IPad 2021 12-inch: Review, Specs, And Should You Buy?

by Jhon Lennon 54 views

Hey guys! Are you in the market for a large-screen tablet and considering the iPad 2021 12-inch? You've come to the right place! This article dives deep into everything you need to know about this powerhouse of a device. We'll explore its features, performance, pros, cons, and ultimately, help you decide if it's the right choice for your needs. So, grab a coffee, get comfortable, and let's get started!

What Makes the iPad 2021 12-inch Stand Out?

The iPad 2021 12-inch, often referred to as the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (5th generation), distinguishes itself primarily with its stunning display and processing power. The Liquid Retina XDR display, with its mini-LED technology, delivers incredible brightness, contrast, and color accuracy. This makes it a dream for content creators, graphic designers, and anyone who enjoys watching videos or viewing photos. Under the hood, the M1 chip provides a significant performance boost compared to previous iPad models. This means faster app loading times, smoother multitasking, and the ability to handle demanding tasks like video editing and gaming with ease.

Beyond the display and processor, the iPad 2021 12-inch also boasts features like ProMotion technology (adaptive refresh rates up to 120Hz for incredibly smooth scrolling), Thunderbolt / USB 4 port for high-speed data transfer and connectivity to external displays, and a powerful camera system with LiDAR scanner for enhanced augmented reality experiences. It also supports the 2nd generation Apple Pencil and the Magic Keyboard, further expanding its capabilities and making it a potential laptop replacement for many users. The combination of these features makes the iPad 2021 12-inch a premium tablet experience, justifying its higher price point compared to other iPads and tablets on the market. However, whether those features are worth the investment depends heavily on your individual needs and how you plan to use the device.

Diving Deep into the Specs

Let's get down to the nitty-gritty and explore the specifications that make the iPad 2021 12-inch tick. Understanding these specs will give you a better idea of its capabilities and how it compares to other devices you might be considering.

  • Display: 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR display with mini-LED backlight, ProMotion technology (120Hz adaptive refresh rate), 2732 x 2048 resolution at 264 pixels per inch (ppi), and P3 wide color gamut. The mini-LED technology is the star here, offering exceptional brightness and contrast ratios, resulting in a truly immersive viewing experience. The ProMotion technology makes scrolling and animations incredibly smooth and responsive.
  • Processor: Apple M1 chip with 8-core CPU and 8-core GPU. The M1 chip is a game-changer for iPad performance, delivering a significant leap in speed and efficiency compared to previous generations. It allows for seamless multitasking, demanding creative tasks, and smooth gaming experiences.
  • Storage: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, or 2TB. Choose wisely based on your storage needs. If you plan to store a lot of photos, videos, or large files, opt for a larger storage capacity. Remember that iPad storage is not expandable, so you're stuck with what you choose at the time of purchase.
  • RAM: 8GB (128GB, 256GB, 512GB models) or 16GB (1TB, 2TB models). More RAM allows for smoother multitasking and the ability to handle more demanding applications simultaneously. If you're a power user who juggles multiple apps or works with large files, the 16GB models might be worth the extra investment.
  • Cameras: 12MP Wide and 10MP Ultra Wide rear cameras, 12MP Ultra Wide front camera with Center Stage. The camera system is excellent for capturing photos and videos, and the Center Stage feature on the front camera is a game-changer for video calls, automatically keeping you in frame as you move around.
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), Bluetooth 5.0, Thunderbolt / USB 4 port. The Thunderbolt / USB 4 port offers high-speed data transfer and connectivity to external displays and other peripherals.
  • Battery: Up to 10 hours of surfing the web on Wi-Fi or watching video. Battery life is generally good, but it can vary depending on your usage. Demanding tasks like video editing or gaming will drain the battery faster.
  • Dimensions: 11.04 inches (280.6 mm) x 8.46 inches (214.9 mm) x 0.25 inch (6.4 mm). It's a large tablet, but still relatively thin and light for its size.
  • Weight: 1.5 lbs (682 grams) for Wi-Fi model, 1.51 lbs (684 grams) for Wi-Fi + Cellular model. While not the lightest tablet on the market, it's still manageable for most users.

