iPad Pro Is the 11” iPad Pro providing the full experience?

[maiya]

I also went back and forth on sizes when in the apple store, and visited over the weeks before buying. At the end I just found the 12.9 too big, and well I had a larger laptop at home. And I didn’t want an iPad to replace my laptop... though I doubt it could do that. Overall I’m really enjoying my 11 inch. I find it super comfy and...just easy when curling up on the couch or relaxing in bed. I find myself reaching for it over my larger laptop these days. And I’m having fun using the pencil to journal in randomly...as I would a notepad. Typically I watch shows/media on my tv. But have found the ipads screen is beautiful when watching shows or using the kindle app. I can’t say I’m losing anything since I don’t mind the screen size personally. And am usually curled up with the screen close if I do choose to watch or read something. Basically the compactness of it, and the ease of portability while still giving enjoyment is what won the size over for me.

 

[tps3443]

I’m gonna grab the Apple Pencil 2 probably next month. Can’t wait to try it.

 

[augustya]

Overall I’m really enjoying my 11 inch. Typically I watch shows/media on my tv. But have found the ipads screen is beautiful when watching shows or using the kindle app.

You bet it is ! iPad Pro 11" is a fun to watch TV Shows and also good 1080P Movies, with excellent speakers.

 

[inmnbob]

just purchase both---that way you don't have to sweat it? LOL

 

[Disconnect_00]

Both are being severely crippled by running a slightly modified mobile phone OS... It doesn't matter what size you have, you are missing out on the potential of this device either way. For this reason I have not bought an iPad since the iPhone plus size came out.

I work full time from an LTE iPad Pro, successfully and easily. That’s not some “oh I blog” job, that’s a legitimate career, with real bosses, deadlines, requirements, and demands - and the iPad Pro handles it easily, ensuring I keep a very healthy income, maximize productivity, and can work from anywhere.

So what exactly is your excuse to not be able to use it, aside from a clear and blatant bias?

 

[Macalicious2011]

Regardless of which recent iPad you have the experience is similar because of iOS.

Where I can see the 12 inch making a case for itself is if you frequently use apps that benefit from as much real estate as possible or you are a frequently traveller who likes a big screen for media consumption. At that point I simply prefer my work laptop which is a maxed out 13 inch Dell XPS with a 4k screen.

 

[bigjnyc]

I work full time from an LTE iPad Pro, successfully and easily. That’s not some “oh I blog” job, that’s a legitimate career, with real bosses, deadlines, requirements, and demands - and the iPad Pro handles it easily, ensuring I keep a very healthy income, maximize productivity, and can work from anywhere.

So what exactly is your excuse to not be able to use it, aside from a clear and blatant bias?

Ok everyone let's put an end to the narrative that the iPad is limited... since it works perfectly for Disconnect_00 then that must mean that it is sufficient for everyone else in the world... Alert the presses this issue is overblown! How silly are we to think that different people have different needs and uses, if one person is able to do their job just fine from an iPad then we all should!!!!

 

[kp98077]

The poll on here is currently 488 votes for the 11 and 501 votes for the 12.9.

https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/11-or-12-9-pro.2151132/

Unfortunately, this poll does not take into account those who took back and swapped theirs our for smaller (or less likely larger).

 

[Fozziebear71]

Ok everyone let's put an end to the narrative that the iPad is limited... since it works perfectly for Disconnect_00 then that must mean that it is sufficient for everyone else in the world... Alert the presses this issue is overblown! How silly are we to think that different people have different needs and uses, if one person is able to do their job just fine from an iPad then we all should!!!!

While I don't necessarily disagree with your statement, you are essentially saying the same thing he is, just the opposite opinion.

 

[bigjnyc]

While I don't necessarily disagree with your statement, you are essentially saying the same thing he is, just the opposite opinion.

Fair point. I may have worded my original statement incorrectly, what I am really trying to say is that it has way more potential that Apple can unlock by making the OS more robust. I agree that in its current state it is enough for some peoples needs, but the overall consensus from top reviewers and commenters online is that Apple is leaving alot on the table in terms of potential capability.

