IPad Pro 12.9 What Generation: A Comprehensive Guide

So, you’re in the market for an iPad Pro 12.9-inch, huh? Smart choice! It’s a powerhouse of a tablet, a true workhorse that can handle just about anything you throw at it. But with so many generations floating around, figuring out which one is right for you can feel a bit like navigating a maze. Don’t worry, though. I’m here to help you sort it all out.

This guide will break down the iPad Pro 12.9-inch generations, from the very first model to the latest and greatest. We’ll cover everything from the key features and specs to the performance differences and, of course, what makes each generation unique. Whether you’re a creative professional, a student, or just someone who wants the best tablet experience, understanding the generations is crucial to making an informed decision.

Get ready to become an iPad Pro 12.9-inch generation expert. By the end of this, you’ll know exactly which model best fits your needs and budget. Let’s get started!

iPad Pro 12.9-Inch Generations: A Deep Dive

Apple has consistently updated the iPad Pro 12.9-inch, each time introducing new features, improved performance, and enhanced capabilities. Understanding these generations helps you assess which model aligns with your requirements and budget. Let’s break down each generation, highlighting their key features and advancements.

1st Generation iPad Pro 12.9-Inch (2015)

The original iPad Pro 12.9-inch, released in 2015, marked a significant shift in Apple’s tablet strategy. It was the first iPad to truly target professionals, offering a larger screen and a focus on productivity. Key features included:

A1X Bionic Chip: A powerful processor for its time, handling demanding tasks with ease.
12.9-inch Retina Display: A stunning display that set the standard for immersive viewing and creative work.
Support for Apple Pencil (1st generation): Revolutionized how users interacted with the iPad, opening up new possibilities for drawing, note-taking, and design.
Smart Keyboard Support: Designed to transform the iPad into a laptop-like device.

While the first-generation iPad Pro 12.9-inch is older, it’s still capable of handling basic tasks and is available at a lower price point. However, its performance and features are significantly behind later generations.

2nd Generation iPad Pro 12.9-Inch (2017)

The 2nd generation iPad Pro, launched in 2017, brought improvements over its predecessor, primarily focusing on performance and display technology. Key upgrades included:

A10X Fusion Chip: Providing a substantial performance boost compared to the first generation, making multitasking and graphics-intensive applications smoother.
ProMotion Technology: Introduced a 120Hz refresh rate, making the display incredibly responsive and fluid, especially for scrolling and drawing.
Improved Camera: The rear camera was upgraded, resulting in better photo and video quality.

The 2nd generation is a solid option for users who want a balance of performance and affordability. The ProMotion technology alone makes a noticeable difference in the user experience. (See Also: Why Is My iPad Black and White? Troubleshooting Guide)

3rd Generation iPad Pro 12.9-Inch (2018)

The 3rd generation iPad Pro, released in 2018, brought a complete redesign and major upgrades. It represents a significant leap forward in terms of design, performance, and features:

Edge-to-Edge Liquid Retina Display: Reduced bezels and a more immersive viewing experience.
A12X Bionic Chip: Offering a massive performance boost, making it suitable for demanding tasks like video editing and 3D rendering.
Face ID: Replaced Touch ID, providing a more secure and convenient way to unlock the iPad.
USB-C Port: Replaced the Lightning port, providing more versatility and compatibility with accessories.
Apple Pencil (2nd generation) Support: The Apple Pencil attached magnetically and charged wirelessly.

The 3rd generation is an excellent choice for users who need top-tier performance and a modern design. The changes in the design and features make it a significant upgrade over the previous models.

4th Generation iPad Pro 12.9-Inch (2020)

The 4th generation iPad Pro, released in 2020, built upon the foundation of the 3rd generation, focusing on enhancements to the camera system and performance. Key features include:

A12Z Bionic Chip: While similar to the A12X, the A12Z offered improved performance for sustained tasks.
New Camera System: Added an ultra-wide lens and a LiDAR scanner for improved augmented reality experiences.
Trackpad Support: Enhanced support for trackpads and mice, making the iPad even more laptop-like.

