iPad 11” Pro now? Or wait for 2020 iPad Pro?

[BigMcGuire]

My wife and I went to 11 pros knowing that new pros may be coming out, from an Air 3 and a 10.5 pro. We don’t have to have the latest. I much prefer the Apple Pencil 2 and the screen of the 11 pro over my air 3. I sold the air 3 to family so that may have helped. Didnt have to but it was something we decided we wanted to do. Dual speakers for me was big. These things are so dang fast.

if you can wait and want to future proof then wait. Otherwise the differences are noticeable from the 10.5 and Air 3. Technology isn’t advancing as fast these days. We will upgrade again in a few years.

 

[AnnoyedCarrot]

My wife and I went to 11 pros knowing that new pros may be coming out, from an Air 3 and a 10.5 pro. We don’t have to have the latest. I much prefer the Apple Pencil 2 and the screen of the 11 pro over my air 3. I sold the air 3 to family so that may have helped. Didnt have to but it was something we decided we wanted to do. Dual speakers for me was big. These things are so dang fast.

if you can wait and want to future proof then wait. Otherwise the differences are noticeable from the 10.5 and Air 3. Technology isn’t advancing as fast these days. We will upgrade again in a few years.

I don’t want to wait, especially since it’s possible that they’ll push back the release date, but it’s probably the “smart” thing to do... it really seems like the only thing that’s changing is the camera, which I hate how it’ll look and a speed bump.
I think Walmart has a 30 day return policy, so I could buy it and then return it if the update is significant?

 

[BigMcGuire]

I don’t want to wait, especially since it’s possible that they’ll push back the release date, but it’s probably the “smart” thing to do... it really seems like the only thing that’s changing is the camera, which I hate how it’ll look and a speed bump.
I think Walmart has a 30 day return policy, so I could buy it and then return it if the update is significant?

I’ve been on Macrumors a long time. Call me an unbeliever but it seems to me that we’re almost always wrong about what is going to come out. These “should I wait” threads happen every year. I posted my experience: I buy a device because I need or want it. If I don’t need or want it, I’m not going to get it. While our iPad 11 Pros were definitely in the want territory, the fact that a new “version” may becoming out didn’t stop us.

I personally hate returning things. It means cleaning up something I’ve used, trying to put it back in the original box, and giving it back to a retailer that will cost it money. If I’m going to get something to use as a tool, I’ll get it once, use it, then move on when I feel like it. Personal opinion only - you’re free to do what you want (I judge you not).

There’ll always be something new around the corner. My wife and I chose to enjoy the 11 Pro, and in a few years, we’ll enjoy whatever else Apple has. .

It is my opinion that my 11 Pro will be very usable for several more years.

 

[EugW]

I’ve been on Macrumors a long time. Call me an unbeliever but it seems to me that we’re almost always wrong about what is going to come out.

I trust you are just speaking for yourself.

I said to skip the original iPad, because it only had 256 MB RAM, and the next version would get more RAM. The iPad 2 got 512 MB RAM.

I said to skip the iPad Air, because it only had 1 GB RAM, and the next version would get 2 GB RAM. The iPad Air 2 got 2 GB RAM, and as an added bonus, it got a triple-core SoC.

I said to skip on the iPhone 6, because it only had 1 GB RAM, and the next version would get 2 GB RAM. The iPhone 6s got 2 GB RAM.

I will admit I was wrong about iTunes 4K support though. I said to skip the 2016 model Macs because they wouldn't get hardware 4K HDR HEVC and iTunes 4K support, and that the next 2017 models would get it. Well, I was right about the hardware 4K HDR HEVC support, but not about the iTunes 4K support. Apple brought the latter only to the later models. Not sure why though, as the hardware is probably there for support in the 2017 models. Sounds like it could be a marketing decision.

I'm predicting the iPad Pro 2020 will get 6 GB RAM base. I'm hoping also for a 128 GB base, but I'm not counting on that. I also would like to see a new keyboard, which if we get it, I'm guessing will NOT be backward compatible with the iPad Pro 2018 because of the camera and because of the magnet layout. If that keyboard has either a backlight or a trackpad, or better yet, both, then that alone would be a good enough reason to prefer the 2020 model IMO, even at a higher price.

The 2018 models would be on sale at a discount anyway when the 2020 models come out, so it's not as if there's any real benefit to getting it now, aside from having it a little while earlier.

 

[BigMcGuire]

I trust you are just speaking for yourself.

I said to skip the original iPad, because it only had 256 MB RAM, and the next version would get more RAM. The iPad 2 got 512 MB RAM.

I said to skip the iPad Air, because it only had 1 GB RAM, and the next version would get 2 GB RAM. The iPad Air 2 got 2 GB RAM, and as an added bonus, it got a triple-core SoC.