 

[MisterSavage]

Unfortunately, this poll does not take into account those who took back and swapped theirs our for smaller (or less likely larger).

That is covered. The poll has a "change your vote" button.

 

[kp98077]

That is covered. The poll has a "change your vote" button.

Thanks I see! But its 50/50 now... interesting....

 

[MisterSavage]

Thanks I see! But its 50/50 now... interesting....

It's completely fascinating watching that poll. For a while the 11 fell behind and I didn't think it would catch back up.

 

[xxray]

So I got the 12.9 a week ago and I’m just now using my 10.5 again for the first time since getting the 12.9. This 10.5 honestly feels like an iPad mini after using the 12.9 for a week. It’s also crazy how the 10.5 feels outdated already after using the new form factor of the 12.9. I do have to say this smaller form factor is really nice for consumption, cuddling up and reading a book on it or watching a movie, etc. The weight is also much nicer.

However, I do the majority of my work on the 12.9 and for that use, it’s so much more freeing, immersive, and capable. I know, the software is essentially the same, but the larger work space really does make a big difference. The 12.9 can be unwieldy, even with the new form factor, and it’s hefty with a case on it. I’m going to spend the next week really making sure I want to sacrifice the portability of the 10.5 and keep the 12.9, but I’m definitely leaning that way. It’d be really hard to try to do all my work off the 10.5 again.

 

[scotsmandc]

So I got the 12.9 a week ago and I’m just now using my 10.5 again for the first time since getting the 12.9. This 10.5 honestly feels like an iPad mini after using the 12.9 for a week. It’s also crazy how the 10.5 feels outdated already after using the new form factor of the 12.9. I do have to say this smaller form factor is really nice for consumption, cuddling up and reading a book on it or watching a movie, etc. The weight is also much nicer.

However, I do the majority of my work on the 12.9 and for that use, it’s so much more freeing, immersive, and capable. I know, the software is essentially the same, but the larger work space really does make a big difference. The 12.9 can be unwieldy, even with the new form factor, and it’s hefty with a case on it. I’m going to spend the next week really making sure I want to sacrifice the portability of the 10.5 and keep the 12.9, but I’m definitely leaning that way. It’d be really hard to try to do all my work off the 10.5 again.

I find the 12.9 normal size wise. Doesn't feel big anymore. In fact I bought the 12.9 once before but returned it after a few hours due to its size. Now i find myself thinking I can probably still go a bit bigger if apple decides to make a larger size.

 

[Disconnect_00]

Ok everyone let's put an end to the narrative that the iPad is limited... since it works perfectly for Disconnect_00 then that must mean that it is sufficient for everyone else in the world... Alert the presses this issue is overblown! How silly are we to think that different people have different needs and uses, if one person is able to do their job just fine from an iPad then we all should!!!!

Yeah, I’m totally sure you’re so important and have such intense needs that an iPad of any sort is insufficient. Undoubtedly you need a super computer of some kind for whatever it is you do from your mom’s basement.

 

[bigjnyc]

Yeah, I’m totally sure you’re so important and have such intense needs that an iPad of any sort is insufficient. Undoubtedly you need a super computer of some kind for whatever it is you do from your mom’s basement.

from my mom's basement? omg you're so witty!!! First of all I wasn't referring to myself, I was referring to the population in general... So you think that because you are able to do your job from the iPad everyone else can? I am in investment banking and I use spreadsheets and algorithmic trading models that the ipad couldn't even begin to support in its current state. Some people have real jobs and not basic jobs that require a 1 page word docs and the occasional email.

 

[sunapple]

I quickly decided the 12.9” was too heavy when holding it. Or rather, the 11” was more comfortable. I understand from the forums some people use iPad on a desk as a laptop, I don’t. I have only used split screen once, just to try it.

