IPad Pro 12.9-inch 2020: Still Worth It?

by SLV Team 41 views
iPad Pro 12.9-inch 2020: Still Worth It?

Hey tech enthusiasts! Today, let's dive into the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020), a tablet that, even with newer models out, still holds its own in the competitive tech world. Is it worth your hard-earned cash in 2024? Let's break it down, looking at its specs, performance, and whether it's still a smart buy. This review will help you decide if this older iPad Pro is the right fit for your needs and budget. Let's get started!

Unpacking the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020): What's Inside?

When the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) first hit the market, it was a beast of a tablet, packed with features designed to impress. Let's refresh our memories on what this device brought to the table. The heart of the iPad Pro 2020 is the A12Z Bionic chip, a powerful processor that, even by today's standards, delivers impressive performance. Paired with a generous amount of RAM, the tablet handles everything from demanding creative apps to seamless multitasking with ease. Think of it as a smooth operator, handling complex tasks without breaking a sweat.

The display is a major highlight, as the iPad Pro 12.9-inch boasts a stunning Liquid Retina display with ProMotion technology. This means vibrant colors, incredible detail, and a refresh rate that adjusts up to 120Hz, making everything from scrolling through web pages to playing games feel incredibly smooth. The screen is a visual treat, perfect for creative work, watching movies, or simply browsing.

On the design front, the iPad Pro 2020 keeps the sleek and modern aesthetic Apple is known for. The slim bezels and squared-off edges give it a premium feel, and the device is available in two classic colors: Space Gray and Silver. It’s a beautifully designed piece of tech that looks as good as it performs. The inclusion of Face ID provides a secure and convenient way to unlock your tablet and authorize purchases. The 2020 iPad Pro 12.9-inch also supports the second-generation Apple Pencil, which magnetically attaches to the side of the tablet for charging and storage. The addition of the Magic Keyboard transformed the iPad Pro into a powerful hybrid device, offering a laptop-like experience with its trackpad and comfortable keys. Now, let's not forget the cameras. The iPad Pro 2020 has a dual-camera system on the back, with a 12MP wide lens and a 10MP ultrawide lens. It also includes a LiDAR scanner, which enhances augmented reality experiences and improves depth perception. Overall, the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) offered a comprehensive package of performance, design, and features that still hold up well.

Key Features and Specifications:

  • Processor: A12Z Bionic chip
  • Display: 12.9-inch Liquid Retina display with ProMotion
  • Storage Options: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB
  • RAM: Varies by model, generally 6GB
  • Cameras: 12MP wide, 10MP ultrawide, LiDAR scanner
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi + Cellular options
  • Apple Pencil Support: 2nd generation
  • Magic Keyboard Support: Yes
  • Face ID: Yes

Performance Review: Does the iPad Pro 2020 Still Cut It?

Alright, let's get down to brass tacks: How does the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) perform in 2024? Can it still handle the demands of modern apps and tasks? The answer is a resounding yes! The A12Z Bionic chip is still a powerhouse, easily handling everyday tasks like web browsing, email, and social media. When you throw more intensive tasks at it, like video editing in apps like LumaFusion or running complex creative software, the iPad Pro 2020 doesn't flinch. The performance is surprisingly good, even compared to some newer tablets.

The display, as mentioned earlier, is a key strength. The 12.9-inch Liquid Retina display with ProMotion makes everything look stunning. The high refresh rate ensures smooth scrolling and responsiveness, which is especially noticeable when gaming or using the Apple Pencil. Whether you're watching videos, working on creative projects, or simply browsing the web, the display offers an immersive and enjoyable experience. The screen is great for multitasking; you can easily have multiple apps open side by side without any lag or performance issues. The iPad Pro 2020's multitasking capabilities are excellent, thanks to the powerful processor and ample RAM. You can switch between apps quickly and efficiently.

Battery life is another area where the iPad Pro 2020 excels. You can expect a solid day of use on a single charge, depending on your usage patterns. Apple has always been good at optimizing battery performance, and the iPad Pro 2020 is no exception. This makes it a reliable device for on-the-go productivity or entertainment. When considering connectivity, the iPad Pro 2020 offers both Wi-Fi and cellular options, providing flexibility for staying connected. This is a crucial feature for anyone who needs to work or stay entertained while on the move. Overall, the performance of the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) in 2024 remains impressive. It handles a wide range of tasks with ease, thanks to its powerful processor, stunning display, and excellent multitasking capabilities. This tablet is a great choice for both professional and casual users.

