Apple iPad Pro 12.9 (2018)
Key specs
Critic consensus
“The iPad Pro 12.9’s biggest shortcoming is iOS. The OS has no usable file system, nor can the device currently read USB flash drives to name but a few issues we have with iOS. Users who just need a lightweight device for emails, media consumption and office applications will be satisfied with the new iPad Pro 12.9, although it is exceedingly expensive. However, after three generations Apple has not delivered on its promise of creating a tablet that can replace a laptop.”
“Apple has accomplished something amazing in terms of performance on this tablet. In many cases, it rivals real workstation laptops. If a computer is a machine on which we can do real work, the A12X's performance makes a case that the definition can expand.”
“Power users, please look elsewhere - Samsung and Microsoft got you covered if you are after a cutting-edge Android or Windows device. But those who won't use the iPad for work should definitely consider one. Because no matter how Apple tries to advertise the iPads as versatile tablets, they are excellent mostly for fun - games, videos, music, social networks, and some occasional blogging or vlogging.”
“The new iPad Pro 12.9 inch is amazingly powerful, outperforming laptops with Core i7 processors while offering a thinner and lighter full-screen design.”
Watch before you decide
In Depth
As the largest iPad Pro in the lineup, the 12.9 offers a massive slab of a screen that Apple claims can replace your laptop. But it’s really just a slightly larger version of the smaller iPad Pro 11 (2018).
The screen sees a bump from 11-inches to 12.9-inches. The resolution also climbs to 2048-by-2732 pixels but this averages out to the same pixel-per-inch ratings you’ll find in the smaller tablet as well. So while the good news is that the image won’t suffer on the larger version, it also doesn’t really improve either.
Fortunately, reviewers loved the screen on the iPad Pro 11. So there’s little to worry about there.
The increased size also comes with a slight increase in weight. However, for the size, reviewers found it easy to handle and use. When paired with Apple’s keyboard dock, they found it reassuringly sturdy and stable as well.
The only other difference between the Apple iPad Pro 12.9 (2018) and it’s smaller 11-inch sibling is the amount of RAM. While the 11 ships with 4 to 6GB of RAM depending on the model you choose, the 12.9 comes with 6GB across the board.
Otherwise, it’s the same exact tablet with the same accessories — just in a slightly larger package. For more on what to expect from the Apple iPad Pro 12.9 (2018), be sure to check our summary for the iPad Pro 11.
What people actually want to know
When was the Apple iPad Pro 12.9 (2018) released?
The Apple iPad Pro 12.9 (2018) was released on November 7, 2018.
How long does the battery last on the Apple iPad Pro 12.9 (2018)?
The Apple iPad Pro 12.9 (2018) has a 36 mAh battery.
Does the Apple iPad Pro 12.9 (2018) have a headphone jack?
No, the Apple iPad Pro 12.9 (2018) does not have a headphone jack. You'll need wireless headphones or a USB-C adapter.
Does the Apple iPad Pro 12.9 (2018) have NFC?
No, the Apple iPad Pro 12.9 (2018) does not have NFC. Contactless payments and tap-to-pair will not be available.
Where can I get support for the Apple iPad Pro 12.9 (2018)?
Visit Apple's official support page for warranty info, repairs, and troubleshooting.
Questions & answers
Have a question about the Apple iPad Pro 12.9 (2018)? Ask it here and we'll email you as soon as someone answers. Readers have answered 5,000 questions across PhoneCompass.
Finish the security check above to post your question.
Your name shows with your question.
✓ Question submitted. We'll notify you when someone answers.
We sent a verification link to . Click it to publish your question.
Can't find it? Check your spam folder.
How it compares
Compare new, refurbished, and carrier deals with the true 24-month cost calculated.