IPad Pro 2021 12-inch: How Much Does It Weigh?

Hey everyone! So, you're eyeing the iPad Pro 2021 12-inch, huh? Awesome choice, seriously. It's a beast of a tablet, packed with power and a gorgeous display. But one thing that often comes up when we're talking about these premium devices is, you guessed it, weight. Yeah, we all want that sleek, portable gadget, but sometimes that power comes with a bit of heft. So, let's dive deep into the iPad Pro 2021 12-inch weight and what it means for you, whether you're a creative pro, a student, or just someone who loves a good tablet. We'll break down the specifics, compare it to its predecessors, and even chat about how accessories might affect the overall feel in your hands or bag. Trust me, understanding the weight can be a surprisingly important factor when you're deciding if a device is the one for you. Let's get this sorted, shall we?

Understanding the iPad Pro 2021 12-inch Specs: Weight Edition

Alright, guys, let's get down to the nitty-gritty of the iPad Pro 2021 12-inch weight. Apple is known for its meticulous engineering, and while they don't always shout about exact grams, they do provide specifications that let us know the score. For the 12.9-inch iPad Pro from 2021, there are actually two versions that slightly differ in weight: the Wi-Fi only model and the Wi-Fi + Cellular model. It's a small difference, but worth noting if you're a spec-chaser like me. The Wi-Fi only 12.9-inch iPad Pro (5th generation) tips the scales at 682 grams (or 1.50 pounds). Now, if you opt for the Wi-Fi + Cellular model, you're looking at 685 grams (or 1.51 pounds). So, yeah, it's a difference of a mere 3 grams, likely due to the inclusion of the cellular modem and its associated antennas. Honestly, in real-world use, you're probably not going to feel that minuscule difference. What is noticeable is the overall heft of a 12.9-inch device. It's substantial, designed to feel premium and stable, especially when you're using it for demanding tasks. Think of it this way: this isn't just a tablet you casually toss in your pocket; it's a portable workstation. The weight of the iPad Pro 2021 12-inch is a testament to the powerful M1 chip inside, the Liquid Retina XDR display, and the robust build quality that Apple is famous for. It’s built to feel solid, not flimsy. When you hold it, it feels like a serious piece of tech, ready to handle whatever you throw at it, from editing 4K video to sketching out complex designs. This weight contributes to its perceived quality and durability, making it a reliable tool for professionals and enthusiasts alike who demand performance and a premium feel from their devices. It’s a balance between portability and power, and Apple has certainly leaned into making it feel like a powerful, capable machine.

How Does the 2021 iPad Pro 12-inch Weight Compare?

Let's put that iPad Pro 2021 12-inch weight into perspective, guys. Comparing it to its predecessors really highlights Apple's journey in balancing size, features, and weight. If you cast your mind back to the first 12.9-inch iPad Pro (the original model released in 2015), it weighed in at a hefty 713 grams (Wi-Fi) or 723 grams (Wi-Fi + Cellular). So, right off the bat, you can see that the 2021 model is actually lighter than the original massive iPad Pro. That's impressive engineering! Fast forward to the 2017 12.9-inch model, and it was pretty similar, around 677 grams (Wi-Fi) and 691 grams (Wi-Fi + Cellular). Then came the 2018 redesign with the thinner bezels and Face ID. The 12.9-inch iPad Pro (3rd gen) weighed 580 grams (Wi-Fi) or 585 grams (Wi-Fi + Cellular). And the 4th generation, released in 2020, was identical in weight at 580 grams and 585 grams respectively. Now, here's where it gets interesting: the 2021 iPad Pro 12-inch weight (682g/685g) is a step up from the 2018 and 2020 models. Why the increase? Well, the 2021 iPad Pro introduced the M1 chip, a significantly more powerful processor than the A12X/A12Z chips in the previous models. It also boasted the stunning Liquid Retina XDR display, which is considerably brighter and more advanced, featuring mini-LED backlighting. These technological advancements, while amazing for performance and visual experience, naturally add a bit more bulk and weight. So, while it's not the lightest 12.9-inch iPad Pro ever made, it's a testament to the powerful components Apple has packed into it. The weight of the iPad Pro 2021 12-inch is a trade-off for unparalleled performance and a revolutionary display. It’s heavier than the sleek 2018-2020 models, but the leap in processing power and display quality arguably makes it a worthwhile adjustment for many users, especially those who rely on their iPad for professional creative work or heavy multitasking. It’s important to remember that Apple is constantly innovating, and sometimes, newer tech means a slight increase in physical dimensions or weight to accommodate that power and enhanced functionality. It’s not just about making things smaller and lighter; it’s also about making them more capable, and the 2021 iPad Pro definitely achieved that.

