Huawei has recently unveiled its latest tablet, the Huawei MatePad 12 X, a midrange device designed to cater to both productivity enthusiasts and creative professionals. With its high-end specifications and premium build, this tablet aims to compete with the best in the segment.
The Huawei MatePad 12 X is ideal for users who demand high performance, excellent display quality, and robust battery life. It is particularly appealing to digital artists, designers, and professionals who require a reliable device for multitasking and creative work. However, casual users or those on a budget might find the price point a bit steep and may want to consider more affordable alternatives.
In this article, we will delve into each of the specs and features in detail, providing you with a thorough understanding of what this device has to offer.
Body
The MatePad 12 X features a sleek and modern design with dimensions of 270×183×5.9 mm and a weight of 555 g. Available in Greenery and White, the tablet exudes a premium feel. Its slim profile and lightweight build make it highly portable, perfect for on-the-go use. Here are the relevant specs:
| Specification | Huawei MatePad 12 X |
|---|---|
| General |
|
| Dimensions | W: 270 mm (10.63″), H: 183 mm (7.2″), D: 5.9 mm (0.23″) |
| Mass | 555 g (1.22 lb) |
| Colors | Greenery, White |
Back to the physicality of the device, those dimensions and weight make the MatePad 12 X relatively slim and lightweight for a tablet of its size, so that it is comfortable to keep on your lap for extended periods. The 12-inch screen size is large enough to provide a good viewing experience without being overly cumbersome.
At 555 g, the tablet is light enough to hold in one hand for short periods, but for longer sessions, you might prefer to use a stand or prop it up to avoid strain.
As for portability, the slim design (5.9 mm thickness) and lightweight build make it easy to slip into a backpack or a large handbag. It won't add much bulk, making it convenient for daily commutes and travel. The build quality feels premium, which should give you confidence in its durability when carrying it around.
The Huawei MatePad 12 X comes in two color options: Greenery and White. Here's a bit about the personalities these colors might suit:
- Greenery: This color exudes a fresh, vibrant, and modern vibe. It's perfect for users who like to stand out and prefer a touch of nature-inspired aesthetics. It might appeal to creative professionals, students, and anyone who enjoys a bit of color in one's tech gadgets.
- White: The white variant offers a clean, minimalist, and professional look. It's ideal for users who prefer a classic and elegant design. This color is likely to appeal to business professionals, minimalists, and those who appreciate a timeless aesthetic.
Overall, the Huawei MatePad 12 X is designed to be both stylish and functional, catering to a wide range of users with its thoughtful design and color options. Whether you're using it for work, creativity, or entertainment, its build and design are likely to enhance your experience.
IP Rating
(Related: IP ratings explained.)
Ah, the missing IP rating on the Huawei MatePad 12 X - the James Bond gadget of the tech world. No worries, though; not every hero wears a cape, or in this case, a waterproof suit. Let's address the concern and prep our users for the tech battlefield.
An absent IP rating doesn't necessarily mean your MatePad 12 X can't handle a splash or two. It's like having a friend who's not officially a lifeguard but can still swim like a fish. This tablet might not flaunt a waterproof badge, but it's not about to panic if it encounters a raindrop or a sneaky coffee spill.
For potential buyers, it's all about understanding your tablet's limits. Don't take it for a swim, but a light rain or accidental spill isn't going to turn it into a high-tech paperweight. Just be mindful, like you would with any other cherished possession.
Now, let's talk defense strategy. Invest in a good-quality case - think of it as the MatePad 12 X's armor. A rugged case can be the superhero cape that protects against accidental drops, bumps, and, yes, even a surprise encounter with water. It's the knight in shining armor for your digital companion.
Screen protectors are the unsung heroes too. They shield your tablet's display from scratches and potential splashes. It's like giving your tablet a shield - a transparent one that doesn't hide its beauty.
So, should you be concerned? Nah, just be savvy. Treat your tablet like the VIP it is, and it'll reciprocate with smooth, uninterrupted performance. Get that case, slap on a screen protector, and let your Huawei MatePad 12 X be the stylish, resilient sidekick in your tech adventures.
Display
(Related: Know more about the various kinds of displays and screen specs.)
One of the standout features of the MatePad 12 X is its 12-inch IPS LCD display with a 144 Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness of 1000 nits. The resolution of 2800×1840 pixels ensures sharp and vibrant visuals, making it ideal for media consumption and creative tasks.
