iPad · Retina & Beyond · 2018
iPad Pro (12.9", 3rd generation)
The full-size Pro in the new all-screen design, astonishingly thin and powerful, and the first to feel like it could truly replace a laptop.
Most powerful, thinnest big iPad yet at just 5.9 mm.
iPad (7th generation) (2019)
iPad Pro (12.9", 3rd generation): key facts
When was the iPad Pro (12.9", 3rd generation) released?
The iPad Pro (12.9", 3rd generation) arrived on November 7, 2018. Apple discontinued it in March 2020.
How much did the iPad Pro (12.9", 3rd generation) cost?
The iPad Pro (12.9", 3rd generation) launched at $999 in 2018, about $1,249 in today’s money (approximate, US CPI).
What specs stand out?
Key specs: Apple A12X Bionic at 2.49 GHz, 4 GB RAM, 64 GB storage, 12.9" Liquid Retina, 2732×2048, ProMotion display.
Why does the iPad Pro (12.9", 3rd generation) matter?
Most powerful, thinnest big iPad yet at just 5.9 mm.
Full specifications
| CPU | Apple A12X Bionic · 2.49 GHz |
|---|---|
| Cores | 8 |
| Memory (RAM) | 4 GB (up to 6 GB) |
| Storage | 64 GB |
| Display | 12.9" Liquid Retina, 2732×2048, ProMotion |
| GPU | Apple 7-core GPU |
| Ports | USB-C, Smart Connector |
| Weight | 631 g |
| Dimensions | 280.6×214.9×5.9 mm |
| Operating system | iOS 12.1 |
| Released | November 7, 2018 |
| Discontinued | March 2020 |
| Launch price | $999 |
How the iPad Pro (12.9", 3rd generation) compares to today
A 16 GB Apple Silicon MacBook Pro has about 4.0× more memory than this device shipped with.
At 2.49 GHz, the clock is roughly 1.3× slower than a single performance core of a 16 GB Apple Silicon MacBook Pro, and that is before counting cores, width and IPC.
This held about 16,400 modern phone photos, a respectable library even today.
Launched at $999 in 2018, about $1,249 in today’s money (approx., US CPI).
Method note: clock comparisons use frequency only; price conversions use US CPI.
Sources
Specs checked against Apple technical specifications archive, EveryMac, Mactracker, Wikimedia Commons image credits.
Did you know?
A widely-shared "bending" controversy followed its ultra-thin frame.
Related iPad models
Open the iPad Pro (12.9", 3rd generation) in the interactive archive →
Last updated: 2026-08-11