iPad Pro 5th Gen 12.9-inch 128GB (MHNF3AB/A)
iPad Pro 5th Gen 12.9-inch 128GB is priced at Kes 129,000 here at Novelty Tech Solution in Nairobi, Kenya
Overview & Key Positioning
The 5th generation 12.9-inch iPad Pro (2021) was a monumental leap, defined by the integration of the Apple M1 chip—the same chip powering MacBooks and iMacs at the time. It also introduced the stunning Liquid Retina XDR display, powered by Mini-LED technology. This base model offers that flagship experience at a more accessible price point.
Key Selling Points:
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M1 Chip: Desktop-class performance for professional workflows.
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Liquid Retina XDR Display: A groundbreaking Mini-LED screen with extreme contrast and brightness.
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5G Connectivity: (On cellular models) Ultra-fast wireless speeds.
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Center Stage: An automatic framing feature for video calls.
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Thunderbolt Port: High-speed connectivity for pro peripherals.
Full Specifications
Category | Specification |
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Model Identifier | MHNF3AB/A (iPad Pro 12.9-inch 5th Gen, 128GB, Space Grey, Wi-Fi only) |
Apple Model Number | A2379 (Wi-Fi model) |
Release Year | April 2021 |
Storage Capacity | 128GB (Base storage option) |
RAM | 8GB (128GB, 256GB, and 512GB models have 8GB RAM) |
Color | Space Grey (Also available in Silver) |
Connectivity | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), Bluetooth 5.0 Note: This is the Wi-Fi only model. It does not have cellular connectivity. |
Display | 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR with Mini-LED • Resolution: 2732 x 2048 pixels at 264 ppi • Technology: ProMotion (120Hz adaptive refresh rate), Mini-LED backlight with 2,596 full-array local dimming zones, P3 wide color, True Tone • Brightness: 1000 nits full-screen, 1600 nits peak (HDR) |
Chip | Apple M1 Chip • CPU: 8-core (4 performance + 4 efficiency) • GPU: 8-core • Neural Engine: 16-core |
Operating System | Shipped with iPadOS 14.5. Supports up to the latest iPadOS 18. |
Cameras | Rear: • Wide: 12MP, ƒ/1.8 aperture, Smart HDR 3 • Ultra Wide: 10MP, ƒ/2.4 aperture, 125° FOV • LiDAR Scanner: for depth sensing and improved AR Front: 12MP Ultra Wide camera (ƒ/2.4), Center Stage feature, 1080p video |
Biometrics | Face ID |
Port | USB-C with support for Thunderbolt 3 / USB 4 • Data Transfer: Up to 40Gb/s • Video Output: Drive Pro Display XDR at 6K resolution |
Audio | Studio-quality microphones, Four speaker stereo sound system |
Accessory Support | Apple Pencil (2nd Generation) Magic Keyboard & Smart Keyboard Folio (via Smart Connector) |
Battery | Up to 10 hours of surfing the web on Wi-Fi or watching video. |
Key Features Explained
1. Liquid Retina XDR Display (Mini-LED)
This is the standout feature of the 12.9-inch model. The Mini-LED technology results in:
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Extreme Contrast Ratio: 1,000,000:1, delivering true blacks and bright whites simultaneously.
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Incredible HDR Performance: Perfect for video editing, photo editing, and watching HDR content from services like Apple TV+ and Netflix.
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Full-Array Local Dimming: Thousands of tiny LEDs are grouped into over 2,500 local dimming zones, allowing precise control over screen areas for exceptional detail.
2. M1 Chip with 8GB RAM
The inclusion of the M1 chip was a game-changer, providing:
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Laptop-Level Performance: Up to 50% faster CPU and 40% faster GPU than the previous A12Z chip. It handles 4K video editing, 3D modeling, and complex multitasking with ease.
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Future-Proofing: The power of the M1 ensures the device remains highly capable for years.
3. Thunderbolt / USB 4 Port
This port offers vastly expanded connectivity options:
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Fastest Data Transfers: Connect to high-speed external SSDs.
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High-Resolution Displays: Connect to pro-level monitors, including the 6K Pro Display XDR.
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Advanced Docks: Connect to hubs for Ethernet, additional ports, and audio interfaces.
4. Center Stage
The 12MP Ultra Wide front camera uses machine learning to automatically pan and zoom during video calls, keeping you centered in the frame as you move. This is ideal for video conferencing on apps like Zoom and FaceTime.
Target Audience
This base model is ideal for:
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Creative Professionals: Photographers, videographers, and artists who need a large, color-accurate canvas and powerful performance for apps like Photoshop, Lightroom, and Procreate.
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Students in Demanding Fields: Architecture, engineering, and design students who need a powerful portable device for their coursework.
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Media Consumers: Users who prioritize a top-tier display for watching movies and TV shows.
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Professionals seeking a laptop alternative: When paired with the Magic Keyboard, it can serve as a primary computer for many tasks.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
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Best-in-Class Display: The Liquid Retina XDR screen is arguably the best display on any tablet, perfect for HDR content and creative work.
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Exceptional Performance: The M1 chip provides more than enough power for nearly all tablet-optimized tasks and many professional applications.
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Future-Proof Connectivity: Thunderbolt support enables a wide range of professional peripherals.
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Great Value for Pros: Offers the core Pro experience (M1, XDR display) at the lowest entry price for the 12.9-inch size.
Cons:
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128GB Storage Limitation: For professionals working with large video files, photo libraries, or 3D assets, 128GB can fill up very quickly.
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Large and Heavy: Less portable than the 11-inch model, and can be cumbersome to hold for long periods.
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High Cost: Even the base model is a significant investment.
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Wi-Fi Only: The lack of cellular connectivity means reliance on Wi-Fi hotspots for internet on the go.
Conclusion
The iPad Pro 5th Gen 12.9-inch 128GB (MHNF3AB/A) is a flagship tablet that prioritizes display quality and raw performance. It is an exceptional device for creative professionals and power users who value the best possible screen above all else. While the 128GB storage is a limitation for heavy video work, it is sufficient for many users, especially those who leverage cloud storage or external drives via the Thunderbolt port. It remains a highly capable and desirable device for anyone seeking a top-tier large-format tablet experience.
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