IPad Pro 12.9 (3rd Gen) 2018: Review, Specs, & Repair Guide

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iPad Pro 12.9 (3rd Gen) 2018: A Deep Dive

Hey everyone! Today, we're taking a comprehensive look at the iPad Pro 12.9 (3rd Generation), released in 2018. This powerhouse of a tablet was a game-changer when it hit the market, and it still holds up incredibly well today. Whether you're a creative professional, a student, or just someone who loves having a large, beautiful display for media consumption, this iPad Pro has something to offer. We'll explore its key features, performance, what makes it special, and even touch on repair aspects.

Design and Display

The iPad Pro 12.9 (3rd Gen) boasts a stunning edge-to-edge Liquid Retina display. This means you get minimal bezels and maximum screen real estate, making it incredibly immersive for everything from watching movies to creating digital art. The display also features ProMotion technology, which dynamically adjusts the refresh rate up to 120Hz. This makes scrolling and animations incredibly smooth and responsive. The resolution of 2732 x 2048 pixels at 264 pixels per inch (ppi) ensures that everything looks sharp and detailed. The fully laminated display with an anti-reflective coating minimizes glare, making it comfortable to use in various lighting conditions.

Apple truly nailed the design with this model. It features a sleek, modern aesthetic with flat edges, a departure from the rounded edges of previous iPads. This design not only looks great but also makes the iPad Pro easier to hold and use, especially with accessories like the Apple Pencil. The build quality is excellent, with a premium feel that you'd expect from a high-end device. The iPad Pro 12.9 (3rd Gen) is available in two colors: Silver and Space Gray, both of which look equally sophisticated. The overall footprint is also smaller than the previous generation despite maintaining the same screen size, thanks to the reduced bezels.

Performance and Features

Under the hood, the iPad Pro 12.9 (3rd Gen) is powered by Apple's A12X Bionic chip. This chip is an absolute beast, offering incredible performance that rivals many laptops. It features an 8-core CPU and a 7-core GPU, making it capable of handling demanding tasks like video editing, 3D modeling, and gaming with ease. Whether you're multitasking between multiple apps or running complex software, the iPad Pro doesn't break a sweat. The A12X Bionic chip also includes a Neural Engine, which accelerates machine learning tasks, enhancing features like Face ID and augmented reality experiences.

The iPad Pro 12.9 (3rd Gen) comes with up to 1TB of internal storage, providing ample space for all your files, apps, and media. It also features four speakers, delivering rich, immersive audio that enhances the overall entertainment experience. The device uses a USB-C port for charging and connectivity, which allows for faster data transfer speeds and compatibility with a wider range of accessories. Face ID is another standout feature, providing secure and convenient authentication. The TrueDepth camera system enables facial recognition, allowing you to unlock your iPad, authenticate purchases, and use Animoji and Memoji. Battery life is also impressive, with the iPad Pro offering up to 10 hours of web surfing on Wi-Fi, watching video, or listening to music.

Software and Ecosystem

The iPad Pro 12.9 (3rd Gen) originally launched with iOS 12, but it has since been updated to iPadOS. iPadOS is specifically designed for iPads, offering features like a redesigned home screen, improved multitasking, and enhanced Apple Pencil support. The Files app provides a centralized location for accessing files from various sources, including iCloud Drive, Dropbox, and OneDrive. Slide Over and Split View make it easy to work with multiple apps simultaneously, boosting productivity. The Apple Pencil (2nd generation) seamlessly integrates with the iPad Pro, offering precise and responsive input for drawing, note-taking, and annotating documents. It attaches magnetically to the side of the iPad for charging and storage, making it incredibly convenient to use.

The iPad Pro also benefits from Apple's extensive ecosystem of apps and services. The App Store offers a vast selection of apps optimized for iPad, including creative tools like Procreate and Adobe Photoshop, productivity apps like Microsoft Office, and entertainment apps like Netflix and Apple TV+. iCloud allows you to seamlessly sync your data across all your Apple devices, ensuring that your files, photos, and notes are always up to date. Apple Arcade provides access to a curated library of games that are ad-free and available to play offline. The combination of powerful hardware, intuitive software, and a rich ecosystem makes the iPad Pro 12.9 (3rd Gen) a versatile and capable device for a wide range of tasks.

