Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch (4th Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared

How each alternative compares

Apple iPad Pro 12.9 M2 Cellular

This model upgrades to the M2 chip for significantly higher performance compared to the A12Z Bionic in the original. It retains the 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR display, which offers superior brightness and contrast for professional media consumption. Unlike the Wi-Fi-only original, this version includes cellular connectivity, allowing you to access data anywhere without relying on a hotspot. The weight increases to one pound, making it slightly heavier to hold for extended periods. You should choose this if you need mobile data and faster processing power for demanding creative tasks, accepting the trade-off of reduced portability and higher cost.

Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch 128GB (4th Gen)

This option is functionally identical to the original in terms of core specifications, featuring the same A12Z Bionic chip, 12.9-inch Liquid Retina display, and LiDAR scanner. The primary difference is the color variant, which is Silver instead of Space Gray. It also maintains the 128GB storage capacity and Wi-Fi connectivity. The dimensions and weight remain consistent at 10.4 ounces. This choice is suitable for buyers who prefer the Silver aesthetic but do not require cellular connectivity or an upgraded processor. It offers the same advanced AR capabilities and large screen experience as the renewed original, providing a fresh look without changing the internal hardware performance.

Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch M2

This variant combines the M2 chip with cellular connectivity, offering a substantial performance leap over the original A12Z Bionic processor. It features the same 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR display, ensuring high-quality visuals for professional work. The inclusion of cellular access allows for internet connectivity on the go, a feature absent in the Wi-Fi-only original. While the weight is listed as 10.4 ounces, the cellular model typically adds bulk; however, the data specifies this weight. This option is ideal for professionals who need top-tier speed and mobile data. You give up the lower price point of the original for enhanced processing power and always-available internet access.

Apple iPad 10.2-Inch 128GB

This tablet features a smaller 10.2-inch display, which is significantly more portable than the 12.9-inch screen of the original. It lacks the ProMotion technology, LiDAR scanner, and A12Z Bionic chip, offering only basic performance suitable for media consumption and light tasks. The storage capacity is 128GB, matching the original, but the processor is less powerful. It weighs 1.09 pounds, making it heavier than the 10.4-ounce original despite the smaller screen size. This choice is best for users who prioritize a compact form factor and lower cost over high-performance graphics, AR features, or a large, high-refresh-rate display for immersive media experiences.

Apple iPad 11-inch A16 128GB

This model features an 11-inch display, which is smaller than the 12.9-inch screen of the original, offering a more manageable size for one-handed use. It replaces Face ID with Touch ID for authentication, which may be faster for some users. The A16 chip provides modern performance, though it differs from the A12Z Bionic. It lacks the LiDAR scanner and ProMotion display found in the original, making it less suitable for advanced AR applications or ultra-smooth scrolling. Weighing 1.05 pounds, it is heavier than the original. This option fits users who want a balanced device for everyday tasks and light productivity, prioritizing portability and secure, convenient unlocking over professional-grade display features.

Apple iPad Air 11-inch 128GB Wi-Fi

This iPad Air has an 11-inch display, which is smaller than the 12.9-inch screen of the original, offering better portability. It features a modern design with thinner bezels and lacks the LiDAR scanner and ProMotion display technology. The processor is not specified as A12Z Bionic, implying a different performance tier. It weighs 1.36 pounds, making it heavier than the 10.4-ounce original. The 128GB storage matches the original, but the cellular option is not highlighted in the attributes. This choice is ideal for users who want a lighter, more portable tablet for everyday use, sacrificing the large screen size and advanced sensor features of the Pro for a more compact and potentially more affordable experience.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch (4th Gen, Renewed)

Best for: large screen media consumption

Screen Size

12.9-inch

Storage Capacity

128GB

Display Type

Liquid Retina

Processor

A12Z Bionic chip with Neural Engine

Features

Wi-Fi

Dimensions

12 × 10 × 10 inches

View on Amazon: Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch (4th Gen, Renewed) Affiliate link

The Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch (4th Gen) offers a large 12.9-inch Liquid Retina display with ProMotion technology. It uses the A12Z Bionic chip for processing power and includes a LiDAR scanner for improved depth sensing. This 128GB model connects via Wi-Fi. It suits users who need a big screen for media and creative work in a compact form factor.

Pros

• 12.9-inch Liquid Retina display with ProMotion
• A12Z Bionic chip with Neural Engine
• LiDAR Scanner for depth sensing
• 128GB storage capacity

Cons

• Wi-Fi only connectivity
• Renewed condition
• Heavier at 10.4 ounces

Good fit if

• You want a large 12.9-inch screen for media
• You need LiDAR scanning capabilities
• You prefer Wi-Fi only devices

Skip if

• You require cellular connectivity
• You want brand new hardware
• You prefer a lighter device

Verdict: Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch (4th Gen) Wi-Fi fits users who prioritize a large, high-refresh-rate display and advanced sensor features in a tablet form.

