Hey guys! Ever wondered when the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2nd generation) hit the shelves? If you're scratching your head about its release year, or maybe you're thinking of grabbing a used one and want to know more, you've come to the right place. This article is all about giving you the lowdown on this awesome tablet – its release date, some cool features, and what to keep in mind if you're shopping for one.

Unveiling the Second Generation iPad Pro 12.9-Inch

So, when did this beauty first grace us with its presence? The iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2nd generation) was released in June 2017. Yep, that's right, back in 2017! Apple unveiled this powerhouse, and it quickly became a favorite for those who craved a larger screen and top-notch performance. Now, that might seem like a while ago in tech years, but don't let that fool you. This iPad Pro still packs a punch and can be a great option, especially if you're on the lookout for a deal. Think of it as a vintage classic, but in the world of tablets, you know?

This second-gen iPad Pro was a significant upgrade from its predecessor, bringing a host of improvements that made it even more appealing. The most obvious change? The display. It boasted a stunning 12.9-inch Retina display with ProMotion technology. This tech enabled a refresh rate of up to 120Hz, making everything look incredibly smooth, from scrolling through web pages to playing graphically intensive games. Seriously, it's like butter on a screen! Plus, the display was brighter and more vibrant than ever before, making it a joy to use in any lighting condition.

Under the hood, the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2nd generation) was powered by the A10X Fusion chip. This chip offered a significant performance boost over the previous generation, making it faster and more efficient. Whether you were editing videos, multitasking with multiple apps, or simply browsing the web, this iPad Pro could handle it all with ease. It's like having a mini-computer in your hands, ready to tackle any task you throw at it. The performance of this tablet was, and still is, pretty darn impressive, even by today's standards. Also, the second generation improved the camera with a 12MP rear camera with optical image stabilization. This improvement will enhance your photo and video quality.

When it comes to storage, the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2nd generation) came in various configurations, including 64GB, 256GB, and 512GB options. This gave users plenty of choices to store their apps, photos, videos, and other files. You could choose the storage capacity that best suited your needs, whether you're a casual user or a power user who needs a lot of space. The battery life on this iPad was also impressive, typically lasting through a full day of use. This made it a great choice for travel, work, or just relaxing at home. The iPad Pro (2nd generation) supported the first-generation Apple Pencil and the Smart Keyboard, expanding its usability and making it an excellent tool for creatives and professionals.

Key Features of the iPad Pro 12.9-Inch (2nd Gen)

Let's dive a bit deeper, shall we? This iPad Pro wasn’t just about the screen. It came packed with features that made it stand out from the crowd. The ProMotion technology was a game-changer, making everything feel incredibly responsive. The display wasn’t just pretty; it was also smart, adjusting its refresh rate to match what you were doing. So, when you were reading a book, it would dial down to save battery life. And when you were playing a fast-paced game, it would ramp up to keep things smooth. How cool is that?

The A10X Fusion chip was another key element. This processor made the iPad Pro super fast and efficient. It handled everything from complex video editing to running multiple apps at once without breaking a sweat. If you're a creative, you'd appreciate the improved graphics performance, which made drawing, designing, and gaming even better.

And let's not forget the cameras! The 12MP rear camera captured stunning photos and videos, and the front-facing camera was perfect for FaceTime calls and selfies. The iPad Pro also supported the first-generation Apple Pencil, which was a huge win for artists and anyone who loves to take handwritten notes or annotate documents. The Smart Keyboard was another fantastic addition, turning the iPad Pro into a mini-laptop for work or school. With the smart keyboard and Apple Pencil, the usability of the iPad Pro became very versatile, allowing users to be more productive.

This iPad Pro also had a great sound system. It featured four speakers, which delivered rich, immersive audio. Whether you were watching a movie, listening to music, or playing a game, the sound quality was excellent. Also, it also had a USB-C port, which allowed for fast data transfer and charging. The iPad Pro offered a range of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi and cellular models, so you could stay connected wherever you went.