Here are the relevant specs:
| Specification | Huawei MatePad 12 X |
|---|---|
| Size | 12.0″ (305 mm) diagonal |
| Type | IPS LCD, 144 Hz |
| Resolution (px) | 2800×1840, about 279 PPI |
| Brightness | Peak: 1000 nits |
| Features | Magnetic stylus support, PaperMatte layer that simulates a paper-like texture |
The Huawei MatePad 12 X boasts an impressive 12.0-inch IPS LCD display that stands out in several key areas. IPS (In-Plane Switching) technology provides excellent viewing angles, ensuring that colors and brightness remain consistent even when viewed from the side. This is particularly useful for collaborative work and media consumption with friends.
IPS displays are known for their superior color accuracy and reproduction, making them ideal for tasks that require precise color representation, such as photo editing and graphic design. Compared to other LCD technologies, IPS panels offer better contrast ratios, resulting in deeper blacks and more vibrant colors.
The display's high, 144 Hz refresh rate ensures smooth and fluid visuals, especially noticeable during fast-paced activities like gaming and scrolling through content. This makes interactions feel more responsive and reduces motion blur.
With a resolution of 2800×1840 pixels, the display delivers sharp and detailed images. The high pixel density (approximately 279 PPI) ensures that text and graphics are crisp, enhancing the overall viewing experience.
The MatePad 12 X's display can reach a peak brightness of 1000 nits, making it easily viewable even in bright outdoor conditions. This high brightness level also enhances HDR content, providing more vivid and lifelike visuals.
The PaperMatte layer on top of the screen simulates the texture of paper, which is gentle on the eyes and reduces glare. This feature is particularly beneficial for extended reading and writing sessions, as it minimizes eye strain and enhances the overall comfort of using the tablet. You can use the stylus on the PaperMatte screen to recreate the rustle and bustle of pen on paper.
The display supports a magnetic stylus, which is great for note-taking, drawing, and other creative tasks. The stylus attaches magnetically to the tablet, ensuring it's always within reach and easy to store.
In conclusion, the display of the Huawei MatePad 12 X is one of its standout features, combining advanced technology with thoughtful design elements to provide an exceptional visual experience. Whether you're a professional looking for precise color accuracy, a gamer seeking smooth performance, or a creative individual needing a comfortable and responsive screen, this tablet's display is designed to meet a wide range of needs.
Networks and SIM
(Related: Cellular networks explained.)
The Huawei MatePad 12 X does not support cellular connectivity and lacks a SIM card slot, which means it's exclusively a Wi-Fi device. For users who need constant internet access on the go, this might be a limitation. However, for those primarily using Wi-Fi and not requiring mobile data, this won't be an issue.
Chipset - Performance
The MatePad 12 X is powered by the Kirin T90A chipset with an octa-core CPU. This combination promises smooth performance and efficient multitasking. Here are the relevant specs:
| Specification | Huawei MatePad 12 X |
|---|---|
| Chipset | Kirin T90A |
| CPU | Octa-core |
| GPU | Unspecified |
The Kirin T90A chipset is a high-performance chipset from Huawei, built to handle demanding applications and multitasking with ease. The CPU configuration includes eight cores, which are likely divided into high-performance and efficiency cores. This setup ensures that the tablet can handle both intensive tasks and everyday activities efficiently.
While the specific GPU model is not mentioned in the tablet's spec sheet, it is safe to assume that the Kirin T90A includes a GPU. Most modern chipsets, especially those designed for high-performance devices, come with a GPU to handle graphics processing.
The Kirin T90A, with its octa-core CPU and GPU, is capable of handling a wide range of workloads, including:
- Multitasking: The combination of high-performance cores and efficient cores allows for smooth multitasking. You can run multiple applications simultaneously without significant slowdowns.
- Gaming: The GPU should be capable of handling most mobile games with ease, providing smooth graphics and responsive gameplay, especially with the tablet's 144 Hz refresh rate.
- Media Consumption: The high-resolution display and powerful chipset make the MatePad 12 X ideal for streaming videos, browsing the web, and other media consumption tasks.
- Productivity: For professionals, the tablet can handle productivity applications such as document editing, video conferencing, and more. The large screen and stylus support further enhance its utility for creative tasks like drawing and note-taking.
- Creative Work: Digital artists and designers will benefit from the tablet's performance, especially when using graphic design and illustration apps. The PaperMatte layer and stylus support provide a natural drawing experience.
In summary, the Huawei MatePad 12 X, powered by the Kirin T90A chipset, is well-equipped to handle a variety of tasks ranging from everyday activities to more demanding applications. The included GPU ensures that graphics-intensive tasks are managed efficiently, making this tablet a versatile tool for both work and play. Whether you're a professional, a gamer, or a creative, the MatePad 12 X offers the performance needed to meet your demands.
