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

Hey everyone! Today, we're diving deep into the amazing iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd Generation) released in 2018. This thing was a game-changer when it hit the market, and it's still a fantastic device even now. We'll cover everything from its sleek design and powerful performance to its stunning display and, importantly, what you need to know if you ever need to get it repaired. So, whether you're a current owner, thinking about picking one up, or just curious, let's get started!

Overview of the iPad Pro 12.9" (3rd Gen) 2018

Let's start with a general overview of what made this iPad so special. The iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd Gen) 2018 marked a significant shift in iPad design and performance. It was the first iPad Pro to feature an edge-to-edge display, ditching the home button in favor of Face ID, which, let's be honest, felt incredibly futuristic at the time. The squared-off edges gave it a more modern look, reminiscent of the iPhone 5, which many people loved. This design wasn't just for looks; it also made the device easier to hold and use, especially with accessories like the Apple Pencil. Inside, the A12X Bionic chip delivered a massive performance boost, making it faster than many laptops on the market. This meant you could run demanding apps like Procreate, Adobe Photoshop, and complex 3D modeling software without a hitch. The screen was also a major highlight. The Liquid Retina display with ProMotion technology offered vibrant colors, incredible clarity, and a super-smooth 120Hz refresh rate. Scrolling through web pages or drawing with the Apple Pencil felt incredibly responsive and natural. The iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd Gen) also brought USB-C to the iPad lineup, replacing the Lightning port. This opened up a whole new world of connectivity, allowing you to connect to external displays, cameras, and other accessories with ease. The Smart Keyboard Folio and the second-generation Apple Pencil further enhanced the iPad Pro's versatility, making it a true productivity powerhouse. Overall, the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd Gen) was a groundbreaking device that pushed the boundaries of what an iPad could do, setting a new standard for tablets in terms of performance, design, and features. It truly bridged the gap between a tablet and a laptop, offering a compelling alternative for creative professionals, students, and anyone who wanted a powerful and versatile device.

Key Features and Specifications

Okay, let's get into the nitty-gritty details. Knowing the key features and specifications will help you understand what this iPad Pro is truly capable of. The brain of the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd Gen) is the A12X Bionic chip. This chip, coupled with the Neural Engine, delivers blazing-fast performance and advanced machine learning capabilities. It's not just about speed; it's about efficiency. The A12X Bionic chip is designed to handle demanding tasks while consuming minimal power, which translates to longer battery life. You can edit 4K videos, play graphics-intensive games, and run multiple apps simultaneously without experiencing any lag or slowdown. The Neural Engine also powers features like Face ID, which is incredibly fast and secure. Face ID uses advanced algorithms to recognize your face, even in different lighting conditions or if you're wearing glasses or a hat. It's a seamless and convenient way to unlock your iPad and authenticate purchases. The display is another standout feature. The 12.9-inch Liquid Retina display boasts a resolution of 2732 x 2048 pixels, resulting in a pixel density of 264 pixels per inch. This means that images and text look incredibly sharp and detailed. The display also supports a wide color gamut (P3), which delivers vibrant and accurate colors. ProMotion technology dynamically adjusts the refresh rate up to 120Hz, making scrolling, animations, and drawing feel incredibly smooth and responsive. This is especially noticeable when using the Apple Pencil. Speaking of the Apple Pencil, the second-generation Apple Pencil is a must-have accessory for the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd Gen). It attaches magnetically to the side of the iPad for charging and pairing, and it features a double-tap gesture that can be customized to perform different actions, such as switching between tools in an app or bringing up the color palette. The Apple Pencil offers incredibly low latency, making it feel like you're writing or drawing on paper. The iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd Gen) also features a USB-C port, which replaces the Lightning port. This allows you to connect to a wide range of accessories, such as external displays, cameras, and storage devices. The USB-C port also supports faster charging, so you can quickly top up your iPad's battery. In terms of storage, the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd Gen) is available in a variety of configurations, ranging from 64GB to 1TB. The amount of storage you need will depend on your usage. If you plan to store a lot of photos, videos, and apps, you'll want to opt for a larger storage capacity. The iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd Gen) also features a 12MP rear camera and a 7MP front-facing camera. The rear camera can record 4K video at up to 60 frames per second, and it also features Smart HDR for capturing photos with improved dynamic range. The front-facing camera is perfect for video calls and selfies, and it also supports Face ID. Overall, the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd Gen) is packed with features and specifications that make it a powerful and versatile device. Whether you're a creative professional, a student, or simply someone who wants a premium tablet experience, the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd Gen) has something to offer.

