IPad Pro 12.9-inch (2017 Vs. 2018): Size Showdown!

by Jhon Lennon 51 views

Hey everyone! So, you're trying to figure out which iPad Pro 12.9-inch is right for you, the 2017 model or the 2018 version? Well, you've come to the right place! We're diving deep into a size comparison to help you make the best choice. Let's face it, the 12.9-inch iPad Pro is a beast of a tablet, and the size difference, even if it's minor, can have a big impact on your overall experience. We're going to break down everything from the dimensions and weight to the overall feel in your hands. Get ready to have all your questions answered, because after reading this, you'll be an expert on the 2017 and 2018 iPad Pro 12.9-inch models! So, buckle up, because we're about to explore the iPad Pro 12.9 size comparison in detail! You'll be able to decide which iPad Pro is the perfect fit for your needs.

Dimensions and Physical Characteristics

Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty: the actual sizes. When you're talking about a tablet this large, every millimeter counts, right? The 2017 iPad Pro 12.9-inch model is 12 inches (305.7 mm) tall, 8.5 inches (220.6 mm) wide, and 0.27 inches (6.9 mm) thick. It weighs in at around 1.57 pounds (713 grams) for the Wi-Fi model and 1.59 pounds (723 grams) for the Wi-Fi + Cellular model. Now, let's look at the 2018 model. Apple worked some serious magic with the 2018 version. It's almost the same size but a little bit better, guys! The 2018 iPad Pro is 11.04 inches (280.6 mm) tall, 8.46 inches (214.9 mm) wide, and a slightly thinner 0.23 inches (5.9 mm) thick. This is a game changer for some people. The weight is also a bit less: 1.39 pounds (631 grams) for the Wi-Fi model and 1.4 pounds (633 grams) for the Wi-Fi + Cellular model. Just from these numbers, you can see that the 2018 model is a tad smaller and lighter. This might not seem like a huge difference on paper, but when you're holding it, and using it every day, it can make a big impact on the overall feel. The 2018 model's slimmer profile and reduced weight make it feel more modern and easier to handle, especially if you're using it on the go. This means that if you are a traveler or someone who often uses their iPad Pro, the 2018 model is going to be a better experience! Now, let's talk about the design language of these iPads and what's changed.

Design Differences

The 2017 iPad Pro has a design that's familiar. It has a Home button and thicker bezels around the display. The edges are slightly rounded. On the other hand, the 2018 model gets a major makeover with the edge-to-edge display and no Home button. Hello, Face ID! The bezels are much thinner, giving you more screen real estate in a similar-sized body. The 2018 model also has flatter, more squared-off edges, giving it a more modern, sleek look. The camera bump on the back is also different. The 2018 model's camera bump is less noticeable, and the camera is also slightly improved. The shift to a USB-C port in the 2018 model is also a big deal. That means faster data transfer and the ability to connect to a wider range of accessories. With the 2017, you were stuck with Lightning. For a lot of people, the design of the iPad is very important! You really need to consider your priorities when deciding between the 2017 and 2018 iPad Pro. Which one looks better and feels better in your hands? The 2018 model's design is more in line with the current aesthetic of Apple products. The lack of the Home button and the smaller bezels are a huge upgrade. The slightly smaller size and lighter weight make it feel more premium and modern. Which design you prefer is all about personal preference, but the 2018 is generally considered more desirable, especially if you want the most up-to-date features and the latest technology.

Display: Visual Experience

Let's talk about the screens! Both the 2017 and 2018 iPad Pro 12.9-inch models have stunning displays. But, as with everything, there are differences. The 2017 model has a beautiful Retina display with a resolution of 2732 x 2048 pixels. It supports a 120Hz refresh rate with ProMotion technology, making everything look incredibly smooth, especially when scrolling or playing games. The screen is bright, vibrant, and great for everything from watching movies to creating art. The 2018 model maintains the same stunning resolution. So, visually, you're getting a very similar experience in terms of sharpness and clarity. The key improvement with the 2018 model is its edge-to-edge display. The bezels are much thinner, giving you more screen real estate. The 2018 iPad also retains the 120Hz ProMotion technology, which is a big win for those who value a smooth and responsive experience. Both displays are excellent, but the 2018 model's thinner bezels provide a more immersive experience. The display is a key factor when you are considering iPad Pro 12.9 size comparison. What you will be using your iPad for will largely influence your decisions!

Screen Technology

Both iPads use IPS LCD technology, which offers great color accuracy and wide viewing angles. The 120Hz refresh rate is a game-changer, making scrolling and animations feel incredibly fluid. The displays on both models are bright enough to use outdoors and have excellent color reproduction. The main difference is the overall screen-to-body ratio. The 2018 model's edge-to-edge design means you get more screen in a smaller body, making it feel more modern and immersive. For anyone creating art or watching a lot of videos, the edge-to-edge display on the 2018 model is a significant advantage. The reduction in the bezels is a very welcome upgrade.

Performance and Processing Power

Okay, let's talk about what's inside! The performance of these iPads is where you'll see a noticeable difference. The 2017 iPad Pro 12.9-inch is powered by the A10X Fusion chip. This chip is still pretty capable, guys. It can handle most tasks, including multitasking, gaming, and creative applications without a problem. But the 2018 model steps things up with the A12X Bionic chip. This chip is a beast! It offers a significant boost in performance, making everything faster and smoother. Apps open quicker, games run better, and demanding tasks like video editing are a breeze. With the A12X chip, the 2018 iPad Pro feels noticeably more responsive and powerful. This means if you're a heavy user who often works with large files, edits videos, or plays demanding games, the 2018 model is a clear winner. The A12X chip provides a significant performance upgrade over the A10X in the 2017 model. Both iPads can handle most tasks, but the 2018 model is significantly faster and more efficient, guys!

