Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into a classic – the iPad Pro 10.5-inch, WiFi, 64GB model in Space Gray from 2017. This tablet was a game-changer when it launched, and it's still a solid performer for many users. Let's break down what made it special, what it's good for today, and whether it's still worth considering.

Design and Display: Still a Looker

Let's begin our exploration with the design and display of the iPad Pro 10.5. The iPad Pro 10.5-inch boasts a sleek and premium design that still holds up remarkably well. The aluminum unibody construction feels solid and durable, giving it that classic Apple quality. The Space Gray finish is understated and professional, making it suitable for both work and play. The bezels are noticeably thinner than previous iPad models, contributing to a more immersive viewing experience and a more compact overall footprint.

Now, let's talk about the display. This is where the iPad Pro 10.5 really shines. The fully laminated Retina display with a resolution of 2224 x 1668 pixels is incredibly sharp and vibrant. Colors are accurate and lifelike, making everything from browsing photos to watching videos a visual treat. But what truly sets this display apart is its ProMotion technology. ProMotion dynamically adjusts the display's refresh rate up to 120Hz, resulting in incredibly smooth scrolling, fluid animations, and reduced latency when using the Apple Pencil. This responsiveness makes the iPad Pro 10.5 feel incredibly natural and intuitive to use, especially for artists and note-takers.

The display also features True Tone technology, which automatically adjusts the color temperature of the display to match the ambient lighting conditions. This helps to reduce eye strain and makes the display more comfortable to view in various environments. Whether you're working in a brightly lit office or relaxing at home in the evening, the iPad Pro 10.5's display adapts to provide the best possible viewing experience. The anti-reflective coating further enhances visibility by minimizing glare and reflections, making it easier to use the iPad Pro 10.5 outdoors or in brightly lit environments. All these features combine to create a display that is not only beautiful but also incredibly functional and user-friendly.

Performance: The A10X Fusion Chip

Delving into the performance of the iPad Pro 10.5, the A10X Fusion chip is the powerhouse behind this tablet's performance. This chip features a six-core CPU and a 12-core GPU, delivering exceptional processing power and graphics performance. At the time of its release, the A10X Fusion chip was a significant leap forward in mobile performance, and it continues to hold its own even by today's standards. Whether you're multitasking between apps, editing photos and videos, or playing graphically intensive games, the iPad Pro 10.5 handles it all with ease.

The A10X Fusion chip's multi-core architecture allows it to efficiently handle demanding workloads, providing smooth and responsive performance even when running multiple apps simultaneously. The 12-core GPU delivers stunning graphics performance, making games and other visual applications look incredibly detailed and realistic. The iPad Pro 10.5 can easily handle demanding games like Fortnite, PUBG Mobile, and Asphalt 9: Legends, delivering smooth frame rates and stunning visuals. The chip also excels at creative tasks such as photo and video editing. With apps like Adobe Lightroom and iMovie, you can edit high-resolution photos and videos directly on the iPad Pro 10.5, taking advantage of its powerful processing capabilities and stunning display.

The iPad Pro 10.5 also features 4GB of RAM, which further enhances its multitasking capabilities. With 4GB of RAM, you can switch between apps quickly and seamlessly without experiencing any lag or slowdown. This is especially useful for users who frequently work with multiple apps at the same time. The A10X Fusion chip also includes an embedded M10 coprocessor, which handles motion data and other sensor-related tasks. This helps to improve the iPad Pro 10.5's power efficiency, allowing it to deliver impressive battery life even when performing demanding tasks. The combination of the A10X Fusion chip, 4GB of RAM, and the M10 coprocessor makes the iPad Pro 10.5 a highly capable and versatile device that can handle a wide range of tasks with ease.

Features and Functionality: More Than Just a Tablet

Discussing features and functionality, the iPad Pro 10.5 isn't just about raw power; it's also packed with features that enhance its usability and versatility. One of the standout features is its support for the first-generation Apple Pencil. The Apple Pencil transforms the iPad Pro 10.5 into a digital canvas, allowing artists, designers, and note-takers to create and express themselves with precision and fluidity. The ProMotion technology further enhances the Apple Pencil experience by reducing latency to a mere 20 milliseconds, making it feel incredibly natural and responsive. Whether you're sketching, drawing, painting, or taking handwritten notes, the Apple Pencil provides a seamless and intuitive experience.

The iPad Pro 10.5 also features a Smart Connector, which allows you to connect to Apple's Smart Keyboard. The Smart Keyboard provides a comfortable and responsive typing experience, making it easier to write emails, documents, and other long-form content. The Smart Keyboard is also incredibly thin and lightweight, making it easy to carry around with you. The iPad Pro 10.5 also features a 12MP rear-facing camera and a 7MP front-facing camera. The rear-facing camera captures sharp and detailed photos and videos, while the front-facing camera is perfect for video calls and selfies. The iPad Pro 10.5 also supports 802.11ac Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 4.2, providing fast and reliable wireless connectivity. The iPad Pro 10.5 also features a four-speaker audio system that delivers rich and immersive sound. Whether you're watching movies, listening to music, or playing games, the iPad Pro 10.5's speakers provide an excellent audio experience.

The iPad Pro 10.5 also supports Touch ID, allowing you to quickly and securely unlock your device and authenticate purchases. Touch ID is incredibly convenient and reliable, making it a valuable security feature. The iPad Pro 10.5 also features a variety of sensors, including an accelerometer, gyroscope, barometer, and ambient light sensor. These sensors enhance the iPad Pro 10.5's functionality and allow it to be used in a variety of applications. The combination of all these features makes the iPad Pro 10.5 a highly versatile and capable device that can be used for a wide range of tasks.

Is it Still Worth Buying in 2024?

Now, the big question: Is the iPad Pro 10.5 still worth buying in 2024? The answer depends on your needs and budget. Here’s a breakdown:

• For:
  • Budget-conscious users: If you're looking for an affordable iPad with a Pro-level experience, a used iPad Pro 10.5 can be a great option.
  • Casual users: For browsing the web, watching videos, and light productivity tasks, it's still more than capable.
  • Students: It's a decent option for note-taking and reading, especially with the Apple Pencil support.
• Against:
  • Power users: If you need the latest and greatest performance for demanding tasks like video editing or graphic design, newer iPads will be a better choice.
  • Gamers: While it can handle some games, newer iPads offer significantly better graphics performance.
  • Future-proofing: Keep in mind that software updates may eventually stop for this model.

Alternatives to Consider

If you're hesitant about the iPad Pro 10.5, here are some alternatives to consider:

• iPad Air (latest models): Offers a similar size and performance to the older iPad Pro, often at a comparable price point.
• iPad (9th/10th generation): More affordable options that are great for basic tasks.
• Used iPad Pro 11-inch: If you can find one within your budget, the newer iPad Pro models offer significant performance improvements.

Conclusion

The iPad Pro 10.5-inch is a well-built, capable tablet that still has a lot to offer. While it may not be the newest or most powerful iPad on the market, it's a solid choice for budget-conscious users who need a reliable device for everyday tasks. Just be sure to weigh its strengths and weaknesses against your specific needs before making a decision. Happy shopping!