I’m using my iPad for drawing with the Pencil. It’s an amazing device and I think the 12.9” is just too big for me.

 

[Disconnect_00]

from my mom's basement? omg you're so witty!!! First of all I wasn't referring to myself, I was referring to the population in general... So you think that because you are able to do your job from the iPad everyone else can? I am in investment banking and I use spreadsheets and algorithmic trading models that the ipad couldn't even begin to support in its current state. Some people have real jobs and not basic jobs that require a 1 page word docs and the occasional email.

I guess I hit a nerve! And here I thought we were going to be friends.

As much fun as a measuring contest would be though, it definitely sounds like you need the “win” more than I do. Those internet points are pretty important, after all.

 

[newellj]

So I got the 12.9 a week ago and I’m just now using my 10.5 again for the first time since getting the 12.9. This 10.5 honestly feels like an iPad mini after using the 12.9 for a week. It’s also crazy how the 10.5 feels outdated already after using the new form factor of the 12.9. I do have to say this smaller form factor is really nice for consumption, cuddling up and reading a book on it or watching a movie, etc. The weight is also much nicer.

However, I do the majority of my work on the 12.9 and for that use, it’s so much more freeing, immersive, and capable. I know, the software is essentially the same, but the larger work space really does make a big difference. The 12.9 can be unwieldy, even with the new form factor, and it’s hefty with a case on it. I’m going to spend the next week really making sure I want to sacrifice the portability of the 10.5 and keep the 12.9, but I’m definitely leaning that way. It’d be really hard to try to do all my work off the 10.5 again.

I laughed because everything you said is true. I'm using the 12.9 to mark up Acrobat documents and it's as good as doing it on letter-sized paper prints (almost - so close it doesn't matter).

But unlike the 9.7/10.5/11" iPads I don't seem to be comfortable holding it in one hand. I'm not sure why. I don't think it's the weight (it isn't that heavy). I wonder if it balances differently. I've got another week to try to figure out the 11 vs 12.9 trade-offs, because as much as I'd like to I'm definitely not going to keep three iPads in the house (I already have a Mini 4 that is a keeper).

 

[Fthree]

Unfortunately, this poll does not take into account those who took back and swapped theirs our for smaller (or less likely larger).

Actually I did go in and change mine from 11 to 12.9 after the change........

 

[MyopicPaideia]

For me it has always boiled down to the footprint. The 12.9”, even the new 2018 model, has a larger footprint than all of Apple’s laptops except the 15” MBP. If I am going to be hauling around a device that is larger than the laptops it is supposed to replace, then what really is the point??

I’ve owned the 12.9” twice and my personal experience is that it instantly felt like I might as well have a laptop, especially when you have the Smart Keyboard case (and if you have to get a separate case and need to switch back and forth, that is less convenient than a laptop as well). The iPad loses its magical feeling for me the moment it gets bigger than the original size.

I am one of those who has had great success with making the iPad my primary device, and have used it as such since the 9.7” Pro was released (I’ve always owned a mini as well) and am now much more productive on an iPad than I was on a MacBook or PC. I am constantly running 3 apps on the screen at a time and on Formula One weekends also running picture in picture thurs-fri while working.

I would definitely say the 10.5-11” provides the full iPad experience, and would even venture to say that it provides the most “pure” (completely subjective term!!) iPad experience.

I have an iMac at home and a W10 laptop at work that I remote into when needed for stuff the iPad “can’t” do (like to print stuff on the corporate network printers, or manage Plex at home, etc.). I don’t see it as a desktop replacement, but definitely a laptop replacement. So the iMac in the house is safe, but I went ahead and sold my 2017 13” MBP for some good money, financing almost completely my purchase of the new 11” along with an AP2 and SKF.

My point is, for me personally, the size of the 9.7-10.5-11” iPad Pro for mobile professional productivity has always been the sweet spot. It maintains its magical essence while still being able to plug into a bigger screen if you are sitting and writing a document or working with a spreadsheet.(made even easier now with USB-C). The iPad mini 4 though, at the time of its release as well as in many ways still today, was the most magical device Apple has produced IMHO.

