iPad Pro 11 or 12.9 Pro ?

[MarthaJones]

I went with the 11". I looked at the pros in store just before everything shut down and while the weight difference was slight, I could tell that it combined with the size difference would cause my hands to cramp up real fast (I have slight fine motor issues). I also just prefer that screen size for my tablet, it fits easier in 90% of the bags I already own.

Al that being said, If I didn't need a laptop for other reasons and was using it as a replacement I would likely have gone with the 12.9"

 

[jimmy_uk]

Bought and setup a refurbished 2018 12.9" and AMK for my Father. I'd conclude for myself that the 12.9" is too large and heavy as a tablet but the best size for using like a laptop with the keyboard due to extra screen real estate and having the setup at arms length. I just wouldn't want to hold it to read documents or comics etc, it feels clumsy and awkward.

I'm also not a fan of the AMK due to the soft and easily finger marked finish especially when considering the high price. The trackpad is a little small and fiddly, also too close to the bottom edge. The fact that it's a keyboard only, ie not for covering the ipad when using as a tablet. It's was very annoying to try and scrub youtube videos with the trackpad, app needs an update for sure.

Split screen app operation is not as good as I thought it would be in the end. For example with youtube app on half of the screen and safari on the other, the safari text is tiny while searching Google. If I increase the font size the page also expands so scrolling is wobbly. Ultimately it didn't feel like a laptop experience. IpadOS still feel like a mobile OS even with all its gestures etc. I'd still consider it a companion device to a laptop or desktop still.

All said my Dad will be pleased and I know plenty of people have different uses cases. I think I'm personally set on a 11" now with the standard smart keyboard and a separate trackpad or mouse. Waiting on a great deal.

 

[easycure1974]

I had the 11 Pro 2020 at first but exchanged it for a 12.9 Pro 2020 and could not be happier. The extra screen when multitasking is magic. But I found the magic keyboard for iPad ridiculously expensive and got myself a Magic Trackpad 2 and an ordinary magic keyboard and love using it and have my iPad in a UAG case

 

[0128672]

After using my refurb 12.9 for the past month, I am firmly in the 12.9 camp. This thing delights me so much. I might feel differently if I needed to travel with it or just take it out of the house, but it's definitely an at-home device for me.

After trying the SKF and returning it, I experimented with a homemade laptop desk, Magic mouse and keyboard. It worked well but I still long for a laptop feeling, so after a ridiculous amount waffling/ordering/cancelling/ordering, I've got an MK coming 6/3 from Verizon (that 2-day shipping is amazing for non-customers).

 

[Nikhil72]

After weeks of going back and forth, I just dropped off my 12.9 at fedex for a return and am keeping my 11” with magic keyboard. The 12.9 was wonderful overall and I really liked the screen size on the desk or on my lap, but I found it uncomfortable for holding for an extended period of time for eBooks and long News+ articles (always had to place it in my lap or on the desk surface and crane my neck rather than bring it to my level a bit). I was so in love with my 2018 11” and found it to be my favorite Apple device in years, so when the 2020 came out, I just thought the 12.9 would be the logical step up since I do essentially 100% of my professional work on my iPad anyway (not to mention my casual/relaxation usage). In hindsight, I think I used my 11” so much because I found it such a lightweight joy to use. Now I’m settled with the 2020 11” with the magic keyboard and it’s the perfect balance; my partner received the new 13” MBP recently and our plan was for us to share it around the house, but I haven’t had to touch it once since it arrived.

All of that being said, I will definitely miss things about the 12.9. Certainly a fantastic balance of size and all, but it just wasn’t quite right for the ultra-mobile throw in my bag and bounce around NYC life that I’ve been using the old 11” for.

 

[ericwn]

Well everyone, I am in the midst of the “struggle” with all of this, too. I am waffling back and forth and also desiring to want to want (repeated on purpose) the 12.9” iPad Pro. I do travel and I do have the new MacBook Air, but I also love the tablet experience. I have the 11” that I would pass on to my wife if I end up with the 12.9” which is sitting in a box from Best Buy (cellular edition) along with the new MK.

Order the other tablet, test it at home during the return period, return if it doesn’t work out.

 

[kupkakez]

I have the 2018 11” and now the 2020 12.9” both with the MK. I just got my 12.9” today and I can already say I love the 12.9” screen size. I tend to use my iPad primarily laptop style as it’s my main computing device so I am enjoying having the extra screen real estate. I do prefer the 12.9” MK over the 11” for typing, as well! Both are great devices though I don’t think you can go wrong with either size.

