The Apple iPad Pro 10.5, launched in June 2017, is one of the most popular models in the iPad Pro lineup. It strikes a perfect balance between performance, portability, and premium features, making it a top choice for both casual users and professionals.
With a powerful processor, stunning display, and useful accessories like the Apple Pencil and Smart Keyboard, the iPad Pro 10.5 continues to remain a solid option for many in 2025. In this review, we will dive deep into its design, performance, display, camera, battery life, and overall usability.
Table of Contents
- Apple iPad Pro 10.5 Key Specifications
- Design and Build Quality
- Display: Stunning Retina Display with ProMotion
- A10X Fusion Chip Powers Everything
- Battery Life: Long-Lasting Power
- Camera: High-Quality Photography and Video Recording
- Apple Pencil and Smart Keyboard
- Connectivity and Ports
- iPadOS and Software Features
- iPad Pro 9.7‑in vs iPad Pro 10.5‑in vs iPad Pro 11‑in (1st Gen) Comparison
- Pros
- Cons
- Should You Buy the iPad Pro 10.5 in 2025?
- Conclusion
Apple iPad Pro 10.5 Key Specifications
| Specification | Apple iPad Pro 10.5 (2017) |
|---|---|
| Launch Date | Jun-17 |
| Weight | 469g (Wi-Fi), 477g (Wi-Fi + LTE) |
| Dimensions | 250.6 x 174.1 x 6.1 mm |
| OS | iOS 10.3.2, upgradeable to iPadOS 17.6.1 |
| Display | 10.5 inches, IPS LCD, 120Hz, 1668 x 2224 pixels |
| Chipset | Apple A10X Fusion (10 nm) |
| CPU | Hexa-core (3x Hurricane + 3x Zephyr) |
| GPU | PowerVR Series 7 (12-core) |
| RAM/Storage | 4GB RAM, 64GB/256GB/512GB storage |
| Camera (Main) | 12 MP, f/1.8, PDAF, OIS |
| Front Camera | 7 MP, f/2.2 |
| Battery | Li-Ion 8134 mAh, non-removable |
| Price (approx.) | 730 EUR |
Design and Build Quality
The Apple iPad Pro 10.5 features a sleek, modern design with dimensions of 250.6 x 174.1 x 6.1 mm. At just 469 grams for the Wi-Fi model and 477 grams for the LTE version, the tablet remains lightweight, making it easy to carry around. The front is made of durable glass, while the back and frame are crafted from aluminum, giving it a premium feel.
This model has a 78.3% screen-to-body ratio, which is quite impressive for a tablet of its size. With thin bezels around the screen, the device feels modern and stylish. The iPad Pro 10.5 is available in several attractive colors, including Space Gray, Silver, Rose Gold, and Gold, catering to various personal tastes.
Display: Stunning Retina Display with ProMotion
The iPad Pro 10.5 features a 10.5-inch Retina display with a resolution of 1668 x 2224 pixels. This provides a pixel density of ~265 ppi, which delivers sharp and vibrant visuals. One of the best features of the display is the ProMotion technology, which offers a 120Hz refresh rate. This makes scrolling, gaming, and video-watching smoother than ever before.
The iPad Pro 10.5’s display supports True Tone, which adjusts the screen’s color temperature to match the ambient light, offering a more natural viewing experience. Whether you’re working on creative tasks, browsing the web, or watching movies, the display is incredibly immersive.
The screen is also coated with scratch-resistant glass and an oleophobic coating to minimize fingerprints, ensuring that the display remains clear even after extended use.
A10X Fusion Chip Powers Everything
The iPad Pro 10.5 is powered by the A10X Fusion chip, which is built using 10nm technology. This chip features a hexa-core CPU, consisting of three high-performance cores (Hurricane) and three high-efficiency cores (Zephyr), providing powerful processing capabilities while maintaining energy efficiency.
The 12-core PowerVR Series 7 GPU allows the iPad Pro 10.5 to handle demanding applications such as video editing, graphic design, and gaming without breaking a sweat. Whether you’re using the device for work or entertainment, the iPad Pro 10.5 offers a fluid and responsive experience.
The tablet comes with 4GB of RAM and offers storage options of 64GB, 256GB, and 512GB. While the iPad Pro 10.5 does not include expandable storage through a card slot, the available storage options are more than adequate for most users.
Battery Life: Long-Lasting Power
The iPad Pro 10.5 packs an 8134mAh battery that can provide up to 10 hours of multimedia use, including web browsing, video playback, and music listening. This battery life is on par with most modern tablets, ensuring that you can work or play all day without constantly needing to recharge.
Whether you’re using the device for professional tasks, entertainment, or creative work, the iPad Pro 10.5 is designed to last through your busiest days. The iPad Pro supports fast charging, so you can quickly power up the device when you’re running low on battery.
Camera: High-Quality Photography and Video Recording
The iPad Pro 10.5 is equipped with a 12MP rear camera with an f/1.8 aperture, phase detection autofocus (PDAF), and optical image stabilization (OIS). This makes it capable of taking high-quality photos and videos, even in low-light conditions. The camera also supports Quad-LED dual-tone flash, HDR, and 4K video recording at 30 fps.
