Best 12.9" Tablets in 2026: 5 Picks Ranked by Specs

Quick picks

The best fit for you

• You want the best overall large screen tablet Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch (4th Gen, Renewed) The 12.9-inch display and 128GB storage suit media consumption needs.
• You need the highest performance and display quality Apple iPad Pro 12.9-Inch M2 The M2 chip and XDR screen provide top-tier processing power.
• You want a large display with ample storage Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch 256GB The 12.9-inch screen and 256GB storage offer value and capacity.
• You need mobile 5G connectivity on a large screen Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch M2 The cellular feature enables professional-grade mobile connectivity alongside the large display.

Our 5 picks

1 Best overall

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

Best for: large screen media consumption

Screen Size

12.9" (what this guide is about)

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

This 12.9-inch Liquid Retina display uses ProMotion technology for smooth visuals. The A12Z Bionic chip with Neural Engine handles demanding tasks. You get 128GB of storage for your files. The device includes a LiDAR Scanner for improved augmented reality. Face ID provides secure authentication. It is a solid choice for users who prioritize screen quality and processing power in a large tablet format.

Pros

• 12.9-inch edge-to-edge Liquid Retina display with ProMotion
• A12Z Bionic chip with Neural Engine
• LiDAR Scanner for augmented reality
• Face ID for secure authentication

Cons

• 128GB storage is smaller than 256GB options
• Wi-Fi only connectivity lacks cellular data
• Older A12Z chip compared to newer models

Good fit if

• You want a large 12.9-inch screen for media
• You need Face ID for quick unlocking
• You prefer Wi-Fi only connectivity

Skip if

• You require cellular data connectivity
• You need more than 128GB of storage
• You want the latest processor generation

Verdict: Apple 2020 iPad Pro 12.9-inch offers a high-quality display and capable performance for everyday tasks. It fits users who value screen size and security features over cellular connectivity.

2 Also great

Apple iPad Pro 12.9-Inch M2

Best for: Users needing large XDR display and M2 power

Screen Size

12.9" (what this guide is about)

Storage Capacity

256GB

Display Type

Liquid Retina XDR

Processor

Apple M2

Connectivity

Wi-Fi 6E

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. It is powered by the Apple M2 chip, offering strong performance for demanding tasks. You get 256GB of storage and Wi-Fi 6E connectivity. The device includes a LiDAR scanner and supports the Apple Pencil (2nd gen). It is a solid option for users who need a large, high-resolution screen and robust processing power.

Pros

• 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR display with ProMotion
• Apple M2 chip with 8-core CPU
• 256GB storage capacity
• Wi-Fi 6E connectivity

Cons

• Wi-Fi only model lacks cellular connectivity
• Heavier build at 1 pound compared to smaller models
• No USB-C to Lightning adapter included

Good fit if

• You need a large, high-resolution screen for media or work
• You want strong processing power for multitasking
• You prefer Wi-Fi only connectivity

Skip if

• You require cellular connectivity for internet on the go
• You need a lighter device for one-handed use
• You are looking for the lowest storage capacity option

Verdict: Apple 2022 iPad Pro 12.9-inch Wi-Fi 256GB delivers top-tier display quality and performance. It fits users who prioritize screen size and processing power over cellular options.

3 Best budget

Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch 256GB

Best for: budget-conscious users needing a large display

Screen Size

12.9" (what this guide is about)

Storage Capacity

256GB

Display Type

Liquid Retina

Processor

A12Z Bionic chip with Neural Engine

Features

Wi-Fi

Dimensions

11.5 × 8.9 × 1.97 inches

View on Amazon: Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch 256GB Affiliate link

This 2020 Apple iPad Pro features a 12.9-inch Liquid Retina display with ProMotion and P3 wide color. It is powered by the A12Z Bionic chip and includes 256GB 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 you if you want a large screen and solid performance at a budget-friendly price point.

Pros

• 12.9-inch Liquid Retina display with ProMotion
• A12Z Bionic chip with Neural Engine
• 256GB storage capacity
• LiDAR Scanner for depth sensing

Cons

• Older A12Z Bionic processor compared to newer models
• Wi-Fi only connectivity without cellular option
• Lacks the latest chip technology found in 2022 models

Good fit if

• You need a large 12.9-inch screen for media consumption
• You want 256GB of storage for apps and files
• You prefer a budget-friendly option among 12.9-inch tablets

Skip if

• You require cellular connectivity for on-the-go internet
• You want the latest processor for maximum performance
• You need the newest design features from 2022 models

Verdict: 2020 iPad Pro 12.9 256GB offers a large display and ample storage for users prioritizing screen size and value over the newest hardware updates.

