Refurbished IPad Pro 2018 (12.9-inch): Worth It In 2024?

Hey guys! Are you thinking about snagging a refurbished 12.9-inch iPad Pro from 2018? You've come to the right place! Let's dive deep into whether this tablet still holds up in 2024. We’ll break down everything from performance and features to price and overall value, so you can make a smart decision. Getting a good deal is awesome, but making sure that deal is actually good for you is even more important.

Why Consider the 2018 iPad Pro?

Let's be real, the 2018 iPad Pro was a game-changer when it first dropped. It boasted a stunning edge-to-edge Liquid Retina display, a powerful A12X Bionic chip, and a sleek, modern design. Even now, those features sound pretty sweet, right? For many users, these features still pack a punch and can handle a variety of tasks without breaking a sweat. This makes the 2018 model an attractive option for those who don't need the latest and greatest technology but still want a premium iPad experience.

But why specifically this model? Well, the 2018 iPad Pro marked a significant design shift from previous generations. It ditched the home button in favor of Face ID and offered a more immersive viewing experience thanks to its slimmer bezels. This design language has carried over to subsequent iPad Pro models, making the 2018 version feel surprisingly modern even today. The A12X Bionic chip inside is no slouch either; it delivers impressive performance for demanding tasks like video editing, graphic design, and gaming. Plus, it supports the 2nd generation Apple Pencil, which magnetically attaches to the side of the iPad for charging and storage.

Another key factor is the price. As newer iPad Pro models have been released, the price of the 2018 version has dropped considerably, especially in the refurbished market. This makes it an appealing option for students, creative professionals, or anyone on a budget who wants a high-end tablet without paying a premium price. You can often find refurbished 2018 iPad Pros in excellent condition for a fraction of the cost of a brand-new model. This allows you to get a lot of bang for your buck and enjoy the benefits of a powerful iPad without breaking the bank.

Performance and Specs: Still Got It?

Okay, let's get into the nitty-gritty of what makes this iPad tick. The A12X Bionic chip is the heart and soul, and it's still surprisingly capable. You can smoothly run most apps, multitask like a pro, and even dabble in some creative tasks without major slowdowns. Obviously, it's not going to beat the newest M-series chips, but for everyday use, it's totally solid. Is the A12X Bionic enough for your needs? That's the big question!

When evaluating performance, think about your typical usage. If you primarily use your iPad for browsing the web, checking email, watching videos, and light productivity tasks, the A12X Bionic chip will likely exceed your expectations. It can handle multiple apps running simultaneously, allowing you to seamlessly switch between tasks without experiencing lag or stuttering. Even more demanding tasks like photo editing, video editing, and graphic design are within its capabilities, although you might experience some slowdowns when working with very large files or complex projects.

For gamers, the A12X Bionic chip delivers a smooth and immersive gaming experience. It can handle most mobile games at high settings, with impressive graphics and frame rates. Whether you're into action-packed shooters, strategy games, or puzzle games, the 2018 iPad Pro can keep up with your gaming demands. The large 12.9-inch display also enhances the gaming experience, providing a more immersive and engaging view of the action. The iPad Pro’s responsiveness is superb, minimizing input lag and ensuring a competitive edge in fast-paced games. In essence, the A12X Bionic chip remains a potent performer, holding its own in the current landscape of mobile processors and continuing to deliver a satisfying user experience.

Display and Design: Beauty That Lasts

The edge-to-edge Liquid Retina display is gorgeous. Colors are vibrant, the screen is sharp, and the ProMotion technology makes scrolling super smooth. Honestly, it's still one of the best displays on any tablet. The slim bezels and sleek design make it feel premium, even years later. Does a great screen matter to you? If so, this iPad Pro delivers. The screen is also large enough to comfortably work on two apps side by side.

The design of the 2018 iPad Pro is timeless. Its slim profile, rounded edges, and premium materials give it a sophisticated and modern look that still holds up today. The lack of a home button and the presence of Face ID contribute to its sleek and minimalist aesthetic. The build quality is excellent, with a sturdy aluminum unibody that feels solid and durable in your hands. This attention to detail makes the 2018 iPad Pro feel like a premium device, even when compared to newer models.