2 Also great

Apple iPad Pro 12.9 M2 Cellular

Best for: users needing large XDR display and cellular

Screen Size

12.9-inch

Storage Capacity

128GB

Display Type

Liquid Retina XDR

Processor

Apple M2

Connectivity

Wi-Fi 6E, 5G Cellular

Stylus Compatibility

Apple Pencil (2nd gen)

View on Amazon: Apple iPad Pro 12.9 M2 Cellular Affiliate link

This 12.9-inch iPad Pro features a Liquid Retina XDR display and the Apple M2 chip. It includes Wi-Fi 6E and 5G cellular connectivity for fast internet access anywhere. The device supports the Apple Pencil (2nd gen) and Thunderbolt via USB-C. It runs iPadOS 16 with productivity features. This model suits users who need a large, powerful tablet with professional-grade display capabilities and versatile connectivity options.

Pros

• 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR display with ProMotion
• Apple M2 chip with 8-core CPU
• Wi-Fi 6E and 5G cellular support
• USB-C connector with Thunderbolt/USB 4

Cons

• 128GB storage is the base capacity
• 1-pound weight adds bulk for one-handed use
• Renewed condition rather than brand new

Good fit if

• You require a large, high-resolution display for creative work
• You need cellular connectivity for internet access on the go
• You want professional performance from the M2 chip

Skip if

• You prefer a lighter, more portable tablet
• You need more than 128GB of internal storage
• You want a brand-new device with full warranty

Verdict: Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch M2 delivers professional display quality and connectivity. It fits users who prioritize screen size and cellular access over portability and base storage limits.

3 Also great

Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch 128GB (4th Gen)

Best for: Users needing large screen and LiDAR

Screen Size

12.9-inch

Storage Capacity

128GB

Display Type

Liquid Retina

Processor

A12Z Bionic

Features

Wi-Fi

Color

Silver

View on Amazon: Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch 128GB (4th Gen) Affiliate link

This 2020 Apple iPad Pro features a 12.9-inch Liquid Retina display with ProMotion technology for smooth visuals. It uses the A12Z Bionic chip and includes 128GB of storage. The device weighs 10.4 ounces and measures 1.97 inches thick. It supports Face ID and includes a LiDAR scanner. This model suits users who want a large screen and strong performance in a renewed package.

Pros

• 12.9-inch Liquid Retina display with ProMotion
• A12Z Bionic chip with Neural Engine
• Includes LiDAR Scanner for AR
• Face ID for secure authentication

Cons

• Wi-Fi only connectivity
• Older A12Z Bionic processor
• Renewed condition may vary

Good fit if

• You need a large 12.9-inch screen for media
• You want LiDAR scanning capabilities
• You prefer Face ID authentication

Skip if

• You require cellular connectivity
• You need the latest processor generation
• You prefer a new device over renewed

Verdict: Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch 4th Gen offers a large ProMotion display and LiDAR scanner in a compact 10.4-ounce frame. It fits users who prioritize screen size and AR features over cellular access.

4 Best premium

Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch M2

Best for: large-screen productivity with cellular access

Screen Size

12.9-inch

Storage Capacity

128GB

Display Type

Liquid Retina XDR

Processor

Apple M2

Connectivity

Wi-Fi 6E, 5G cellular

Stylus Compatibility

Apple Pencil (2nd gen)

View on Amazon: Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch M2 Affiliate link

This 12.9-inch iPad Pro features a Liquid Retina XDR display with ProMotion for smooth visuals. The Apple M2 chip delivers strong performance for demanding tasks. You get Wi-Fi 6E and 5G cellular connectivity for fast internet anywhere. The device includes a LiDAR scanner for enhanced AR experiences. It supports the Apple Pencil (2nd gen) and Thunderbolt USB-C for versatile productivity.

Pros

• 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR display with ProMotion
• Apple M2 chip with 8-core CPU
• Wi-Fi 6E and 5G cellular connectivity
• USB-C connector supports Thunderbolt/USB 4

Cons

• 128GB storage capacity is limited for large media libraries
• Heavier build at 10.4 ounces compared to smaller models
• Renewed condition means it is not brand new

Good fit if

• You need a large, high-resolution display for creative work
• You require cellular connectivity for internet access on the go
• You want professional-grade performance from the M2 chip

Skip if

• You prefer a lighter device for one-handed use
• You need more than 128GB of internal storage
• You strictly require a brand-new device with full warranty

Verdict: Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch (4th Gen) M2 suits professionals who prioritize screen quality and connectivity. It is ideal for users who need cellular data and high performance in a large format.