4 Best premium

Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch M2

Best for: users needing 5G on a large screen

Screen Size

12.9" (what this guide is about)

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 and an Apple M2 chip. It supports 5G cellular and Wi-Fi 6E for fast connectivity. The device includes a LiDAR scanner and Thunderbolt USB-C port. It weighs 10.4 ounces and is 0.25 inches thick. You get 128GB of storage. This model suits users who need mobile data and high performance.

Pros

• 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR display
• Apple M2 chip with 10-core GPU
• 5G cellular and Wi-Fi 6E support
• LiDAR Scanner for AR experiences

Cons

• 128GB storage is the base capacity
• Heavier at 10.4 ounces than smaller models
• 0.25-inch thickness adds bulk

Good fit if

• You need 5G cellular connectivity
• You want the largest 12.9-inch screen
• You require Thunderbolt/USB 4 speeds

Skip if

• You need more than 128GB storage
• You prefer a lighter device under 10 ounces
• You only use Wi-Fi networks

Verdict: Apple iPad Pro 12.9 Cellular offers professional-grade performance and mobile connectivity. It fits users who prioritize screen real estate and 5G access over lightweight portability.

5 Also great

Apple iPad Pro 12.9-Inch M2 Cellular

Best for: Users needing M2 power and XDR screens

Screen Size

12.9" (what this guide is about)

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 Cellular Affiliate link

This 12.9-inch tablet features a Liquid Retina XDR display with ProMotion for smooth visuals. It uses the Apple M2 chip with an 8-core CPU and 10-core GPU for performance. You get 128GB of storage and Wi-Fi 6E connectivity. The device includes a LiDAR scanner and supports Apple Pencil (2nd gen). It weighs 1 pound and measures 0.25 inches thick.

Pros

• 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR display with ProMotion
• Apple M2 chip with 8-core CPU
• LiDAR Scanner for AR experiences
• USB-C connector supports Thunderbolt/USB 4

Cons

• 128GB storage capacity is the lowest on this list
• Wi-Fi only model lacks built-in 5G cellular
• Heavier than some competitors at 1 pound

Good fit if

• You want the M2 chip performance
• You need a high-quality XDR display
• You use Apple Pencil for creative work

Skip if

• You require cellular connectivity
• You need more than 128GB storage
• You prefer a lighter device

Verdict: Apple 2022 iPad Pro 12.9-inch delivers top-tier performance with the M2 chip and a stunning XDR display. It fits users who prioritize screen quality and processing power over cellular options or larger storage.

Specifications side by side

How to choose the right 12.9-inch tablet

1. Match storage to your files

   You should check the internal storage capacity before buying. Most models offer 128GB or 256GB. If you store many photos or large video files, 256GB provides more room. The iPad Pro M2 includes 256GB, which helps if you edit media on the device. The base models often start at 128GB. This amount is sufficient for documents and streaming. You must decide how much local space you need. More storage means you can keep more apps offline. Less storage keeps the price lower but limits your library.

2. Decide on cellular connectivity

   You need to determine if you require mobile data. Most tablets in this list are Wi-Fi only. The iPad Pro 12.9-inch M2 Cellular adds 5G support. This feature lets you use the device without a Wi-Fi connection. You can work or stream anywhere with signal. If you travel often or work outside, cellular is useful. The Wi-Fi-only models are lighter and simpler. You only need cellular if you frequently lack internet access. Check the product title for the word Cellular to confirm.

3. Consider the processor speed

   You should look at the chip to gauge performance. The M2 chip offers significantly more power than older models. It handles complex tasks like video editing with ease. The 4th Gen models use older chips that are still capable. They suit everyday tasks like browsing and reading. If you run demanding apps, choose the M2 version. The difference affects how fast apps open and switch. You will notice smoother multitasking with the newer chip. Check the model name to identify the processor type.

4. Check the display technology

   You must verify the screen quality for your eyes. The M2 models feature an XDR display with high brightness. This makes images pop and reduces eye strain in bright rooms. The 4th Gen models have excellent LCD screens too. They are good for media consumption and reading. You should decide if the extra brightness is worth it. XDR is best for photo and video work. Standard displays are fine for casual use. Look for XDR in the product description to confirm.

5. Weigh the device portability

   You should consider how heavy the tablet feels. The 12.9-inch screen is large but the weight varies. The 4th Gen models weigh 10.4 ounces. The M2 models weigh about 1 pound. The difference is small but noticeable during long use. If you hold the tablet for hours, lighter is better. The dimensions are similar across all models. You need a case for protection regardless of weight. Check the weight spec if you plan to carry it often. A lighter device reduces arm fatigue during reading.

Frequently asked questions

See also

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