IPad Pro 12.9-inch 2020: Is It Still Worth It?

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iPad Pro 12.9-inch 2020: Is It Still Worth It?

Hey everyone, let's dive into a review of the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020). This beast of a tablet, even though it's a few years old now, still holds its own in the tech world. We'll explore if this iPad Pro is still a worthwhile investment in today's market. Is it still a powerhouse? Does it hold up against newer models? Let's find out, guys!

Design and Build Quality: A Classic Look

Alright, let's talk about the design and build quality of the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020). The first thing you'll notice is the sleek, minimalist design that Apple is known for. It's got those perfectly flat edges, a design choice that Apple has stuck with and that many people, including myself, really appreciate. The aluminum build feels premium and sturdy, giving the tablet a solid feel in your hands. It doesn't feel like it's going to bend or flex easily, which is a huge plus, especially considering the large display size.

Now, about that display... the screen is a real showstopper. It's a gorgeous Liquid Retina display with ProMotion technology. What does that mean for you? Well, it means the screen has a variable refresh rate that goes up to 120Hz. This makes everything look incredibly smooth, from scrolling through web pages to playing games. The colors are vibrant, the blacks are deep, and the overall viewing experience is just fantastic. It's a joy to watch movies, edit photos, or even just browse the web on this thing. The bezels are relatively thin, giving you more screen real estate and making the tablet feel modern. However, keep in mind, that some users may find the size of the 12.9-inch model a little unwieldy. It's great for media consumption and productivity, but it might not be the most comfortable tablet to use one-handed. The weight distribution feels pretty good, and it's not overly heavy, but it's something to consider if you're looking for ultimate portability. Overall, the design is timeless and still looks fantastic today. The build quality is top-notch, as expected from Apple, and the display is one of the best you can find on a tablet. It's a device that feels premium in every way.

Build Material and Durability

When we are talking about build materials and durability of the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020). Apple has always been known for their commitment to using premium materials, and this tablet is no exception. The chassis is made from a single piece of aerospace-grade aluminum. It's not just about aesthetics here; this material choice contributes significantly to the tablet's durability. The aluminum provides a strong and rigid frame, which helps to protect the internal components from damage. In terms of durability, the iPad Pro 2020 can withstand the usual wear and tear of daily use. It's not indestructible, of course, but it can handle being tossed into a backpack, used in various environments, and survive minor bumps and scratches. However, it's always a good idea to use a screen protector and a case to provide extra protection, particularly given the tablet's size and the potential for accidental drops. The glass on the display is scratch-resistant, but it's still susceptible to scratches and cracks if dropped. The flat-edged design also contributes to its durability, as it provides a more solid grip when holding the tablet. The build quality gives you confidence that the device is going to last you for years, making it a sound investment. I'd definitely recommend considering a protective case and screen protector to maximize the lifespan. Ultimately, the build materials and overall construction are designed to ensure your iPad Pro 2020 can keep up with your busy life. This is one of the key factors that makes this tablet so worth it.

Display: The Screen's the Star

Let's move on to the display, which is undoubtedly one of the stars of the show. The 12.9-inch Liquid Retina display on the 2020 iPad Pro is a visual treat, offering a fantastic viewing experience for a variety of tasks. The screen has a resolution of 2732 x 2048 pixels, providing incredible clarity and sharpness. Everything from text to images to videos looks crisp and detailed. The display's brightness is excellent, with a maximum brightness of up to 600 nits, which ensures that it remains easily visible, even in bright environments. The display is capable of displaying a wide color gamut, which means that colors are rich, vibrant, and accurate. This is especially noticeable when watching HDR content or editing photos and videos.

One of the standout features of the display is ProMotion technology, which is the variable refresh rate. The display can dynamically adjust its refresh rate up to 120Hz. The 120Hz refresh rate makes everything incredibly smooth, whether you're scrolling through websites, playing games, or navigating the user interface. It is a noticeable difference compared to screens without this feature. ProMotion also helps to conserve battery life because the display only uses the higher refresh rate when it's needed. The display is also incredibly responsive, which is great for drawing with the Apple Pencil. The display is also fully laminated, which means that the glass is directly bonded to the LCD panel. This minimizes the gap between the glass and the display, which reduces reflections and makes the display appear more immersive. The screen supports True Tone technology, which automatically adjusts the display's color temperature based on the ambient lighting conditions. The display is a significant selling point of the 2020 iPad Pro. The combination of high resolution, brightness, wide color gamut, and ProMotion technology makes it one of the best displays you can find on a tablet. You will enjoy using this device every day.