 

[MacMandy]

Just a quick update. I decided not to change things and keep my 2018 iPad Pro 12.9”. It‘s my main device. I really love it and have had no problems. I will use my iPhone for notes, maybe trying voice memos in my new work role, leaving my iPad at home. I’ve ordered an AMK from O2 with 20% off with Unidays so a real saving. Best of all, it’s in stock and is being delivered tomorrow. It should hopefully make my iPad Pro feel like a new device. Just need to choose a skin for the back of the iPad, but I’ve never used one before so no idea which are good.

Another update. A family member sold me their iPad mini 5 for my work use. It’s perfect, and fits into my Apple Family nicely ?

 

[rkuo]

After weeks of going back and forth, I just dropped off my 12.9 at fedex for a return and am keeping my 11” with magic keyboard. The 12.9 was wonderful overall and I really liked the screen size on the desk or on my lap, but I found it uncomfortable for holding for an extended period of time for eBooks and long News+ articles (always had to place it in my lap or on the desk surface and crane my neck rather than bring it to my level a bit). I was so in love with my 2018 11” and found it to be my favorite Apple device in years, so when the 2020 came out, I just thought the 12.9 would be the logical step up since I do essentially 100% of my professional work on my iPad anyway (not to mention my casual/relaxation usage). In hindsight, I think I used my 11” so much because I found it such a lightweight joy to use. Now I’m settled with the 2020 11” with the magic keyboard and it’s the perfect balance; my partner received the new 13” MBP recently and our plan was for us to share it around the house, but I haven’t had to touch it once since it arrived.

All of that being said, I will definitely miss things about the 12.9. Certainly a fantastic balance of size and all, but it just wasn’t quite right for the ultra-mobile throw in my bag and bounce around NYC life that I’ve been using the old 11” for.

Honestly, fiddling with the magic keyboard and the smart keyboard folio on my 11", I'm still finding myself with mixed feelings.

Random thoughts:
1. With the SKF on, my iPad still feels like an iPad. With the Magic Keyboard being so heavy, the feel of the device completely changes ... it doesn't feel like an iPad anymore. To me, anyway.
2. Yes, the typing experience on the Magic Keyboard is better, but in practice I don't think it really affects my productivity.
3. The backlighting on the Magic Keyboard IS a a big deal for me, as I often struggle to see the keys at night (I'm a night owl). I wish the SKF could address this somehow ... feels like it should be possible.
4. I like the trackpad and do use it ... mainly for gestures actually. It's not really necessary for me right now otherwise ... but when traveling resumes, it seems like it will be essential for my remote desktop activities.

I guess I'm still hoping for some mythical combination of SKF + lit keys + pointing device.

 

[SoYoung]

The 11 inch is better to use as a tablet, but if you plan to use your ipad more as a laptop with a keyboard and/or trackpad, the 12,9 one is a much better choice but the big downside for me with the 12,9 one is that I can’t use it too long as a tablet before I’m gettin uncomfortable with it, that’s why I’m beginning to consider buying the 11 inch as well for that purpose only.

 

[cmonkey1976]

The 11 inch is better to use as a tablet, but if you plan to use your ipad more as a laptop with a keyboard and/or trackpad, the 12,9 one is a much better choice but the big downside for me with the 12,9 one is that I can’t use it too long as a tablet before I’m gettin uncomfortable with it, that’s why I’m beginning to consider buying the 11 inch as well for that purpose only.

I’m actually finding the 12.9 better to use as a tablet than my IPP10.5...
the 12.9 2020 is just so thin and light to hold.

that was one thing I worried about when going for the 12.9, but for me it’s even better.

 

[xxray]

I never realized the 12.9 was the same size of a standard piece of printer paper (8.5” by 11”). It’s making for a very easy mock size comparison

 

[OW22]

Here's a question....what size is better for reading online newspapers? I want a tablet to read my subs to the FT and WSJ and I far prefer reading e-Papers rather than and am thinking the 12.9 would be better for reading the e-Papers in portrait mode. Is that the case though for anyone who has used both? I have a 2019 MacBook Pro 13in already which I use for my main PC tasks. I like the idea of the iPad Pro to read documents, mark them up with the pencil and read ePapers. Is it overkill to get the Pro or should I just save cash and get the Air?

 

[millydog]

Another update. A family member sold me their iPad mini 5 for my work use. It’s perfect, and fits into my Apple Family nicely

That’s great news on the mini 5 Mandy. I have one too and it’s great for portability. What will be your main use cases for the mini?

My Magic Keyboard arrived today for my 12.9” 2018. I’ve only had a short amount of time with it so far. But WOW, the keyboard feels amazing to type on. I already think it’s my favourite keyboard.

