Apple iPad Pro 12.9″ 5th Gen 128GB Wi-Fi Renewed Premium Review: Pros, Cons & Rumors Debunked

Apple iPad Pro 12.9in (5th Gen.) – 128GB – WiFi – Space Gray (Renewed Premium)

Experience lightning-fast performance with the Apple M1 chip and a stunning 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR display featuring ProMotion, True Tone, and P3 color for breathtaking visuals.
Capture life in stunning detail with the TrueDepth and Ultra Wide camera with Center Stage, and immerse yourself in AR via the LiDAR Scanner. Boost productivity with Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard.

The Renewed Premium iPad Pro generally delivers like-new performance and appearance at a significant discount.
Core hardware—powered by the Apple M1 chip and 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR display—remains virtually indistinguishable from new units.
Common complaints focus on missing or non-OEM charging accessories and occasional cosmetic defects.
Minor rumors about a bloom effect on the mini-LED display arise, but no widespread hardware failures have been verified.
Return experiences vary: small issues are often resolved quickly, while serious defects can involve longer wait times and customer inconvenience.

Amazon’s Renewed Premium program offers rigorous inspection and a six-month guarantee but omits original Apple packaging.
Includes flagship features such as the Apple M1 chip and a mini-LED Liquid Retina XDR display for color-critical work.

Table of contents

Product Overview
Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch (5th Gen) Review: Honest Findings
Positive Feedback & Highlights
Negative Reviews & Rumor Analysis
Who Should Consider Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch (5th Gen)?
Conclusion: Final Verdict

Product Overview

The Renewed Premium label signifies a thorough inspection and functional testing process conducted by Amazon’s certified partners. Each device is cleaned, components are replaced if necessary, and operational integrity is verified before sale. Buyers receive the iPad Pro tablet itself, a USB-C cable, and a power adapter—though the adapter may vary from Apple’s official brick. While original packaging and documentation are not included, the tablet arrives securely boxed and backed by Amazon’s six-month Renewed guarantee.

Under the hood, this model leverages the Apple M1 chip, featuring an 8-core CPU, up to 10-core GPU, and a 16-core Neural Engine. This architecture excels in multitasking, machine learning inference, and graphics rendering. The 12.9-inch mini-LED Liquid Retina XDR display offers 1000 nits of sustained brightness, a 1,000,000:1 contrast ratio, ProMotion up to 120Hz, True Tone, and P3 wide color. These specifications cater to professionals in photography, video editing, and AR development.

Connectivity includes gigabit-class Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), a Thunderbolt/USB4 port for high-speed external storage and 6K display output, a five-microphone array for clear voice capture, and a quad-speaker system with wide stereo sound. While the Renewed Premium grading covers functional hardware and cosmetic wear up to “like-new,” third-party accessories such as cases, stands, or non-Apple chargers must be sourced separately if desired.

Amazon’s Renewed Premium often undercuts Apple’s Certified Refurbished program by 5–10%, offering deeper discounts in exchange for shorter warranty coverage and generic packaging. Buyers should consider whether the cost savings outweigh the convenience of manufacturer-backed AppleCare eligibility and original boxing. Pricing fluctuates based on inventory and promotions, with occasional deals pushing the 128GB Wi-Fi model below $800—nearly 25% off retail.

For those seeking a balance of savings and reliability, the Renewed Premium iPad Pro presents an attractive option. However, first-time iPad buyers or users prioritizing a fully OEM experience may prefer new or Apple-certified refurbished units despite a smaller discount.

Overall, Amazon’s Renewed Premium program aims to deliver high-end iPad Pro performance in a budget-friendly package, backed by Amazon’s customer support rather than Apple’s own warranty infrastructure.

Real-world benchmarks confirm flagship-level speed, handling 4K editing, CAD, and gaming effortlessly.
Small minority report a bloom effect around bright highlights—an inherent artifact of mini-LED technology.

Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch (5th Gen) Review: Honest Findings

The Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch (5th Gen) Renewed Premium delivers flagship-class performance thanks to the Apple M1 chip. In both synthetic benchmarks and everyday use, the device handles complex tasks such as 4K video editing, high-resolution photo retouching, and graphic-intensive games with ease. Users appreciate the swift app launches and smooth windowed multitasking enabled by iPadOS, confirming that the core hardware shows no performance degradation despite its refurbished status.

On the display side, the mini-LED Liquid Retina XDR panel shines with deep blacks and high peak brightness, supporting HDR content playback. A small subset of buyers have noted a bloom effect—halos around bright objects—particularly in dark environments. While this is inherent to mini-LED backlighting chemistry rather than a defect, prospective owners should watch demonstration videos to set proper expectations. Overall, most reviewers found the screen to perform flawlessly for both professional color-critical work and everyday media consumption.

Battery health and cycle count also drew attention: many Renewed Premium units arrive with 90+% maximum capacity after roughly 50–100 cycles, indicating genuine Apple batteries rather than third-party replacements. However, some customers recommend charging to around 20% before shipping to preserve long-term battery longevity. In summary, the majority of users confirm that the refurbished iPad Pro offers an experience nearly identical to a new model in terms of speed, display quality, and battery runtime.