Screen Technology and Features

In this section, we'll dive deep into the screen technology and features. The Liquid Retina display isn't just a fancy name; it encompasses a suite of technologies designed to deliver an exceptional visual experience. The full lamination ensures that the image appears to float on the surface, with minimal gap between the glass and the LCD panel, reducing reflections and providing better clarity. Another essential technology is the variable refresh rate, enabled by ProMotion. ProMotion dynamically adjusts the refresh rate from 24Hz up to 120Hz based on the content being displayed. When you're reading static text or looking at still images, the refresh rate drops to save battery. When you're scrolling, playing games, or watching videos, the refresh rate increases to 120Hz. The color accuracy of the display is also noteworthy. The iPad Pro 2020 supports a wide color gamut, which means it can display a broader range of colors, making images and videos look more vibrant and realistic. True Tone technology further enhances the viewing experience by automatically adjusting the color temperature of the display to match the ambient lighting conditions. This reduces eye strain and makes the screen more comfortable to view in different environments. The display also supports HDR content, which means it can display a higher dynamic range of colors and brightness, making HDR movies and shows look more impressive. All these features work together to create a display that is not only beautiful but also incredibly functional and adaptable to different usage scenarios.

Performance: Still a Powerhouse?

Now, let's talk about performance. The 2020 iPad Pro is powered by the A12Z Bionic chip, and it is still a very capable processor. The A12Z Bionic chip features an 8-core CPU and an 8-core GPU. It is still plenty powerful for most tasks. You'll have no issues with everyday tasks like browsing the web, checking emails, or using social media apps. It handles these tasks with ease. It also handles more demanding tasks like photo and video editing and gaming. The chip is efficient, which means you can get a good battery life out of it. It's no longer the absolute top dog in the tablet world, as newer iPads have come out with even more powerful chips. Still, the performance is more than enough for most users. The 2020 iPad Pro still delivers smooth and responsive performance.

When it comes to multitasking, the iPad Pro shines. You can easily have multiple apps open side-by-side without any slowdown. This is great for productivity. The A12Z Bionic chip also supports the latest features in iPadOS, such as the ability to use external displays and the support for the Magic Keyboard. The 2020 iPad Pro can handle pretty much anything you throw at it. The performance of the iPad Pro 2020 is a key factor in making it such a worthwhile purchase, even today. Its powerful performance, efficient chip, and smooth multitasking capabilities make it a great tablet for a wide variety of users. Whether you're a student, a professional, or just someone who enjoys using a tablet for entertainment, the 2020 iPad Pro will not disappoint you. The overall user experience is fast, fluid, and enjoyable. You won't feel like you are missing out on anything.

Chipset and Real-World Usage

Looking into the chipset and real-world usage, the A12Z Bionic chip in the iPad Pro 2020 is designed to provide exceptional performance. The 8-core CPU and 8-core GPU combination delivers impressive speeds and efficiency. In everyday tasks like web browsing, social media, and email, the tablet feels incredibly responsive and smooth. Switching between apps is instantaneous, and there's no lag, which helps to boost productivity. Even for more demanding tasks like photo and video editing, the A12Z Bionic handles everything with ease. Editing 4K video is possible without any noticeable slowdowns. Gaming performance is excellent, with high frame rates and detailed graphics in most games. The chip is also efficient, helping to extend battery life. The tablet can easily last a full day of moderate use. One of the most significant advantages of this chipset is its ability to handle multitasking. The iPad Pro 2020 supports split-screen multitasking and Picture in Picture. You can have multiple apps open simultaneously without any performance issues. This is a huge benefit for anyone who needs to be productive on the go. The A12Z Bionic chip allows for a fluid and enjoyable user experience. The performance is very good, and it can handle most tasks you throw at it.

Cameras: Beyond Snaps

Let's talk about the cameras. It is a tablet, after all. The iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) comes with a dual-camera system on the back, consisting of a 12MP wide-angle lens and a 10MP ultra-wide-angle lens. The main camera takes excellent photos in good lighting conditions, with plenty of detail and accurate colors. The ultra-wide-angle lens is great for capturing landscapes or group shots, and it opens up new creative possibilities. The front-facing camera features a 7MP sensor, which is great for video calls and selfies. The images from the front camera are clear and well-lit. One of the notable features of the camera system is its ability to record 4K video at up to 60 frames per second. The videos are sharp, detailed, and smooth.