Buying a Used iPad Pro 12.9-Inch (2nd Gen): What to Consider

Alright, so you're thinking of getting a used iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2nd generation)? Smart move! You can often find them at a great price. But, before you jump in, here are a few things to keep in mind. First off, check the condition of the iPad. Look for any scratches, dents, or other signs of wear and tear. A few cosmetic imperfections are usually okay, but make sure the screen is in good shape. Check that the display is clear and that there are no dead pixels.

Next, check the battery health. The battery life will degrade over time, so ask the seller how long the iPad lasts on a single charge. If possible, test the battery yourself. A healthy battery is essential for a good user experience. Also, inspect the ports and buttons. Make sure the charging port works and that the volume and power buttons are responsive. Test the cameras to ensure they are working correctly, and try to take a photo or video to assess the quality. Check the Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity to ensure they are functioning properly.

When buying a used iPad Pro, consider the price. Research the typical selling prices for the model and configuration you want. Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true. In addition, ask the seller about the iPad's history. Find out if it has been repaired, if it comes with the original accessories (charger, etc.), and if it has any known issues. Make sure the iPad is unlocked and not linked to someone else's account. This is important to avoid activation lock issues. Verify that the iPad can be reset and set up as your own.

Finally, make sure you buy from a reputable seller. If you're buying online, look for sellers with positive reviews and a good return policy. If you're buying in person, meet the seller in a public place and inspect the iPad thoroughly before making a purchase. Verify the serial number to ensure it’s not reported as lost or stolen. In summary, buying a used iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2nd generation) can be a great way to save money, but it's important to do your homework and be a smart shopper.

iPad Pro 12.9-Inch (2nd Gen) vs. Newer Models: Quick Comparison

Okay, so the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2nd generation) is a fantastic tablet, but how does it stack up against the newer models? Let's take a quick look. The main difference you will see is in the processor. The newer iPad Pros have more powerful chips, like the M1 or M2, which offer even faster performance. This means they can handle more demanding tasks, such as complex video editing or running multiple apps simultaneously, with greater ease. However, the A10X Fusion chip in the 2nd generation is still pretty capable for everyday use.

The display is another area where you'll see improvements in the newer models. While the 2nd generation has a beautiful Retina display with ProMotion technology, the newer models have even more advanced displays. For example, some models feature Liquid Retina XDR displays with mini-LED backlighting, which offer incredible contrast and brightness. This leads to a superior visual experience, especially when watching HDR content.

Another significant difference is in the cameras. Newer iPad Pros have more advanced camera systems, including multiple lenses and features like Center Stage, which keeps you in the frame during video calls. The 2nd generation has a great camera, but the newer models offer improved image quality and more versatility. Also, the newer models support the second generation of the Apple Pencil, which offers features like magnetic attachment and wireless charging.

Finally, the design of the iPad Pro has evolved over the years. The newer models feature thinner bezels, a more modern design, and sometimes include features like Face ID. While the 2nd generation has a classic design that is still elegant, the newer models offer a more contemporary look. The newer iPad Pros support the latest accessories, such as the Magic Keyboard. Despite all these advancements, the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2nd generation) remains a viable option for many users, especially if they are looking for a more affordable option.

Conclusion: Is the iPad Pro 12.9-Inch (2nd Gen) Worth It Today?

So, is the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2nd generation) still worth it in today's market? Absolutely, if you're on a budget or don't need the absolute latest and greatest features. If you are a casual user and need a large screen, this iPad is a great option. For those of you who want to explore creative endeavors, it is a great device, and it supports the first-generation Apple Pencil. It is also a fantastic tablet to have for media consumption. The screen is large, and the audio is immersive.

Its performance is still quite good for everyday tasks like browsing, streaming, and light productivity. You’ll be able to enjoy a large, vibrant display, smooth performance, and a decent battery life. But remember to check the used market to compare with other tablets. Remember to consider all the factors discussed earlier, such as condition, battery health, and price, when making your decision. Overall, the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2nd generation) can be a smart buy for those seeking a premium tablet experience without breaking the bank. It's a testament to the fact that great technology can still deliver value even after a few years have passed. This tablet continues to impress with its performance, display, and features, and it is a good option.