The Huawei MatePad 12 X aims to stand out in the competitive tablet market by addressing the needs of both creative professionals and multitasking enthusiasts. With a unique PaperMatte display, robust performance capabilities, and bundled productivity-enhancing accessories, Huawei positions this device as a versatile powerhouse. After testing the MatePad 12 X, here’s an in-depth review of how it performs across key areas.
Design and Build Quality: Sleek, Durable, and Portable
The MatePad 12 X impresses with its minimalist design. Its all-metal body is just 5.9mm thick and weighs a mere 555g, striking a balance between sturdiness and portability. The build feels premium in hand, and its slim profile makes it easy to slip into a bag for on-the-go productivity. Huawei’s attention to detail is evident, from the perfectly chamfered edges to the matte finish that resists smudges.
We found the MatePad’s design highly ergonomic. Even during extended use, it felt comfortable and lightweight. Compared to bulkier tablets like the other brands, the MatePad 12 X is easier to handle without sacrificing durability.
Display: PaperMatte Technology Steals the Show
The 12-inch PaperMatte display is the star of the MatePad 12 X. Offering 2.8K resolution, it delivers crisp visuals with vivid colors. What sets it apart is the matte finish, which reduces glare and fingerprints, making it a joy to use in bright environments. With a peak brightness of 1,050 nits, outdoor visibility is unmatched, a rare feat for tablets. The dynamic refresh rate (30Hz to 144Hz) adapts intelligently to save battery while ensuring smooth visuals for gaming or content consumption.
The PaperMatte finish enhances comfort during prolonged use, particularly for reading or sketching. While it’s a bit less vibrant compared to glossy screens on devices like the iPad Pro, the trade-off for reduced glare and a paper-like feel is worth it.
Performance: A Reliable Workhorse
Powered by HarmonyOS 4.2, the MatePad 12 X is available in 8GB or 12GB RAM configurations with up to 512GB of storage. HarmonyOS provides seamless multitasking capabilities with features like split-screen, multi-window, and easy pairing with other Huawei devices.
During testing, the tablet handled productivity tasks such as document editing and video calls effortlessly. Switching between apps was fluid, and there was no noticeable lag even when running graphic-intensive apps like GoPaint. The performance is stellar for most tasks for professional use; the MatePad delivers consistently.
Creativity Features: Built for Artists and Note-Takers
The third-generation M-Pencil integrates perfectly with the PaperMatte display, offering a natural, paper-like writing experience. It supports tilt sensitivity and 4,096 pressure levels, ideal for both sketching and note-taking. Preloaded apps like Huawei Notes and GoPaint add significant value, especially with features like Note Replay and a wide array of professional brush options.
The M-Pencil is fantastic for creative work. We found it intuitive and responsive, with minimal latency. The PaperMatte texture enhances precision, though it may feel slightly too textured for those accustomed to smooth glass displays.
Battery and Charging: All-Day Power
The 10,100mAh battery powers the MatePad for up to 14 hours of video playback, making it one of the most reliable tablets for long workdays or entertainment marathons. The 66W fast charger, included in the box, can charge the tablet from 0% to 100% in about 90 minutes.
The battery life exceeded our expectations. After a full day of multitasking and streaming, there was still around 20% charge left. The fast charging was a lifesaver, especially during busy days.
Accessories: Productivity Out of the Box
Huawei provides a Smart Magnetic Keyboard and the 66W charger in the box, which many competitors sell separately. The keyboard doubles as a protective cover and offers tactile feedback for comfortable typing.
The keyboard is a welcome addition and pairs seamlessly. While it’s not as robust as some third-party options, it’s sufficient for light to moderate productivity tasks.
The Huawei MatePad 12 X is a versatile, innovative tablet that excels in creativity and productivity. Its PaperMatte display sets it apart, making it a delight for artists, note-takers, and anyone working in bright environments. It offers a more tailored experience for users who value thoughtful design, seamless multitasking, and glare-free visuals.
Whether you’re a creative professional, a student, or simply someone seeking a reliable tablet for work and play, the MatePad 12 X offers a compelling package that redefines what a tablet can be.