Repair Considerations

Now, let's talk about something important: repairing your iPad Pro 12.9 (3rd Gen). While this is a robust device, accidents happen. The most common issues usually involve a cracked screen, a dead battery, or a malfunctioning charging port. If you encounter any of these problems, you have a few options:

  1. Apple Repair: Going directly to Apple is often the safest bet, especially if your device is still under warranty or covered by AppleCare+. Apple-certified technicians will use genuine parts to repair your iPad, ensuring quality and reliability. However, this can be the most expensive option.

  2. Authorized Service Providers: Apple also has a network of authorized service providers that can perform repairs. These providers use genuine Apple parts and follow Apple's repair procedures, offering a similar level of quality to Apple's own repair service.

  3. Third-Party Repair Shops: There are many third-party repair shops that offer iPad repairs at potentially lower prices. However, it's essential to choose a reputable shop with experienced technicians and a good track record. Be aware that using a non-authorized repair shop may void your warranty. Also, ensure they use quality parts; cheap replacements can lead to further issues down the line.

  4. DIY Repair: If you're tech-savvy and comfortable working with electronics, you can attempt to repair your iPad yourself. There are many online resources, including guides and videos, that provide step-by-step instructions. However, this is the riskiest option, as you could potentially damage your device further if you're not careful. You'll also need to purchase the necessary tools and replacement parts.

Common Repair Issues:

  • Screen Replacement: A cracked screen is one of the most common iPad repairs. Replacing the screen requires specialized tools and expertise, as the display is bonded to the chassis.
  • Battery Replacement: Over time, the battery in your iPad will degrade, resulting in shorter battery life. Replacing the battery can restore your iPad to its original performance.
  • Charging Port Repair: If your iPad isn't charging properly, the charging port may be damaged or malfunctioning. Replacing the charging port requires soldering skills.
  • Other Repairs: Other potential repairs include camera replacement, speaker replacement, and logic board repair. These repairs are more complex and often require specialized equipment.

Tips for Preventing Damage:

  • Use a Case: A protective case can help prevent scratches, dents, and cracks if you drop your iPad.
  • Use a Screen Protector: A screen protector can shield the display from scratches and scuffs.
  • Be Careful with Liquids: Avoid exposing your iPad to liquids, as water damage can cause serious problems.
  • Handle with Care: Treat your iPad with care and avoid dropping it or placing it in situations where it could be damaged.

Is It Still Worth It in 2024?

So, is the iPad Pro 12.9 (3rd Gen) still worth buying in 2024? The answer is a resounding yes, especially if you can find one at a good price. While it may not have all the latest features of the newer models, it still offers excellent performance, a beautiful display, and a versatile ecosystem. It's perfect for creative professionals, students, and anyone who wants a large, capable tablet for work or entertainment. The A12X Bionic chip is still plenty powerful for most tasks, and the display is still one of the best on the market. Plus, with the continued support of iPadOS, you'll have access to the latest features and updates for years to come.

However, there are a few things to consider. If you need the absolute latest and greatest performance, or if you want features like the M-series chips or mini-LED display, you might want to consider a newer model. But for most users, the iPad Pro 12.9 (3rd Gen) offers an excellent balance of performance, features, and value. Consider your specific needs and budget when making your decision.

Conclusion

The iPad Pro 12.9 (3rd Gen) is a remarkable device that continues to impress years after its release. Its powerful performance, stunning display, and versatile ecosystem make it a great choice for a wide range of users. Whether you're creating digital art, editing videos, or just browsing the web, this iPad Pro can handle it all. And while repairs may be necessary down the line, understanding your options and taking preventative measures can help keep your device in top condition. So, if you're looking for a large, capable tablet that won't break the bank, the iPad Pro 12.9 (3rd Gen) is definitely worth considering. Thanks for reading, guys!