Apple IPad Pro 12.9-inch (2021): Full Review & Specs

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Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2021): A Deep Dive Review

Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2021). This powerhouse of a tablet has been making waves, and we're here to give you the lowdown on everything it offers. Whether you're a creative professional, a student, or just someone who loves top-notch tech, this review is for you. We'll be covering everything from the stunning display and blazing-fast performance to the impressive battery life and overall user experience. So, grab your favorite beverage, settle in, and let's get started!

What Makes the 2021 iPad Pro 12.9-inch Stand Out?

The 2021 iPad Pro 12.9-inch is not just an upgrade; it's a reimagining of what a tablet can be. The heart of this beast is the M1 chip, the same silicon that powers Apple's MacBook Air and MacBook Pro. This means you're getting desktop-class performance in a tablet form factor. It's a game-changer, allowing for seamless multitasking, demanding creative workflows, and incredible gaming experiences. This performance leap truly sets the 2021 iPad Pro apart from its predecessors and competitors.

But the M1 chip isn't the only star of the show. The Liquid Retina XDR display is a marvel to behold. It utilizes mini-LED technology to deliver incredible brightness, contrast, and color accuracy. This means vibrant visuals, deep blacks, and a stunning viewing experience, whether you're watching movies, editing photos, or creating digital art. This display is a significant upgrade and a major selling point for this iPad Pro.

Beyond the raw power and display quality, the 2021 iPad Pro boasts a range of features that enhance its versatility. Thunderbolt/USB 4 support offers blazing-fast data transfer speeds and compatibility with a wide range of accessories. The advanced camera system, including the Ultra Wide front camera with Center Stage, makes video calls and content creation a breeze. And of course, the iPad Pro supports the Apple Pencil (2nd generation) and the Magic Keyboard, transforming it into a powerful creative tool and a productive workstation.

Diving Deeper into the M1 Chip Performance

Let's talk more about that M1 chip. Apple silicon has been a revelation, and its inclusion in the iPad Pro is a huge deal. The M1's 8-core CPU delivers up to 50% faster performance than the previous generation iPad Pro, while the 8-core GPU offers up to 40% faster graphics performance. These numbers translate to real-world benefits, such as smoother performance in demanding apps like Procreate and LumaFusion, faster rendering times, and the ability to run multiple apps simultaneously without a hitch. The sheer power of this chip allows the iPad Pro to handle tasks that were previously limited to high-end laptops and desktops. Whether you are editing 4K video, designing complex 3D models, or playing graphics-intensive games, the M1 chip ensures a fluid and responsive experience. It also brings advanced features like machine learning capabilities to the iPad, opening up a whole new world of possibilities for app developers and users alike. The efficiency of the M1 chip also contributes to the iPad Pro's excellent battery life, allowing you to work and play for hours on end without needing to plug in.

The Magic of the Liquid Retina XDR Display

The Liquid Retina XDR display is where the 2021 iPad Pro truly shines. Mini-LED technology is the key to its brilliance, packing over 10,000 LEDs into the backlight. This allows for incredibly precise control of brightness and contrast, resulting in a dynamic range that's simply breathtaking. The display can reach a peak brightness of 1600 nits, making it easily viewable even in bright sunlight. More importantly, it delivers a stunning 1,000,000:1 contrast ratio, meaning you'll see incredibly deep blacks and vibrant colors. The detail and clarity are simply mesmerizing. This makes the iPad Pro ideal for content creators who need accurate color representation, as well as anyone who enjoys watching movies and TV shows. The combination of the mini-LED technology, ProMotion (120Hz adaptive refresh rate), and wide color gamut support creates a visual experience that is unmatched in the tablet world. Simply put, it's one of the best displays you can find on any device, and it significantly enhances the overall user experience of the iPad Pro.

Key Features and Specifications

Alright, let's break down the core specs of this incredible machine. The 2021 iPad Pro 12.9-inch is packed with features designed to impress. Here's a rundown:

  • Display: 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR display with mini-LED backlight, ProMotion technology, and True Tone
  • Processor: Apple M1 chip with 8-core CPU and 8-core GPU
  • Storage: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, or 2TB
  • RAM: 8GB (128GB, 256GB, 512GB models) or 16GB (1TB, 2TB models)
  • Cameras: 12MP Wide and 10MP Ultra Wide rear cameras, 12MP Ultra Wide front camera with Center Stage
  • Connectivity: Thunderbolt / USB 4, Wi-Fi 6, optional 5G cellular
  • Battery: Up to 10 hours of web surfing on Wi-Fi or watching video
  • Operating System: iPadOS
  • Dimensions: 11.04 inches (280.6 mm) x 8.46 inches (214.9 mm) x 0.25 inches (6.4 mm)
  • Weight: 1.5 pounds (682 grams) for Wi-Fi model, 1.51 pounds (684 grams) for Wi-Fi + Cellular model

These specifications paint a clear picture: the 2021 iPad Pro is a powerhouse. The storage options are generous, allowing you to store vast amounts of files, photos, and videos. The RAM configurations are ample for multitasking and demanding applications. The connectivity options, including Thunderbolt and optional 5G, ensure you're always connected and able to transfer data quickly. The battery life is impressive, allowing you to work or play for a full day on a single charge. The inclusion of the M1 chip alongside the stunning display and other features makes this iPad Pro a top-tier device.

