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Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Apple’s A12X Bionic is the processor in the 2018 iPad Pro: the 11-inch model and the third-generation 12.9-inch model. It combines an eight-core CPU, a seven-core GPU and a Neural Engine. At launch, Apple claimed up to 35% faster single-core and up to 90% faster multi-core performance than the preceding iPad Pro generation; those are Apple’s maximum claims, not a promise of the same speed in every app.
What is the A12X Bionic?
A12X Bionic is an Apple-designed system-on-a-chip built specifically for the 2018 iPad Pro. Apple said it was manufactured using a 7-nanometer process. A teardown of the 11-inch iPad Pro also identified an octa-core A12X processor and an integrated seven-core GPU, independently confirming key parts of Apple’s hardware description.
The chip brings together general-purpose CPU processing, graphics processing and machine-learning acceleration. That combination was intended to support demanding tablet workflows without treating the iPad Pro as a single-purpose device.
What are the A12X’s CPU, GPU and Neural Engine specifications?
Eight-core CPU
The CPU has four performance cores and four efficiency cores. Apple said its performance controller can use all eight cores when needed. The two core groups let the system balance demanding work and less intensive tasks; they do not mean that every app will use all eight cores at once.
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Seven-core GPU
The Apple-designed GPU has seven cores. It handles graphics workloads such as drawing, 3D rendering and visual effects, though actual results depend on the app and workload.
Neural Engine
Apple said the Neural Engine could complete up to 5 trillion operations per second. Apple connected it with machine-learning tasks such as Face ID, real-time augmented-reality plane detection and Core ML workloads. That peak figure describes Apple’s stated capability; it is not a measure of how quickly every machine-learning feature will run.
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- WHY IPAD PRO — iPad Pro with the Apple M5 chip delivers extraordinary performance for effortless productivity on a stunning display. Take on pro workflows with Neural Accelerators for AI and a redesigned iPadOS with game-changing capabilities.*
- PERFORMANCE AND STORAGE — iPad Pro with M5 brings next-generation speed and the power of on-device AI to all your tasks.* Featuring up to 2TB of storage, 16GB of memory, and Neural Accelerators for next-level AI performance.*
- IPADOS — Run pro apps and get more done with iPadOS 26 with Liquid Glass design and game-changing capabilities.* With an intuitive and flexible windowing system, you can control, organize, and manage your workflows like never before.
- APPLE INTELLIGENCE — Apple Intelligence is the personal intelligence system that helps you communicate, express yourself, and get things done effortlessly with groundbreaking privacy protections at every step.*
- 13-INCH ULTRA RETINA XDR DISPLAY — The world’s most advanced display, featuring extreme brightness, precise contrast, ProMotion, P3 wide color, and True Tone.* Nano-texture display glass available in 1TB and 2TB configurations
How fast was the A12X compared with the previous iPad Pro?
At the October 2018 launch, Apple claimed the A12X delivered up to 35% faster single-core performance and up to 90% faster multi-threaded performance than the prior iPad Pro generation. The claims are relative to that earlier generation and should retain the “up to” qualification: they are not independent results or guaranteed gains for every app.
AnandTech’s December 4, 2018 review independently tested CPU and GPU behavior on the 11-inch iPad Pro and discussed its performance and efficiency in a thin tablet. Those tests provide context for the launch claims, but benchmark outcomes vary with the test, operating-system version, thermal conditions and duration of the workload. A result from one review is not a universal comparison with laptops or with devices released later.
Rank #3
- WHY IPAD PRO — iPad Pro with the Apple M5 chip delivers extraordinary performance for effortless productivity on a stunning display. Take on pro workflows with Neural Accelerators for AI and a redesigned iPadOS with game-changing capabilities.*
- PERFORMANCE AND STORAGE — iPad Pro with M5 brings next-generation speed and the power of on-device AI to all your tasks.* Featuring up to 2TB of storage, 16GB of memory, and Neural Accelerators for next-level AI performance.*
- IPADOS — Run pro apps and get more done with iPadOS 26 with Liquid Glass design and game-changing capabilities.* With an intuitive and flexible windowing system, you can control, organize, and manage your workflows like never before.