Performance and User Experience

When it comes to performance, the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd Gen) truly shines. Thanks to the A12X Bionic chip, everything feels incredibly fast and responsive. Apps launch instantly, multitasking is a breeze, and even the most demanding tasks are handled with ease. The 120Hz ProMotion display makes a noticeable difference in the overall user experience. Scrolling through web pages and documents feels buttery smooth, and animations are fluid and responsive. This is especially noticeable when using the Apple Pencil, which feels incredibly natural and precise. Whether you're sketching, drawing, or taking notes, the Apple Pencil provides a level of control and accuracy that is unmatched by other styluses. The iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd Gen) also excels at multitasking. With Split View and Slide Over, you can run multiple apps simultaneously, making it easy to switch between tasks and stay productive. You can even drag and drop content between apps, which is incredibly convenient. The iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd Gen) is also a great device for entertainment. The large, high-resolution display is perfect for watching movies and TV shows, and the powerful speakers deliver immersive sound. Whether you're streaming videos, playing games, or listening to music, the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd Gen) provides a top-notch entertainment experience. In terms of battery life, the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd Gen) typically lasts for around 10 hours of web browsing or video playback. This is more than enough to get you through a full day of work or school. And with the USB-C port, you can quickly top up the battery when needed. The iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd Gen) also benefits from Apple's iPadOS operating system. iPadOS is designed specifically for the iPad, and it includes features like a Files app, a redesigned multitasking interface, and support for external storage devices. These features make the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd Gen) a more versatile and productive device. Overall, the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd Gen) delivers a fantastic user experience. Its powerful performance, stunning display, and versatile features make it a great choice for anyone who wants a premium tablet experience. Whether you're a creative professional, a student, or simply someone who wants a device for entertainment and productivity, the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd Gen) has something to offer. It is a powerful and versatile device that can handle almost anything you throw at it, all while providing a seamless and enjoyable user experience. The combination of hardware and software makes it a true standout in the tablet market, even years after its initial release.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

Even the mighty iPad Pro isn't immune to problems. Let's run through some common issues and how to troubleshoot them so you're prepared! One common issue is battery drain. If you notice that your iPad Pro's battery is draining quickly, there are a few things you can try. First, check which apps are using the most battery. You can do this by going to Settings > Battery. If you see any apps that are using a lot of battery, try closing them or limiting their background activity. You can also try turning down the screen brightness, disabling location services for certain apps, or enabling Low Power Mode. Another common issue is Wi-Fi connectivity problems. If your iPad Pro is having trouble connecting to Wi-Fi, try restarting your iPad and your Wi-Fi router. You can also try forgetting the Wi-Fi network and then rejoining it. If that doesn't work, you may need to reset your network settings. To do this, go to Settings > General > Reset > Reset Network Settings. Keep in mind that this will erase all of your saved Wi-Fi passwords. Sometimes, the iPad Pro may freeze or become unresponsive. If this happens, try force restarting your iPad. To do this, quickly press and release the volume up button, quickly press and release the volume down button, and then press and hold the power button until you see the Apple logo. This will force your iPad to restart without erasing any of your data. Display issues can also occur, such as dead pixels or screen flickering. If you notice any of these issues, you may need to contact Apple Support for assistance. In some cases, the display may need to be replaced. Another potential issue is problems with the Apple Pencil. If your Apple Pencil is not working properly, make sure it is charged and paired with your iPad. You can also try cleaning the tip of the Apple Pencil with a soft, dry cloth. If that doesn't work, you may need to replace the tip of the Apple Pencil. Software glitches can also cause problems with the iPad Pro. If you are experiencing any software-related issues, make sure your iPad is running the latest version of iPadOS. You can check for updates by going to Settings > General > Software Update. If there is an update available, download and install it. In some cases, you may need to restore your iPad to its factory settings to resolve software issues. However, this will erase all of your data, so make sure you back up your iPad before doing so. To restore your iPad to its factory settings, go to Settings > General > Reset > Erase All Content and Settings. By being aware of these common issues and troubleshooting tips, you can keep your iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd Gen) running smoothly and efficiently. Remember to always back up your data regularly to prevent data loss in case of any unexpected issues. If you encounter any problems that you cannot resolve on your own, don't hesitate to contact Apple Support or a qualified repair technician for assistance.

