Become a MacRumors Supporter for $50/year with no ads, ability to filter front page stories, and private forums.

MisterMillz

macrumors 6502a
Original poster
Mar 12, 2011
671
571
FL, USA
I've seen a lot of posts and threads recently about those who returned the 12.9 or switched out for a 9.7 so I wanted to bring some love back to the OG iPP. It's possible I'm still riding high on the honeymoon phase, but I'm riding it 'til the wheels fall off. The extra real estate makes consumption and productivity easier and enjoyable for me.

While I personally believe $350 for a silicone case, smart keyboard and Apple Pencil is absolutely preposterous, I'm very much happy to have the combo. I actually felt ok paying 99 for the pencil but 80 for a piece of silicone and 170 for a half of a case with a keyboard blew my mind. Lol (Leather would've been my choice) I've had 5 iPads (9.7s and minis) before this one and usually after a month or so I'd end up using them significantly less than my phone or computer. Productivity was more satisfying on my MacBook/pro and entertainment was more enjoyable on my Apple TV. Now, it's a pleasure to do both. The smart keyboard is easy to type on, yet light enough to flip around back if I don't need it for that moment...or simply detach it. Generally I'll open it up anyways and use the iPad in landscape on my lap or table. I bought the silicone back because it looks solid enough and matched the ASK functionally and aesthetically. The Apple Pencil is a wonderful piece of tech. I not only draw with it but typically use it as my navigation tool.

I originally eyed out the 12.9 for its drawing capabilities. However, seeing how expensive they can be I started contemplating if it could also become my main computing device. Fortunately, it has. 90% of my daily usage was as easy or more enjoyable on the pro. Ended up selling my MacBook and air 2 to offset a good helping of the price. I would suggest having an old laptop or desktop at home for those little tasks such as hardware restores or using full safari that supports flash sites (college work). As for portability I can definitely understand why some would choose the 9.7, but I personally don't find this device hard to carry around even with the back and ASK on. I carry my iPP with me EVERYWHERE. School, work, library, coffee shop..etc. It's certainly bigger, but I got used to it to the point the 9.7 looks like a mini now. Lol I think the pros are certainly the best iPads yet and I anxiously await to see what extra functionalities will come our way with iOS 10 and the next device iteration!
 
Last edited:
Amen! Totally with you on this. 12.9" iPad Pro has totally transformed my hardware set up. I used to always use MacBook Pros, but for the first time in my life I now own a desktop computer. 27 inch 5K iMac has replaced my 15 inch rMBP. lPP, which replaced my iPad Air 2, has become my new "laptop" thanks to the power under the hood, the beautiful high-res display, and the much lighter weight.
 
I am totally with you on the 12.9 love! I, too, thought the keyboard cost was ridiculous, but I LOVE the Smart Keyboard!! I did buy a knockoff back case from Amazon for $12 though, and it's working just fine. The pencil was totally worth it, and, although my use has tapered off a little, I know I will get my money's worth from it (my grandson LOVES using it to draw when he's here, and has asked me to get him a "big iPad" to replace his mini).

I was real wishy-washy at first about keeping it or going for the 9.7 (I had an Air 2 before I got the pro), but I'm SO glad I stuck with the 12.9 - my goal is to be able to get rid of my iMac and go pad/phone only, and I really think I'm gonna be able to.
 
Much love is owed to the 12.9, it's a brilliant device. After having a short affair with the 9.7 mainly due to its portability, I got rid of it and am back with the 12.9. The 9.7 is a little better for traditional iPad usage, but for productivity, especially with the Smart Keyboard, the 12.9 is much better. No regrets, 12.9 is the right choice for a productivity tablet.
 
  • Like
Reactions: MisterMillz
I was considering the 9.7 so much I ordered on the other evening via T-Mobile which was just delivered today. The 12.9 unit is such a great device, I can't get myself to open the box for the 9.7 and will plan on returning it today untouched.

I truly think that the 12.9 unit is the better unit for me.
[doublepost=1462900493][/doublepost]
I was considering the 9.7 so much I ordered on the other evening via T-Mobile which was just delivered today. The 12.9 unit is such a great device, I can't get myself to open the box for the 9.7 and will plan on returning it today untouched.

I truly think that the 12.9 unit is the better unit for me.

And hopefully I don't get hit with a restocking fee.
 
Lots of big iPad love here. Only wish I'd gone for it sooner as it's transformed my tablet usage. Finally, I don't need to scroll, pinch, and pan when reading, taking notes, etc. Great for children too for reading on a big screen and the Pencil is great for encouraging kids to draw and write.

It's not for everyone but it's the most-used tablet I've owned.
 
Using it in place of my "new iPad" and in place of my 2013 15" rMBP (now a desktop clamshell) - too expensive to take to the hospital.

I am hoping a tech21 case comes round or anything else that might allow me to leave it in a bag I tend to drop by the patients bedside.
 
Register on MacRumors! This sidebar will go away, and you'll see fewer ads.