Refurbished IPad Pro 12.9-inch (2018): Is It Worth It?

Hey guys! Thinking about snagging a refurbished iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2018)? That's awesome! It’s still a seriously powerful tablet, and going the refurbished route can save you some serious cash. But before you pull the trigger, let's dive deep into everything you need to know to make an informed decision. We’ll cover performance, features, potential drawbacks, and, of course, whether it’s the right choice for you in today’s tech landscape. Let’s get started!

Why Consider a Refurbished iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2018)?

Okay, so why even think about a refurbished iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2018) when there are newer models out there? Well, the big one is price! Refurbished devices are typically significantly cheaper than buying new. You can often find them at a discount of 20-40%, which is a pretty sweet deal, especially when you're talking about a premium device like the iPad Pro. Aside from the savings, you're also being a bit more eco-friendly by giving a device a second life instead of contributing to electronic waste. It’s a win-win situation! These iPads still pack a serious punch when it comes to performance. The A12X Bionic chip is no slouch, and it can handle most tasks you throw at it. We're talking smooth multitasking, graphic-intensive games, and even professional-level creative work. Plus, you're getting that gorgeous 12.9-inch Liquid Retina display with ProMotion technology. Seriously, the screen is stunning, and it makes everything from watching videos to editing photos a joy. Don't forget about features like Face ID, USB-C connectivity, and support for the 2nd generation Apple Pencil and Smart Keyboard Folio. These features mean that the 2018 iPad Pro remains incredibly versatile and can fit seamlessly into many workflows. For students, it’s a fantastic tool for note-taking, research, and staying organized. Creatives will appreciate the large display and Apple Pencil support for drawing, sketching, and digital painting. And for anyone who just wants a powerful tablet for entertainment and productivity, it’s still a top-notch choice. Ultimately, a refurbished iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2018) offers a compelling blend of performance, features, and value, making it a worthwhile option to consider if you're on a budget but still want a premium tablet experience. This is why they continue to be so popular, even years after their initial release. Keep reading to find out about any potential drawbacks that you should consider.

Key Features and Performance of the 2018 iPad Pro

Let's break down what makes the 2018 iPad Pro 12.9-inch such a capable device. At the heart of it all is the A12X Bionic chip. This chip was a beast when it came out, and it's still incredibly powerful today. It can handle demanding tasks like video editing, 3D modeling, and running multiple apps simultaneously without breaking a sweat. The A12X Bionic chip has an 8-core CPU and a 7-core GPU, delivering desktop-class performance in a tablet form factor. In real-world use, this translates to incredibly smooth and responsive performance. Apps launch quickly, multitasking is seamless, and even the most graphically intensive games run without a hitch. Whether you're editing 4K video, creating complex digital illustrations, or just browsing the web, the iPad Pro can handle it all with ease. The 12.9-inch Liquid Retina display is another standout feature. With a resolution of 2732 x 2048 pixels, it's incredibly sharp and vibrant. Colors are accurate, and the display gets plenty bright, making it easy to see even in direct sunlight. Plus, it features ProMotion technology, which means the display has a 120Hz refresh rate. This makes scrolling and animations feel incredibly smooth and fluid, adding to the overall premium experience.

The display also supports True Tone technology, which automatically adjusts the color temperature of the display to match the ambient lighting in your environment. This makes the display more comfortable to look at for extended periods, reducing eye strain. The iPad Pro also features Face ID, Apple's facial recognition system. It's incredibly fast and secure, and it makes unlocking your device and authenticating payments a breeze. Face ID is also used for features like Animoji and Memoji, which let you create animated avatars that mimic your facial expressions. When it comes to connectivity, the iPad Pro has a USB-C port, which is a welcome change from the Lightning port on previous iPads. USB-C allows you to connect a wide range of accessories, including external storage drives, cameras, and displays. It also supports fast charging, so you can quickly top up the battery. Speaking of battery life, the iPad Pro typically lasts for around 10 hours of web browsing or video playback on a single charge. Of course, battery life will vary depending on how you use the device, but you can generally expect to get a full day of use out of it. The iPad Pro also supports the 2nd generation Apple Pencil, which attaches magnetically to the side of the device and charges wirelessly. The Apple Pencil is an incredibly precise and responsive stylus that's perfect for note-taking, drawing, and digital painting. It's an essential accessory for creatives and anyone who wants to get the most out of their iPad Pro. All of these features combine to make the 2018 iPad Pro a truly exceptional tablet. It's powerful, versatile, and packed with features that make it a joy to use. So now, let's move on to some things to consider before buying refurbished.