Repair Options and Costs

Alright, let's talk repair options and costs. Stuff happens, and knowing what to expect can save you a headache. If you're experiencing issues with your iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd Gen), you have a few options for getting it repaired. The first option is to contact Apple Support. If your iPad is still under warranty, Apple may be able to repair it for free. Even if your iPad is out of warranty, Apple may still be able to repair it for a fee. You can contact Apple Support by phone, online chat, or by visiting an Apple Store. Another option is to take your iPad to a third-party repair shop. There are many third-party repair shops that specialize in repairing Apple devices. These shops may be able to offer lower prices than Apple, but it's important to choose a reputable shop that uses high-quality parts. Before taking your iPad to a third-party repair shop, make sure to read reviews and check their credentials. The cost of repairing your iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd Gen) will depend on the type of damage and the repair provider you choose. Screen replacements are one of the most common types of repairs. If you crack your iPad's screen, you can expect to pay anywhere from $300 to $500 for a replacement, depending on whether you go to Apple or a third-party repair shop. Battery replacements are another common type of repair. If your iPad's battery is no longer holding a charge, you can expect to pay around $100 to $200 for a replacement. Other types of repairs, such as charging port repairs, camera repairs, and logic board repairs, can also be costly. The best way to get an accurate estimate of the repair cost is to contact Apple Support or a third-party repair shop and describe the issue you are experiencing. They will be able to provide you with a quote based on the specific damage to your iPad. If you're comfortable with DIY repairs, you can also purchase replacement parts online and attempt to repair your iPad yourself. However, this is not recommended unless you have experience with electronics repair. DIY repairs can be risky, and you could potentially damage your iPad further if you're not careful. It's also important to note that repairing your iPad yourself may void your warranty. Before attempting any repairs, make sure to back up your iPad to prevent data loss. You should also disconnect your iPad from any power source and remove any accessories. If you're not comfortable repairing your iPad yourself, it's always best to take it to a professional. A qualified repair technician will be able to diagnose the problem and repair your iPad safely and effectively. They will also be able to use high-quality parts and ensure that your iPad is restored to its original condition. Understanding your repair options and the potential costs involved can help you make an informed decision about how to proceed when your iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd Gen) needs fixing. Whether you choose to go to Apple, a third-party repair shop, or attempt a DIY repair, make sure to weigh the pros and cons carefully before making a decision.

Is It Still Worth Buying in [Current Year]?

So, the big question: Is the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd Gen) still worth buying now? Even though it was released in 2018, the answer is a resounding yes for many people. The A12X Bionic chip is still incredibly powerful, and it can handle most tasks with ease. Whether you're browsing the web, watching videos, playing games, or editing photos and videos, the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd Gen) will not disappoint. The Liquid Retina display is also still one of the best displays on the market. It's bright, vibrant, and incredibly sharp. The 120Hz ProMotion technology makes scrolling and animations feel incredibly smooth and responsive. The iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd Gen) also supports the second-generation Apple Pencil, which is a must-have accessory for creative professionals and students. The Apple Pencil provides a natural and precise writing and drawing experience. The iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd Gen) also has a USB-C port, which allows you to connect to a wide range of accessories, such as external displays, cameras, and storage devices. This makes the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd Gen) a more versatile and productive device. Of course, there are newer iPad Pro models available. The newer models have faster processors, better cameras, and more advanced features. However, they also come with a higher price tag. If you're on a budget, the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd Gen) is still a great option. You can often find used or refurbished models at a discounted price. The iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd Gen) is also a good choice if you don't need the latest and greatest features. If you're primarily using your iPad for basic tasks like browsing the web, watching videos, and checking email, the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd Gen) will be more than enough. However, if you need the absolute best performance and features, you may want to consider a newer iPad Pro model. The newer models have faster processors, better cameras, and more advanced features. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to buy the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd Gen) depends on your individual needs and budget. If you're looking for a powerful and versatile tablet that won't break the bank, the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd Gen) is still a great option. Its combination of performance, display quality, and features makes it a compelling choice, even years after its initial release. Just be sure to weigh the pros and cons carefully and consider your own specific needs before making a decision. If you can find a good deal on a used or refurbished model, it can be an excellent value for the money.