For those who enjoy shooting videos or taking photos on their tablet, the rear camera on the iPad Pro 10.5 produces crisp, detailed images and smooth 4K video.
On the front, the 7MP FaceTime HD camera is excellent for video calls and selfies. It supports HDR and 1080p video recording, ensuring that you look sharp and clear during video chats or when snapping selfies.
Apple Pencil and Smart Keyboard
One of the key selling points of the iPad Pro 10.5 is its support for the Apple Pencil (1st generation) and Smart Keyboard. The Apple Pencil offers exceptional precision, low latency, and pressure sensitivity, making it perfect for artists, designers, and anyone who needs to take handwritten notes.
The Smart Keyboard is a versatile accessory that turns the iPad Pro 10.5 into a productivity powerhouse. It attaches magnetically to the tablet, providing a comfortable typing experience while also serving as a protective cover. With the Smart Keyboard, you can easily type up documents, emails, and notes without the need for a separate laptop.
Connectivity and Ports
The iPad Pro 10.5 features Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac with dual-band support, ensuring fast and reliable internet connectivity. For those who need cellular connectivity, there is a Wi-Fi + Cellular model, which includes GPS support, making it a great option for those who want to stay connected while on the go.
The iPad Pro 10.5 also includes a Lightning port for charging and connecting accessories. While this is the older standard compared to USB-C, it still provides fast data transfer speeds and compatibility with a wide range of accessories.
iPadOS and Software Features
The iPad Pro 10.5 runs iOS 10.3.2, but it is upgradable to iPadOS 17.6.1, giving it access to a variety of productivity and multitasking features. iPadOS provides better support for multitasking, allowing you to run multiple apps side by side and interact with them simultaneously.
With the iPadOS operating system, users can take advantage of features like Slide Over, Split View, and Picture-in-Picture, which make the iPad Pro 10.5 even more useful for professional work.
iPad Pro 9.7‑in vs iPad Pro 10.5‑in vs iPad Pro 11‑in (1st Gen) Comparison
The iPad Pro lineup has undergone substantial changes over the years, with each model offering different features, sizes, and performance capabilities. Below is a detailed comparison of the iPad Pro 9.7-inch, iPad Pro 10.5-inch, and iPad Pro 11-inch (1st generation) to help you make an informed decision.
| Feature | iPad Pro 9.7-inch | iPad Pro 10.5-inch | iPad Pro 11-inch (1st Gen) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Release Year | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 |
| Finish Options | Space Gray, Silver, Gold, Rose Gold | Space Gray, Silver, Gold, Rose Gold | Space Gray, Silver |
| Display Type | Retina Display | Retina Display with ProMotion | Liquid Retina Display with ProMotion |
| Display Size | 9.7 inches | 10.5 inches | 11 inches |
| Resolution | 2048 x 1536 pixels, 264 ppi | 2224 x 1668 pixels, 264 ppi | 2388 x 1668 pixels, 264 ppi |
| Brightness | 500 nits (max) | 600 nits (max) | 600 nits (max) |
| ProMotion Technology | No | Yes | Yes |
| P3 Wide Color | No | Yes | Yes |
| True Tone | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Chipset | A9X Chip | A10X Fusion Chip | A12X Bionic Chip |
| CPU | Dual-core 2.26 GHz | Hexa-core 2.38 GHz | 8-core CPU (4 performance cores, 4 efficiency cores) |
| GPU | 12-core PowerVR | 12-core PowerVR Series 7 | 7-core GPU |
| Neural Engine | No | No | 8-core Neural Engine |
| Camera (Rear) | 12 MP, f/2.2 aperture, 4K Video | 12 MP, f/1.8 aperture, 4K Video | 12 MP, f/1.8 aperture, 4K Video (30/60 fps) |
| Camera (Front) | 5 MP FaceTime HD Camera | 7 MP FaceTime HD Camera | 7 MP FaceTime HD Camera |
| Battery Life | Up to 10 hours | Up to 10 hours | Up to 10 hours |
| Charging Port | Lightning | Lightning | USB-C |
| Touch ID / Face ID | Touch ID | Touch ID | Face ID |
| Speakers | Four speakers | Four speakers | Four speakers |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 802.11ac | Wi-Fi 802.11ac | Wi-Fi 802.11ac |
| Cellular Option | 4G LTE | 4G LTE | 4G LTE |
| Apple Pencil Support | 1st Generation | 1st Generation | 2nd Generation (Magnetic & USB-C charging) |
| Smart Keyboard Support | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Storage Options | 32GB, 128GB, 256GB | 64GB, 256GB, 512GB | 64GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB |
| Weight (Wi-Fi Model) | 437 grams | 469 grams | 468 grams |
| Weight (Wi-Fi + Cellular Model) | 444 grams | 477 grams | 468 grams |
| Dimensions (Height x Width x Depth) | 9.4 x 6.6 x 0.24 inches | 9.8 x 6.8 x 0.24 inches | 9.74 x 7.02 x 0.23 inches |
| Audio | Four speakers | Four speakers | Four speakers |
| Fingerprint Authentication | Touch ID (Home Button) | Touch ID (Home Button) | Face ID |
| Camera Features | 4K Video Recording | 4K Video Recording | 4K Video Recording (30/60 fps) |
| Front Camera Features | Retina Flash, 720p Video | Retina Flash, 1080p Video | Retina Flash, 1080p Video |
| Operating System | iOS 9.3 (upgradable to iPadOS 16) | iOS 10.3.2 (upgradable to iPadOS 17.6.1) | iPadOS 12 (upgradable to latest iPadOS) |
| Price (Base Model) | Starting at $599 (32GB Wi-Fi) | Starting at $649 (64GB Wi-Fi) | Starting at $799 (64GB Wi-Fi) |
If you prioritize performance and advanced display technology, the iPad Pro 11-inch (1st gen) would be the best choice. For those looking for a more compact device with good performance at a lower price, the iPad Pro 9.7-inch offers great value. The iPad Pro 10.5-inch fits between these two, providing a solid middle ground for users who want slightly more power without the jump to the 11-inch model.
