Huawei MatePad Pro 12.2: Much cheaper than the iPad Air but not necessarily better

The Huawei MatePad Pro 12.2 (2025) is a slim and lightweight tablet with a chassis just 5.5 mm thin and weighing 508 grams. It features a 12.2-inch tandem OLED display with a very high peak brightness of over 2,200 cd/m², a matte PaperMatte surface and eye-friendly PWM dimming. The Kirin T92A processor performs solidly in everyday use, but is somewhat weaker than similar tablets in graphics-intensive applications. The main camera has a resolution of 50 MP and delivers good results, while the front camera is sufficient for video calls. Videos can be recorded in Ultra HD at 30 fps. A high-quality, included keyboard cover with a trackpad is available for input, as well as support for the optional M-Pencil with 16,000 pressure levels and NearLink technology. Connectivity includes USB 3.2, Wi-Fi 7 (excluding the 6 GHz band) and NearLink. Security is ensured by a fingerprint sensor in the power button and facial recognition.

So far, so good: the MatePad Pro 12.2 has an MSRP of €999 (512 GB of storage). An iPad Air with the same storage configuration costs €1,079 (11 inches) or €1,329 (13 inches) – without a keyboard. The Huawei tablet also has advantages in terms of display brightness and its matte surface. The typing experience on the MatePad Pro 12.2 (2025) is also very good and in no way inferior to Apple's products.

The iPad Air's display is much darker, but also flicker-free thanks to IPS technology. The MatePad Pro 12.2, on the other hand, utilizes high-frequency PWM dimming, which may cause discomfort for sensitive users.

Those already settled in the Apple ecosystem will find it hard to ignore the iPad. But for others seeking a tablet outside Apple will find the Huawei tablet a compelling alternative. Interested buyers are advised to read our detailed review for more details.