Who is the 2021 iPad Pro 12.9-inch For?

The 2021 iPad Pro 12.9-inch isn't just for everyone; it's specifically tailored for those who demand the best in performance and versatility. If you fall into any of these categories, this iPad Pro might be your perfect match:

  • Creative Professionals: Graphic designers, video editors, photographers, and musicians will find the iPad Pro to be an invaluable tool. The M1 chip provides the processing power needed for demanding creative applications, while the Liquid Retina XDR display ensures accurate color representation. The Apple Pencil support allows for precise drawing and sketching, making it a natural extension of your creative workflow.
  • Students: The iPad Pro is a fantastic device for students, offering a powerful platform for note-taking, research, and project work. The Magic Keyboard transforms the iPad Pro into a laptop-like device, while the Apple Pencil allows for handwritten notes and annotations. The long battery life ensures you can get through a full day of classes without needing to plug in. And the vast library of educational apps available on the App Store makes learning interactive and engaging.
  • Business Professionals: The iPad Pro is also a great tool for business professionals, offering a portable and versatile platform for work. The M1 chip provides the processing power needed for multitasking and running productivity apps. The Thunderbolt port allows for connecting to external displays and other peripherals, while the optional 5G connectivity ensures you're always connected, even on the go. The iPad Pro can be a powerful tool for presentations, document editing, and communication.
  • Tech Enthusiasts: If you simply appreciate cutting-edge technology, the 2021 iPad Pro is sure to impress. The combination of the M1 chip, Liquid Retina XDR display, and other advanced features makes it one of the most technologically advanced tablets on the market. It's a device that pushes the boundaries of what a tablet can do, and tech enthusiasts will appreciate its innovation and performance.

In essence, if you need a device that can handle demanding tasks, offers a stunning display, and provides a versatile platform for work and play, the 2021 iPad Pro 12.9-inch is an excellent choice. It's a premium device with a premium price tag, but the performance and features justify the investment for those who can take full advantage of its capabilities.

Pros and Cons: Weighing Your Options

Before you make a decision, let's break down the pros and cons of the 2021 iPad Pro 12.9-inch. This will give you a clear overview of its strengths and weaknesses:

Pros:

  • Blazing-Fast Performance: The M1 chip delivers desktop-class performance, making it incredibly fast and responsive.
  • Stunning Display: The Liquid Retina XDR display with mini-LED technology offers incredible brightness, contrast, and color accuracy.
  • Versatile Functionality: The iPad Pro can be used for a wide range of tasks, from creative work to productivity and entertainment.
  • Excellent Battery Life: The battery lasts for up to 10 hours, allowing you to work or play for a full day on a single charge.
  • Advanced Features: Thunderbolt/USB 4, 5G connectivity, Center Stage, and Apple Pencil support add to its versatility.

Cons:

  • Premium Price: The iPad Pro is an expensive device, especially when you factor in accessories like the Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard.
  • iPadOS Limitations: While iPadOS has improved, it's still not as feature-rich as macOS or Windows, which can be a limitation for some users.
  • Accessory Costs: The Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard are essential accessories for many users, but they add significantly to the overall cost.
  • App Compatibility: While the App Store has a vast library of apps, some desktop-class applications are not available or have limited functionality on iPadOS.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to buy the 2021 iPad Pro 12.9-inch depends on your individual needs and budget. If you need a powerful and versatile tablet for demanding tasks and are willing to pay a premium price, it's an excellent choice. However, if you have a tighter budget or need the full functionality of a desktop operating system, you might want to consider other options. It is a powerful and versatile device, but it's not the perfect solution for everyone.

Final Verdict: Is the 2021 iPad Pro 12.9-inch Worth It?

So, the big question: is the 2021 iPad Pro 12.9-inch worth it? For many, the answer is a resounding yes. This iPad Pro is a significant leap forward in terms of performance, display quality, and overall versatility. The M1 chip delivers incredible power, making it capable of handling demanding tasks with ease. The Liquid Retina XDR display is simply stunning, providing an immersive visual experience. And the range of features and accessories available for the iPad Pro make it a true powerhouse for both work and play.

However, it's important to consider the price. The 2021 iPad Pro is a premium device with a premium price tag. If you're on a tight budget, there are other tablets that offer good performance at a lower cost. Additionally, while iPadOS has improved significantly, it's still not as feature-rich as macOS or Windows. This can be a limitation for some users, especially those who need to run specific desktop applications.

That said, if you're a creative professional, a student, a business professional, or a tech enthusiast who demands the best, the 2021 iPad Pro 12.9-inch is an excellent investment. It's a device that can truly replace a laptop for many users, offering a powerful and versatile platform for work, creativity, and entertainment. It's a testament to how far tablets have come, and it sets a new standard for the industry.

In conclusion, the 2021 iPad Pro 12.9-inch is a top-tier tablet that offers incredible performance, a stunning display, and a wide range of features. It's not the cheapest option, but for those who need the best, it's definitely worth considering. So, if you're in the market for a new tablet and the iPad Pro fits your needs and budget, you won't be disappointed. Happy shopping, guys!