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2021) isn't just for everyone; it's tailored for specific users who can truly harness its power and capabilities. If you're a creative professional like a graphic designer, video editor, or photographer, the iPad Pro is an invaluable tool. The combination of the M1 chip, stunning display, and Apple Pencil support makes it perfect for creating and editing content on the go. Students who need a versatile device for note-taking, research, and entertainment will also find the iPad Pro to be an excellent choice. The 256GB of storage provides ample space for storing all your files and documents, and the long battery life ensures you can stay productive throughout the day. Business professionals who need a mobile workstation for presentations, document editing, and communication will also appreciate the iPad Pro's power and portability. The ability to run desktop-class apps like Microsoft Office and Adobe Acrobat makes it easy to stay productive on the go. However, if you're primarily looking for a tablet for basic tasks like web browsing and social media, the iPad Pro might be overkill. There are more affordable options available that can handle these tasks just fine. But if you demand the best performance, display quality, and features, the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2021) is the ultimate tablet for you.

Pros and Cons

To give you a clearer picture, here's a breakdown of the pros and cons of the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2021):

Pros:

• Blazing-fast performance thanks to the M1 chip.
• Stunning Liquid Retina XDR display with mini-LED technology.
• Excellent battery life that lasts all day.
• Ample storage with the 256GB option.
• Support for Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard.
• 5G connectivity on cellular models.

Cons:

• High price tag.
• Accessories (Apple Pencil, Magic Keyboard) sold separately.
• iPadOS may not be as fully featured as macOS or Windows for some users.

Conclusion: Is It Worth the Investment?

So, is the iPad Pro 12.9-inch 256GB (2021) worth the investment? The answer depends on your specific needs and priorities. If you're a creative professional, student, or business user who demands the best performance, display quality, and features, the iPad Pro is undoubtedly worth the investment. The M1 chip delivers unparalleled performance, the Liquid Retina XDR display is simply stunning, and the long battery life ensures you can stay productive on the go. However, if you're primarily looking for a tablet for basic tasks like web browsing and social media, there are more affordable options available that can meet your needs. Ultimately, the decision comes down to whether you're willing to pay a premium for the best-in-class performance and features that the iPad Pro offers. If you are, you won't be disappointed.