Memory and Storage
Here are the relevant specs:
| Specification | Huawei MatePad 12 X |
|---|---|
| Internal Storage | 256 GB |
| Memory Card Slot | No |
| RAM Variants | 8 GB, 12 GB |
With variants offering 8 GB or 12 GB of RAM and 256 GB of internal storage, the Huawei MatePad 12 X provides ample space for your apps, photos, and files. However, the absence of a card slot might be a deal-breaker for some.
Cameras
The dual-camera setup on the MatePad 12 X includes a 13 MP wide-angle lens and an 8 MP ultrawide lens. The camera system supports 4K video recording at 30 fps and 1080p at 30 fps, making it suitable for capturing high-quality photos and videos. The 8 MP front camera is adequate for video calls and selfies, supporting 1080p video recording at 30 fps.
Rear Camera
The Huawei MatePad 12 X features a dual-camera setup on the back, designed to offer versatility in photography and videography. Let's have a detailed look at the components and features of the main camera. Here are the relevant specs:
| Specification | Huawei MatePad 12 X |
|---|---|
| Number of Cameras | 2 (Dual) |
| Resolution (Megapixels) | 13 MP (wide), 8 MP (ultrawide) |
| Aperture | f/1.8, f/2.2 |
| Autofocus | PDAF, N/A |
| Video Recording | 4K at 30 fps, 1080p at 30 fps |
| Other Features | LED flash |
The 13 MP wide-angle lens serves as the primary camera for the tablet. With 13 megapixels resolution and a wide aperture of f/1.8, it is capable of capturing detailed and bright images, even in low-light conditions.
The 8 MP ultrawide lens provides a broader field of view, making it ideal for capturing landscapes, group photos, and architectural shots. Its f/2.2 aperture ensures decent performance in well-lit conditions.
Among the camera features, PDAF (Phase Detection Autofocus) allows for faster and more accurate focusing by detecting the phase difference between two images. This results in quicker focus times and sharper images, especially useful for capturing moving subjects.
The inclusion of an LED flash helps illuminate subjects in low-light environments, ensuring that photos taken in darker settings are still clear and detailed.
The main camera setup supports 4K video recording at 30 fps and 1080p video recording at 30 fps. This allows for high-resolution video capture, suitable for creating professional-looking videos and vlogs.
The camera setup on the Huawei MatePad 12 X is suitable for users who have basic photography and videography needs. Here's what you can expect from the camera:
- Everyday Photography: The dual-camera setup is more than adequate for everyday photography needs, such as capturing family moments, social events, and travel photos.
- Casual Videography: With 4K video recording capabilities, the tablet can handle casual videography tasks, including creating content for social media, recording tutorials, and documenting personal experiences.
- Wide-Angle Shots: The ultrawide lens is perfect for capturing expansive scenes, making it great for landscape photography and group photos.
However, while the main camera on the MatePad 12 X is adequate for many everyday tasks, there are certain scenarios where it may not be enough, such as:
- Professional Photography: While the MatePad 12 X's camera setup is versatile, professional photographers might require higher resolution sensors, more advanced autofocus systems, and additional lens options (such as telephoto or macro lenses) for specialized photography.
- Low-Light Videography: Although the primary camera has a wide aperture, low-light videography might still benefit from more advanced sensors and image stabilization features found in dedicated cameras or higher-end smartphones.
- Advanced Video Production: For users involved in advanced video production, features like higher frame rates (e.g., 60 fps or 120 fps), optical image stabilization (OIS), and more sophisticated video editing capabilities might be necessary.
In conclusion, the Huawei MatePad 12 X's main camera setup offers a good balance of features for general photography and videography needs. It is well-suited for everyday use, casual content creation, and capturing wide-angle shots. However, for professional-grade photography and advanced video production, you might need to look for devices with more specialized camera configurations.
Front Camera
The selfie camera sits in the center of the top bezel when the tablet is placed with the longer side horizontal. Here are the relevant specs:
| Specification | Huawei MatePad 12 X |
|---|---|
| Resolution | 8 MP |
| Aperture | f/2.2 |
| Video Recording | 1080p at 30 fps |
Battery and Charging
(Related: Battery specs and charging types explained.)
Here are the relevant specs:
| Specification | Huawei MatePad 12 X |
|---|---|
| Battery Type | Li-Po (non-removable) |
| Capacity | 10100 mAh |
| Wired Charging | 66 W |
The Huawei MatePad 12 X is equipped with a massive 10100 mAh Li-Po battery, ensuring extended usage without frequent recharging. The 66 W wired charging support allows for quick top-ups, minimizing downtime and keeping you productive throughout the day.
Sound
(Related: Know more about the sound specs and features.)