Potential Drawbacks of Buying Refurbished

Alright, let's be real. Buying a refurbished iPad Pro isn't all sunshine and rainbows. There are a few potential downsides you need to be aware of. The biggest one is the battery. Since it's a used device, the battery life might not be as good as it was when it was brand new. Batteries degrade over time, so you might find yourself needing to charge it more often. Always check the battery health if you can. Another thing to watch out for is cosmetic imperfections. Refurbished devices might have scratches, dents, or other signs of wear and tear. These are usually just cosmetic and don't affect the functionality of the device, but they can be a bit of a bummer if you're expecting it to look brand new. Make sure you check the seller's description and look at photos carefully to get an idea of the condition of the device. Warranty is another crucial aspect. When you buy a new device, you get a standard warranty that covers you against defects. With a refurbished device, the warranty might be shorter or non-existent, depending on where you buy it from. Always check the warranty policy before you buy, and make sure you're comfortable with the level of coverage. You might want to consider purchasing an extended warranty if you're concerned about potential issues. Also, software updates might eventually stop. While the 2018 iPad Pro is still getting the latest iPadOS updates, there will come a time when Apple stops supporting it. This means you won't get new features or security updates, which could make the device less secure and less enjoyable to use over time. However, given Apple's track record, the 2018 iPad Pro should continue to receive updates for at least a few more years. Finally, there's always a small risk involved when buying any used electronic device. You don't know exactly how the previous owner treated it, and there could be hidden issues that aren't immediately apparent. That's why it's so important to buy from a reputable seller who offers a good return policy. This will give you peace of mind knowing that you can return the device if you encounter any problems. By being aware of these potential drawbacks and taking steps to mitigate them, you can minimize the risks and increase your chances of having a positive experience with your refurbished iPad Pro. Let's talk more about where to buy a refurbished iPad.

Where to Buy a Refurbished iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2018)

Okay, so you're ready to take the plunge and buy a refurbished iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2018)? Awesome! But where should you buy it from? You've got a few options, each with its own pros and cons. First up, there's Apple Certified Refurbished. Buying directly from Apple is generally the safest bet. Apple puts these devices through a rigorous testing and certification process, and they come with a one-year warranty. You can be confident that you're getting a high-quality device that's been thoroughly inspected and repaired. The downside is that Apple's prices tend to be a bit higher than other retailers. Next, there's Amazon Renewed. Amazon Renewed is another good option. These devices are inspected and tested by Amazon-qualified suppliers, and they come with a 90-day guarantee. Amazon also has a great return policy, so you can return the device if you're not satisfied. You can often find good deals on Amazon Renewed, but the quality can vary depending on the seller. Then there's Best Buy Outlet. Best Buy Outlet offers refurbished and open-box devices at discounted prices. Their devices are typically tested and certified, and they come with a limited warranty. Best Buy Outlet can be a good option if you're looking for a bargain, but the selection can be limited. Don't forget about other retailers like eBay. eBay can be a great place to find deals on refurbished iPads, but you need to be careful about who you buy from. Look for sellers with high ratings and positive feedback, and always read the description carefully. Be sure to check the seller's return policy before you buy. There are also specialized Refurbishers. There are many smaller companies that specialize in selling refurbished electronics. These companies often offer competitive prices and good warranties. However, it's important to do your research and make sure you're buying from a reputable company. Check online reviews and look for companies that have a good track record. No matter where you buy from, always make sure to check the seller's return policy before you make a purchase. This will give you peace of mind knowing that you can return the device if you encounter any problems. The warranty is also very important to check! Now you're ready to decide if the refurbished iPad Pro is the correct choice.

Is a Refurbished iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2018) Right for You?

Okay, so we've covered a lot of ground. But the big question remains: is a refurbished iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2018) the right choice for you? Well, it depends on your needs and priorities. If you're on a tight budget but still want a powerful and versatile tablet, then a refurbished iPad Pro can be a great option. You'll get a premium device with a stunning display, excellent performance, and a range of useful features, all at a fraction of the price of a new model. However, if you need the absolute latest and greatest technology, or if you're concerned about potential cosmetic imperfections or battery life issues, then you might be better off buying a new iPad Pro. The latest models offer faster processors, more advanced displays, and other improvements that could be worth the extra cost for some users. Also, consider your primary use case. If you're a student or creative professional who needs a large display for note-taking, drawing, or video editing, then the 12.9-inch iPad Pro is an excellent choice. But if you primarily use your tablet for web browsing, email, and social media, then a smaller and more affordable iPad might be a better fit. Think about the accessories. Do you plan to use an Apple Pencil or Smart Keyboard Folio? If so, make sure the refurbished iPad Pro you're considering supports these accessories. The 2018 iPad Pro supports the 2nd generation Apple Pencil and the Smart Keyboard Folio, but older models might not. You may have to purchase these separately, so factor that into your overall budget. Also, you should weigh the cost versus the longevity. While a refurbished iPad Pro can save you money upfront, it might not last as long as a new model. The battery life might be shorter, and you might not get as many years of software updates. Consider how long you plan to use the device and whether the savings are worth the potential trade-offs. Consider the warranty and return policy. Make sure you're buying from a reputable seller who offers a good warranty and return policy. This will give you peace of mind knowing that you can return the device if you encounter any problems. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to buy a refurbished iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2018) is a personal one. Weigh the pros and cons carefully, consider your needs and priorities, and do your research before you make a purchase. If you do your homework, you can find a great deal on a fantastic tablet that will serve you well for years to come. Happy shopping!