- APPLE INTELLIGENCE — Apple Intelligence is the personal intelligence system that helps you communicate, express yourself, and get things done effortlessly with groundbreaking privacy protections at every step.*
- 11-INCH ULTRA RETINA XDR DISPLAY — The world’s most advanced display, featuring extreme brightness, precise contrast, ProMotion, P3 wide color, and True Tone.* Nano-texture display glass available in 1TB and 2TB configurations
Is an A12X iPad Pro still suitable for drawing, photo editing or 3D work?
The A12X was positioned for demanding tablet work, including photo editing, 3D model creation and augmented-reality experiences. Its CPU, GPU and Neural Engine give it hardware capabilities aimed at those workloads. Apple also advertised up to 10 hours of battery life for the 2018 iPad Pro; that is a launch rating, not a guarantee of runtime during sustained creative work or on a device with an aged battery.
Whether one is a good choice now depends on the specific app, project size, desired responsiveness and device condition. The available evidence establishes what Apple designed and advertised at launch, but does not establish a current iPadOS support matrix or performance in today’s versions of particular creative apps. Check that the apps and operating-system version you need are supported on the exact device before relying on it for paid or time-sensitive work.
Rank #4
- WHY IPAD PRO — iPad Pro with the Apple M5 chip delivers extraordinary performance for effortless productivity on a stunning display. Take on pro workflows with Neural Accelerators for AI and a redesigned iPadOS with game-changing capabilities.*
- PERFORMANCE AND STORAGE — iPad Pro with M5 brings next-generation speed and the power of on-device AI to all your tasks.* Featuring up to 2TB of storage, 16GB of memory, and Neural Accelerators for next-level AI performance.*
- IPADOS — Run pro apps and get more done with iPadOS 26 with Liquid Glass design and game-changing capabilities.* With an intuitive and flexible windowing system, you can control, organize, and manage your workflows like never before.
- APPLE INTELLIGENCE — Apple Intelligence is the personal intelligence system that helps you communicate, express yourself, and get things done effortlessly with groundbreaking privacy protections at every step.*
- 13-INCH ULTRA RETINA XDR DISPLAY — The world’s most advanced display, featuring extreme brightness, precise contrast, ProMotion, P3 wide color, and True Tone.* Nano-texture display glass available in 1TB and 2TB configurations
Which iPad Pro models have the A12X?
- iPad Pro 11-inch (2018): the first 11-inch iPad Pro and the device tested in AnandTech’s 2018 review.
- iPad Pro 12.9-inch (third generation, 2018): the larger 2018 model introduced alongside the 11-inch version.
When identifying a used listing, verify the model year and screen size rather than relying on a broad “iPad Pro” label. Condition, storage capacity and Wi-Fi or cellular configuration can differ between listings.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What does the A12X tell you when comparing iPads?
The processor name is useful, but it is only one part of a decision. For a comparison with another chip or iPad, look at single-core and multi-core CPU performance, sustained GPU capability for graphics and 3D work, machine-learning acceleration, thermal behavior under a long workload, software support and the device’s total used or refurbished cost. Apple’s 2018 figures are historical launch claims; current software compatibility and resale prices need to be checked for the specific model and market.
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Best Value
- WHY IPAD PRO — iPad Pro with the Apple M5 chip delivers extraordinary performance for effortless productivity on a stunning display. Take on pro workflows with Neural Accelerators for AI and a redesigned iPadOS with game-changing capabilities.*
- PERFORMANCE AND STORAGE — iPad Pro with M5 brings next-generation speed and the power of on-device AI to all your tasks.* Featuring up to 2TB of storage, 16GB of memory, and Neural Accelerators for next-level AI performance.*
- IPADOS — Run pro apps and get more done with iPadOS 26 with Liquid Glass design and game-changing capabilities.* With an intuitive and flexible windowing system, you can control, organize, and manage your workflows like never before.
- APPLE INTELLIGENCE — Apple Intelligence is the personal intelligence system that helps you communicate, express yourself, and get things done effortlessly with groundbreaking privacy protections at every step.*
- 11-INCH ULTRA RETINA XDR DISPLAY — The world’s most advanced display, featuring extreme brightness, precise contrast, ProMotion, P3 wide color, and True Tone.* Nano-texture display glass available in 1TB and 2TB configurations
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
