Apple released the sixth-generation iPad Pro in October 2022. The tablet is slightly similar to the fifth-generation iPad Pro; however, it has better processing speed and performance. For example, unlike previous generations, the new iPad Pro uses the Apple M2 chip. This improved processor allows users to run multiple programs in the background without the tablet lagging.
Besides a fast processor, the iPad Pro also boasts a sleek design, portability, and user-friendliness. Apple products are also considered premium brands, making them pricier than the average tablet. As such, you should consider the specifications before purchasing one to ascertain you’ll receive value for your money. This article provides a full review of the iPad Pro. Let’s get to it!
Best Deals Today
The iPad Pro is available for purchase on Apple’s official store and other online retailers. Below are some of the best deals currently available.
- iPad Pro (sixth generation) (Amazon): $1,198
- iPad Pro (sixth generation) (Bestbuy): $999
- Supports Wi-Fi 6E
- Comes with an Apple M2 processor
- Thin, sleek bezels with an aluminum chassis
- 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR display
iPad Pro Overview
The latest iPad Pro is a sixth-generation version of the Apple tablet. The device is an improvement of its predecessors, with a sleek design to ensure comfort and ease of use. The Apple device is the only tablet installed with an M2 chip, making it the fastest in the market; you will often not experience any lag when using it. Additionally, it offers adequate storage space, superior processor, battery life, and display features that culminate in a better user experience. With these improved features, the iPad Pro is priced higher than most tablets. However, considering the features, you will get value for your money with the purchase.
Release Date and Price
The sixth-generation iPad Pro was announced on October 18, 2022, and released one week later on October 26th. With a trademark design and various improved features, the device is available in Apple Stores and other major retailers. Like most Apple products, the latest iPad Pro is pricier than tablets from its competitors like Samsung and Amazon.
The iPad Pro is available in two sizes: 11 and 12.9 inches. Below are the current prices of the 11-inch iPad Pro based on storage size:
- 128GB – $799
- 256GB – $899
- 512GB – $1,099
- 1TB – $1,499
- 2TB – $1,899
Below are the current prices of the 12.9-inch iPad Pro based on storage size:
- 128GB – $1,099
- 256GB – $1,199
- 512GB – $1,399
- 1TB – $1,799
- 2TB – $2,199
Different Models
Since the iPad Pro’s initial release in November 2015, Apple has released several versions, each better than its predecessor. They include:
- The First Generation iPad Pro (released in 2015)
- The Second Generation iPad Pro (released in 2017)
- The Third Generation iPad Pro (released in 2018)
- The Fourth Generation iPad Pro (released in 2020)
- The Fifth Generation iPad Pro (released in 2021)
- The Sixth Generation iPad Pro (released in 2022)
Features
The iPad Pro has been Apple’s best-performing and most reliable tablet for years, and the newest release is no different. The device is fitted with the latest hardware and technology, guaranteeing top-notch performance. Few tablets in the market can edge out the Sixth-Generation iPad Pro. While the iPad Pro has a similar design to its predecessors, it provides a superior quality experience.
Like its predecessors, the sixth-generation iPad Pro comes in two size options: 11 and 12.9 inches. However, it only gets better from there. The device has outrageous storage options ranging from the relatively limited 128GB to a whopping 2TB.
The impressive features extend to connectivity, where the iPad Pro supports 5G radio configuration. For those operating the device in Wi-Fi zones, the iPad Pro supports Wi-Fi 6E, an improvement from the previous models, which only supported Wi-Fi 6.
Nonetheless, the impressive features are not without a price. The iPad Pro’s Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard are sold separately, which adds to the device’s exorbitant cost. You may have to part with close to $2,000, which is almost as much as purchasing a MacBook Pro.
Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Size | 280.6 x 214.9 x 5.9mm |
| Weight | 641 g (1.41 lb) |
| Screen Type/Size | 11 and 12.9 inches |
| Processor | Apple M2 |
| Video Output | 2732 x 2048 pixels |
| Internal battery type | Built-in rechargeable lithium-ion battery |
| Operating System | iPadOS |
| Memory | 8GB or 16GB |
| Storage | 32GB, 64GB, 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, and 2TB |
| Battery Life | 10 hours |
| Charging Time | 2.5 hours |
iPad Pro Review
Following the release of the sixth-generation iPad Pro on October 26, 2023, our team ordered the 11-inch 512GB version a few weeks later. We picked space gray over silver as our preferred color, as we felt the latter was monotonous. We then spent several weeks testing the iPad’s performance and usability. Here’s our full review of the iPad Pro.
Design
First impressions often influence purchases, especially regarding devices. Luckily, Apple does not slack in this department with the iPad Pro. The first noticeable feature of the sixth-generation iPad Pro is its design; Apple did not veer from its trademark tablet design.
You can get the IPad Pro in 11 and 12.9 inches. While one may be smaller than the other, they still have the same exclusive feel. They have thin, sleek bezels that make it easy to hold the device in your palm and an aluminum chassis that adds to its elegance.
