Is iPad Pro 12.9-inch 4th Gen 2020 Worth Buying in 2026
Introduction
Is the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (4th Gen, 2020) still worth buying in 2026?
According to UpTrade’s Price Tracker, the Certified Used / Refurbished iPad Pro 12.9” 4th Gen has dropped to $480+, making it one of the best premium tablet values on the market. Despite being released in 2020, it remains a powerful, professional-grade device — and more importantly, it still supports the latest iPadOS 26, ensuring continued performance, security, and compatibility.
With its A12Z Bionic chip, 120Hz ProMotion display, advanced camera system with LiDAR, and support for Apple Pencil 2 and Magic Keyboard, the 4th Gen iPad Pro continues to deliver features that rival many modern tablets in 2026. When paired with its significantly reduced price, the value proposition becomes extremely strong.
Short answer: Yes. – The iPad Pro 12.9” 4th Gen is absolutely worth buying in 2026, especially when purchased Certified Used or Refurbished at today’s much lower prices. Read the following for more information.
Key Highlights (Quick Summary Section)
- Great Price in 2026 — Starting at $480+ (Certified Used / Refurbished)
A huge discount from its original $999 retail price. - Still Supports the Latest iPadOS 26
Ensures continued app compatibility, security updates, and performance improvements. - Powerful A12Z Bionic Chip
Handles multitasking, gaming, video editing, and creative apps with ease. - Premium 12.9-inch ProMotion 120Hz Display
Excellent for artists, professionals, students, and media consumption. - LiDAR Scanner + Advanced Cameras
Great for AR apps, photography, and professional-grade workflows. - Compatible with Apple Pencil 2 & Magic Keyboard
Turns the iPad Pro into a true laptop replacement. - Outstanding Build Quality
Still feels modern, premium, and fast in 2026.
iPad Pro 12.9” (4th Gen) Performance in 2026
Even in 2026, the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (4th Gen) remains a high-performance tablet thanks to the A12Z Bionic chip, which was originally built for professional-grade workflows. Despite being four generations old, real-world performance is still excellent for most users — especially at the current price point.
Powerful Multitasking
iPadOS 26 makes full use of the A12Z chip and 6GB of RAM, allowing the 4th Gen iPad Pro to handle:
- Stage Manager multitasking
- Multiple apps in Split View
- Photo and video editing
- Productivity apps like Notion, Excel, and Google Workspace
It remains fast, smooth, and highly responsive.
Great for Creators and Professionals
With an 8-core GPU, the iPad Pro 4th Gen handles:
- Procreate and digital illustration
- LumaFusion video editing
- Lightroom photo editing
- 3D modeling and AR applications (thanks to the LiDAR scanner)
It may not match the raw power of the M1 or M2 iPad Pro models, but most users won’t notice a meaningful difference in day-to-day use.
Gaming & Media
The A12Z still runs modern App Store games extremely well, and the 120Hz ProMotion display provides a smooth, high-end gaming experience. Combined with four speakers, it’s also one of the best tablets for streaming, movies, and content consumption.
Bottom Line on Performance
The iPad Pro 12.9” 4th Gen is still a top-tier performer in 2026, offering more than enough power for students, professionals, creators, and everyday users — especially at under $500.
Display Quality — Still Excellent in 2026
The 12.9-inch display on the iPad Pro 4th Gen remains one of its strongest selling points in 2026. Even though it doesn’t have the mini-LED XDR panel found in newer models, it still delivers an outstanding visual experience that outperforms most tablets on the market today.
Large 12.9-inch Liquid Retina Display
The large screen makes it ideal for:
- Multitasking and productivity
- Media consumption (Netflix, YouTube, Disney+, etc.)
- Note-taking and digital art
- Spreadsheet and document work
- Photo and video editing
For students, professionals, and creators, the 12.9-inch size offers a laptop-like workspace.
120Hz ProMotion Refresh Rate
This is the key advantage over non-Pro iPads.
The 4th Gen iPad Pro supports 120Hz ProMotion, giving you:
- Extremely smooth scrolling
- Fluid animations
- Better Apple Pencil response
- Improved gaming performance
Color Accuracy & Brightness
The Liquid Retina panel is:
- Bright
- True-to-color
- P3 wide-color capable
- Perfect for photo/video work and content creation
Even in 2026, it looks modern, sharp, and professional.
