iPad Pro 12.9 1st Generation Worth Buying in 2023?

It’s been several years since the initial release of the iPad Pro 12.9 1st generation and some of you may be wondering: is it worth buying in 2023? That’s a valid question since Apple has released the iPad Pro 6th gen which features the M2 chip.

With that news, the 1st generation is likely to get pushed further down the totem pole. Luckily for you, I own this exact model. In this article, I will outline a few points that you may want to take into account before buying this iPad model.

OS Updates

Apple is constantly updating its OS for various reasons including security, and performance. This is always a good thing, however, some of the older generations can’t handle the change.

Fortunately, we are at the beginning of 2023, and the iPad Pro 12.9 1st/2nd generation is compatible with the latest update of iPadOS 16. Despite that, these particular models may be nearing the end of their support cycle.

iPad Pro models compatible with iPadOS 16

• iPad Pro 10.5-inch
• iPad Pro 9.7-inch
• Pad Pro 11-inch (1st generation)
• iPad Pro 11-inch (2nd generation)
• iPad Pro 11-inch (3rd generation)
• iPad Pro 11-inch (4th generation)
• iPad Pro 12.9-inch (1st generation)
• iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2nd generation)
• iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd generation)
• iPad Pro 12.9-inch (4th generation)
• iPad Pro 12.9-inch (5th generation)
• iPad Pro 12.9-inch (6th generation)

Buying Used

Understandingly, many may not want to take that gamble with their hard-earned money. On eBay and Swappa prices average between $300 to $400 depending on features. More storage and cellular data capabilities can take the price up by $50. I chose an eBay auction-style listing and lucked out with a winning bid of $350.

The iPad I won was unlocked and came with 256GB, Apple Pencil, and a keyboard. Depending on the price you could buy one of these models and use it for about a year then resell it. However, with this version no longer being compatible with the latest iPadOS the value will gradually plummet.

App Performance

In terms of app usage, I got it primarily for Procreate, and it works for my needs. I went to BestBuy to try out the 6th gen iPad Pro 12.9 and I could not tell a difference in performance. Then again if you are one of those tech-savvy individuals it may be noticeable to you.

Other creative programs I have been using with the 1st gen include Luma Fusion, Sketchbook, Affinity Designer, and Affinity Photo. Besides these programs, internet browsing and social media consumption are smooth. On a side note, my 2015 iPad Pro performed a lot faster when compared to my older Dell E6520 laptop.

3rd Gen, A Better Alternative

If you can find the 1st gen in good working condition for under $200 then it might be worth considering. The same goes for the 2nd gen. Besides ProMotion, the second generation does not bring any significant improvement over its predecessor. Otherwise, skip both and go with the iPad Pro 12.9 3rd gen if you have a bit more to spend.

Also, keep in mind that the 3rd gen (2017) might only have a few years before it’s deemed obsolete, meaning no more iPadOS updates!