IPad Pro 11 (2nd Gen) 128GB: Review & Should You Buy?

by Alex Braham 54 views

Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the iPad Pro 11-inch (2nd Generation) with 128GB of storage. If you're wondering whether this tablet still holds up in today's tech landscape, you've come to the right place. We'll explore its features, performance, and overall value to help you decide if it's the right fit for you.

Overview of the iPad Pro 11 (2nd Gen)

The iPad Pro 11-inch (2nd generation) was released by Apple in March 2020. Even though it's not the newest kid on the block, it packs a serious punch, making it a contender for anyone seeking a high-performance tablet. It fits perfectly in the iPad Pro lineup as it comes with the A12Z Bionic chip, a stunning Liquid Retina display, and support for accessories like the Apple Pencil (2nd generation) and Smart Keyboard Folio.

Key Features:

  • Display: 11-inch Liquid Retina display with ProMotion technology
  • Processor: A12Z Bionic chip
  • Storage: 128GB
  • Cameras: 12MP Wide and 10MP Ultra Wide back cameras, 7MP TrueDepth front camera
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0, USB-C
  • Other: Face ID, four-speaker audio, five studio-quality microphones

Detailed Feature Analysis

Let's break down the key aspects of the iPad Pro 11 (2nd Gen) to give you a clearer picture of what it offers.

Display Quality

The 11-inch Liquid Retina display is a visual treat. With a resolution of 2388 x 1668 pixels, everything looks sharp and vibrant. The ProMotion technology, which offers a 120Hz refresh rate, makes scrolling and animations incredibly smooth. Whether you're watching videos, browsing the web, or creating digital art, the display enhances your experience with accurate colors and excellent brightness. This is perfect for graphic designers, video editors, and anyone who appreciates a high-quality screen.

  • Benefits of ProMotion:
    • Smoother scrolling and animations
    • More responsive Apple Pencil input
    • Enhanced gaming experience

Performance and Speed

At the heart of the iPad Pro 11 (2nd Gen) is the A12Z Bionic chip. This processor is designed to handle demanding tasks, such as video editing, 3D modeling, and gaming, with ease. The A12Z Bionic chip ensures that apps load quickly and multitasking is seamless, so you can switch between apps without lag. The 128GB of storage is adequate for most users, providing enough space for apps, files, and media. However, if you work with large files or plan to store a lot of videos, you might consider a higher storage option.

  • A12Z Bionic Chip Advantages:
    • Improved thermal management for sustained performance
    • 8-core GPU for enhanced graphics
    • Neural Engine for advanced machine learning tasks

Camera Capabilities

The iPad Pro 11 (2nd Gen) features a dual-camera system on the back, including a 12MP Wide camera and a 10MP Ultra Wide camera. This setup allows you to capture stunning photos and videos in various situations. The Ultra Wide camera is especially useful for landscape photography or capturing group shots. On the front, the 7MP TrueDepth camera supports Face ID for secure authentication and enables features like Animoji and Memoji. The front camera also delivers excellent video quality for FaceTime calls and video conferencing.

  • Camera Highlights:
    • 4K video recording at 60fps
    • Smart HDR for photos
    • Audio zoom

Connectivity and Ports

The inclusion of Wi-Fi 6 support ensures faster wireless speeds and more stable connections. Bluetooth 5.0 allows you to connect to a wide range of accessories, such as headphones, keyboards, and mice. The USB-C port provides versatile connectivity options, allowing you to connect to external displays, storage devices, and other peripherals. The USB-C port also supports fast charging, so you can quickly replenish the battery.

Audio Quality

The iPad Pro 11 (2nd Gen) boasts a four-speaker audio system that delivers immersive sound quality. Whether you're watching movies, listening to music, or playing games, the audio is rich and clear. The five studio-quality microphones ensure that your voice is captured clearly during video calls and recordings. This makes the iPad Pro an excellent device for content creation and communication.

