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Which is the best iPad Pro ?


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Alaxlmartin

macrumors 6502
Feb 20, 2018
314
124
Depends on how you are going to use. If using mostly in the hand, or on the move, then get the more portable 11”, but if using mostly on desk or lap with keyboard, and with split screen, then the 12.9” will give the better experience.

All depends on individual use which is probably more varied between users on the iPad Pro than any other device.

For me the iPad Pro has entirely replaced a MacBook (I prefer touch screen) as mu main business device, so the 12.9” for me.
I’ve narrowed it down to two options:

11” Silver 512GB WiFi
12.9” Silver 1TB WiFi

Reviews and my experience in a store will hopefully help me decide between the two


12.9 1 TB Easily
 

MCube74

macrumors 65816
Nov 22, 2010
1,323
611
Hong Kong
I had to reply as this is such BS @MCube74 .

I spent 8 hours yesterday developing on the 11" on the Smart Folio Keyboard. Used it like an 11" Macbook air (that was a real product apple produces for many years!). It's prefectly capable of being used like a Macbook.

So getting the 12.9" does not expand usage, that's utterly boloney. The 12.9" gives you more screen real estate but that's it. Yes it's a trade-off, but I firmly believe people who chose the 11" do so because they find the 12.9" too unwieldly / heavy.

Again, it's very subjective, but don't be saying the 12.9" is avantageous because of the keyboard folio because that's completely untrue. Many of us are using the 11" just like a macbook. I'm typing this right now on the keyboard folio in "laptop" mode on the 11" and it's fantastic.
[doublepost=1542751424][/doublepost]

Interesting perspective and I completely agree. When the 12.9" is on your desk, it's the best device to use. But it can get tiring to hold and lug around (again, this is very subjective and subject to individual preference).

If I was using the iPad at a desk 80% of the time I would have kept the 12.9". But I use the iPad without the keyboard just as much as I use it with the keyboard and for that reason, the 12.9" without the keyboard was tiring to hold after a while.

I thought people in the US have cars so you guys are not carrying the iPad Pro all the time. Yes at work you must be carrying it around the office but it is not like you are carrying something over 2kg.

I have the iPad Pro in my bag and once inside it makes no difference if so am carrying a 11” device or 12.9”. For me the extra 165 grams in weight make no difference. Yes if so keep thinking it’s heavy then it will be.

Agree I use it more at the desk and that was one is the main factors for me as the 11” Keyboard is very cramped up and very uncomfortable for long time typing.
 

Dexterama

macrumors regular
Sep 13, 2017
136
178
New England
I think it is good we have a athteqd started like this. So many people some do justify their purchase but so many others have shared their day to day experience of using the 11" and the 12.9" it has really helped to know different perspective on this.People who think this thread is stupid or sad, should not read this thread simple. But for other's it is a great enlightenment. Keep going Folks !!

We rationalize our purchases one way or another, there’s nothing wrong with that. The challenge is to rationalize without insulting/berating someone else for purchasing the alternative. Insult/tease the product, sure, just not at the people who finds value in said product. I read this thread everyday and people have been quite civil. They have critical opinions on one or the other, but overall, they can see the value that each has to offer. Most of us aren’t offended if another person rationalizes a purchase that is different from our own, so long as we’re not dragged into the mud for doing the opposite of them. At the end of the day, we have one life to live, enjoy.
 

MCube74

macrumors 65816
Nov 22, 2010
1,323
611
Hong Kong
Since in Hong Kong we don't have the luxury to try & return I'm going for the 11-inch. It can't be wrong. The portability is same as the 9.7 and the 10.5 but with a much larger screen and slightly wider aspect ratio i.e. videos are going to be much bigger, I love the 12.9 as a video player in the home, but the price of it is really quite prohibitive, it's not like I cannot afford that, but I just can't let myself buy two of the iPads with same innards for nearly $2.6K totally. I've been bringing the smaller brother of the iPad Pros to work with me for 2.5 years now and I will continue to do that. The 12.9 is for home use.

Nice choice bro.