 

[ascender]

This will sound really simplistic and a bit idiotic, but the 11” iPad Pro provides all of the “experience” of the 12.9 except the screen size.

It’s a really powerful machine in an incredibly portable footprint. Add-in a keyboard (case) of some sort and it really is a brilliant machine to use on the move to get work done. I think it’s also a much better machine than the 12.9” if you’re going to be using it like a traditional tablet for content consumption - its a great size for browsing the web and watching videos in any location in any orientation. I think the 12.9 is just too big and uncomfortable for this - I also think the screen is too damn big and bright for use in bed at night for example whereas the 11” is perfect.

The 12.9 does come in to its own though if you’re using it as a laptop replacement or for art, design etc with the pencil. And obviously the larger screen is better for those times where you want to have multiple apps open.

 

[kp98077]

I ended up swapping out my 12.9 for the 11 last night . It was hard !! Love the 12.9 but not portable enough for me sadly. I’m on the go a lot! Thought I could make the 12.9 work but just too bulky and unwieldy for certain task such as couch surfing, bed, or plane. That’s only my opinion.

 

[vish26]

This will sound really simplistic and a bit idiotic, but the 11” iPad Pro provides all of the “experience” of the 12.9 except the screen size.

It’s a really powerful machine in an incredibly portable footprint. Add-in a keyboard (case) of some sort and it really is a brilliant machine to use on the move to get work done. I think it’s also a much better machine than the 12.9” if you’re going to be using it like a traditional tablet for content consumption - its a great size for browsing the web and watching videos in any location in any orientation. I think the 12.9 is just too big and uncomfortable for this - I also think the screen is too damn big and bright for use in bed at night for example whereas the 11” is perfect.

The 12.9 does come in to its own though if you’re using it as a laptop replacement or for art, design etc with the pencil. And obviously the larger screen is better for those times where you want to have multiple apps open.

This will sound really simplistic and a bit idiotic, but the 11” iPad Pro provides all of the “experience” of the 12.9 except the screen size.

It’s a really powerful machine in an incredibly portable footprint. Add-in a keyboard (case) of some sort and it really is a brilliant machine to use on the move to get work done. I think it’s also a much better machine than the 12.9” if you’re going to be using it like a traditional tablet for content consumption - its a great size for browsing the web and watching videos in any location in any orientation. I think the 12.9 is just too big and uncomfortable for this - I also think the screen is too damn big and bright for use in bed at night for example whereas the 11” is perfect.

The 12.9 does come in to its own though if you’re using it as a laptop replacement or for art, design etc with the pencil. And obviously the larger screen is better for those times where you want to have multiple apps open.

This will sound really simplistic and a bit idiotic, but the 11” iPad Pro provides all of the “experience” of the 12.9 except the screen size.

It’s a really powerful machine in an incredibly portable footprint. Add-in a keyboard (case) of some sort and it really is a brilliant machine to use on the move to get work done. I think it’s also a much better machine than the 12.9” if you’re going to be using it like a traditional tablet for content consumption - its a great size for browsing the web and watching videos in any location in any orientation. I think the 12.9 is just too big and uncomfortable for this - I also think the screen is too damn big and bright for use in bed at night for example whereas the 11” is perfect.

The 12.9 does come in to its own though if you’re using it as a laptop replacement or for art, design etc with the pencil. And obviously the larger screen is better for those times where you want to have multiple apps open.

Totally agree with you though the 12.9" iPad a pro has been dramatically reduced in size it still is unwieldy and has a large footprint feels like Lenovo Yoga Laptop where the screen can be detached from the main body. It may work for a lot of guys but for a majority of people it does not fall into the tablet category, more of a laptop replacement. 11" is just perfect without compromising on anything it still gives a good experience in a reasonable big/small form factor. I mean for a device on the go how big would you want it to be ?