Pros
- 10.5-inch Retina display with ProMotion for a smooth visual experience.
- The A10X Fusion chip provides excellent performance for all tasks.
- Apple Pencil and Smart Keyboard support enhances productivity.
- 12MP rear camera for sharp photos and 4K video recording.
- Long battery life, offering up to 10 hours of usage.
- Portable design with a lightweight build.
Cons
- No USB-C port for faster data transfer or charging.
- Older design with thicker bezels compared to newer iPad models.
- First-generation Apple Pencil, which lacks magnetic charging or attachment.
- No expandable storage with a microSD card slot.
Should You Buy the iPad Pro 10.5 in 2025?
While the iPad Pro 10.5 is an older model, it still holds up as a powerful and reliable tablet in 2025. With a stunning display, impressive performance, and support for useful accessories like the Apple Pencil and Smart Keyboard, the iPad Pro 10.5 remains an excellent choice for those who need a premium tablet experience. Whether you’re a creative professional, student, or someone who needs a versatile device for everyday tasks, the iPad Pro 10.5 offers great value for money, even today.
Conclusion
The Apple iPad Pro 10.5 is an outstanding tablet that combines powerful performance with an excellent display and long-lasting battery life. Despite being a few years old, it is still a great choice for anyone looking for a premium tablet for work, play, or creativity. Whether you’re an artist, a student, or a business professional, the iPad Pro 10.5 offers an all-around excellent experience.
FAQs: Should You Buy the iPad Pro 10.5 in 2025? Full Review
What Generation is the iPad 10.5 Pro?
The iPad Pro 10.5 is part of the 2nd generation of iPad Pro models. Released in June 2017, it offers a balance of performance and portability with key features like the A10X Fusion chip and ProMotion display.
This model was designed to provide users with an enhanced multimedia experience and solid multitasking capabilities. Although newer iPad Pro models have since been released, the iPad Pro 10.5 continues to deliver solid performance and remains popular among users even in 2025.
Why is My iPad Pro 10.5 So Slow?
If your iPad Pro 10.5 is running slow, several factors could be contributing to the issue. Common reasons for sluggish performance include:
- Outdated Software: Ensure your iPad is running the latest version of iPadOS for bug fixes and performance improvements.
- Too Many Apps Running: Close unnecessary apps to free up memory and improve speed.
- Insufficient Storage: If your device is almost full, it can slow down. Try deleting unneeded files or apps.
- Background Processes: Disable background app refresh for apps that don’t need to be constantly updated.
- Battery Health: Poor battery health can sometimes impact the performance of your iPad. Check battery health in settings.
How Much RAM Does the iPad Pro 10.5 Have?
The iPad Pro 10.5 is equipped with 4GB of RAM, which is sufficient for most tasks including multitasking and running demanding apps. While newer iPad models offer more RAM, the 4GB in the iPad Pro 10.5, paired with the A10X Fusion chip, still provides excellent performance for general use, such as browsing, watching videos, and light gaming. If you’re finding your iPad sluggish, consider freeing up storage and updating your iPad’s software to ensure optimal performance.
How to Check iPad Battery Health?
To check the battery health of your iPad, follow these steps:
- Open the Settings app on your iPad.
- Tap Battery.
- Select Battery Health.
Here, you can view the maximum capacity of your iPad’s battery and if it needs replacement. If your iPad is exhibiting fast battery drain or poor performance, it could indicate reduced battery health, and a replacement may be necessary.
What is the Oldest iPad That Can Still Be Updated?
As of 2025, the oldest iPad that can still be updated to the latest version of the iPad is the iPad Air 2, which was released in 2014. Despite its age, Apple has continued to support the iPad Air 2 with updates, allowing it to run iPadOS 16.
While performance may not be as fast as newer models, the iPad Air 2 still offers basic functionality, such as web browsing and media consumption, for users who prefer to keep their older devices running.
