Apple iPad Pro 12.9 (1st Gen)
Apple iPad Pro 12.9 (1st Gen)
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Specifications
Certified Quality & Packaging
Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch (1st Generation)
Quick Facts
Specification | Details |
|---|---|
Launch year | 2015 |
Display | 12.9-inch Retina IPS display |
Resolution | 2732 × 2048 pixels at 264 ppi |
Processor | Apple A9X chip |
Memory | 4GB RAM |
Storage | 32GB, 128GB or 256GB; 32GB was limited to Wi-Fi models |
Rear camera | 8MP Wide |
Front camera | 1.2MP FaceTime HD |
Battery | 38.5Wh; up to 10 hours of web browsing or video over Wi-Fi |
Connectivity | Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 4.2; optional 4G LTE cellular |
Charging port | Lightning |
Weight | 713g for Wi-Fi; 723g for Wi-Fi + Cellular |
Colours | Silver, Gold or Space Grey |
Overview
The Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch (1st Generation) was introduced in 2015 as Apple’s first large-screen iPad Pro. Its 12.9-inch Retina display provides substantial space for reading, documents, drawing and video playback.
It supports Apple Pencil (1st generation), compatible Smart Keyboard accessories and four-speaker audio. The physical Home button includes Touch ID, while the Lightning connector and headphone jack support older Apple and wired audio accessories.
When buying a used unit, inspect the large display for scratches, bright spots, discolouration and touch-response problems. Test the battery, cameras, speakers, microphones, Lightning port, headphone jack, buttons and Touch ID, and confirm that Activation Lock has been removed.
Key Highlights
1. Large 12.9-inch Retina Display
The fully laminated Retina display has a 2732 × 2048 resolution and pixel density of 264 ppi. Its large canvas provides considerably more workspace than standard iPads from the same period.
Why it matters:
Provides substantial space for documents and artwork
Displays clear text and detailed images
Offers a large viewing area for video playback
Supports Apple Pencil (1st generation)
Reduces reflections with an anti-reflective coating
2. Four-Speaker Audio and Accessory Support
The tablet includes four speakers, a Smart Connector and support for Apple Pencil (1st generation). It also retains a physical Home button with Touch ID and a 3.5mm headphone jack.
Why it matters:
Produces stereo sound in either orientation
Works with compatible Smart Keyboard accessories
Supports handwritten notes and digital drawing
Connects wired headphones without an adapter
Provides fingerprint authentication through Touch ID
3. A9X Performance for Basic Tasks
The A9X chip includes a dual-core CPU, PowerVR graphics and an M9 motion coprocessor, supported by 4GB of RAM. It is now best suited to reading, browsing, video playback and older compatible applications.
Why it matters:
Supports straightforward web browsing
Handles basic video and music playback
Runs compatible reading and communication apps
Includes 4GB of RAM for lighter multitasking
Offers storage capacities of up to 256GB
Key Features Explained
Feature | What it offers |
A9X chip | Provides basic performance for browsing, reading and compatible media applications |
Retina display | A 12.9-inch IPS screen with 2732 × 2048 resolution |
Touch ID | Unlocks the tablet and approves supported purchases through the Home button |
8MP rear camera | Captures photos, scans documents and records video at up to 1080p |
1.2MP front camera | Supports basic FaceTime calls and 720p video recording |
Four-speaker audio | Adjusts stereo output according to the tablet’s orientation |
Headphone jack | Connects standard 3.5mm wired headphones without an adapter |
Apple Pencil support | Works with Apple Pencil (1st generation) for notes and drawing |
Smart Connector | Supports compatible Smart Keyboard accessories without separate pairing |
Optional cellular | Provides 4G LTE data through a compatible nano-SIM on cellular models |
Compare Related Models
Model | Launch year | Display | Processor | Rear/front camera | Battery | Storage | Network | Weight |
iPad Pro 12.9-inch (1st Gen) | 2015 | 12.9-inch Retina IPS, 2732 × 2048, 60Hz | Apple A9X | 8MP Wide / 1.2MP FaceTime HD | 38.5Wh; up to 10 hours on Wi-Fi | 32GB–256GB | Wi-Fi 5; optional 4G LTE | 713g Wi-Fi; 723g cellular |
iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2nd Gen) | 2017 | 12.9-inch Retina IPS, 2732 × 2048, ProMotion up to 120Hz | Apple A10X Fusion | 12MP Wide / 7MP FaceTime HD | 41Wh; up to 10 hours on Wi-Fi | 64GB–512GB | Wi-Fi 5; optional 4G LTE | 677g Wi-Fi; 692g cellular |
iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd Gen) | 2018 | 12.9-inch Liquid Retina IPS, 2732 × 2048, ProMotion up to 120Hz | Apple A12X Bionic | 12MP Wide / 7MP TrueDepth | 36.71Wh; up to 10 hours on Wi-Fi | 64GB–1TB | Wi-Fi 5; optional 4G LTE | 631g Wi-Fi; 633g cellular |
iPad Pro 9.7-inch | 2016 | 9.7-inch Retina IPS, 2048 × 1536, 60Hz | Apple A9X | 12MP Wide / 5MP FaceTime HD | 27.5Wh; up to 10 hours on Wi-Fi | 32GB–256GB | Wi-Fi 5; optional 4G LTE | 437g Wi-Fi; 444g cellular |
Which Model Should You Choose?
Choose this model | If you want |
iPad Pro 12.9-inch (1st Gen) | A very low-cost large iPad with four-speaker audio and Apple Pencil support |
iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2nd Gen) | A 120Hz ProMotion display, faster processor, improved cameras and more storage |
iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd Gen) | A much lighter all-screen design, Face ID, USB-C and stronger performance |
iPad Pro 9.7-inch | A smaller and lighter tablet with the same processor and better cameras |
Alternatives
If you are comparing before buying, you may also want to check these related SellUp Marketplace pages:
Common Questions
Is the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (1st Generation) good for everyday use?
It may still handle very light browsing, reading, video playback and basic compatible applications. Its A9X chip is now limited for modern software, and the tablet does not support iPadOS 17 or later.
Does the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (1st Generation) support 5G?
No. Wi-Fi + Cellular versions support 4G LTE but not 5G, while Wi-Fi-only models have no cellular connection. Actual LTE speed depends on your Singapore telco plan, compatible nano-SIM service, coverage and network conditions.
Is the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (1st Generation) better than the 2nd Generation?
No. The second-generation model has a faster processor, ProMotion display, improved cameras, more storage and a lighter body. The first-generation model may only provide better value when it is substantially cheaper.
Does the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (1st Generation) support wireless charging?
No. It does not support Qi or MagSafe wireless charging. The tablet and Apple Pencil (1st generation) use the Lightning connection for charging.
Is the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (1st Generation) water resistant?
Apple does not provide an official IP water- or dust-resistance rating for this model. Keep it away from liquids and inspect a used unit for moisture damage or corrosion around its Lightning port, headphone jack and buttons.
Is the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (1st Generation) worth buying used?
It may only be worthwhile for basic use at a very low price. Its age, weight and limited software support reduce its long-term appeal, so check the screen, battery, cameras, speakers, microphones, ports, buttons, Touch ID and Activation Lock status carefully.
Why Buy the Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch (1st Generation)?
The Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch (1st Generation) can still provide a large display, four-speaker audio and Apple Pencil support for reading, video playback and basic creative work. Its expansive screen remains its main advantage.
It is most suitable when available at a very low price and when current software support is not essential. Buyers wanting stronger performance, a lighter design and broader application compatibility should consider a second-generation or newer iPad Pro.
Compare Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch (1st Generation) listings on SellUp Marketplace to find the condition, storage size, and price that suits your budget.