The iPad Pro is also considerably light. It only weighs 614 grams, ensuring portability. Nonetheless, if you prefer using it with an external keyboard, the Magic Keyboard increases the weight to around 3 pounds which is almost the weight of a MacBook Air.
Like most design features, the button placement in the new iPad Pro remains unchanged. When placed vertically, the power button sits subtly at the top right edge, with two buttons below it to configure the volume.
A slight downside to the iPad Pro’s design is its color spectrum. If you are a fan of flashy and colorful devices, you may be disappointed on this front. While the regular iPad is available in various colors, the iPad Pro only offers Space Gray and Silver options.
Display
The iPad Pro is available as an 11- or 12.9-inch tablet. It has a mini-LED display that offers 2,596 local dimming zones and 1,000 nits of full-screen brightness, which mitigate reflections when using the tablet in lit settings. It gets better when viewing HDR content, as the iPad Pro’s XDR screen has a peak brightness of 1,600 nits.
The iPad Pro offers different pixel resolutions depending on the tablet size. For example, the 11-inch and 12.9-inch tablets have 2388 x 1668 and 2732 x 2048 pixel resolutions at 264 ppi, respectively. The tablets also have ProMotion technology, a Wide color display, and a True Tone display, which accommodate a wide range of colors and smooth visuals when watching HD content.
Storage
Always account for storage size when purchasing a tablet. It is essential to have a device with ample data storage to prevent unnecessary inconveniences throughout your usage.
In this regard, the iPad Pro offers different storage options to cater to your needs. The storage ranges from 128GB, ideal for people with minimal storage needs, to 2TB for more demanding users. The 128 to 512GB options are accompanied by 8GB RAM, while the 1TB and 2TB models have 16GB RAM.
Like all Apple devices, the iPad Pro does not offer user-expandable storage options. So, examining your storage needs and user plans is prudent before selecting the best-fit option.
Performance
We cannot have a full review of the iPad Pro without accounting for its performance. The iPad Pro is equipped with Apple’s latest chip, the M2; it is no surprise that it is arguably the best-performing tablet in the market. The M2 processor is so fast and powerful that the scope of its functionality is yet to be fully assessed. It comprises eight CPU cores, with four cores dedicated to performance and the other four to efficiency. The M2 chip has an additional 10 GPU and 16 Neural engine cores. The iPad Pro’s processor ensures seamless usage, guaranteeing efficiency and performance even when running multiple apps simultaneously. So, whether gaming, photo editing, or streaming HDR content, expect the iPad Pro to perform without lagging.
The M2 chip is backed by Apple’s latest iPadOS feature, Stage Manager, a multi-window multitasking software. This makes it easier to operate and navigate several applications at a go and find your way back, just like in a laptop. While it is not as fast and efficient as a MacBook’s navigation software, it is groundbreaking for an iPad.
Battery Life and Charging
The iPad Pro marked the company’s move from the lighting connector to a USB-C charging system. As such, you may be worried about the device’s charging speed and power retention.
However, the move did not impact either feature, as the device does well on both fronts. The iPad Pro has a 28.65- and 40.88-watt-hour lithium-ion battery for the 11 and 12.9-inch tablets, respectively. The iPad Pro also has a fast charging system that takes about two and a half hours for a full charge. Once fully charged, the device can last up to 10 hours, depending on your usage. You don’t have to worry about frequent charging or annoying notifications asking you to charge your device every hour.
iPad Pro Pros and Cons
Like any tablet, the iPad Pro has its strengths and shortcomings, which may impact your purchase decision. Below are the main pros and cons of the sixth-generation iPad Pro.
Pros:
- Great display features.
- Ample and versatile storage options.
- Fast processor.
- Excellent battery life.
Cons
- Most features are similar to its predecessors.
- It is expensive.
Sixth-generation iPad Pro: Is It a Buy?
Following our full review of the iPad Pro, you may have already decided whether the tablet is for your or not. However, some buyers may still wonder whether the tablet offers value for money. While it is undeniably an impressive tablet, there are reasons to buy it or not.
Buy it if…
You need to run several demanding applications simultaneously.
The iPad Pro has the latest and fastest Apple chip, the M2 processor, which allows you to use large and demanding applications seamlessly. The supporting Stage Manager feature also boosts the tablet’s processing speed, guaranteeing efficiency and performance.
You are a first-time iPad Pro buyer.
The iPad Pro 2022 is the latest version of Apple’s high-end tablets with updated features and outstanding performance. If you are a first-time buyer, it would be best if you purchased this improved version.
Don’t buy it if…
You own the iPad Pro 2021 (fifth generation).
There is little difference between the latest iPad Pro and its immediate predecessor. They share similar designs and features. Although the iPad 2021 operates on an M1 chip, it performs pretty well compared to other tablets.
The image featured at the top of this post is ©DenPhotos/Shutterstock.com.
