Is the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2nd generation) Still Worth It in 2025?
While the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2nd generation) was first released in 2017, it remains a capable device in 2025. Here’s a breakdown of its strengths and weaknesses to help you decide if it’s still a good buy for you.
Strengths
- Powerful Performance: The iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2nd generation) is powered by the A10X Fusion chip, which was top-of-the-line in 2017 and can still handle most everyday tasks in 2025 with ease. This includes browsing the web, streaming videos, editing photos, and even running some demanding games.
- Affordability: Compared to the latest iPad models, the 2nd generation iPad Pro 12.9-inch is a much more affordable option. You can find significant discounts on these devices through online retailers and second-hand marketplaces.
- Excellent Design: The iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2nd generation) features a sleek and modern design that is still very much in style in 2025. It has a thin and light profile, making it easy to carry around. The display is a 12.9-inch Retina display with a resolution of 2732×2048 pixels, which is still excellent for watching videos, reading ebooks, and browsing the web.
- Versatility: The iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2nd generation) supports the Smart Connector, which allows you to connect various accessories to it. This includes the Smart Keyboard, which turns the iPad into a laptop-like device, and the Apple Pencil (1st generation), which is great for drawing and taking notes.
Weaknesses
- Aging Hardware: While the A10X Fusion chip is still powerful, it’s not the latest and greatest anymore. More demanding apps and games may start to show some slowdown on this device.
- Limited Storage Options: The iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2nd generation) only came with 256GB or 512GB of storage options. If you need a lot of storage space for photos, videos, or games, you may find these options to be limiting.
- Outdated Software: The iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2nd generation) will not be able to upgrade to the newest version of iPadOS in 2025. While it will still receive security updates for a few more years, you may eventually miss out on some of the latest features and functionalities.
Conclusion
The iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2nd generation) is still a good value for money in 2025, especially for casual users who don’t need the absolute latest and greatest hardware. However, if you’re a power user who needs the most powerful iPad possible, or if you want to take advantage of the latest software features, then you’ll be better off looking at the newer iPad Pro models, particularly the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd generation) which offers significant improvements in performance, battery life, camera, and software support.
Looking ahead to iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd generation)
If you can afford it, the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd generation) is a much better option in 2025. It offers a faster A12X Bionic chip, a more advanced camera system, a longer battery life, and support for the Apple Pencil (2nd generation), which has improved pressure sensitivity and tilt support. It will also be able to upgrade to the latest version of iPadOS for several years to come, ensuring you have access to the latest features and security updates.