Compared to Newer mini-LED and OLED Pros
While the 5th and 6th Gen iPad Pro offer mini-LED XDR displays (and newer models have OLED), the difference mainly matters for:
- HDR content
- High-end color grading
- Professional video workflows
For everyday users, artists, and productivity, the 4th Gen display remains exceptional.
Software Support — iPadOS 26 Compatibility
One of the biggest reasons the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (4th Gen) is still worth buying in 2026 is its full support for iPadOS 26, Apple’s latest operating system. This ensures the device remains fast, secure, and compatible with modern apps and features.
Still Supported by the Latest iPadOS
As of 2026, the 4th Gen iPad Pro receives:
- Major iPadOS updates
- Feature enhancements
- Performance improvements
- Security patches
- Bug fixes
Software support is the most important factor when buying a Certified Used or Refurbished iPad — and the 4th Gen still passes with flying colors.
Expected Future Support
Based on Apple’s typical iPad Pro lifecycle (6–7 years of updates), the 4th Gen should continue receiving iPadOS updates for:
- At least another 1–2 years, possibly longer
- Security updates even after feature updates stop
This gives buyers confidence that the device will remain usable and reliable well beyond 2026.
Why Software Support Matters
Without the latest iPadOS, older iPads can struggle with:
- App incompatibility
- Missing new productivity tools
- Slower performance
- Reduced security
- Ecosystem features not working properly
Because the 4th Gen still supports iPadOS 26, it behaves like a modern iPad for most users.
Battery Life & Build Quality in 2026
The iPad Pro 12.9-inch (4th Gen) was designed as a premium, professional-grade device — and that high-quality construction continues to pay off in 2026. Between strong battery performance and excellent hardware durability, it still feels like a premium tablet years after release.
Battery Life in 2026
Even several years after launch, the 4th Gen iPad Pro commonly delivers:
- 8–10 hours of typical usage
- All-day battery for students and professionals
- Strong endurance for streaming and productivity
- Good standby efficiency
Battery degradation varies based on usage, but most units should still perform well — especially those sold through Certified Used / Refurbished programs, which typically verify battery health.
If the Battery Has Aged
Battery replacements are available and can extend the life of the device by years. For heavy users, replacing the battery is often more cost-effective than upgrading to a newer iPad.
Build Quality — Premium and Long-Lasting
The 4th Gen iPad Pro features the same premium build that newer Pro models still use:
- Rigid aluminum frame
- High-quality Liquid Retina display
- Strong internal components
- Excellent speaker system
- USB-C port for modern accessories
It feels just as premium in 2026 as newer iPad Pros, especially compared to regular iPads or older models.
Durability Over Time
The 4th Gen holds up extremely well with normal use:
- Resists scratches and bending under typical conditions
- Keyboard folios protect it further
- Screen remains vibrant and sharp even after years of use
Apple's build quality ensures that the device still looks and feels high-end.
Accessory Compatibility — Boosting Long-Term Value
One of the biggest strengths of the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (4th Gen) is its compatibility with premium Apple accessories. This significantly enhances productivity, creativity, and long-term usability — making it an even better value in 2026.
Apple Pencil 2 Support
The 4th Gen iPad Pro works perfectly with the Apple Pencil (2nd Generation), giving users:
- Industry-leading drawing accuracy
- Low-latency writing and sketching (thanks to 120Hz ProMotion)
- Magnetic charging on the side of the iPad
- Double-tap tool switching
For artists, note-takers, designers, and students, this dramatically improves the experience compared to iPads that only support the original Apple Pencil.
Magic Keyboard & Smart Keyboard Folio
Magic Keyboard
- Backlit keys
- Laptop-like typing experience
- Built-in trackpad
- Floating magnetic design
- USB-C passthrough charging
This effectively turns the iPad Pro into a laptop replacement — especially useful for students, remote workers, and professionals.
Smart Keyboard Folio
- Lightweight
- Simple
- Ideal for writing and travel
- More affordable option
Both elevate productivity and extend the device's lifespan.