Chipset Comparison

The A12X Bionic chip has a faster CPU and GPU, which translates to better overall performance. The A12X chip also includes a Neural Engine, which enhances machine learning capabilities. This leads to improved performance in apps that use AI, such as photo editing and augmented reality applications. The 2018 model has more power under the hood, making it the better choice if you want the best possible performance. If your usage is more casual, the 2017 model will still provide a great experience. So, it really depends on what you do with your tablet. Let's not forget how important the accessories are when talking about iPad Pros!

Ports, Connectivity, and Accessories

Let's move on to the practical stuff. The ports, connectivity, and accessories are very important. The 2017 iPad Pro has a Lightning port. While the Lightning port is fine, it's not as versatile as the USB-C port found in the 2018 model. The 2018 model also has a Smart Connector on the back, which is used for connecting accessories like the Smart Keyboard Folio. This is the main difference. The 2018 model has USB-C, which offers faster data transfer speeds. USB-C also allows you to connect to a wider range of accessories. This is useful if you are using your iPad for connecting to external displays or other devices. The 2017 model is compatible with the first-generation Apple Pencil, while the 2018 model is compatible with the second-generation Apple Pencil, which attaches magnetically to the side of the iPad. The 2nd gen pencil has wireless charging! Overall, the 2018 model is more versatile with its USB-C port and support for the second-generation Apple Pencil. This is a big win for those who value flexibility and the latest accessories. When considering the iPad Pro 12.9 size comparison, the ports, connectivity, and accessories are something to consider! You might need to make sure your accessories are compatible with your new iPad!

Accessory Compatibility

The 2018 model's USB-C port opens up a world of possibilities for connecting to external devices. You can connect to monitors, external hard drives, and other USB-C accessories. This makes the 2018 model a more versatile device for productivity. The second-generation Apple Pencil is also a significant improvement. It attaches magnetically, charges wirelessly, and has a more intuitive double-tap feature for switching tools. While the 2017 model is still a great device, the 2018 model is a step up in terms of accessories and connectivity. For anyone using their iPad for creative work or professional tasks, the 2018 model's accessories give you an edge!

Price and Value Proposition

Let's talk about the money! Pricing can be a big factor in your decision. When these iPads were first released, the 2018 model was more expensive than the 2017 model. However, you can often find the 2017 model at a lower price now, as it's an older model. This makes it a great value proposition if you're on a budget. Both iPads are premium devices, and the price reflects that. The best value depends on your budget and needs. If you're looking for the best performance and the latest features, the 2018 model is worth the extra investment. However, if you are looking for a more affordable option, the 2017 model offers excellent performance and a great overall experience at a lower price point. You need to consider all the factors to decide which one is right for you. Comparing the iPad Pro 12.9 size and how they look is also very important, especially when you are paying a huge amount of money.

Budget Considerations

Before you buy, it's important to consider your budget. The 2017 model is generally less expensive, making it a great option if you want to save some money. The 2018 model offers more features and better performance, so you might consider that if your budget allows. Consider the overall value and how you plan to use your iPad. Think about how much you are going to use it and the value you'll get from that usage. Weigh the features, performance, and price to make an informed decision.

Conclusion: Which iPad Pro is Right for You?

So, which iPad Pro 12.9-inch model should you choose? It really depends on your needs and budget! The 2018 model offers a better overall experience with its more modern design, faster performance, and more versatile features. It's a great choice if you want the best possible experience and are willing to pay a premium. The 2017 model is still a great tablet. It offers excellent performance and a beautiful display. It's a good choice if you're on a budget or don't need the latest features. Consider what you need and what you can afford. Both are fantastic tablets, but the 2018 model generally provides a better user experience, thanks to its updated design, performance, and features. Choosing the right size and model can greatly affect your enjoyment of the iPad! Hopefully, after this iPad Pro 12.9 size comparison you have a better idea of what you want!

Key Takeaways

  • Size: The 2018 model is slightly smaller and lighter, making it more portable. The 2018 has a more modern look, with a thinner design and smaller bezels. You get more screen real estate in a similar-sized body! The 2017 model features a more conventional design with thicker bezels and a Home button. The bezels can be distracting to some people. The 2018 model wins, thanks to its sleeker and more modern look. It just feels better in your hands, honestly. This is a very important iPad Pro 12.9 size comparison. Think about what the iPad will feel like when you are holding it, especially if you are using it for a prolonged period.
  • Display: Both have beautiful displays, but the 2018 has an edge-to-edge design for a more immersive experience. You get the same clarity and quality from the 2017 and 2018 model, the 2018 model is just an upgrade overall. The 2018 is simply the better choice when comparing displays.
  • Performance: The 2018 model has a faster chip, making it better for demanding tasks like video editing and gaming. The 2017 is still great and can handle everyday tasks with no issues!
  • Features: The 2018 model has USB-C and support for the second-generation Apple Pencil, offering greater versatility.
  • Price: The 2017 model is usually more affordable. The price is going to be the deciding factor for a lot of people! So, think about what you are willing to spend!

So there you have it! Now go out there and get yourself a fantastic iPad Pro!