Refurbished IPad Pro 2018 12-inch: Worth It In 2024?

Hey tech enthusiasts! Are you considering snagging a refurbished iPad Pro 2018 12-inch? That's a valid question to ask in 2024. Let's dive deep into whether this tablet still packs a punch, what to watch out for, and if it’s a smart buy today.

iPad Pro 2018 12-inch: Overview

The iPad Pro 2018 12-inch was a game-changer when it launched. With its sleek design, powerful processor, and stunning display, it quickly became a favorite among creatives and professionals. It boasts a Liquid Retina display with ProMotion technology, meaning you get vibrant colors and incredibly smooth scrolling. Under the hood, it’s powered by the A12X Bionic chip, which delivers blazing-fast performance for everything from gaming to video editing. The design features slim bezels and Face ID for secure authentication.

It came with up to 1TB of storage, ensuring you had plenty of space for all your files and apps. The USB-C port was also a welcome addition, making it easier to connect to external devices and accessories. Moreover, it supports the 2nd generation Apple Pencil, which attaches magnetically to the side of the iPad for charging and storage. The quad-speaker audio system provides immersive sound, perfect for watching movies or listening to music. The cameras are also quite capable, offering great image quality for photos and videos. It’s no wonder this iPad was a hit.

But tech moves fast, and what was cutting-edge a few years ago might now be considered outdated. So, is it still a viable option in 2024? Let's dig deeper.

Performance and Speed

When we talk about the performance of the iPad Pro 2018 12-inch, the A12X Bionic chip is the star of the show. This chip was a beast in its time, and it still holds up remarkably well today. For everyday tasks like browsing the web, checking emails, and streaming videos, you won't notice any lag. Apps open quickly, and multitasking is smooth.

Even with more demanding tasks like video editing and graphic design, the iPad Pro 2018 can handle them with ease. Of course, it might not be as fast as the latest iPad Pro models with the M-series chips, but it’s still more than capable for most users. Gaming is also a great experience on this device. The A12X Bionic chip can run most mobile games at high settings without any noticeable frame drops. The ProMotion display adds to the experience, making gameplay feel incredibly smooth and responsive. This makes it a solid choice for those who enjoy gaming on the go.

However, keep in mind that software updates might eventually start to slow down older hardware. While the iPad Pro 2018 is still supported by the latest iPadOS, future updates could be more demanding and potentially impact performance. So, if you plan on using this iPad for several years, it’s something to consider. Overall, the performance of the iPad Pro 2018 is still impressive, making it a great option for those who want a powerful tablet without breaking the bank.

Display Quality

The display of the iPad Pro 2018 12-inch is one of its standout features. It boasts a Liquid Retina display with a resolution of 2732 x 2048 pixels, which translates to a pixel density of 264 pixels per inch. This means that images and text look incredibly sharp and clear. The color accuracy is also excellent, making it ideal for creative professionals who need to work with accurate colors.

The ProMotion technology is another highlight of this display. It allows the display to dynamically adjust the refresh rate up to 120Hz, depending on the content being displayed. This results in incredibly smooth scrolling and more responsive touch interactions. Whether you're browsing the web, drawing with the Apple Pencil, or playing games, the ProMotion display makes everything feel more fluid and natural. The display also supports P3 wide color gamut, which means it can display a wider range of colors than standard displays. This results in more vibrant and lifelike images.

Another great feature of the display is its anti-reflective coating. This helps to reduce glare and reflections, making it easier to use the iPad in bright lighting conditions. Whether you're working outdoors or in a brightly lit office, the anti-reflective coating ensures that you can see the display clearly. Overall, the display quality of the iPad Pro 2018 is still top-notch, making it a great choice for anyone who values a high-quality visual experience. It's perfect for watching movies, editing photos, or simply browsing the web.

Software and Updates

When you're considering a refurbished iPad Pro 2018 12-inch in 2024, the software and updates are critical. The good news is that this model still receives updates. Apple typically supports its devices for many years, so you can expect to get the latest features and security patches for a while. Currently, it supports iPadOS 17, bringing enhancements like widgets on the lock screen and improved multitasking.

