3rd Gen iPad Pro: Specs, Features, and History

Explore the 3rd Gen iPad Pro with its design, performance, display, and legacy. Learn about display, camera, accessories, OS support, and practical buying tips for this 2018 Apple tablet.

Tablet Info Team

March 29, 2026·5 min read

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3rd gen ipad pro

3rd gen ipad pro is a type of tablet in Apple's iPad Pro line released in 2018. It introduced a redesigned edge-to-edge display, Face ID, and USB-C, delivering strong performance.

Overview and evolution of the 3rd gen iPad Pro

The 3rd gen ipad pro arrived in 2018 as a bold redesign of Apple's flagship tablet line. It swapped the home button for a near edge to edge display, refreshed the chassis, and introduced USB-C connectivity for charging and accessory support. Available in two sizes, 11 inch and 12.9 inch, the generation kicked off a new era of iPad Pro performance, with the A12X Bionic chip delivering strong multitasking, graphics, and app responsiveness. According to Tablet Info, this generation set the stage for later hardware improvements like better cameras, faster external storage options, and keyboard accessories that turned the iPad into a more capable laptop substitute. The shift to a more open port and a modern, screen-forward design also laid groundwork for the future iPadOS updates that leveraged USB-C for broader accessory compatibility. For many users, the 2018 iPad Pro represents a sweet spot between modern features and substantial software support, making it a popular choice in the used and refurbished market. In this block we examine what makes this generation unique and how it influenced subsequent models.

Design and display details

The 3rd gen iPad Pro introduced a more premium design with a uniform edge to edge display and no home button, enabling a larger screen footprint on the same chassis. The two available sizes, 11 inch and 12.9 inch, offered high resolution Liquid Retina panels with excellent color accuracy and wide viewing angles. The 11 inch measured 2388 by 1668 pixels, while the 12.9 inch pushed to 2732 by 2048 pixels on the larger panel; both delivered bright, sharp images and the familiar smooth scrolling of ProMotion at up to 120 Hz. The devices support True Tone and wide color gamut for natural skin tones and vivid landscapes. On the outside, the chassis included a USB-C port for charging and accessories, discarding the older Lightning connector. The integration of Face ID replaced the physical home button, providing secure authentication and a more modern workflow when unlocking the device or authenticating purchases. The combination of premium materials, fast display, and a spacious canvas contributed to a strong multi-use device, suited for art, design, productivity, and media consumption.

Performance and internals

Under the hood, the 3rd gen iPad Pro packs Apple’s A12X Bionic chip, a powerful processor with a capable Neural Engine that accelerates machine learning tasks. This translates into smooth app switching, robust photo and video editing, and confident performance in demanding apps like 3D design suites and creative tools. Apple offered storage options up to 1 TB, a significant step for tablet storage at the time, giving professionals room for large artwork, RAW photos, and substantial project files. Coupled with strong memory and a responsive GPU, this generation held its own against early laptops in many scenarios. Thermal design kept temperatures in check during sustained workloads, though heavier tasks still benefit from a cooling period. For most day-to-day tasks, the 3rd gen iPad Pro felt snappy, with long battery life enabling extended workflows. The ongoing iPadOS updates broadened software capabilities, expanding multitasking features, pencil gestures, and side-by-side app experiences across the two sizes. In short, the 3rd gen iPad Pro marked a meaningful performance milestone that supported rich creative work.

Cameras, accessories, and peripherals

The camera system on the 3rd gen iPad Pro was solid for a tablet category, with a 12 MP rear camera capable of high quality photos and 4K video, plus a 7 MP FaceTime camera upfront for video calls. The display and processing power complemented these sensors well for augmented reality apps and shooting reference material. Accessories included the Apple Pencil (2nd generation) that magnetically attached to the edge of the device and the Smart Keyboard Folio or Magic Keyboard support that turned the iPad into a portable workstation. The USB-C port enabled fast transfers and external displays with compatible adapters. While cameras were not the primary selling point for this model, the combination of pen support and keyboard accessories elevated its productivity potential significantly compared with earlier iPad generations.

Software, OS, and app ecology

Software-wise, the 3rd gen iPad Pro shipped with iPadOS that emphasized multitasking, drag and drop, and a refined Home screen experience. Over its lifetime, it received iPadOS updates that broadened multitasking workflows, polished the Pencil experience, and improved file management and file export. The iPad Pro ecosystem benefited from robust app support across creative, productivity, and education categories, including design apps, document editors, and media tools. The Pencil experience, with palm rejection and precision input, complemented the Smart Keyboard Folio and other USB-C accessories. For professionals and students, the 3rd gen iPad Pro offered a near-laptop experience when paired with a keyboard and a high-quality display. The device remains viable for light tasks and media consumption today, especially when kept up to date with the latest available software revisions.

