The 2024 iPad Pro is in a class of its own. Available in 11- and 13-inch sizes and Silver or Space Black, it starts at $999, or $899 with a college student discount. Storage options range from 256GB to 2TB. Marketed as a laptop replacement for professionals seeking portability and power, does it truly deliver, or is it still a tablet with limitations?
As a college student, I purchased the 11-inch model in Space Black with 256GB storage for $589, thanks to Apple’s Back to School deal, a trade-in, and the student discount. I also bought the Magic Keyboard ($279) and Apple Pencil Pro ($129), saving over $400 total. My goal was to replace my M2 MacBook Air as my main device. After several months of use, here are my thoughts.
Design: 5/5
While unboxing the iPad Pro, I noticed its thinness immediately. It’s 5.3 millimeters thin, almost being too thin, and surprisingly lightweight. I was in awe of the Space Black color option, but I wish it was darker. The 11-inch size comfortably fits into any of my small backpacks and desks.
The Magic Keyboard has a premium aluminum and silicone design and adds some weight to the iPad Pro. It’s not as noticeable as it was with its predecessor or seems to be heavier than a MacBook Air. The Apple Pencil Pro works like previous versions, so there’s little to note.
Performance: 4/5
The M4 chip is buttery fast. Whether I’m editing videos on Final Cut Pro for iPad, gaming, or multitasking to complete assignments, the device runs effortlessly. I saw zero lag while playing Minecraft, while my previous iPad would stutter after a certain amount of time. Apple says it offers up to 1.5 times faster CPU performance and 4 times faster GPU performance compared to the M2 chip, but I don’t notice any speed differences than my M2 MacBook Air. Battery life is impressive, lasting over a day with regular use. However, in bright environments with max brightness or during extended gaming sessions, it drains faster and warms up slightly, normal for such tasks.
Usability: 4/5
The setup process was easy, taking about 10 minutes to completely transfer everything from iCloud to get started. The Magic Keyboard includes a function row and a large haptic trackpad similar to a MacBook’s, but I often found myself tapping the screen instead. While the Apple Pencil Pro is great for sketching storyboards, I primarily type notes, so it didn’t see much use.
Value: 4/5
At $999, the iPad Pro offers exceptional performance and accessories, justifying its price for professionals. However, its high cost made me consider cheaper alternatives.
The M4 iPad Pro is Apple’s best iPad yet, with excellent build quality, an impressive display, exceptional battery life, and powerful performance. It’s a great option for professionals seeking a laptop-like experience in a portable form. That said, it may be overkill for some college students.
After months of use, it has almost replaced my MacBook Air, but I still return to the laptop for Zoom classes and certain assignments. While it hasn’t fully replaced my MacBook as I hoped, it’s a step in the right direction.
Overall Rating: 4/5
The 2024 iPad Pro is my favorite iPad yet. Though it is still an iPad. It’s not the laptop replacement that I wish it was, but it does bridge the gap of becoming one.
If you are still debating, check out www.apple.com/ipad-pro/ for more information and your local Apple Store to get a one-on-one experience with it. You can purchase the iPad Pro, Magic Keyboard, and Apple Pencil Pro at an Apple Store, Best Buy, Walmart, or Target. Keep an eye out for deals.