However, it's essential to consider that older hardware might not run future updates as smoothly as newer devices. While the A12X Bionic chip is powerful, it may struggle with the most demanding features in future iPadOS releases. This could result in slower performance or limited access to certain features. Despite that, having access to the latest software is crucial for security. Regular updates patch vulnerabilities and protect your device from potential threats. You’ll also benefit from new features and improvements that enhance the overall user experience.

Keep an eye on how well the iPad Pro 2018 handles each update. If you notice significant slowdowns, it might be a sign that it's nearing the end of its lifespan. In the meantime, enjoy the latest features and security enhancements that iPadOS offers. Software support is a significant advantage of buying an Apple product, and the iPad Pro 2018 still benefits from this in 2024.

Battery Life

Now, let's talk about battery life on a refurbished iPad Pro 2018 12-inch. When it was new, this iPad offered excellent battery life, typically lasting around 10 hours on a single charge. However, as with any used device, battery life can degrade over time. If you're buying a refurbished model, the battery might not perform as well as it did when it was new.

Several factors can affect battery health, including the number of charge cycles, usage patterns, and environmental conditions. If the previous owner frequently used the iPad for intensive tasks or charged it improperly, the battery life could be significantly reduced. Before purchasing, try to get information about the battery's condition. Some sellers may provide a battery health report, which can give you an idea of its current capacity.

Even with some degradation, the iPad Pro 2018 should still offer reasonable battery life for most users. You can expect to get through a full day of moderate use, such as browsing the web, checking emails, and watching videos. However, if you plan on using it for more demanding tasks like gaming or video editing, you may need to charge it more frequently. To maximize battery life, consider adjusting your usage habits. Lowering the screen brightness, turning off background app refresh, and closing unused apps can all help to conserve power. Additionally, you can replace the battery, but that will involve additional cost.

Things to Consider Before Buying

Before you jump on the bandwagon and buy a refurbished iPad Pro 2018 12-inch, there are a few crucial things to consider. First, the condition of the device is paramount. Check for any physical damage like scratches, dents, or screen issues. These imperfections can affect the device's functionality and your overall experience. Make sure to inspect the screen closely for dead pixels or discoloration.

Next, assess the battery health. As mentioned earlier, battery life can degrade over time, so it’s essential to get an idea of its current performance. Ask the seller if they can provide a battery health report. Also, consider the storage capacity. The iPad Pro 2018 came with options ranging from 64GB to 1TB. Think about how much storage you need for your apps, files, and media. Opting for a model with sufficient storage will save you from constantly managing your files.

Check the device's connectivity features. Ensure that the Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are working correctly. Test the USB-C port to make sure it can connect to external devices. If you plan on using the Apple Pencil, verify that it pairs and charges properly. Don't forget to verify the seller's reputation. Buy from reputable sources that offer warranties and return policies. This will protect you in case you encounter any issues with the device. Reading reviews and checking seller ratings can provide valuable insights into their reliability.

Is It Worth Buying in 2024?

So, here's the million-dollar question: Is a refurbished iPad Pro 2018 12-inch worth buying in 2024? The answer depends on your needs and budget. If you're looking for a powerful tablet at a reasonable price, it can be a great option. The A12X Bionic chip still offers excellent performance for most tasks, and the Liquid Retina display is stunning. Plus, it supports the 2nd generation Apple Pencil, making it ideal for creative work.

However, if you need the latest and greatest features, you might want to consider a newer model. The latest iPad Pro models with the M-series chips offer significantly faster performance and more advanced features. They also have better battery life and support for the latest accessories. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your priorities. If you're on a tight budget and don't need the absolute best performance, a refurbished iPad Pro 2018 can be a great value. But if you're willing to spend more, you might want to invest in a newer model.

In conclusion, the iPad Pro 2018 12-inch remains a capable tablet in 2024. Its performance, display quality, and software support make it a viable option for many users. Just make sure to consider the condition of the device, battery health, and your specific needs before making a purchase. Happy shopping!