Actually I would have done the same but the I have a computer at the office and wanted something like a notebook. So I figured I will take my iPad to work and do some work with it and then bring it back home to continue at home.

Yes 11” model could also work but then having the 9.7” at home (used by my 7year old and wife), I needed something different. I had no issues with the first gen 12.9” iPad Pro so now with a smaller 12.9” I can only be happier. No point going small with 11”.

I also plan on getting the 11” model as an upgrade for my daughter and wife. So I will eventually be seeing it at home soon. Why get 2 same devices???
 

haruhiko

macrumors 604
Sep 29, 2009
6,689
6,240
Nice choice bro.

Actually I would have done the same but the I have a computer at the office and wanted something like a notebook. So I figured I will take my iPad to work and do some work with it and then bring it back home to continue at home.

Yes 11” model could also work but then having the 9.7” at home (used by my 7year old and wife), I needed something different. I had no issues with the first gen 12.9” iPad Pro so now with a smaller 12.9” I can only be happier. No point going small with 11”.

I also plan on getting the 11” model as an upgrade for my daughter and wife. So I will eventually be seeing it at home soon. Why get 2 same devices???
Hahaha... you know, the inner nerd in me actually want a 12.9-inch as my last 12.9-inch was the first gen already...
 

thedwp

macrumors newbie
Apr 25, 2015
26
17
231D3927-B66A-4E66-BBDE-BEA16F2EDAB5.jpeg
Sitting here debating this as if I’m choosing between two cars or houses or some sort of life changing decision. Read through the thread multiple times. Talked to people at the apple store. And have come to the realization that there’s no ‘right choice’. We win either way. Both are killer devices. Both are portable (truth).

For me, this is a portable device that I will be using in public areas. As of this second, I’m leaning 11 because I feel like I have a little more privacy. The screen on the 12.9 is amazing, it’s big (comparatively) and I feel like more people are looking over my shoulder or worse, sitting next to me reading the script or email I’m writing. Admittedly, the same could be said with a 13” mbp, but agin, I feel like the 11 is just small enough to make it harder for peeping toms.

One pet peeve I am experiencing on the 11 is the placement of the Face ID camera. When I swipe up to open, my right hand seems to cover the camera most of the time so I have to consciously move out of the way. I’m sure over time muscle memory will kick in.

For now, the 11 is pulling ahead. Hope this pic helps someone.
 

ascender

macrumors 603
Dec 8, 2005
5,021
2,897
Is it really? the weight feels much closers to me with the smart folio.

Yes, I have a 13" MBP too and there's no doubt the 12.9 is lighter. The problem is more around the weight distribution - if its on your lap, all the weight is on the vertical due rather than on the horizontal. Which is fine, as the new keyboard is much more stable for use on the lap.

Where I notice the extra weight of the keyboard folio is if I'm not using it and have it folded back - the iPad becomes a lot thicker and so gets bulky - really not nice to use. The solution is to swap the case for the normal folio, but then you're carrying two cases.
 

augustya

Suspended
Feb 17, 2012
3,331
464
View attachment 805629


For now, the 11 is pulling ahead. Hope this pic helps someone.

Wow ! That is a Fantstic Picture Man ! So the 12.9" looks like a Full Diary like a Calendar Diary whereas the 11" Looks like some sort of Portable device. Sure the Split Screen on the 12.9" looks amazing with a Diary Book kind of look to it, as if a Diary Open with two pages on side by side. I am sure it would be joy to use split screen in that. But I will not base my decision solely on the Split Screen look amazing on the 12.9" The Split Screen on the 11" does not look all that Bad yes it is small, but it is not as small as like watching on your iPhone.I think I have made up my mind, I am 95% going for the 11" I am just giving about 5% chance for 12.9" just incase If I fall prey to the temptation which I do not think I will but nevertheless....
 