Battery life, charging, and real-world usage

Battery life on the 3rd gen iPad Pro generally delivered around ten hours of mixed use, depending on brightness, workload, and wireless activity. The USB-C port supported efficient charging and accessory connectivity, enabling users to top up quickly or drive external devices. In practice, users found the device comfortable for long reading sessions, video streaming, and productivity tasks such as document editing, especially when paired with a keyboard. Heat is typically manageable; extended heavy rendering tasks may cause some warmth, but throttling was minimal for everyday work. Real-world usage benefits from keeping iPadOS software current, ensuring smoother transitions between apps and better energy management. Overall, the 3rd gen iPad Pro remains a credible option for those who value a large display, portable form factor, and a robust app ecosystem.

Buying tips and value today

Today, the 3rd gen iPad Pro mostly exists in the used or refurbished market, where price and condition vary widely. Prospective buyers should check battery health, screen integrity, and the presence of the original charging accessories. When evaluating used units, prioritize devices with strong battery health and minimal screen or chassis damage. Consider storage size and whether the device will meet your needs for apps, media, and documents. The USB-C port remains a strong plus for modern accessories, but be aware that some older units may have slower charging with newer chargers. If you need Pencil and keyboard capability, verify compatibility with the Apple Pencil (2nd generation) and keyboard options. The Tablet Info team notes that the 3rd gen iPad Pro offers compelling value for users who want a large-screen tablet with strong performance, as long as expectations are aligned with its age and software support window.

Troubleshooting and common issues

Typical issues include battery degradation with age, slower performance with the latest apps, and occasional display or touch responsiveness challenges. Simple fixes such as recalibrating the battery, restoring to factory settings after backing up, updating to a compatible iPadOS version, and checking for app compatibility can resolve many problems. For charging, use a good USB-C charger and verify cable integrity; if charging is slow, inspect for heat or cable wear. When using external accessories like keyboards and Pencil, ensure the device is adequately updated and that the accessory is compatible with USB-C standards. Regular maintenance, screen cleaning, and keeping the device secure with current OS updates help maximize the lifespan of this vintage Pro model. If issues persist, consider professional diagnostics and battery replacement as a last resort to restore productivity.

The legacy of the 3rd gen iPad Pro in today's ecosystem

Even years after its release, the 3rd gen iPad Pro remains relevant for certain use cases. Creative professionals value the large display and Apple Pencil integration, while students and light power users prize the portable form factor and strong app ecosystem. Its USB-C port keeps it compatible with many modern peripherals, though software support lags behind newer generations. For buyers, the model offers a tangible balance of performance and value on the used market, provided expectations are anchored to its era of release and the current state of software updates.

Final recommendations and next steps

If you want a large screen with strong creative capabilities and you are comfortable with a device from 2018 era, the 3rd gen iPad Pro can still be a solid choice, especially when found with good condition and battery health. For users who need the latest camera tech, fastest chip performance, or the newest accessories, a newer iPad Pro may be a better fit. Always verify OS compatibility and accessory support before purchase, and consider a professional check for battery health if buying used.

Quick-start tips after purchase

Power on the device and check for the latest supported iPadOS version. Install essential apps you rely on, test the Pencil and keyboard accessories, and run a battery health check if available. Back up your data to iCloud or a computer, enable Find My iPad, and configure privacy preferences. With these steps, the 3rd gen iPad Pro can be a dependable companion for creative tasks and everyday productivity.

Wrapping up the journey

The 3rd gen iPad Pro represents a pivotal moment in Apple tablet history, balancing a modern design with strong software support. Its USB-C convenience, vibrant display, and Pencil compatibility keep it relevant for many users today, particularly in the used or refurbished market. Tablet Info's analysis highlights its ongoing value for those who prioritize screen real estate and versatility over the newest features.

Questions & Answers

What is the 3rd gen iPad Pro?

The 3rd gen iPad Pro refers to Apple's 2018 iPad Pro models, featuring a design shift to edge-to-edge displays, Face ID, and USB-C. This generation emphasized performance and accessories, setting the stage for subsequent Pro models.

What sizes did the 3rd gen iPad Pro come in?

It was released in two sizes: 11 inches and 12.9 inches, both offering premium displays and similar core features. The larger model provided more screen real estate for professional tasks.

Is the 3rd gen iPad Pro compatible with Apple Pencil?

Yes. The 3rd gen iPad Pro supports the Apple Pencil in its second generation, which attaches magnetically and enables precise input for drawing and notes. It also works with compatible keyboards for a laptop-like experience.

Can the 3rd gen iPad Pro run the latest iPadOS versions?

The 3rd gen iPad Pro can run iPadOS versions released during its supported lifetime, but it may not receive every recent update available on newer models. For the most current compatibility, consult Apple’s official lists.

How does the 3rd gen iPad Pro compare to newer models?

Newer iPad Pro generations feature faster chips, more advanced cameras, and newer accessories. The 3rd gen excels in display size and pencil integration, but newer models offer better performance, longer software support, and advanced features like LiDAR and upgraded connectivity.

Should I buy a used 3rd gen iPad Pro today?

Buying used or refurbished can offer strong value if battery health, screen, and charging accessories are solid. Check the device’s health, confirm accessory compatibility, and verify that the software is reasonably up to date.