Here are the relevant specs:
| Specification | Huawei MatePad 12 X |
|---|---|
| Loudspeaker | Yes (stereo speakers - 6 speakers) |
| Headphone (3.5 mm) Jack | No |
Audio quality is another area where the MatePad 12 X excels. It features stereo speakers with six speakers in total, delivering immersive sound for media playback and gaming. However, the absence of a 3.5 mm headphone jack might be inconvenient for users who prefer wired headphones.
Six speakers strategically placed in the MatePad 12 X for surround sound - it's like having a portable theater in your hands! They are not just audio components; they're your ticket to a truly immersive audio experience.
The presence of six speakers allows for true stereo sound. In simpler terms, it creates a sense of spatial audio, making it feel like the sound is coming from different directions. This immersive audio setup is fantastic for movies, games, and music, as it envelops you in the sound, enhancing your overall experience. Imagine feeling the rumble of an approaching storm or the subtle footsteps of a character sneaking up in a game - it's like being in the heart of the action!
With speakers placed strategically on the tablet, you get balanced sound distribution. Whether you're holding the tablet horizontally or vertically, the audio remains clear and well-balanced. This means you won't miss out on any dialogue or subtle background music, enhancing your enjoyment of movies and TV shows. It also ensures that music sounds rich and detailed, whether you're listening to classical symphonies or bass-heavy EDM tracks.
Connectivity
With support for dual-band Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, the Huawei MatePad 12 X ensures you can connect to common Wi-Fi networks.
The MatePad 12 X boasts Bluetooth 5.2, ensuring a seamless connection, whether you're connecting to headphones, speakers, or other devices. With features like A2DP (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile) for high-quality audio streaming and LE (Low Energy) for power efficiency, your Bluetooth experience reaches new heights.
The Huawei MatePad 12 X does not support positioning systems (like GPS).
The MatePad 12 X lacks NFC, which might be a deal-breaker for users heavily reliant on contactless transactions.
Last but not least, the trusty USB-C 3.1 - the universal connector. Whether you're charging your device, transferring files, or connecting to external devices, USB Type-C 3.1 ensures a reliable connection. It's the jack-of-all-trades, allowing you to expand your device's capabilities and stay connected to the wider world of technology. And the support for OTG (USB On-The-Go) enables your device to act as host and connect to other USB devices, such as flash drives, keyboards, cameras, and more, without needing a computer as an intermediary.
The MatePad 12 X also includes a magnetic accessory connector, a specialized port designed to connect external accessories or peripherals to your tablet. Despite being a specialized port distinct from the USB-C port, it often utilizes the USB protocol for data transfer, as is the case here. For gaming enthusiasts, the accessory connector opens up possibilities for connecting gaming peripherals like external controllers, specialized gaming pads, or other accessories that enhance your gaming prowess. It can potentially support a variety of other accessories too, such as external sensors, measurement devices, and even innovative hardware that might emerge in the future.
The magnetic nature of this connector provides a convenient way to connect the accessories without needing to fumble with cables or aligning the USB-C port. You can simply bring the magnetic connector close to the port, and the magnets will guide it into place, ensuring a secure connection.
Sensors
The Huawei MatePad 12 X comes equipped with the following sensors:
- Proximity Sensor (Accessories Only): Detects the presence or movement of an object (say, with infrared) without physically contacting it. "Accessories only" means that its functionality is specifically designed to work with certain accessories, like specific add-ons created by Huawei or certain third-party manufacturers.
- Gyro: The gyroscope can detect when your device is being twisted or turned in any direction. It enhances the accuracy of apps and games that rely on precise motion, like augmented reality (AR) apps and racing games.
- Accelerometer: The accelerometer detects changes in the device's orientation and acceleration. If you tilt, shake, or move your device, the accelerometer knows.
- Compass: The compass determines your device's orientation. It is essential for navigation apps, map orientation, and augmented reality experiences.
Overall, the Huawei MatePad 12 X is a feature-rich midrange tablet that justifies its price tag. Its high-resolution display, powerful performance, and extensive battery life make it a compelling choice for professionals and creatives. While the lack of cellular connectivity and a 3.5 mm headphone jack might be drawbacks for some, the overall package offers excellent value for those seeking a premium tablet experience.
In summary, if you are in the market for a relatively high-end tablet that excels in performance, display quality, and battery life, the Huawei MatePad 12 X is worth considering. However, if you are a casual user or on a tight budget, you might want to explore other options that better suit your needs.
Feature (top) image credit: Huawei.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Huawei MatePad 12 X release date?
The Huawei MatePad 12 X has been announced on the 19th September, 2024. It is expected to release on the 22nd October, 2024.
What is Huawei MatePad 12 X price?
The Huawei MatePad 12 X is priced starting from EUR 569 (about USD 635) for the 8 GB / 256 GB variant.