Lenovo Tab P12 Review: A Sleek & Versatile Large-Screen Tablet

Tech Specs

• Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 7050 octa-core processor
• Operating System: Android 13 (upgradeable to Android 15 upon release)
• Memory: Up to 8GB
• Storage: Up to 256GB
• Battery: 10200mAh, supports 30W quick charge
• Audio: Quad speakers, Dolby Atmos
• Camera: Front - 13MP with RGB sensor and ultra-wide FOV, Rear - 8MP AF + flash LED light
• Connectivity: USB-C 2.0 (charging & audio), MicroSD card slot
• Wireless: WiFi 6 (802.11 ax), Bluetooth 5.1
• Sensors: Ambient-light sensor, RGB sensor, Gyroscope, E-compass, Hall sensor
• Design: 32.25cms (12.7) LCD (2944 x1840), 60Hz refresh rate, 273ppi, Dimensions - 7.51″ x 11.55″ x 0.27″, Weight - 615g
• Pen: Tab Pen Plus (optional)
• Keyboard: Tab P12 keyboard pack (optional)
• Color: Storm Grey, Oat
• Security: Fingerprint reader, Face unlock
• What's in the Box: Tab P12, USB-C 2.0 charging cable, Charging adapter (10V/2A), Quick-Start Guide & Safety, Warranty, MicroSD Tray Pin

As a tech enthusiast with a penchant for large-screen tablets, I was eager to explore Lenovo's latest offering - the Tab P12. Positioned as a midrange Android tablet, it boasts an array of features and specifications that aim to cater to both productivity and entertainment needs.

Priced at Rs 28,999 at the time of writing this review (MRP Rs 42,000), the Tab P12 comes equipped with a MediaTek Dimensity 7050 SoC, 8GB RAM, 256GB storage, and a spacious 12.7-inch 3K resolution display. Let's dive into the review and see if this tablet is worth your money.

PROS

• Impressive Display: The 12.7-inch 3K LCD panel offers vibrant visuals, complemented by a video quality enhancement feature.
• Exceptional Audio: JBL-tuned quad-speaker setup with Dolby Atmos provides rich, balanced sound for an immersive experience.
• Solid Build and Design: A slim, metallic body with a matte finish and rounded borders for comfortable holding.
• Long-lasting Battery: A robust 10,200mAh battery delivers around eight hours of mixed usage screen-on time.
• Clean Software Experience: Stock Android 13 ensures a clean and straightforward software interface.

CONS

• 60Hz Refresh Rate: The display's 60Hz refresh rate is a major drawback.
• Heavy Weight: Leans towards the heavier side, potentially causing discomfort during prolonged use.
• Mediocre Performance: Not suitable for intensive gaming, with noticeable heating during graphics-intensive gameplay.
• Slow Charging: The bundled 20W charger takes over two and a half hours to fully charge the tablet.

Display: A Visual Treat

The standout feature of the Lenovo Tab P12 is undeniably its 12.7-inch LCD panel. Offering a 3K resolution, the display is not only expansive but also delivers vibrant and sharp visuals. Even in the midrange category, Lenovo manages to match the display quality offered by premium brands. The inclusion of a video quality enhancement feature further enhances the viewing experience, upscaling lower-resolution content.

The 60Hz refresh rate, on the other hand, is a drawback, as both the Realme Pad 2 and the OnePlus Pad Go give you a 120Hz and 90Hz refresh rate for a smoother experience at a lesser price.

Design: Form Meets Function

Designed with a metallic body featuring a matte finish, the Tab P12 strikes a balance between elegance and functionality. The rounded border and slim profile (6.9mm) make it easy to hold despite its large footprint.

Despite its premium feel, the tablet's weight (roughly 615g) is on the heavier side, which may cause discomfort during extended use.

Audio: Phenomenal Sound Quality

In the audio department, Lenovo shines with the Tab P12. The JBL-tuned quad-speaker setup, coupled with Dolby Atmos, delivers exceptional audio quality. The sound is rich, well-balanced, and exhibits clear channel separation.

Audiophiles might still prefer external speakers or headphones for an enhanced bass output, but the built-in speakers suffice for an immersive media consumption experience.

Performance: A Mixed Bag

Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7050 SoC, the Tab P12 handles multitasking and content streaming admirably. However, it falls short in the gaming department, with noticeable heating during graphics-intensive gameplay.

I played NFS No Limits and was let down by the mediocre graphics, which simply did not provide the gaming experience I hoped from a large-screen tablet. The tablet's performance is geared more towards productivity and media consumption than hardcore gaming.

Battery Life: Lasting Power

With a robust 10,200mAh battery, the Tab P12 offers impressive screen-on time for mixed usage, lasting around eight hours. The 'Video Upscaling' feature, while draining the battery, doesn't compromise significantly on performance.

The tablet, however, takes a long time to charge with the included 20W charger, requiring more than two and a half hours to go from 0 to 100 percent.

Software Experience: A Clean and Intuitive Interface

Running on Android 13, with the promise of an upgrade to Android 15 upon release (which is strange as Android 14 is already available), the Tab P12 offers a clean and intuitive interface. Lenovo's decision to embrace a stock Android experience enhances usability, providing users with a familiar and straightforward environment.

The tablet includes a few noteworthy software additions, such as the Lenovo Freestyle app, facilitating seamless screen and data sharing between two devices.

The stock Android 13 for tablets incorporates an iPad-like dock, housing favorite and recently opened apps, enabling quick app switching without delving into the app drawer. Overall, the software experience on the Tab P12 is refreshingly clean and user-friendly.

There Is Room for Improvement

While the tablet excels in its core functions, some aspects leave room for improvement. The USB-C 2.0 port might not be the speediest for data transfers, and the facial recognition feature is hit-and-miss.

The 13MP rear and 8MP front cameras serve modest purposes, suitable for document scanning and video calls but lacking in the photography department.

Verdict: A Compelling Option for Media Enthusiasts

The Lenovo Tab P12 presents itself as a solid choice for users prioritizing media consumption and productivity. Its remarkable display, coupled with exceptional audio quality, makes it an attractive option in the midrange tablet segment. However, those looking for better performance or faster charging may need to look elsewhere.