The 4th generation is a solid choice for users who value camera capabilities and AR features. The performance is more than adequate for most tasks, and the inclusion of the LiDAR scanner is a bonus for AR applications.

5th Generation iPad Pro 12.9-Inch (2021)

The 5th generation iPad Pro, released in 2021, introduced groundbreaking display technology and a significant performance boost. It pushed the boundaries of what a tablet could do:

M1 Chip: The same powerful chip found in some Macs, providing a massive performance leap.
Liquid Retina XDR Display: Featuring mini-LED technology for exceptional brightness, contrast, and color accuracy, making it ideal for HDR content.
Thunderbolt Port: Enabled faster data transfer and expanded connectivity options.
Center Stage: Automatically kept users in the frame during video calls.
Improved Cameras: Enhanced front and rear cameras.

The 5th generation is the ultimate iPad Pro experience. The M1 chip and Liquid Retina XDR display make it a powerhouse for creative professionals and anyone who demands top-tier performance and visual quality.

6th Generation iPad Pro 12.9-Inch (2022)

The 6th generation iPad Pro, released in 2022, builds upon the strengths of the previous generation, primarily focusing on performance and connectivity improvements: (See Also: Where Is Silent Mode on iPad? A Simple Guide)

M2 Chip: Further enhanced performance and efficiency compared to the M1.
Wi-Fi 6E: Improved wireless connectivity.
Bluetooth 5.3: Enhanced Bluetooth performance.
Hover feature for Apple Pencil: Allows the iPad to detect the Apple Pencil up to 12 mm above the screen.
Improved Camera: Improved camera performance and quality.

The 6th generation iPad Pro is the current top-of-the-line model. It is perfect for those who want the absolute best performance and features the iPad Pro has to offer.

Comparing iPad Pro 12.9-Inch Generations: A Detailed Table

To help you compare the different iPad Pro 12.9-inch generations, here’s a detailed table summarizing the key specifications and features:

Feature	1st Gen (2015)	2nd Gen (2017)	3rd Gen (2018)	4th Gen (2020)	5th Gen (2021)	6th Gen (2022)
Chip	A9X	A10X Fusion	A12X Bionic	A12Z Bionic	M1	M2
Display	12.9-inch Retina	12.9-inch Retina (ProMotion)	12.9-inch Liquid Retina	12.9-inch Liquid Retina	12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR	12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR
Refresh Rate	60Hz	120Hz (ProMotion)	120Hz (ProMotion)	120Hz (ProMotion)	120Hz (ProMotion)	120Hz (ProMotion)
Storage Options	32GB, 128GB, 256GB	64GB, 256GB, 512GB	64GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB	128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB	128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB	128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB
Apple Pencil Support	1st Gen	1st Gen	2nd Gen	2nd Gen	2nd Gen	2nd Gen
Port	Lightning	Lightning	USB-C	USB-C	Thunderbolt/USB 4	Thunderbolt/USB 4
Face ID/Touch ID	Touch ID	Touch ID	Face ID	Face ID	Face ID	Face ID
Camera System	8MP Rear	12MP Rear	12MP Rear	12MP Wide, 10MP Ultra Wide, LiDAR	12MP Wide, 10MP Ultra Wide	12MP Wide, 10MP Ultra Wide
Key Features	Original Pro Design	ProMotion Display	Redesigned, Face ID, USB-C	Ultra Wide Camera, LiDAR	M1 Chip, Liquid Retina XDR	M2 Chip, Hover for Apple Pencil

Which iPad Pro 12.9-Inch Generation Is Right for You?