USB-C Connectivity
Because the iPad Pro uses USB-C, it remains compatible with:
- External monitors
- USB-C hubs
- SSD drives
- Cameras
- Audio interfaces
- Modern charging accessories
This keeps it future-proof and more versatile than older Lightning-based iPads.
Why Accessory Support Matters
Many cheaper iPads (like the iPad 9th or 10th Gen) cannot match the accessory ecosystem of the iPad Pro 4th Gen. With support for the best Apple accessories, this model remains relevant for:
- Students replacing laptops
- Creators needing a digital studio
- Professionals using productivity workflows
- Everyday users who want a premium experience
This makes the 4th Gen iPad Pro far more practical and long-lasting than lower-tier iPads.
iPad Pro 12.9-inch 4th Gen (2020) vs 5th Gen (2021, M1)
When comparing the iPad Pro 12.9-inch 4th Gen to the 5th Gen, the key question is simple: should you pay extra for the newer model, or save money with the 4th Gen?
The 5th Gen typically starts around $550+, but we’ve seen it drop below $500 at times. If you find one under $500, it’s an incredible deal — definitely get it. UpTrade can help you compare Certified Used / Refurbished prices across trusted sellers so you always get the best value.
Specs Comparison
| Feature | iPad Pro 12.9” 4th Gen (2020) | iPad Pro 12.9” 5th Gen (2021, M1) |
|---|---|---|
| Chipset | A12Z Bionic | Apple M1 |
| Display Type | Liquid Retina | Liquid Retina XDR (mini-LED) |
| Screen Refresh Rate | 120Hz ProMotion | 120Hz ProMotion |
| Brightness | 600 nits | 1,000 nits (SDR), 1,600 nits (HDR) |
| RAM | 6GB | 8GB (128–512GB) / 16GB (1–2TB) |
| Storage | 128GB–1TB | 128GB–2TB |
| Rear Cameras | 12MP Wide + 10MP Ultra-Wide + LiDAR | 12MP Wide + 10MP Ultra-Wide + LiDAR |
| Front Camera | 7MP | 12MP Ultra-Wide (Center Stage) |
| Connectivity | USB-C | Thunderbolt / USB 4 |
| Battery Life | Up to 10 hours | Up to 10 hours |
| Speakers | 4-speaker audio | 4-speaker audio |
| OS Support (2026) | iPadOS 26 | iPadOS 26 |
| Launch Price | $999 | $1,099 |
| Certified Used / Refurbished Price | $480+ | $550+ (but sometimes below $500 on sales) |
Key Differences
1. Performance — M1 Is Noticeably Faster
The biggest upgrade in the 5th Gen is the Apple M1 chip, which delivers:
- Faster CPU performance
- Better GPU performance
- Much higher efficiency
- Longer future support
For multitasking, creative work, and heavy workloads, the M1 is the more future-proof option.
Who benefits most from M1?
- Pro artists using Procreate for large canvases
- Video editors working in LumaFusion or DaVinci
- Designers, architects, and 3D modelers
- Anyone who wants multi-year longevity
For everyday tasks, the A12Z is still very smooth — but the M1 clearly takes the lead for professionals. Because M1 is Apple’s first in-house Mac-class chipset for iPad, it’s also expected to receive longer-term software support.
2. Display — 5th Gen Has Mini-LED XDR
The 5th Gen features Apple’s Liquid Retina XDR (mini-LED) display with:
- 1,000–1,600 nits brightness
- Far better HDR performance
- Higher contrast and deeper blacks
Who benefits most?
- Video editors
- Photographers
- Users watching HDR movies
- Anyone who wants the best display available
If you don’t need HDR, the 4th Gen’s display still looks fantastic.
3. Connectivity — Thunderbolt vs USB-C
The 5th Gen includes Thunderbolt / USB 4, which:
- Supports faster external SSD speeds
- Works better with high-resolution external monitors
This matters mainly for professional workflows.
4. Front Camera Upgrade — Center Stage
The 5th Gen has a 12MP Ultra-Wide front camera with Center Stage, which:
- Auto-tracks you during video calls
- Zooms in and out automatically
- Improves overall video quality
This is great for remote work, school, and meetings.