I said to skip on the iPhone 6, because it only had 1 GB RAM, and the next version would get 2 GB RAM. The iPhone 6s got 2 GB RAM.

I will admit I was wrong about iTunes 4K support though. I said to skip the 2016 model Macs because they wouldn't get hardware 4K HDR HEVC and iTunes 4K support, and that the next 2017 models would get it. Well, I was right about the hardware 4K HDR HEVC support, but not about the iTunes 4K support. Apple brought the latter only to the later models. Not sure why though, as the hardware is probably there for support in the 2017 models. Sounds like it could be a marketing decision.

I'm predicting the iPad Pro 2020 will get 6 GB RAM base. I'm hoping also for a 128 GB base, but I'm not counting on that. I also would like to see a new keyboard, which if we get it, I'm guessing will NOT be backward compatible with the iPad Pro 2018 because of the camera and because of the magnet layout. If that keyboard has either a backlight or a trackpad, or better yet, both, then that alone would be a good enough reason to prefer the 2020 model IMO.

The 2018 models would be on sale at a discount anyway when the 2020 models come out, so it's not as if there's any real benefit to getting it now, aside from having it a little while earlier.

Definitely just speaking about myself. You are an exception to the norm - and that’s why I follow you.

 

[AnnoyedCarrot]

TBH, I don’t need all that ram for what I’d use it for.
I don’t understand why people keep saying backlit would be a seller when there are already some great options available.

 

[EugW]

I don’t understand why people keep saying backlit would be a seller when there are already some great options available.

I‘m not interested in any Bluetooth keyboard for the iPad and iPad Pro. That rules out 98% of the third party keyboards out there.

 

[wolfedude88]

I‘m not interested in any Bluetooth keyboard for the iPad and iPad Pro. That rules out 98% of the third party keyboards out there.

I don't necessarily care about backlit, it will be nice but I would love a trackpad. Like you said bluetooth connections is a non starter for me too, I realize they don't have to get charged often but it's an annoyance I don't want.

 

[MandiMac]

Methinks that the rumored trackpad keyboard will be for those who actually need Apple's implementation of the mouse support. Anyone who expects a traditional trackpad workflow will be disappointed.

 

[KittyKatta]

I also would like to see a new keyboard, which if we get it, I'm guessing will NOT be backward compatible with the iPad Pro 2018 because of the camera and because of the magnet layout. If that keyboard has either a backlight or a trackpad, or better yet, both, then that alone would be a good enough reason to prefer the 2020 model IMO, even at a higher price.

What do you feel a ‘smarter’ Smart Keyboard would look like?

Backlit keys don’t actually add thickness or battery drain
Media Row. Or the patented iPad Touchba Smart Keyboard
Trackpad. That would take a large portion of the keyboard

With all the stuff they’re adding would it have to be a hinge design? I want it all but I don’t necessarily like the hinge because it adds more bulk. But then again, it would probably make the ASK more durable.

I‘m not interested in any Bluetooth keyboard for the iPad and iPad Pro. That rules out 98% of the third party keyboards out there.

I just got an 11 but I’m holding off on getting a Smart Keyboard so I’m using a Bluetooth one. It works but it just feels like an accessory while the Apple Smart Keyboard feels like its part of the product.

 

[EugW]

What do you feel a ‘smarter’ Smart Keyboard would look like?

Backlit keys don’t actually add thickness or battery drain
Media Row. Or possibly include a function key row (or the patented iPad Keyboard Touchbar)
Trackpad. That would take a large portion of the keyboard

Backlit keys would be great, and that's what I'm hoping for.
Don't need a function key row and definitely not a Touch Bar.
Trackpad I'm not convinced of but maybe.

With all the stuff they’re adding would it have to be a hinge design? I want it all but I don’t necessarily like the hinge because it adds more bulk. But then again, it would probably make the ASK more durable.

If it got a trackpad, it'd have to be a small one, at least fo the 11" model. We shall see if that trackpad actually materializes.

I just got an 11 at a great price but I wont buy a Smart Keyboard until we find out more. So I’m using a Bluetooth iPad keyboard and its awful. Apple Smart Keyboards are just so much more convenient and almost invisible since they tuck away so easily. I doubt we’ll get 2018 compatibility but it is the same design but its worth waiting it out. They’ll be charging a fortune for it so cutting out all the 2018 users may be a mistake.

Nothing stopping 2018 users from buying an Apple keyboard in 2020. Unfortunately, it will be the old one. If they change the camera to that big square, the new keyboard would not attach properly to the old 2018 models, due to the orientation of the magnets. AFAIK, there is a set of magnets in the old layout right where part of the larger camera cutout would be located in the new design.