Design and Build Quality

Apple is known for its attention to detail, and the iPad Pro 11 (2nd Gen) is no exception. The tablet features a sleek and modern design with slim bezels and rounded corners. The build quality is excellent, with a durable aluminum enclosure that feels premium in hand. Despite its large display, the iPad Pro is relatively lightweight and portable, making it easy to carry around. The 128GB model is a sweet spot for those needing ample storage without the bulk of larger capacity models.

Accessories and Compatibility

One of the strengths of the iPad Pro 11 (2nd Gen) is its compatibility with a range of accessories that enhance its functionality. The Apple Pencil (2nd generation) attaches magnetically to the side of the iPad and charges wirelessly. It offers precise and responsive input, making it ideal for artists, note-takers, and anyone who wants to interact with the iPad in a more natural way. The Smart Keyboard Folio provides a comfortable typing experience and protects the screen when not in use. These accessories transform the iPad Pro into a versatile productivity tool.

Pros and Cons

To help you make an informed decision, here’s a summary of the pros and cons of the iPad Pro 11 (2nd Gen) 128GB:

Pros:

  • Excellent Performance: The A12Z Bionic chip delivers fast and responsive performance for demanding tasks.
  • Stunning Display: The Liquid Retina display with ProMotion technology offers vibrant colors and smooth animations.
  • Versatile Connectivity: USB-C port, Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth 5.0 provide flexible connectivity options.
  • High-Quality Audio: Four-speaker audio system and five studio-quality microphones deliver immersive sound and clear voice capture.
  • Premium Design: Sleek and modern design with excellent build quality.

Cons:

  • Price: Can be expensive, especially when you factor in accessories like the Apple Pencil and Smart Keyboard Folio.
  • Software Limitations: iPadOS, while powerful, is not as versatile as macOS or Windows.
  • No Headphone Jack: Requires a USB-C to 3.5mm adapter for wired headphones.

Real-World Usage Scenarios

So, where does the iPad Pro 11 (2nd Gen) really shine? Here are a few scenarios:

  • Creative Professionals: Graphic designers, video editors, and photographers will appreciate the powerful performance and stunning display. The Apple Pencil support allows for precise and natural input.
  • Students: The iPad Pro is a great tool for note-taking, research, and studying. The Smart Keyboard Folio makes it easy to write papers and complete assignments.
  • Business Users: The iPad Pro can be used for presentations, video conferencing, and managing email. Its portability makes it ideal for travel.
  • Casual Users: Even if you're not a power user, the iPad Pro is great for watching videos, browsing the web, and playing games. The high-quality display and audio enhance the entertainment experience.

Alternatives to Consider

If the iPad Pro 11 (2nd Gen) doesn't quite meet your needs or budget, here are a few alternatives to consider:

  • iPad Air (5th Generation): Offers similar performance to the iPad Pro at a lower price point. It features the M1 chip and a Liquid Retina display.
  • iPad Pro 11-inch (3rd Generation): The newer model with the M1 chip and an even brighter display.
  • Samsung Galaxy Tab S8: A high-end Android tablet with a stunning display and powerful performance.
  • Microsoft Surface Pro 8: A versatile 2-in-1 device that runs Windows and can be used as a tablet or laptop.

Final Verdict: Should You Buy?

The iPad Pro 11 (2nd Gen) 128GB is still an excellent tablet in 2024. Its powerful performance, stunning display, and versatile connectivity make it a great choice for creative professionals, students, and anyone who wants a high-quality tablet. However, the price can be a barrier for some, and the software limitations of iPadOS may not suit everyone. If you need the best possible performance and are willing to pay a premium, the iPad Pro is worth considering.

Ultimately, whether or not you should buy the iPad Pro 11 (2nd Gen) 128GB depends on your individual needs and budget. If you can find it at a good price and its features align with your requirements, it’s a solid investment. But always weigh your options and consider newer models or alternatives to ensure you're getting the best value for your money.