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Chairman.Jobbie

macrumors 6502a
Sep 9, 2011
501
200
View attachment 805629 For me, this is a portable device that I will be using in public areas. As of this second, I’m leaning 11 because I feel like I have a little more privacy. The screen on the 12.9 is amazing, it’s big (comparatively) and I feel like more people are looking over my shoulder or worse, sitting next to me reading the script or email I’m writing. Admittedly, the same could be said with a 13” mbp, but agin, I feel like the 11 is just small enough to make it harder for peeping toms.

Im the same. I can't decide. I setup the return on my iPad 11 which gives me a few more days with both devices before i have to drop it off at UPS location. I prefer the 11 because of the personal / public privacy aspect also. And 11" is a great screen. And now that I've used it my 10.5 'looks' dated - even though its a perfectly good device that doesn't really need to be upgraded.

However, I put the 12.9 in the drawer (for 1 week) thinking my mind was made up but then yesterday I pulled it out for one more look and straight away I was like, "damn, this might be better to keep" - especially with thin bezels all round. Im going to use it for next 2 days before I have to return it.

At this point im prob going to return both and 'reset the clock' and leave it for 1-2 weeks and see how I feel - might even reluctantly stick with the 10.5 I have. I dont want to return either but if I cant decide maybe just remove the unnecessary dilemma.
 
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Rck1984

macrumors 6502
Jun 5, 2017
398
1,167
The Netherlands
Wow ! That is a Fantstic Picture Man ! So the 12.9" looks like a Full Diary like a Calendar Diary whereas the 11" Looks like some sort of Portable device. Sure the Split Screen on the 12.9" looks amazing with a Diary Book kind of look to it, as if a Diary Open with two pages on side by side. I am sure it would be joy to use split screen in that. But I will not base my decision solely on the Split Screen look amazing on the 12.9" The Split Screen on the 11" does not look all that Bad yes it is small, but it is not as small as like watching on your iPhone.I think I have made up my mind, I am 95% going for the 11" I am just giving about 5% chance for 12.9" just incase If I fall prey to the temptation which I do not think I will but nevertheless....

No offense at all man, but isn't this the exact same thing people have been telling/showing you for the last two weeks? The 12.9" has the edge over the 11" when it comes to split screen/multitasking.

Do you really want the two "full" apps, go 12.9. If its not a big deal and you like the smaller form, go 11".
 
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augustya

Suspended
Feb 17, 2012
3,331
464
No offense at all man, but isn't this the exact same thing people have been telling/showing you for the last two weeks? The 12.9" has the edge over the 11" when it comes to split screen/multitasking.

Do you really want the two "full" apps, go 12.9. If its not a big deal and you like the smaller form, go 11".

You have to read all the pages of this thread, and read carefully what I have been posting. Since you said last two weeks, I am assuming you have been here reading Posts since last two weeks. Because I just see you Jumping here in between out of nowhere anyways And If you read my Post a while back which also said that In this part of the world, the 2018 iPad Pro's have released Just today and so I am yet to see them in Person. So obviously I am gonna be getting influenced with the Pictures that People post here and what they post here about their experience using both the devices. So I did not understand the meaning of your Post ? what is the purpose ? what are you trying to say ? Yes people have been telling me, and yes I am reading and understanding it on a daily basis till the time I see them in Person ! So ?

No offence meant either !!
 
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jazzer15

macrumors 6502a
Oct 8, 2010
538
119
Check this out guys. Run iMac off your iPad Pro.


It's cool you can do that, but I guess I don't really understand why someone would want to other than as an experiment. Why not just hook up a larger (and cheaper) display to the mini?
 

Stokkes

macrumors member
Sep 24, 2007
63
35
It's cool you can do that, but I guess I don't really understand why someone would want to other than as an experiment. Why not just hook up a larger (and cheaper) display to the mini?

If you run your mini as a server in a closet or basement this is a great option. Even a small monitor takes space.

So a good use case for the Luna is when you need to access your mini for maintenance, etc.
 