The Liquid Retina display is another standout feature. Its vibrant colors, high brightness, and sharp resolution make everything look stunning, from photos and videos to web pages and documents. ProMotion technology dynamically adjusts the refresh rate up to 120Hz, resulting in incredibly smooth scrolling and responsiveness. This makes the iPad Pro feel more fluid and natural to use, especially when drawing, writing, or gaming. Whether you're consuming content or creating it, the display on the 2018 iPad Pro enhances the experience and makes everything look its best.

What About the Drawbacks?

Okay, it's not all sunshine and roses. The battery life is decent, but not amazing, especially if you're pushing it hard. Also, the lack of a headphone jack might annoy some people. And, of course, it's not the newest tech. There are newer iPads with faster chips and fancier features. Can you live with these limitations? Think about your daily usage.

One of the biggest drawbacks is the older processor. While the A12X Bionic is still capable, it's not as fast or efficient as the M1 or M2 chips found in newer iPad Pro models. This means you might experience some slowdowns when running demanding apps or multitasking with multiple apps at once. If you're a power user who needs the absolute best performance, you might want to consider a newer iPad Pro.

Another potential drawback is the lack of 5G connectivity. The 2018 iPad Pro only supports Wi-Fi and 4G LTE, which means you won't be able to take advantage of the faster speeds offered by 5G networks. If you rely on cellular data for internet access, this could be a significant limitation. Additionally, the camera system on the 2018 iPad Pro is not as advanced as the ones found on newer models. While it's still capable of taking decent photos and videos, it lacks some of the features and capabilities of more recent iPad Pro cameras. Finally, the 2018 iPad Pro uses a Lightning port instead of USB-C, which means you'll need to use a different cable for charging and connecting to accessories. These limitations, while not deal-breakers for everyone, are important to consider before making a purchase. Knowing what you are giving up will inform the best decision for you.

Price and Value: The Bottom Line

Here's the big question: Is it worth it? If you can find a refurbished model in good condition for a reasonable price, then absolutely. You're getting a premium iPad experience without the premium price tag. But, be sure to compare prices and consider the condition of the device. Are you getting a good deal? Do your research!

When evaluating the price and value of a refurbished 2018 iPad Pro, consider the following factors: the condition of the device, the storage capacity, and the seller's reputation. A refurbished iPad Pro in excellent condition with ample storage is worth more than one with scratches, dents, or limited storage. It's also important to buy from a reputable seller who offers a warranty and a return policy in case you're not satisfied with your purchase.

Comparing the price of a refurbished 2018 iPad Pro to the price of a new or refurbished iPad Air is also a good way to assess its value. While the iPad Air offers a more modern processor and design, it typically comes at a higher price point. If you're willing to sacrifice some performance and features in exchange for a lower price, the refurbished 2018 iPad Pro could be a great option. Ultimately, the value of a refurbished 2018 iPad Pro depends on your individual needs and priorities. If you're looking for a high-end tablet at a budget-friendly price, it's definitely worth considering.

Who is This iPad For?

So, who should actually buy this thing? It's perfect for students, creative hobbyists, and anyone who wants a large-screen iPad for everyday tasks. If you need the absolute latest and greatest, or you're doing heavy-duty professional work, you might want to look at newer models. But for a lot of people, the 2018 iPad Pro is still a fantastic option.

Students will appreciate the large display for taking notes, reading textbooks, and doing research. The Apple Pencil support makes it easy to annotate documents and create digital art. The long battery life ensures that you can get through a full day of classes without needing to recharge. The lightweight design makes it easy to carry around campus.

Creative hobbyists will love the vibrant display for editing photos and videos. The powerful processor can handle most creative apps without any lag. The Apple Pencil support allows you to create digital art and illustrations with precision. The large storage capacity provides ample space for storing your creative projects.

General users who want a large-screen iPad for everyday tasks like browsing the web, checking email, watching videos, and playing games will find the 2018 iPad Pro to be a great option. The large display makes it easy to multitask and consume content. The powerful processor ensures that everything runs smoothly. The long battery life means you can use it for hours without needing to recharge.

Final Verdict: A Smart Choice?

Overall, the refurbished 12.9-inch iPad Pro from 2018 is still a very capable tablet in 2024. It offers a great display, solid performance, and a premium design at a more affordable price than newer models. If you're willing to overlook a few drawbacks, it's definitely worth considering. Happy shopping! Just remember to do your homework before you buy!