 

[hotr32]

I’ve been on Macrumors a long time. Call me an unbeliever but it seems to me that we’re almost always wrong about what is going to come out. These “should I wait” threads happen every year. I posted my experience: I buy a device because I need or want it. If I don’t need or want it, I’m not going to get it. While our iPad 11 Pros were definitely in the want territory, the fact that a new “version” may becoming out didn’t stop us.

I personally hate returning things. It means cleaning up something I’ve used, trying to put it back in the original box, and giving it back to a retailer that will cost it money. If I’m going to get something to use as a tool, I’ll get it once, use it, then move on when I feel like it. Personal opinion only - you’re free to do what you want (I judge you not).

There’ll always be something new around the corner. My wife and I chose to enjoy the 11 Pro, and in a few years, we’ll enjoy whatever else Apple has. .

It is my opinion that my 11 Pro will be very usable for several more years.

I can agree with you on returning something being a nuisance, but on the flip side there are a lot of people that think buying last years tech as being a problem, the only time that would bother me is purchasing something and then something new coming out with a price drop, and not benefiting from the discount.

And of course everyone’s situation is different, fortunately for me, I had an iPad to ”hold” me over, and I’m not one to bash older tech, if it works out for the person, then go for it, look at my scenario, i just recently purchased an iPad Pro 10.5, it’s obviously not the newest, but it‘s perfect for my scenario.

Am I still interested in the new Pro’s? Of course, would i buy one now? It would have to have some pretty amazing features for me to get one now since I just purchased an iPad, but maybe later this year.

 

[BigMcGuire]

I can agree with you on returning something being a nuisance, but on the flip side there are a lot of people that think buying last years tech as being a problem, the only time that would bother me is purchasing something and then something new coming out with a price drop, and not benefiting from the discount.

And of course everyone’s situation is different, fortunately for me, I had an iPad to ”hold” me over, and I’m not one to bash older tech, if it works out for the person, then go for it, look at my scenario, i just recently purchased an iPad Pro 10.5, it’s obviously not the newest, but it‘s perfect for my scenario.

Am I still interested in the new Pro’s? Of course, would i buy one now? It would have to have some pretty amazing features for me to get one now since I just purchased an iPad, but maybe later this year.

The 10.5 is still amazing, and I liked it better than the Air 3 ( which is what kinda prompted the 11 Pro purchase). Agreed - I think that is still going to be good for several more years. My pocket book would probably be a lot happier with me if I just kept my 10.5 .

 

[EugW]

I can agree with you on returning something being a nuisance, but on the flip side there are a lot of people that think buying last years tech as being a problem, the only time that would bother me is purchasing something and then something new coming out with a price drop, and not benefiting from the discount.

And of course everyone’s situation is different, fortunately for me, I had an iPad to ”hold” me over, and I’m not one to bash older tech, if it works out for the person, then go for it, look at my scenario, i just recently purchased an iPad Pro 10.5, it’s obviously not the newest, but it‘s perfect for my scenario.

Am I still interested in the new Pro’s? Of course, would i buy one now? It would have to have some pretty amazing features for me to get one now since I just purchased an iPad, but maybe later this year.

I bought a 10.5" Pro last year, when it dropped dramatically in price after the Air 3 was released. It's quite a nice machine, and I think you'll continue to like it a lot. It's better in many ways than the Air 3, that's for sure, even if it's not as slick as the 11". However, I will be buying the 11", since I want to keep my 64 GB 10.5" Pro at work, and I am looking forward to a backlit keyboard and more storage, as well as Face ID and USB C. (Using an external USB drive on the 10.5" is a PITA.) I am also considering getting it with cellular too, something my current 10.5" doesn't have. It doesn't hurt though that I have a big Apple gift card waiting to be used, so it's easier to justify spending the coin just to have two iPad Pros for myself at roughly the same size.

 

[hotr32]

I absolutely love the 10.5 Pro, its funny coming from an Air 3 that my fiancé ”took” from me, and I really like the Air 3. If it wasn’t for the fact that I found an amazing deal on the Pro, I would still be tossing and turning between the 11” or the new one.
I can totally understand the pocket book happiness, the 11” is definitely an investment.

 

[jbachandouris]

I bought an iPad Pro 11” 256GB.

Now I need to sell my 10.5 256GB LTE.....

 

[rui no onna]

I can agree with you on returning something being a nuisance, but on the flip side there are a lot of people that think buying last years tech as being a problem, the only time that would bother me is purchasing something and then something new coming out with a price drop, and not benefiting from the discount.

Same.

For example, buying the 1st gen 256GB Pro 12.9 for $1,229 and then the 2nd gen 512GB Pro 12.9 being released at the same price just 6 months later would've greatly annoyed me (and caused me to upgrade immediately anyway). Thing is I hate selling and trade-in values for higher end iPads suck so I would've just sucked it up and kept the 1st gen (probably as backup/beta test device since no one in the immediate family wants a gigantic iPad).