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augustya

Suspended
Feb 17, 2012
3,331
464
Guys the Virus has bitten me aswell.This is the first time ever I have seen the 2018 12.9" iPad Pro in person and I have just one word for it Wowwwwww !!! Woohoo !! what a device !!! Outstanding, Fantastic, amazing. I do not have words more to describe it. Photos, videos, apps, website look Jaw Dropping ! Mind blowing !! My eyes were rolling like roller coaster ! I am now in a huge huge dilemma whether to go for 12.9" or the 11" I was very sure I want to go for the 11" but I am speechless now ! Sadly this store I visited didn't have the 11" iPad Pro in display so I am yet to see it ! They will put it in store in 1-2 days time. But my dilemma is if the 12.9" iPad Pro look so effin gorgeous is there anything remaining to be explored or check out ?? Can it get any better than this ?? Man ! I am so so confused !! Tough times ahead...
 
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The Game 161

macrumors Nehalem
Dec 15, 2010
30,979
20,169
UK
Even though I’m without a case and keyboard as keyboard isn’t here yet..ugh

I’m still using my 12.9 well enough on the sofa to get things done. Certainly not like the old gen 12.9 where it was too much to handle using it for basic tasks.
 

Rck1984

macrumors 6502
Jun 5, 2017
398
1,167
The Netherlands
Guys the Virus has bitten me aswell.This is the first time ever I have seen the 2018 12.9" iPad Pro in person and I have just one word for it Wowwwwww !!! Woohoo !! what a device !!! Outstanding, Fantastic, amazing. I do not have words more to describe it. Photos, videos, apps, website look Jaw Dropping ! Mind blowing !! My eyes were rolling like roller coaster ! I am now in a huge huge dilemma whether to go for 12.9" or the 11" I was very sure I want to go for the 11" but I am speechless now ! Sadly this store I visited didn't have the 11" iPad Pro in display so I am yet to see it ! They will put it in store in 1-2 days time. But my dilemma is if the 12.9" iPad Pro look so effin gorgeous is there anything remaining to be explored or check out ?? Can it get any better than this ?? Man ! I am so so confused !! Tough times ahead...

If it blew your mind and you like the split screen, do yourself a huge favor and go with the 12.9".
I'm certain that you wont regret it, its a lovely device and still very very portable.
 

Derrickpep

macrumors newbie
Jul 31, 2006
8
1
UK
I can't decide which one to get - can you help me make up my mind ?

Thx :)
Just received my 11 inch iPad. Bitterly disappointed as the image is SMALLER by about 20mm all-around than the 10.5 inch model. Chatted with Apple support. First they blamed the App. Amazon Video, BBC News, iPhoto etc then said that there was nothing they could do, just got to accept that this is the case. Sure, they have removed the home button and reduced the size of the surrounding bezel but al this achieved is one has to look at a larger black border around the image. I'm wondering why I have spent GBP1300 to replace the same thing!
[doublepost=1542812201][/doublepost]
iPad 11" is what I'm buying.
My friend has the 12.9 and just way too big, even with the reduced bezel, it's too heavy. I can almost guarantee I'm not going to like it. The 11" is perfect for traveling and using in public without feeling like I'm wielding a giant book.

I'll be getting the keyboard and pen too. Admittedly, the keyboard for the larger model is easier to use, although I think I can adjust to the 11"

The USB-C (3.1 gen 2) is going to be nice. Need to see if it will work with my GH5.
NO headphone jack...lol. Buy the EarPods.

LOVE my iPad mini, but just too small for real world stuff.
 

hemon

macrumors 6502
Oct 4, 2014
323
114
Just received my 11 inch iPad. Bitterly disappointed as the image is SMALLER by about 20mm all-around than the 10.5 inch model. Chatted with Apple support. First they blamed the App. Amazon Video, BBC News, iPhoto etc then said that there was nothing they could do, just got to accept that this is the case. Sure, they have removed the home button and reduced the size of the surrounding bezel but al this achieved is one has to look at a larger black border around the image. I'm wondering why I have spent GBP1300 to replace the same thing!
[doublepost=1542812201][/doublepost]

Wait: Are you saying that the image of the 11 inch iPad is smaller than the image of the 10.5 inch model?! How it can be?
 