Real-world Performance Insights:

  • Gaming: Runs graphically demanding games smoothly, with excellent visuals and responsiveness.
  • Video Editing: Handles 4K video editing with ease, providing a smooth and efficient workflow.
  • Creative Tasks: Supports professional-grade creative apps, such as Adobe Photoshop and Procreate.
  • Multitasking: Effortlessly manages multiple apps and tasks simultaneously.
  • Battery Life: Provides a full day of use for most users, even with heavy usage.

Design and Build Quality: A Closer Look

Let's take a closer look at the design and build quality of the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020). Apple has always been known for its elegant and premium designs, and this iPad is no exception. The aluminum unibody design feels incredibly sturdy and refined, giving the tablet a premium feel. The slim bezels around the display maximize the screen real estate, providing a more immersive viewing experience. The squared-off edges add a modern touch, making the tablet visually appealing and easy to grip. The device is available in two classic colors: Space Gray and Silver, allowing you to choose the look that best suits your style.

The build quality is top-notch, with no flex or creaks. The buttons are well-placed and provide a satisfying click. The inclusion of Face ID is a convenient and secure way to unlock the device. Face ID also works in both portrait and landscape orientations. One of the best features is the support for the second-generation Apple Pencil. The magnetic attachment and wireless charging are seamless. The support for the Magic Keyboard further enhances the design and usability of the iPad Pro. The keyboard transforms the tablet into a powerful hybrid device, offering a laptop-like experience with its trackpad and comfortable keys. The overall design and build quality of the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) are excellent, providing a premium and durable device. It is clear that Apple paid a lot of attention to detail when creating this tablet.

Design Highlights:

  • Materials: Aluminum unibody design.
  • Colors: Space Gray and Silver.
  • Bezels: Slim bezels maximize screen real estate.
  • Build Quality: Premium feel, sturdy and refined.
  • Face ID: Secure and convenient unlocking.
  • Apple Pencil Support: 2nd generation, magnetic attachment and wireless charging.
  • Magic Keyboard Support: Transforms the iPad into a hybrid device.

Display and Audio Quality: A Visual and Auditory Feast

The display and audio quality are where the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) truly shines, offering an exceptional viewing and listening experience. The 12.9-inch Liquid Retina display is stunning, with vibrant colors, incredible detail, and a refresh rate of up to 120Hz. ProMotion technology makes everything look incredibly smooth, whether you're scrolling through web pages, playing games, or watching videos. The display is a visual treat, perfect for creative work, watching movies, or simply browsing. The high resolution ensures that text is sharp and images are crisp, making the content more engaging. The display's brightness is also excellent, making it usable in various lighting conditions.

The audio quality is equally impressive, with four speaker system. These speakers deliver a rich and immersive sound experience. The sound is balanced and detailed, making it perfect for listening to music, watching movies, or video calls. The speakers' placement provides a wide soundstage, making the audio feel more expansive. The iPad Pro 2020 also supports spatial audio, further enhancing the listening experience. The combination of an incredible display and high-quality audio makes the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) perfect for entertainment. You can easily get immersed in your favorite content, whether it's movies, TV shows, or games.

Display and Audio Features:

  • Display: 12.9-inch Liquid Retina display with ProMotion.
  • Resolution: High resolution ensures sharp and crisp visuals.
  • Refresh Rate: Up to 120Hz for smooth scrolling and responsiveness.
  • Brightness: Excellent brightness for use in various lighting conditions.
  • Speakers: Four speaker system for rich and immersive sound.
  • Sound Quality: Balanced and detailed audio.
  • Spatial Audio: Supports spatial audio for enhanced listening experience.

Accessories and Ecosystem: Expanding the Possibilities

The iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) works seamlessly with a range of accessories, enhancing its functionality and versatility. The second-generation Apple Pencil is a must-have for creative professionals, students, and anyone who enjoys taking notes or sketching. The Apple Pencil magnetically attaches to the side of the iPad for charging and storage, making it convenient and easy to use. The precision and responsiveness of the Apple Pencil make it ideal for drawing, illustrating, and other creative tasks. The Magic Keyboard transforms the iPad Pro into a laptop replacement, offering a comfortable typing experience with its trackpad and backlit keys. The keyboard enhances productivity and makes it easy to work on documents, emails, and other tasks. The Smart Keyboard Folio is another option, providing a more compact and lightweight keyboard solution. It offers a comfortable typing experience and protects the iPad's screen.

The iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) seamlessly integrates into the Apple ecosystem. You can easily sync your files, photos, and other content across your devices using iCloud. The integration with other Apple products like the iPhone, MacBook, and Apple Watch makes it easy to stay connected and productive. The iPad Pro also supports a wide range of third-party accessories, such as USB-C hubs, external hard drives, and more. This expands the possibilities and allows you to customize your setup to meet your specific needs. The App Store offers access to a vast library of apps, from productivity tools to creative software to games. The iPad Pro's powerful processor and large display make it ideal for running these apps. With the right accessories, the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) can become a powerful and versatile tool for work, creativity, and entertainment.

Recommended Accessories:

  • Apple Pencil (2nd generation): For drawing, sketching, and note-taking.
  • Magic Keyboard: Transforms the iPad into a laptop replacement.
  • Smart Keyboard Folio: Compact and lightweight keyboard solution.
  • USB-C Hubs: For connecting external devices and accessories.
  • External Hard Drives: For extra storage and backup.

Value Proposition: Is the iPad Pro 2020 a Good Buy in 2024?

So, the million-dollar question: Is the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) still worth it in 2024? Considering its age and the availability of newer models, the answer isn't a simple yes or no. However, let's break down the value proposition. The iPad Pro 2020 offers a compelling combination of performance, features, and design. The A12Z Bionic chip, while not the latest, remains a powerful processor that can handle most tasks with ease. The stunning 12.9-inch Liquid Retina display with ProMotion continues to impress with its vibrant colors and smooth refresh rate. The design is still premium and sleek, with its aluminum unibody and slim bezels. The support for the second-generation Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard further enhances the value proposition, transforming the iPad Pro into a versatile device.

However, there are a few things to consider. The iPad Pro 2020 may not have the absolute cutting-edge technology found in newer models. If you are a heavy user who needs the latest and greatest performance, you might want to consider the latest generation of the iPad Pro. The price of the iPad Pro 2020 is also an important factor. If you can find it at a significantly discounted price compared to newer models, it can be an excellent value. The availability of used or refurbished models can make it an even more attractive option. When deciding whether to purchase the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020), consider your needs and budget. If you are looking for a powerful and versatile tablet for everyday tasks, creative work, or entertainment, and you can find it at a good price, it is still a solid choice. If you prioritize the absolute latest technology and are willing to spend more, then a newer model might be a better option. Ultimately, the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) offers great value, especially if you can get it at a competitive price. Weigh the pros and cons and make a decision based on your individual needs and budget.

Determining the Value:

  • Performance Needs: Assess your required processing power for daily tasks and creative applications.
  • Budget: Compare prices of new and used models to find the best value.
  • Features: Consider the importance of the display, accessories, and other features.
  • Availability: Check for deals on used or refurbished models.
  • Long-Term Use: Consider how long you plan to use the device.

Pros and Cons: A Quick Summary

To make your decision even easier, here is a quick overview of the pros and cons of the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020):

Pros:

  • Powerful Performance: A12Z Bionic chip handles demanding tasks with ease.
  • Stunning Display: 12.9-inch Liquid Retina display with ProMotion is visually stunning.
  • Premium Design: Sleek and modern design with a premium feel.
  • Excellent Accessories: Supports Apple Pencil (2nd gen) and Magic Keyboard.
  • Good Value: Offers great value, especially at a discounted price.

Cons:

  • Older Processor: Not the latest chip compared to newer models.
  • No Thunderbolt: Does not support Thunderbolt connectivity.
  • Price: Can be expensive if not found at a discounted price.

Conclusion: Making the Right Choice

In conclusion, the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) remains a compelling tablet in 2024. Its powerful performance, stunning display, and premium design still make it a great choice for a wide range of users. Whether you're a creative professional, a student, or just someone who enjoys a top-notch tablet experience, this iPad Pro is worth considering. If you're on a budget or don't need the absolute latest technology, finding a good deal on a used or refurbished model could be a smart move. Weigh the pros and cons, consider your specific needs, and make an informed decision. Happy tech hunting, guys!