Choosing the right iPad Pro 12.9-inch generation depends on your specific needs, budget, and how you plan to use the device. Here’s a breakdown to help you make the best decision:

For Basic Use and Budget-Conscious Buyers

If you primarily use your iPad for web browsing, email, streaming videos, and basic productivity tasks, the 1st or 2nd generation iPad Pro 12.9-inch models can be a good option. They offer a larger screen and a decent experience at a lower price. However, be aware that their performance may not be as smooth as newer models, particularly when multitasking or running demanding apps. Also, the older models will not get the latest iPadOS updates for as long as the newer models.

For Everyday Use and Enhanced Features

The 3rd or 4th generation iPad Pro 12.9-inch models strike a good balance between performance and affordability. They provide a significant performance boost compared to the older models, along with modern features such as Face ID and USB-C. The 4th generation adds the ultra-wide camera and LiDAR scanner for augmented reality, making it a good choice if you’re interested in AR applications.

For Creative Professionals and Power Users

The 5th or 6th generation iPad Pro 12.9-inch models are the top choices for creative professionals, gamers, and anyone who demands the best performance and features. The M1 and M2 chips, Liquid Retina XDR displays, and Thunderbolt ports provide exceptional performance for demanding tasks such as video editing, 3D rendering, and graphic design. The 6th generation is the absolute top of the line, providing the best performance and features available in an iPad Pro.

Factors to Consider When Choosing

Here are some additional factors to consider when deciding which iPad Pro 12.9-inch generation is the best fit: (See Also: Can You Track an iPad? A Comprehensive Guide)

Budget: Prices vary significantly between generations. Older models are more affordable, while newer models come with a higher price tag.
Performance Needs: Consider the types of apps and tasks you’ll be using. If you’re running demanding applications, go for a newer model with a more powerful processor.
Display Quality: The Liquid Retina XDR display on the 5th and 6th generation models is significantly better than the displays on older models, especially if you work with HDR content.
Storage Capacity: Determine how much storage you need. Consider your photo, video, and app storage requirements.
Connectivity: The 3rd generation and later models feature USB-C, which offers more versatility than the Lightning port found on older models.
Apple Pencil Compatibility: Make sure the iPad Pro generation you choose is compatible with the Apple Pencil generation you want to use.
Battery Life: While all iPad Pros offer decent battery life, newer models may have slightly improved battery efficiency.

Where to Buy Your iPad Pro 12.9-Inch

You can purchase iPad Pro 12.9-inch models from various retailers. Some options include:

Apple Store: The official source, offering the latest models, refurbished options, and expert support.
Authorized Apple Resellers: Such as Best Buy, Amazon, and others, often offering competitive prices and promotions.
Online Marketplaces: eBay, Swappa, and other marketplaces may offer used or refurbished models at discounted prices.

When buying, check the seller’s reputation, warranty, and return policy to ensure a safe and satisfying purchase.

Tips for Buying a Used or Refurbished iPad Pro

If you’re considering a used or refurbished iPad Pro, here are some tips to help you:

Check the Device’s Condition: Look for any physical damage, such as scratches or dents.
Verify the Serial Number: Use the serial number to check the device’s warranty status and original specifications.
Test the Functionality: Make sure all features, such as the display, cameras, and ports, are working correctly.
Check the Battery Health: If possible, check the battery health to ensure it still has a good capacity.
Buy from Reputable Sellers: Purchase from trusted sources with positive reviews and good return policies.

Conclusion

Choosing the right iPad Pro 12.9-inch generation is all about matching the device’s capabilities to your needs and budget. Each generation offers a step up in performance and features, so consider how you plan to use your iPad and what features are most important to you. From the original model to the latest M2-powered powerhouse, there’s an iPad Pro 12.9-inch out there for everyone.

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By understanding the key differences between the generations, you’re well-equipped to make an informed decision and invest in the right tablet for your needs. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a casual user, the iPad Pro 12.9-inch offers a versatile and powerful computing experience. Now go forth and choose the iPad Pro that will help you achieve your goals!

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iPad Pro 12.9 What Generation: A Comprehensive Guide