The Impact of Accessories on iPad Pro 2021 12-inch Weight

Okay, so we've nailed down the iPad Pro 2021 12-inch weight on its own. But let's be real, most of us don't just carry around a naked tablet, right? We slap on a case, maybe a screen protector, and for the Pro models, the Magic Keyboard or the Apple Pencil are almost essential. These accessories, while super useful, definitely add to the overall package's weight. Let's talk about the Magic Keyboard for the 12.9-inch iPad Pro. This thing is more than just a keyboard; it's a full-on folio with a trackpad and a unique cantilever design that lets you adjust the screen angle. It's brilliantly engineered, but it's not exactly feather-light. When you attach the 12.9-inch iPad Pro to the Magic Keyboard, the combined weight jumps significantly. The Magic Keyboard itself weighs about 710 grams (1.57 pounds). Add that to the iPad Pro's ~685 grams, and you're looking at a total package of roughly 1.4 kilograms (or over 3 pounds). That's getting into laptop territory, folks! It transforms your iPad Pro into a powerful, portable laptop-like experience, but you definitely feel the added bulk. Then there's the Apple Pencil (2nd generation). This little guy is practically weightless, weighing in at just 20.7 grams (0.73 ounces). So, the Pencil itself won't make a noticeable difference to the overall weight of the iPad Pro 2021 12-inch. However, if you use a third-party case that has a built-in holder for the Apple Pencil, that case will, of course, add its own weight. Standard protective cases can range from a few grams to over 200 grams depending on their material and design. A rugged case designed for maximum protection will add more weight than a slim, minimalist folio. So, when you're considering the portability of your iPad Pro setup, it's crucial to factor in these accessories. If you're primarily using your iPad Pro for note-taking and sketching on the go with just a slim case and the Apple Pencil, the iPad Pro 2021 12-inch weight feels quite manageable. But if you're planning on using it with the Magic Keyboard for extended typing sessions, be prepared for a setup that rivals a lightweight laptop in terms of heft. It's all about finding the right balance for your workflow and needs. Don't just think about the tablet itself; consider the entire ecosystem you'll be carrying around. This comprehensive view of weight will help you make the best decision for your mobile computing needs.

Is the iPad Pro 2021 12-inch Weight a Dealbreaker?

So, the million-dollar question: is the iPad Pro 2021 12-inch weight a dealbreaker? Honestly, guys, for most people, the answer is probably a resounding no. Let's break it down. The iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2021) weighs around 685 grams. Compare that to a typical 13-inch laptop, which can easily range from 1.2 kg to over 1.5 kg. Even Apple's own MacBook Air, a device famed for its portability, weighs around 1.29 kg. So, in the grand scheme of portable computing devices, the weight of the iPad Pro 2021 12-inch is actually pretty competitive, especially considering the power and functionality it offers. The perception of weight can be subjective, though. If you're coming from a smaller iPad Mini or an older, lighter iPad Air, the 12.9-inch model will undoubtedly feel substantial. It’s not something you’ll be comfortably holding with one hand for extended periods like you might with a smaller tablet. However, Apple designed this size for a reason: to provide a larger canvas for creativity, productivity, and media consumption. That larger screen real estate is a huge benefit for tasks like photo editing, video editing, digital drawing, multitasking with split-screen apps, and even just enjoying movies or games. The added weight is a direct consequence of that larger, more advanced display (hello, Liquid Retina XDR!) and the powerhouse M1 chip driving it all. For professionals and serious hobbyists who need that screen size and performance, the iPad Pro 2021 12-inch weight is a trade-off they are usually very willing to make. It feels solid, premium, and capable. If portability is your absolute top priority above all else, and you rarely need the large screen or the Pro-level power, then perhaps a smaller iPad or even an iPad Air might be a better fit. But if you're looking for the ultimate portable powerhouse that can genuinely replace a laptop for many tasks, the weight is a minor consideration compared to the incredible capabilities. Think about how you'll use it most. Will it live primarily on a desk with the Magic Keyboard? Then the weight is almost irrelevant. Will you be carrying it daily in a backpack? It's still manageable, easily fitting within the weight budget of most bags. The weight of the iPad Pro 2021 12-inch isn't a flaw; it's a characteristic that reflects its premium build and impressive internal technology. It’s a machine built for serious work and play, and that comes with a certain reassuring heft.