The Good, the Bad, and the Things to Consider

Alright, let's break down the pros and cons of the iPad 2021 12-inch to help you make a more informed decision:

Pros:

  • Stunning Display: The Liquid Retina XDR display is simply breathtaking. The brightness, contrast, and color accuracy are unmatched, making it a joy to use for everything from watching videos to editing photos.
  • Blazing-Fast Performance: The M1 chip delivers incredible performance, making the iPad 2021 12-inch incredibly responsive and capable of handling even the most demanding tasks.
  • Versatile Functionality: With support for the Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard, the iPad 2021 12-inch can be transformed into a powerful creative tool or a capable laptop replacement.
  • Excellent Camera System: The camera system is surprisingly good for a tablet, and the Center Stage feature is a welcome addition for video calls.
  • Long-Term Software Support: Apple is known for providing long-term software support for its devices, so you can expect to receive updates and new features for years to come.

Cons:

  • High Price Tag: The iPad 2021 12-inch is one of the most expensive tablets on the market. The high price point may be a barrier for some users.
  • Accessories are Expensive: The Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard are sold separately and are quite expensive. These accessories are essential for maximizing the potential of the iPad 2021 12-inch, but they add significantly to the overall cost.
  • iPadOS Limitations: While iPadOS has come a long way, it still has some limitations compared to macOS or Windows. Some users may find it less efficient for certain tasks.
  • No Expandable Storage: The lack of expandable storage can be a problem for users who need a lot of space for files.
  • Size and Weight: The 12.9-inch model is quite large and can be a bit cumbersome to carry around.

Things to Consider:

  • Your Budget: Can you afford the high price tag of the iPad 2021 12-inch and its accessories?
  • Your Usage Needs: What will you be using the iPad for? If you primarily need a tablet for basic tasks like browsing the web and checking email, a cheaper iPad model might be a better option.
  • Your Workflow: Does iPadOS fit your workflow? If you rely on specific software that is not available on iPadOS, you may want to consider a laptop instead.
  • Portability: Are you comfortable carrying around a large tablet? If portability is a major concern, a smaller iPad model might be a better choice.

Who is This iPad For?

The iPad 2021 12-inch is best suited for users who need a large, powerful tablet for creative tasks, professional work, or immersive entertainment. Here are some specific examples:

  • Creative Professionals: Graphic designers, photographers, video editors, and artists will appreciate the stunning display, powerful performance, and Apple Pencil support.
  • Business Professionals: Users who need a portable device for presentations, note-taking, and document editing will find the iPad 2021 12-inch to be a valuable tool.
  • Students: The iPad 2021 12-inch can be a great device for students who need a tablet for note-taking, research, and studying.
  • Anyone Who Enjoys Immersive Entertainment: The large display and powerful speakers make the iPad 2021 12-inch ideal for watching movies, playing games, and browsing the web.

However, if you primarily need a tablet for basic tasks like browsing the web, checking email, and social media, a cheaper iPad model like the iPad Air or the standard iPad might be a better option. You also might consider other brands like Samsung.

Alternatives to the iPad 2021 12-inch

If the iPad 2021 12-inch doesn't seem like the perfect fit for you, here are a few alternatives to consider:

  • iPad Pro 11-inch (2021): Offers similar performance and features in a smaller, more portable form factor.
  • iPad Air (2022): A more affordable option with a powerful M1 chip and a vibrant display.
  • Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra: A large-screen Android tablet with a stunning display and powerful performance.
  • Microsoft Surface Pro 8: A 2-in-1 device that can be used as a tablet or a laptop, running Windows.

Final Verdict: Should You Buy It?

The iPad 2021 12-inch is undoubtedly a fantastic tablet. It offers a stunning display, blazing-fast performance, and a versatile range of features. However, it's also one of the most expensive tablets on the market. Ultimately, whether or not you should buy it depends on your individual needs and budget.

If you're a creative professional, a business user who needs a powerful portable device, or simply someone who enjoys immersive entertainment, and you can afford the high price tag, then the iPad 2021 12-inch is definitely worth considering. However, if you primarily need a tablet for basic tasks, or if you're on a tight budget, there are other iPad models or tablets from other manufacturers that might be a better fit. I hope this article helps you make an informed decision. Good luck!