gnomeisland

macrumors 65816
Jul 30, 2008
1,097
833
New York, NY
Regarding multitasking, some people forget that if you go to the 70/30 split on the 11", the main app will be the full app which may be enough for some people.
That's what I do most of the time with multi-tasking. For my needs works great.
Just received my 11 inch iPad. Bitterly disappointed as the image is SMALLER by about 20mm all-around than the 10.5 inch model. Chatted with Apple support. First they blamed the App. Amazon Video, BBC News, iPhoto etc then said that there was nothing they could do, just got to accept that this is the case. Sure, they have removed the home button and reduced the size of the surrounding bezel but al this achieved is one has to look at a larger black border around the image. I'm wondering why I have spent GBP1300 to replace the same thing!
[doublepost=1542812201][/doublepost]
I understand your frustration but I've been pleasantly surprised by how quickly 3rd-party apps are being updated. Once they are the extra space is fantastic.
 

Derrickpep

macrumors newbie
Jul 31, 2006
8
1
UK
12.9 1 TB Easily
Before you buy an 11 inch you should be aware that the image size is SMALLER than on the 10.5 inch model. I was shattered to get my 11 inch machine this morning only to find that videos and home pages are around 20mm smaller all round than MY 10.5 inch model. Apples's response: Cant do anything about that. Bigger screen, no home button but smaller image. Don't make sense!
 
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Derrickpep

macrumors newbie
Jul 31, 2006
8
1
UK
Wait: Are you saying that the image of the 11 inch iPad is smaller than the image of the 10.5 inch model?! How it can be?
Yes. Lay them side by side and open up identical sites and the image displayed on the 11 inch is 20cm smaller width & length. Tried it on Amazon Video, BBC website, YouTube, iPhoto videos - same result.
[doublepost=1542812711][/doublepost]
If you're asserting that the 11" screen is 2cm smaller in each dimension than the 10.5" one, that's factually incorrect.
Laid them side bu side and put a ruller on the image. 11 inch = 219x160mm 10.5 inch 200 x 140mm.
[doublepost=1542812760][/doublepost]
Yes. Lay them side by side and open up identical sites and the image displayed on the 11 inch is 20cm smaller width & length. Tried it on Amazon Video, BBC website, YouTube, iPhoto videos - same result.
[doublepost=1542812711][/doublepost]
Laid them side by side and put a ruller on the image. 11 inch = 219x160mm 10.5 inch 200 x 140mm.
Sorry other way round!
 

alFR

macrumors 68030
Aug 10, 2006
2,834
1,070
Yes. Lay them side by side and open up identical sites and the image displayed on the 11 inch is 20cm smaller width & length. Tried it on Amazon Video, BBC website, YouTube, iPhoto videos - same result.
[doublepost=1542812711][/doublepost]
Laid them side bu side and put a ruller on the image. 11 inch = 219x160mm 10.5 inch 200 x 140mm.
[doublepost=1542812760][/doublepost]
Sorry other way round!
You're saying a Safari page displayed on the 11" is smaller than on the 10.5"? Not on the in-store display models it isn't, Safari uses the whole screen in both portrait and landscape and as the screen itself is physically bigger in the 11" I'm struggling to see what you can be seeing. Can you post a photo?
 
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profets

macrumors 603
Mar 18, 2009
5,165
6,313
Yes. Lay them side by side and open up identical sites and the image displayed on the 11 inch is 20cm smaller width & length. Tried it on Amazon Video, BBC website, YouTube, iPhoto videos - same result.
[doublepost=1542812711][/doublepost]
Laid them side bu side and put a ruller on the image. 11 inch = 219x160mm 10.5 inch 200 x 140mm.
[doublepost=1542812760][/doublepost]
Sorry other way round!

Not sure what you’re talking about but the display is definitely larger on the 11”.

Physically, when in landscape, the 10.5 and 11 are identical in height, but the 11 is wider.

More content is shown on the 11 for optimized apps. With the new aspect ratio you’re definitely going to see wide screen video look larger on the 11.
 
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