iPad Pro M1 Pro in 2024?

[locksmack]

Hi all,

With some travel upcoming, I’m eyeing off a new iPad to accompany me, as well as being used at home for all manner of things - content consumption, light (home) video editing, casual gaming, some admin-style work (Teams, JIRA, Outlook, Excel…etc).

I currently have an iPad Mini 6 that I’ll be passing down to the kids.

I’m eyeing off a ‘full sized’ iPad of the 11” variety. The M4 models look incredible, but the AUD$1700 price tag is tough to swallow. The base iPad seems like a step backwards compared to what I’m used to (I also would like stage manager and Apple Intelligence). That leaves the M2 Air for AUD$1000.

However I’ve found a used M1 Pro locally that I’m considering. It’s the 256gb WiFi variant (though 128gb in the Air isn’t a concern). It comes with a Logitech Touch keyboard case and is apparently in perfect condition. All for AUD$850 (~USD$570). That’s half the price of a new M4 Pro.

I had the seller of the M1 Pro check battery health using the analytics trick, and it reports back as 98%. Also I already have a Pencil 2 which would remain compatible with the used Pro, but not a new Air or M4 Pro. I don’t really use the pencil however so it’s not a big consideration.

What do you guys think? I’m aware of the feature and benchmark differences, so just looking for personal experiences. Would you buy a used M1 Pro nowadays?

Many thanks!

 

[d5aqoëp]

M1 used still rocks. Just make sure:

1. It’s not iCloud locked. Look up it’s serial on Apple support website
2. No dents or scratches on the screen and body.
3. Not lost or stolen.
4. No signs of obvious damage or any liquid marks anywhere.
5. Check whether it has replaced or non genuine parts message in Settings -> General ->About
6. Check whether face ID, 4 Speakers, mic and true tone works or not. They all should work obviously.

Expect 4-5 yrs of software updates.

 

[dmccombs]

The main difference between the 11" M1 and 11" M4 is the screen. The M1 has the LCD screen, and the M4 has the OLED. You can see a difference, but many folks don't need the extra vibrance of the M4. If you are ok with the LCD screen, you can save a lot of $$$. The M1 ipad is very capable.

It sounds like this M1 is the way to go for you. 😀

 

[Yebubbleman]

An 11-inch M1 iPad Pro ought to be plenty decent and serve your needs just fine.

 

[sevoneone]

I picked up an open box 256GB M1 iPad Air someone returned to MicroCenter right after the M2s were released for very cheap. It’s stupid fast and capable, plus will have Apple Intelligence support this fall. Besides the fact that I want to explore some video editing that requires the M1, I think it is otherwise crazy overpowered and a great investment.

 

[HDFan]

However I’ve found a used M1 Pro locally that I’m considering.

There is normally extra risk involved buying from what I assume is an individual seller. Buying from a commercial seller with good reviews and a return policy might cost more but the extra cost reduces risk.