I am actually used to just using the on-screen keyboard on the iPad (as I had the Brydge Pro but found it awkward to attach and detach). The MK really opens up the iPad screen a lot as the on-screen keyboard is no longer required. That makes my iPad seem even larger. The MK does have a lot of weight to it, which I was expecting from all of the reviews, but just saying that the reviews are right there. Lol. I know why the weight is required though and it adds to the package really. I’ve just used it at a desk tonight, but it just feels really balanced. I’ll try my other usual places soon, like my recliner, but I usually do more browsing or playing games there while using my projector.

I also love the USB-C power so as It’s like inductive charging my iPad now. The backlighting is great and I have just used the default setting so far. I even love the feel of the keyboard ‘palm rest’ and outside of the MK. I have seen in posts that it marks easily though, so I am tempted to get a skin to protect it. There’s a bit of a trade off there, do I just use it as it is and enjoy it or do I protect it with a plastic surface that may even damage it when it’s removed one day.

Well, as a typing experience, the 12.9” MK is the way to go. I use a work laptop all day and switching to typing on the MK just feels natural. I think it’s really just the ‘delete’ key that I am missing sometimes for some reason, but I am sure that I will adapt. The 12.9” MK feels like the perfect size keyboard to me. It does make my 12.9” iPad screen seem even bigger though. If you recall not so long ago, I was having a hard time deciding between the 11” and 12.9” as my main iPad size. Well, I feel like the keyboard makes the screen seem larger, so from that perspective, I think I could’ve been happy with the 11”, but the typing experience seems perfect on the 12.9” so I think that the 12.9” was the right choice. I think that the 12.9” with MK is probably the best combination as I’ll still use my iPad as a portable tablet and then attach it to the MK to use it like a laptop, and I think that the 12.9” size is good for that multi-purpose use. I still have a MacBook Pro, but I think it’s getting closer to where my iPad is both my tablet and my laptop. Personally, I’d like to see more Files enhancements, XCode and maybe a few more things (video conversion and eBook library management as examples), but I can see that for many, we would already be there. Bring on 22nd June.

 

[C. Robert]

This is the poll of all polls. Movies will be made, stars will be born, scandals, and prison sentences will be issued.

 

[MacMandy]

That’s great news on the mini 5 Mandy. I have one too and it’s great for portability. What will be your main use cases for the mini?

My Magic Keyboard arrived today for my 12.9” 2018. I’ve only had a short amount of time with it so far. But WOW, the keyboard feels amazing to type on. I already think it’s my favourite keyboard.

I am actually used to just using the on-screen keyboard on the iPad (as I had the Brydge Pro but found it awkward to attach and detach). The MK really opens up the iPad screen a lot as the on-screen keyboard is no longer required. That makes my iPad seem even larger. The MK does have a lot of weight to it, which I was expecting from all of the reviews, but just saying that the reviews are right there. Lol. I know why the weight is required though and it adds to the package really. I’ve just used it at a desk tonight, but it just feels really balanced. I’ll try my other usual places soon, like my recliner, but I usually do more browsing or playing games there while using my projector.

I also love the USB-C power so as It’s like inductive charging my iPad now. The backlighting is great and I have just used the default setting so far. I even love the feel of the keyboard ‘palm rest’ and outside of the MK. I have seen in posts that it marks easily though, so I am tempted to get a skin to protect it. There’s a bit of a trade off there, do I just use it as it is and enjoy it or do I protect it with a plastic surface that may even damage it when it’s removed one day.

Well, as a typing experience, the 12.9” MK is the way to go. I use a work laptop all day and switching to typing on the MK just feels natural. I think it’s really just the ‘delete’ key that I am missing sometimes for some reason, but I am sure that I will adapt. The 12.9” MK feels like the perfect size keyboard to me. It does make my 12.9” iPad screen seem even bigger though. If you recall not so long ago, I was having a hard time deciding between the 11” and 12.9” as my main iPad size. Well, I feel like the keyboard makes the screen seem larger, so from that perspective, I think I could’ve been happy with the 11”, but the typing experience seems perfect on the 12.9” so I think that the 12.9” was the right choice. I think that the 12.9” with MK is probably the best combination as I’ll still use my iPad as a portable tablet and then attach it to the MK to use it like a laptop, and I think that the 12.9” size is good for that multi-purpose use. I still have a MacBook Pro, but I think it’s getting closer to where my iPad is both my tablet and my laptop. Personally, I’d like to see more Files enhancements, XCode and maybe a few more things (video conversion and eBook library management as examples), but I can see that for many, we would already be there. Bring on 22nd June.

I’m using it to check my schedule, take notes at work mainly, a bit of gaming and surfing on the go and reading in bed at night.