In benchmark tests, the iPad Pro Renewed Premium scores consistently in the upper echelons of all tablet metrics, often outperforming many laptops released the same year. Geekbench single-core scores hover around 1740, while multi-core numbers exceed 7400, showcasing the efficiency of the M1 architecture under iPadOS. These metrics translate into real-world gains: complex video exports complete in minutes rather than hours, and advanced photo composites render nearly instantaneously.

Real-world user tests confirm that even high-refresh-rate content—such as gaming at 120Hz or scrolling through fast-paced animations—is buttery smooth, without stutter or frame drops. Professionals working in CAD applications like Shapr3D find that complex 3D models render with precision, and object manipulation feels instantaneous. Moreover, the iPad Pro’s calibration tools keep color fidelity consistent each time the device wakes, eliminating the need for manual adjustments when shifting between creative apps.

Many reviewers describe the device as practically brand new with zero visible flaws.
Users highlight savings of 20–30% versus new, with no compromise on speed or usability.

Positive Feedback & Highlights

Across dozens of positive reviews, buyers consistently describe their Renewed Premium iPad Pro as practically brand new, with zero visible scratches or scuffs on the aluminum housing or glass face. Many customers mention that the device “looks like it just came out of the box” and that the aesthetic quality rivals Apple’s official refurbished units. The minimal blemishes that do appear are often imperceptible at arm’s length, underpinning Amazon’s claim of a rigorous refurbishment process.

Functionally, the iPad Pro delivers the same speedy performance as a new purchase. Users report launching heavy design apps such as Procreate or Adobe Photoshop without lag, enjoying seamless multitasking, and experiencing long battery life. The combination of the M1 chip and iPadOS optimizations ensures that everyday tasks—from video conferencing with Center Stage to editing 4K footage—run flawlessly. This blend of high-end hardware and meticulous refurbishment underlies the overwhelmingly positive sentiment among satisfied buyers.

In terms of value, many highlight that they saved upwards of 20–30% compared to buying a brand-new 12.9-inch iPad Pro. Whether used for graphic design, digital art, productivity, or media streaming, the Renewed unit checks all the boxes for power users who want flagship performance without the full retail price.

Another frequently mentioned perk is accessory compatibility. Artists and note-takers appreciate the flawless pairing experience with the Apple Pencil (2nd generation), noting that low-latency pen-to-screen interaction remains intact. Whether sketching in Procreate or marking up documents in GoodNotes, the iPad responds instantly to pressure variations and tilt, mirroring the feel of new devices. The Magic Keyboard and Smart Keyboard Folio also dock seamlessly, offering the same stable hinge mechanics and key travel that professionals demand.

Media enthusiasts appreciate the device’s ability to handle streaming services at maximum resolution, with Dolby Vision HDR content reproducing with vibrant highlights and deep blacks. The TrueTone front sensor adjusts color temperature based on ambient light, reducing eye strain during extended viewing. These features contribute to an immersive entertainment experience that often surpasses similarly sized laptops or standalone tablets.

Many content creators report that the Renewed Premium iPad Pro seamlessly integrates with cloud-based workflows. Services such as Adobe Creative Cloud, Microsoft OneDrive, and Google Drive synchronize files without hiccups, enabling uninterrupted collaboration across teams. One reviewer noted that collaborating on a 12.9-inch canvas in Figma via iPadOS offered a fluid experience akin to the desktop app, showcasing both the hardware’s prowess and the iPad’s growing capabilities as a cloud-centric ecosystem.

Recurring issues with non-OEM charging accessories undermine user experience.
Isolated accounts of screen damage and bent chassis lead to returns and delays.

Negative Reviews & Rumor Analysis

Charging & Accessory Problems

Despite the iPad’s core functionality, a large fraction of negative feedback centers on the included power adapter and USB-C cable. Multiple buyers note that the adapter fails to deliver sufficient voltage or current, stalling charging at low percentages. Many customers end up ordering an Apple-branded charger separately to achieve the advertised 30W–45W charging rate, significantly diminishing the value gains from purchasing a refurbished unit. Although Amazon occasionally issues credits for replacement bricks, consumers describe inconsistent resolutions and delays before they can resume using the device at optimal speed.

Physical Defects & Return Frustrations

Beyond accessory disappointments, some purchasers encounter more severe cosmetic concerns. Reports include screen scratches, pressure marks, and even cracked glass upon arrival. Others mention chassis deformities—slight bends or stress lines along the aluminum frame—prompting immediate returns. While Amazon Renewed’s prepaid return labels simplify logistics, the combined wait for pickup and refund processing can stretch over one to two weeks, proving inconvenient for users who rely on the iPad for daily tasks like college coursework or video conferencing.

Mini-LED Bloom & Software Rumors

Online discussions occasionally highlight a “blooming” effect around bright highlights when viewing HDR content on the mini-LED screen. Technically an artifact of local dimming zones, this phenomenon is consistent across all 5th Gen iPad Pros—new or refurbished. No verified software or firmware bugs specifically affect Renewed Premium units, although anecdotal threads raise concerns about unexpected freezes after major iPadOS updates. In every case, reinstalling the operating system or performing a factory reset resolves these glitches, and they remain rare compared to the broader population of users.