The iPad Pro 2020's cameras are capable of capturing high-quality images and videos. The camera system also includes features like Smart HDR, which helps to improve the dynamic range of photos. The cameras are more than adequate for taking photos and videos for social media. One of the interesting features of this iPad Pro is the LiDAR scanner, which is located next to the rear cameras. The LiDAR scanner measures the distance to surrounding objects. Why is this useful? It can be used for augmented reality (AR) applications. AR apps can use the LiDAR scanner to create more realistic and immersive experiences. The camera system provides high-quality images and videos and also opens up new possibilities for augmented reality applications. The cameras are pretty good for a tablet, but they aren't the primary focus of this device. You will find that these cameras are great for your video calls.

Camera Features and LiDAR Scanner

Let's go into detail about the camera features and LiDAR scanner. The iPad Pro 2020's camera setup includes a 12MP wide-angle lens and a 10MP ultra-wide-angle lens, providing flexibility for capturing various shots. The main camera's wide-angle lens captures great detail and accurate colors in well-lit conditions. The ultra-wide-angle lens is very good for capturing expansive scenes. One standout feature is its ability to record 4K video at up to 60 frames per second. The videos are sharp, detailed, and smooth. The camera system also includes Smart HDR, which improves the dynamic range, making photos look better with balanced highlights and shadows. The front-facing camera has a 7MP sensor that is perfect for video calls and selfies. The photos from the front camera are clear and well-lit. The most exciting feature in this iPad Pro is the LiDAR scanner. So, what does it do? The LiDAR scanner measures the distance to surrounding objects by emitting and measuring light pulses. This tech is used for augmented reality (AR) applications. AR apps can use the LiDAR scanner to create more realistic and immersive experiences. The LiDAR scanner enables features like instant object placement in AR apps, improved depth sensing, and faster AR performance. The camera system is versatile and well-equipped for a tablet. The combination of high-quality lenses, 4K video recording, Smart HDR, and the LiDAR scanner makes the 2020 iPad Pro a great option for users who want a high-quality camera in their tablet.

Battery Life: All-Day Power

Okay, let's talk about the battery life. The iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) has a battery that is designed to last a full day of use. Apple claims up to 10 hours of web browsing or video playback. In real-world usage, the battery life is pretty good. With moderate use, which includes web browsing, checking emails, watching videos, and some gaming, you can expect to get a full day's use out of it. It lasts the whole day. The actual battery life will vary depending on how you use the tablet. If you are doing a lot of video editing or gaming, the battery will drain faster. The tablet supports fast charging, which means you can quickly charge it using a USB-C power adapter. The charging speed is good, and you will not have to wait around for too long for it to charge up. The 2020 iPad Pro is still a great option, even if it is a few years old now. The battery life is one of the most important aspects of any mobile device, and the iPad Pro 2020 excels in this area. You can count on it lasting through a typical day of use, allowing you to stay productive and entertained without constantly worrying about finding a power outlet.

Real-World Battery Performance and Charging

Let's delve deeper into the real-world battery performance and charging of the iPad Pro 2020. In practical use, the 2020 iPad Pro consistently delivers impressive battery life. You can comfortably expect a full day's worth of use with typical tasks like web browsing, email, streaming videos, and some gaming. The actual battery life may vary based on your usage. Heavy tasks like video editing, playing graphics-intensive games, or using the tablet at maximum brightness will consume more power, reducing the time between charges. The iPad Pro 2020 supports fast charging via its USB-C port, which means you can quickly top up the battery when needed. How fast? It is possible to gain a significant percentage of charge in a relatively short amount of time. You'll need a compatible USB-C power adapter, which is usually included in the box. One of the main benefits of the fast-charging capability is that you can quickly recharge the battery if you find yourself running low on power. In short bursts, you will be able to get a substantial amount of extra use out of your device. The 2020 iPad Pro's battery performance is still very competitive. It remains a reliable choice for users who need a tablet that can keep up with their busy lives. The efficiency of the A12Z Bionic chip, combined with the optimized software, contributes to this excellent battery performance.

Accessories: Enhance Your Experience

Let's explore the accessories that can enhance your iPad Pro experience. Apple offers a range of accessories that are designed to complement the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020). The Magic Keyboard is a popular choice, providing a fantastic typing experience. It also features a trackpad, turning the iPad Pro into a more capable laptop-like device. The Magic Keyboard attaches magnetically to the iPad Pro and offers a comfortable typing experience, making it great for working on documents, writing emails, and more.

The Apple Pencil is another must-have accessory, especially if you're into drawing, sketching, or taking notes. The Apple Pencil (2nd generation) magnetically attaches to the side of the iPad Pro, where it charges wirelessly. It offers low latency and excellent precision, making it ideal for creative tasks. There are also a variety of other accessories available, such as cases, screen protectors, and USB-C hubs. You can find cases to protect your device from scratches and drops. Screen protectors help prevent scratches and damage to the display. USB-C hubs add extra ports, allowing you to connect external devices such as monitors, hard drives, and SD card readers. The accessories are designed to enhance your iPad Pro experience and make it more versatile and productive. Choosing the right accessories will greatly improve the usefulness of the iPad Pro and allow you to get the most out of your device. These accessories will also protect the device and keep it in tip-top shape.