5 Best budget

Apple iPad 10.2-Inch 128GB

Best for: compact reading and media

Screen Size

10.2-inch

Storage Capacity

128GB

Processor

A10 Fusion chip

Features

Wi-Fi

Dimensions

6.8 × 9.8 × 0.29 inches

Weight

1.09 pounds

View on Amazon: Apple iPad 10.2-Inch 128GB Affiliate link

This 10.2-inch iPad features an A10 Fusion chip and 128GB of storage. It includes a Touch ID sensor, stereo speakers, and a 3.5 mm headphone jack. The device weighs 1.09 pounds. It suits users who prefer a compact screen and traditional button layout. You get reliable performance for everyday tasks without the premium cost of newer models.

Pros

• A10 Fusion processor
• 10.2-inch display
• 128GB storage capacity
• Touch ID sensor
• 3.5 mm headphone jack

Cons

• Older A10 chip
• Lightning connector only
• Non-laminated display

Good fit if

• You want a compact screen
• You need a headphone jack
• You prefer Touch ID

Skip if

• You need cellular connectivity
• You want Face ID
• You require USB-C

Verdict: Apple 2019 iPad 10.2-inch offers solid basics for media consumption. It fits readers who value portability and physical buttons.

6 Best touch id

Apple iPad 11-inch A16 128GB

Best for: portable media and light productivity

Screen Size

11-inch

Storage Capacity

128GB

Display Type

Liquid Retina

Processor

A16 chip

Connectivity

Wi-Fi 6

Stylus Compatibility

Apple Pencil (USB-C, 1st gen)

View on Amazon: Apple iPad 11-inch A16 128GB Affiliate link

The Apple iPad 11-inch pairs an A16 chip with an 11-inch Liquid Retina display and 128GB storage. It features Wi-Fi 6 connectivity and Touch ID for secure access. You get a 12MP front and back camera system. This model suits users who want a capable tablet for media and light productivity without the bulk of larger screens.

Pros

• A16 chip delivers strong performance for apps and games
• 11-inch Liquid Retina display with True Tone technology
• Touch ID built into the top button for secure unlock
• Wi-Fi 6 provides fast wireless connectivity
• 12MP front and rear cameras support video calls and 4K video

Cons

• Only includes Wi-Fi connectivity, lacking cellular options
• 128GB storage is the entry-level capacity
• Supports only Apple Pencil (USB-C) and 1st generation

Good fit if

• You want a compact 11-inch screen for portability
• You prefer fingerprint authentication via Touch ID
• You need a reliable device for media consumption

Skip if

• You require cellular connectivity for on-the-go internet
• You need maximum storage capacity beyond 128GB
• You want the latest Apple Pencil with USB-C

Verdict: Apple iPad 11-inch A16 Wi-Fi offers a balanced mix of performance and portability for everyday tasks. It fits users who prioritize a manageable size and secure access over cellular flexibility.

7 Also great

Apple iPad Air 11-inch 128GB Wi-Fi

Best for: portable Wi-Fi tablet use

Screen Size

11-inch

Storage Capacity

128GB

Features

Wi-Fi

Dimensions

7.02 × 9.74 × 0.24 inches

Weight

1.36 pounds

View on Amazon: Apple iPad Air 11-inch 128GB Wi-Fi Affiliate link

This renewed Apple iPad Air features an 11-inch Liquid Retina display and 128GB of storage. It runs on the A16 chip, offering performance comparable to higher-end models. The device is Wi-Fi only and weighs 1.36 pounds. It suits users who want a capable tablet for media and light productivity without the cost of a Pro model. The purple color adds a distinct style.

Pros

• 11-inch Liquid Retina display
• A16 chip for strong performance
• 128GB internal storage
• Lightweight at 1.36 pounds

Cons

• Wi-Fi only connectivity
• Renewed condition with generic accessories
• Battery capacity exceeds 80% but is not new

Good fit if

• You want a lightweight tablet for reading and browsing
• You primarily use Wi-Fi for internet access
• You are looking for a budget-friendly option with solid performance

Skip if

• You need cellular connectivity for internet on the go
• You require original Apple accessories and packaging
• You want a device with a brand new battery

Verdict: Apple 2024 iPad Air 11-inch Wi-Fi 128GB is a practical choice for users seeking a portable, powerful tablet for everyday tasks. It fits those who prioritize value and portability over cellular connectivity and brand-new condition.

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See also

• apple airpods pro alternatives
• apple apple imac apple alternatives