Returns fall under Amazon Renewed’s guarantee, which allows free returns within 90 days of purchase for functional issues or misrepresented condition. Although this process often starts with a prepaid shipping label, customers occasionally report troubleshooting calls and extended wait times for UPS pickups, particularly in rural areas. Amazon’s customer service teams generally expedite straightforward charger replacements and minor defect resolutions, but more significant cases—like bent frames or unresponsive screens—can take up to two weeks for full refund processing, disrupting workflows.

It is also worth noting that these Renewed Premium tablets are not covered by Apple’s standard one-year limited warranty or eligible for AppleCare+. Instead, buyers rely on Amazon’s six-month Renewed guarantee and any remaining original warranty, which may be limited for refurbished stock. For those who value direct manufacturer support—especially for hardware faults or software restoration—purchasing directly from Apple or an Apple-authorized reseller may provide a more comprehensive safety net despite higher cost.

Ideal for tech users comfortable handling minor refurbishing inconsistencies.
Not recommended for those requiring full OEM packaging, AppleCare+, and original accessories.

Who Should Consider Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch (5th Gen)?

The Renewed Premium iPad Pro is an excellent choice for tech-savvy individuals who prioritize substantial savings over the certainty of brand-new packaging. If you are comfortable sourcing a genuine charging brick independently or can tolerate minor cosmetic quirks, this refurbished unit delivers flagship-level capabilities for graphic design, video editing, or multitasking across professional apps. The robust M1 processor and Liquid Retina XDR display ensure you won’t compromise on core performance.

Educators looking to equip classrooms with high-performance tablets at scale may find the Renewed Premium option particularly attractive, as dozens of units can be procured at a fraction of the cost of new inventory. While centralized IT departments must budget for potential accessory replacements and manage return logistics, the savings can fund software licenses and related curriculum tools.

For corporate professionals who require on-the-go performance without breaking the bank, the Wi-Fi–only model offers a lightweight, durable alternative to laptops. The slim form factor, combined with robust battery life and instant wake-from-sleep, makes it ideal for presentations, collaborative whiteboarding, and remote meetings. A travel kit containing a reliable third-party USB-C charger and protective sleeve often rounds out the setup, ensuring readiness across diverse environments.

Additionally, frequent flyers and digital nomads appreciate the Renewed Premium iPad Pro for its versatility and lightweight profile. When paired with a compact travel charger and optional portable stand, the iPad Pro easily transitions from inflight entertainment to productivity workstation. Battery longevity combined with airplane mode usage habits can extend device uptime to over one week between charges, making it a reliable companion for cross-time-zone travel and remote work scenarios.

Conversely, first-time iPad buyers or casual users seeking a seamless out-of-the-box experience—complete with Apple’s official packaging and full accessory set—might find the Renewed Premium model less straightforward. In these cases, the slight price premium for new or Apple-certified refurbished products may be justified by the convenience of AppleCare+ coverage, original Apple accessories, and direct support channels.

Ultimately, your risk tolerance and technical comfort level determine suitability. If you prefer the reassurance of manufacturer-certified refurbishment and prefer all OEM accessories in the box, the Renewed Premium option may introduce too many variables. Conversely, if budget considerations rank high and you can accommodate minor refurbishing inconsistencies, Amazon’s Renewed Premium program can be one of the most compelling deals on the market.

Renewed Premium can deliver flagship performance but may include accessory omissions and minor defects.
Perform quick unboxing checks and leverage Amazon’s guarantee to address any issues within the return window.

Conclusion: Final Verdict

Overall, the Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch (5th Gen) Renewed Premium offers a compelling value proposition for buyers seeking flagship hardware at a reduced price. While the core components—powered by the M1 chip and featuring a mini-LED Liquid Retina XDR display—remain virtually indistinguishable from new devices, purchasers should be prepared for missing or non-OEM accessories, occasional cosmetic blemishes, and potentially longer return processes.

By exercising due diligence—inspecting the screen for damage, testing charging accessories upon arrival, and reviewing the seller’s rating—most users can sidestep common pitfalls and enjoy top-tier performance. If the cost savings outweigh the minor inconveniences, Amazon’s Renewed Premium program can be a reliable route to high-end iPad Pro ownership without sacrificing essential speed and display quality.

As an extra precaution, buyers can verify the device’s serial number on Apple’s coverage lookup page to confirm any residual manufacturer warranty. Subscribing to battery-monitoring apps can also help track health metrics and detect anomalies early, ensuring that any deviations from expected performance are caught within Amazon’s return window or prior to AppleCare eligibility expiring.

In comparative context, the price differential between Renewed Premium and new units can exceed $200–$300, representing a significant saving. Armed with the insights presented here—both positive and negative—prospective buyers can make an informed decision about whether the Renewed Premium pathway aligns with their performance needs, budget constraints, and tolerance for refurbishing variability.