Recommended Accessories and Compatibility

Let's delve into the recommended accessories and compatibility. The Magic Keyboard transforms the iPad Pro 2020 into a laptop-like device. The Magic Keyboard offers a comfortable typing experience, a trackpad for precise navigation, and a built-in USB-C port for charging the iPad Pro. The Apple Pencil (2nd generation) is perfect for creative tasks, note-taking, and drawing. It magnetically attaches to the side of the iPad Pro and charges wirelessly. The Apple Pencil offers low latency and excellent precision. The iPad Pro 2020 is compatible with various cases, which helps to protect your device from scratches and damage. Screen protectors help prevent scratches and damage to the display. There are also a lot of USB-C hubs that allow you to connect external devices. A USB-C hub can add additional ports, such as USB-A, HDMI, and SD card readers.

The accessories you choose will depend on your specific needs and how you plan to use your iPad Pro. For a great typing experience, the Magic Keyboard is a great choice. For creatives, the Apple Pencil (2nd generation) is a must-have. A case and screen protector will protect your device. If you plan to connect external devices, a USB-C hub is essential. Remember to make sure any third-party accessories you buy are compatible with the 2020 iPad Pro's USB-C port and magnetic attachments. There are tons of options, so you will be sure to find the best accessories to fit your personal needs. Having these accessories will help to keep your device safe and sound.

iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020): Still Worth It?

So, is the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) still worth it in 2024? The short answer is: it depends. If you're looking for an iPad that offers a premium experience, with a stunning display, great performance, and a versatile feature set, then yes, the 2020 iPad Pro is still worth considering. The display is excellent, the performance is still good, the battery life is solid, and it's compatible with useful accessories like the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil.

However, it's worth considering the newer models, like the 2021 and 2022 iPad Pros. These newer models have more powerful processors and other enhancements. If you need the absolute best performance, you might want to consider the newer models. The price can also be a factor. The 2020 iPad Pro is likely to be available at a lower price point compared to the newer models. If you're on a budget, it will save you some money. The 2020 iPad Pro is a great choice. It is a fantastic tablet, and it still holds its own in the market. It offers a great balance of performance, features, and value. If you can find one at a good price, it's definitely worth considering. It is still a top-tier tablet that can handle a wide variety of tasks with ease. It's a great choice if you need a tablet for everyday use, productivity, or creative tasks. The 2020 iPad Pro offers a great overall experience.

Pros and Cons: Making the Decision

When you're trying to decide whether the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) is still worth it, it is helpful to look at the pros and cons. Here's a quick rundown to help you make the right choice:

Pros:

  • Stunning Display: The 12.9-inch Liquid Retina display with ProMotion technology is a real highlight. The screen is great for everything you do. The high resolution, vibrant colors, and smooth 120Hz refresh rate make it a joy to use. The 600 nits of brightness is fantastic for indoor and outdoor use.
  • Powerful Performance: The A12Z Bionic chip still delivers excellent performance. It handles multitasking, demanding apps, and games with ease. The device runs very smoothly.
  • Versatile Accessories: It is compatible with the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil (2nd generation), which transforms it into a productivity powerhouse. These accessories can enhance your experience.
  • Good Battery Life: You can expect a full day's worth of use with moderate use. It won't let you down!
  • Premium Build Quality: The aluminum build is sturdy and feels great in hand.
  • Cameras and LiDAR: The rear cameras provide high-quality photos and videos, and the LiDAR scanner enables AR features.

Cons:

  • Older Chip: The A12Z Bionic chip is not as powerful as the latest iPad Pro models. It's not the most powerful tablet on the market.
  • Price: While it is a few years old now, the 2020 iPad Pro still commands a relatively high price. You can find better deals with other devices.
  • Size and Weight: The 12.9-inch model is big and heavy. It might not be ideal if you need maximum portability.
  • No Thunderbolt Support: The USB-C port is limited to USB 3.1 speeds and does not support Thunderbolt.

Ultimately, whether the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) is worth it in 2024 depends on your needs, budget, and priorities. If you value a top-tier tablet experience and can find it at a good price, it's still a fantastic choice. The pros outweigh the cons for many users, but it's important to consider your own needs and expectations. Weigh the pros and cons and make a choice. Happy shopping, guys! The iPad Pro 2020 is a good choice for you. You will enjoy the overall experience. This device is still top-notch.