5. Price Differences — Big Savings With the 4th Gen
- 4th Gen: Typically $480+ Certified Used / Refurbished
- 5th Gen: Usually $550+, but may drop below $500 during sales
If the 5th Gen dips under $500, it is hands-down the better choice. UpTrade tracks Certified Used / Refurbished deals across trusted sellers, making it easy to catch those price drops.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the iPad Pro 12.9” 4th Gen (2020) if you want:
- The lowest price
- Great performance under $500
This is the best-value iPad Pro for most shoppers.
Choose the iPad Pro 12.9” 5th Gen (2021, M1) if:
- You find it below $500 → grab it immediately
- You need mini-LED HDR brightness
- You want the fastest performance and longest lifespan
- You rely on Thunderbolt for pro accessories
This is the better long-term investment.
Conclusion — Is the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (4th Gen, 2020) Worth Buying in 2026?
Yes — the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (4th Gen, 2020) is absolutely worth buying in 2026, especially at its new lower price of $480+ Certified Used / Refurbished. It offers a rare combination of premium features, high-end performance, and long-term software support at a mid-range price.
With its 120Hz ProMotion display, A12Z Bionic chip, excellent accessory support, large 12.9-inch workspace, strong build quality, and full compatibility with iPadOS 26, it remains one of the best-value tablets available today.
If you compare it to the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (5th Gen, 2021) with the M1 chip, the 4th Gen still shines — but if the 5th Gen ever drops below $500, it becomes the superior buy. UpTrade helps you track these price dips so you never miss the best deal.
FAQ — iPad Pro 12.9-inch (4th Gen, 2020)
1. What year is the iPad Pro 12.9-inch 4th Gen from?
The iPad Pro 12.9-inch (4th Gen) was released in March 2020.
2. How old is the iPad Pro 12.9-inch 4th Gen in 2026?
In 2026, the 4th Gen model is 6 years old.
3. What generation is the iPad Pro 12.9-inch 2020?
The 2020 model is the 4th generation of the 12.9-inch iPad Pro lineup.
4. Is the iPad Pro 12.9-inch 4th Gen still good in 2026?
Yes. It remains powerful, smooth, and fully compatible with iPadOS 26, making it an excellent value in 2026.
5. How long will the iPad Pro 12.9-inch 4th Gen be supported?
Apple typically provides 6–7 years of major iPadOS updates. The 4th Gen should receive 1–2 more years of updates plus additional security patches, keeping it usable through 2027–2028.
6. Is the A12Z Bionic still fast?
Yes. The A12Z handles multitasking, creative apps, video editing, and gaming extremely well. Most users won’t notice major differences compared to M1 unless working with heavy pro workflows.
7. Does the 4th Gen support iPadOS 26?
Yes, it fully supports iPadOS 26, which is crucial for app compatibility, performance improvements, and long-term security.
8. Is the 4th Gen worth buying over the 5th Gen?
If the 5th Gen drops below $500, it becomes the better choice due to the M1 chip and mini-LED XDR display.
Otherwise, the 4th Gen at $480+ Certified Used / Refurbished offers outstanding value.
9. How does the 4th Gen compare to the iPad Air 5?
The iPad Pro 4th Gen offers:
- A larger 12.9-inch screen
- 120Hz ProMotion
- Better speakers
- More professional features
The iPad Air 5 is great, but the Pro delivers a significantly more premium experience.
10. Is the 4th Gen good for drawing or art?
Yes. With Apple Pencil 2 and 120Hz ProMotion, it is excellent for Procreate, illustration, design, and animation.
11. Is it good for students or professionals?
Absolutely. Paired with the Magic Keyboard, it functions like a laptop and handles productivity apps with ease.
12. Does the iPad Pro 4th Gen still have good battery life?
Most units still deliver strong all-day battery performance. Certified Used / Refurbished sellers typically ensure healthy batteries.
13. Does the 4th Gen support Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil 2?
Yes — both accessories are fully supported and significantly enhance usability and longevity.
14. Will the iPad Pro 4th Gen still work after Apple stops updating it?
Yes, it will continue powering on, but lack of updates eventually leads to:
- App incompatibility
- Reduced security
- Missing new features
- Slower performance
Most users choose to upgrade at this point.
15. Is the iPad Pro 12.9-inch 4th Gen a good choice under $500?
Yes — at $480+, it is one of the best high-performance tablets available in 2026, offering premium Pro features at a mid-range price.