I know what you mean about all that screen estate when not using the on-screen keyboard. I tend to keep the magic keyboard at my desk like a dock and use it naked off the keyboard. My dBrand skin has shipped for the back of the iPad Pro.

I’m thinking of a skin for the keyboard as well, but I’m just being sure to choose the right one and see how I get on. I don’t think I’ll be taking it out much, so I’m still unsure.

I agree about the typing experience. I think the 12.9” shines with the keyboard size and it’s also really sturdy on my lap.

22nd June! Yes!

 

[millydog]

I’m using it to check my schedule, take notes at work mainly, a bit of gaming and surfing on the go and reading in bed at night.

I know what you mean about all that screen estate when not using the on-screen keyboard. I tend to keep the magic keyboard at my desk like a dock and use it naked off the keyboard. My dBrand skin has shipped for the back of the iPad Pro.

I’m thinking of a skin for the keyboard as well, but I’m just being sure to choose the right one and see how I get on. I don’t think I’ll be taking it out much, so I’m still unsure.

I agree about the typing experience. I think the 12.9” shines with the keyboard size and it’s also really sturdy on my lap.

22nd June! Yes!

Nice use cases for your mini. Mine are similar.
Now with the feeling of extra screen, since I’m no longer using the on screen keyboard (as much), I do think that I could have gone with the 11”. The MK seems to make my 12.9” feel even bigger. Although, if it is to one day become my only ‘computer’ and replace my MacBook Pro, then the 12.9” would be the ideal size as a replacement and the keyboard is great in this size.

I have a clear Best Skins Ever skin on the rear and sides of my iPad which I have been happy with. I am worried about scratching up the MK now though. Funny that, it’s like I want a case for my case. At present, I am working from home, but I may (sometimes at least) take the MK to work. I will take it away on weekends to my parents house and future trips away too. One other reason that would make a skin a good idea is to protect the palm rest areas from scratches from my Apple Watch and Pandora bracelet. I have taken my bracelet off for now.
Just sitting in a (regular) chair, I can’t use the iPad with MK on my lap. I have short, fat, legs, so there is too much slope. In my recliner, it would be fine though and that’s a more realistic scenario for me, although I would use it on a desk for the majority of the time.

 

[jazz1]

It is absolutely ironic but I’m actually in that boat too. I like the option to touch the screen, but I appreciate not having to as much by using the MK trackpad and keyboard shortcuts. Keeps my screen nice and pretty ?

Well I got notice my Air Caddy for my 2018 iPad Pro 12.9" is on the way. I'm glad Waterfield is able to start making products again. I hope they all stay safe, and it looks like (from e-mails) they are taking steps to help mitigate the Pandemic.

It will be the first case I'll use when I think I can somewhat safely hit the coffee shop/brewpub again

 

[el beisbol]

My Air Caddy for my 11” arrived yesterday. It’s really nice! Quality built. I went with Waxed Canvas.

 

[max2]

I love this poll because it never dies!

 

[TrevorR90]

So essentially, the consensus in this thread that it just comes down to how you will use it. For reading, the 11” anything else, the 12.9”.

 

[pdoherty]

I’ve had three 12.9 models and I’ve switched to a 10.5 iPad Pro and a keyboard case. I’m liking the smaller size and the keyboard means no more onscreen keyboard, taking up 1./3 of the screen area.

 

[Steelhead1957]

Been happily using my 2018 11” IPP With new Magic KB. That is, until I bought a 12.9“ 2020. Had the original 12.9 way back when and it was a cumbersome device to be sure. Used the new one the last couple weeks with the new keyboard and thought meh, I’d go back to my beloved 11”. Um, NOT! It suddenly feels like old tech as the new 12.9 feels like a huge window to the world, is light, a breeze to use “naked”, when not on the MKB. Tried the 11” several times this week and could not believe that now, could not wait to race back to the new 12.9. Sold the 11” yesterday.

 

[lyngo]

Been happily using my 2018 11” IPP With new Magic KB. That is, until I bought a 12.9“ 2020. Had the original 12.9 way back when and it was a cumbersome device to be sure. Used the new one the last couple weeks with the new keyboard and thought meh, I’d go back to my beloved 11”. Um, NOT! It suddenly feels like old tech as the new 12.9 feels like a huge window to the world, is light, a breeze to use “naked”, when not on the MKB. Tried the 11” several times this week and could not believe that now, could not wait to race back to the new 12.9. Sold the 11” yesterday.

Out of curiosity, how much did you sell it for? What was the avenue you used? eBay? Facebook marketplace? Just curious because I am thinking of doing the same thing.

 

[Steelhead1957]

Got off easy. $800 for both to Family member. Good deal for both of us. Mine had a slight scratch on top of screen so...