I really wish there was an iPad upgrade program at times. 😁

 

[ScottNWDW]

After some consideration, I decided today to order the 2018 iPad Pro. I am getting the 512gb version with the WiFi and cellular in Space Grey. With the rumored upgrades in the 2020 version, they just weren't enough to compel me to wait. The camera is useless to me since I don't use my iPad for the camera. Since getting my iPad Pro 10.5 in 2017, I think I have taken one picture with it. As far as the chip upgrade goes, since the current chipset isn't being fully used yet, and updated set would not make that big of a difference to me. For what I would use it for, I think I am pretty much future safe in that regard. The 10.5" I currently have is also 512GB, hence the reason I went with the same. I may not use that much space all of the time, but when I travel I load it up with some movies and iBooks to read or watch while traveling. I should get it, according to AT&T sometime between the 16th and the 23rd. Hopefully they are right.

 

[BigMcGuire]

After some consideration, I decided today to order the 2018 iPad Pro. I am getting the 512gb version with the WiFi and cellular in Space Grey. With the rumored upgrades in the 2020 version, they just weren't enough to compel me to wait. The camera is useless to me since I don't use my iPad for the camera. Since getting my iPad Pro 10.5 in 2017, I think I have taken one picture with it. As far as the chip upgrade goes, since the current chipset isn't being fully used yet, and updated set would not make that big of a difference to me. For what I would use it for, I think I am pretty much future safe in that regard. The 10.5" I currently have is also 512GB, hence the reason I went with the same. I may not use that much space all of the time, but when I travel I load it up with some movies and iBooks to read or watch while traveling. I should get it, according to AT&T sometime between the 16th and the 23rd. Hopefully they are right.

My wife and I are absolutely loving ours! One of our most used Apple devices at home. Apple Pencil 2 with Notability or Good Notes = replaces paper. The thing flies - screams doing anything. We have a couple Logitech bluetooth keyboards to use them as laptops when we want to. An a+ device.

I use an iCarez matte screen protector - my wife prefers to go, to not have a screen protector.

 

[MisterSavage]

After some consideration, I decided today to order the 2018 iPad Pro. I am getting the 512gb version with the WiFi and cellular in Space Grey. With the rumored upgrades in the 2020 version, they just weren't enough to compel me to wait. The camera is useless to me since I don't use my iPad for the camera. Since getting my iPad Pro 10.5 in 2017, I think I have taken one picture with it. As far as the chip upgrade goes, since the current chipset isn't being fully used yet, and updated set would not make that big of a difference to me. For what I would use it for, I think I am pretty much future safe in that regard. The 10.5" I currently have is also 512GB, hence the reason I went with the same. I may not use that much space all of the time, but when I travel I load it up with some movies and iBooks to read or watch while traveling. I should get it, according to AT&T sometime between the 16th and the 23rd. Hopefully they are right.

Solid choice. I love mine and don't forsee myself upgrading with the next round of pro's. I use the front camera constantly for Facetime but have no need for taking photos unless it's of a check.

 

[ScottNWDW]

My wife and I are absolutely loving ours! One of our most used Apple devices at home. Apple Pencil 2 with Notability or Good Notes = replaces paper. The thing flies - screams doing anything. We have a couple Logitech bluetooth keyboards to use them as laptops when we want to. An a+ device.

I use an iCarez matte screen protector - my wife prefers to go, to not have a screen protector.

I use Goodnotes 5 now along with the Key to Success Planner instead of carrying a paper planner. I use my iPad Pro all the time now for work and other things. I am starting to believe that I am using it even more than my MacBook Pro since it is with me most of the time. I can't wait get the new one.

 

[AnnoyedCarrot]

maybe if it goes on sale again... should've just bought the walmart one.

 

[ScottNWDW]

maybe if it goes on sale again... should've just bought the walmart one.

Getting a good deal and great 0% financing from AT&T. Also trading in my old iPad and getting $240 back on it. Basically getting the 512gb Cellular version for $1059. I don't think Walmart was that low.

 

[rui no onna]

Getting a good deal and great 0% financing from AT&T. Also trading in my old iPad and getting $240 back on it. Basically getting the 512gb Cellular version for $1059. I don't think Walmart was that low.

Enjoy your new iPad!

Curious, was that $1059 sale pricing or because you had a trade in?

I've seen the 11" 512GB LTE model discounted for $1049-1149 on Amazon and Best Buy. Apple Embedded SIM/eSIM is carrier locked if buying direct from carriers so even if carriers offer discount/financing, I prefer to buy unlocked now.

 

[ScottNWDW]

Generally refuse to purchase anything from Amazon, Best Buy and Walmart. I have my reasons. As far as I am concerned they could give them away for free and I will still avoid them.