Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Perfect iPad Pro as Your Laptop Alternative

The iPad Pro stands out with its sleek design and advanced features, making it more than just a tablet—it's a powerful device for work and entertainment. Investing in an iPad Pro means opting for top-tier performance, a stylish look, and versatile functionalities. If you're tired of lugging around a heavy laptop and seek a compact, efficient substitute, the iPad Pro is an ideal choice. With various sizes, powerful processors, keyboard compatibility, and exceptional sound quality, it opens new horizons for digital productivity.

Unsure which iPad Pro model best fits your needs? This guide breaks down the options to help you decide. Read on to find your ideal iPad Pro.

First-Generation iPad Pro

12.9-inch

Introduced in 2015, the 12.9-inch First Gen iPad Pro is equipped with a stunning 2732 x 2048 Retina display at 264 PPI. It features 4GB RAM and storage options including 32GB, 128GB, and 256GB. Powered by the A9X chip, it ensures smooth performance. Its 8MP rear camera captures 1080p videos, with a front 1.2MP camera for video calls. The device offers about 10 hours of battery life and ranges from $799 to $1,230 based on storage.

The 9.7-inch variant debuted in 2016, featuring a unique rose gold hue. It comes with 32GB storage, with cellular and Wi-Fi options. Its 2048 x 1536 resolution screen and auto-adjusting color temperature enhance visual comfort. The 12MP rear camera and 5MP front camera offer excellent imaging capabilities. Despite similar battery life of 10 hours, it charges faster and costs from $599 to $1,129, depending on configuration.

Second-Generation iPad Pro

10.5-inch and 12.9-inch

Launched in 2017, these models introduced minor upgrades over previous versions. The 10.5-inch model features a slimmer design with dimensions of 250 x 174 x 6.1mm and weighs around 469 grams for Wi-Fi only. The 12.9-inch version measures 305 x 220 x 6.9mm, weighing approximately 723 grams. Both boast 7MP front and 12MP rear cameras with f/1.8 aperture, supporting 1080p video recording. Storage options include 64GB, 256GB, and 512GB. Battery capacities are 30.4W/hr for the 10.5-inch and 41W/hr for the 12.9-inch. Pricing begins at $649 for the smaller and $799 for the larger model. These iPads are excellent choices for those seeking a premium, portable laptop replacement.