We got the new HUAWEI MatePad 12 X for our review, a versatile and stylish tablet tailored to meet the demands of today’s modern users.
The new HUAWEI MatePad 12 X shows the brands commitment to catering to diverse needs of its users like students improving their note-taking or study routines while young creatives can create artworks seamlessly anytime and anywhere. For the young professional users, the HUAWEI MatePad 12 X offers seamless on-the-go document editing with its large 12-inch display, a magnetic keyboard for comfortable typing, and the powerful PC-level WPS Suite for easily opening the necessary file. Packed with versatility and innovative features, the latest MatePad 12 X is a dynamic tool that enhances productivity, learning, and creativity.
To give you a quick glimpse of its new features, the new HUAWEI MatePad 12 X introduces five key upgrades for enhanced efficiency and creativity starting with a 12-inch Ultra-bright PaperMatte display, durable eco-friendly design, more lightweight, improved HUAWEI Notes and the upgraded GoPaint for those who wants to do some artistic work.
So, those are just a few of the features found on the new tablet. Now, let’s dive more as we share our hands-on experience.
Pricing and Availability
The HUAWEI MatePad 12X is priced at PHP37,999 now available on Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok, HUAWEI Online store and HUAWEI Experience Stores nationwide.
You can enjoy an exclusive bundle worth PHP19,896 including HUAWEI Glide Keyboard, 3rd Generation M-Pencil, PC Level WPS Suite, and HUWEI Bluetooth Mouse. This bundle is available until December 31, 2024.
Here are the links for the online stores:
- Shopee: https://go.ly/LJo65
- HUAWEI Store: https://go.ly/MvJ5G
- Lazada: https://go.ly/KlD5w
Unboxing
The packaging design of the HUAWEI MatePad 12 X is very simple, it’s clad in an all-white box made of thick cardboard material.
Upon opening, the first item you’ll see is the polishing cloth placed neatly on top of the tablet. Underneath the tablet are compartmentalized boxes which contains the included accessories.
Now, if we take everything out of the box you’ll get the following items:
- HUAWEI MatePad 12 X
- 66W SuperCharge Power Adaptor
- USB-A to USB-C Cable
- Quick Start Guide
- Warranty Card
- Polishing Cloth
- HUAWEI Smart Magnetic Keyboard
Design and Build Quality
Seeing the HUAWEI MatePad 12 X for the first time, its minimalist design, the lightweight build, and its remarkable slim profile immediately stood out, I believe that you’ll also feel the same way once you check it yourself.
Despite having an all-metal body, the tablet weighs just 555 grams and thickness measuring only at 5.9mm. The HUAWEI MatePad 12 X already feels premium and comfortable to hold, while its sleek design makes it easy to slip it even in a sling bag for on-the-go productivity.
Our review unit comes in a refreshing Greenery colorway, the back panel has a beautiful shimmering pearlescent polish green finish in a smooth matte texture that helps resists fingerprint marks or smudges plus providing us a comfortable grip on the tablet. The process for producing that nice glossy effect involves an environmentally friendly e-coating with mica powder.
Elements placed at the back panel features a camera module using a Star Ring Camera design in the top left corner, a HUAWEI logo in the center with certification marks beside it, and magnetic pins for the keyboard at the bottom center.
The HUAWEI MatePad 12 X has a standard placements for its controls and ports.
In portrait orientation, the right side edge features the volume rockers, a microphone, and a magnetic attachment for mounting and charging the HUAWEI M-Pencil.
The left side edge is completely clean but features a full-length, strong magnet that allows the tablet to attach securely to the keyboard if you need to put it up to enable the laptop mode when needed.
Bottom Edge
Top Edge
At the bottom edge, you’ll find two speaker grilles and a USB-C port, while the top edge houses another two speaker grilles along with the power/sleep button.
With a total of four speaker grilles evenly placed on both sides, the sound output is well-balanced, it delivers an immersive audio experience when watching videos.
Moving to the front, the large display is nicely surrounded by thin bezels with consistent thickness on all sides. These bezels are just wide enough to comfortably hold the tablet without causing accidental touches, while staying out of the way when we watch any videos.
The front camera gets a small punch-hole design that’s centrally positioned at the top when the tablet is in landscape orientation.
Display
The screen resolution of the HUAWEI MatePad 12 X is rather high at 2800 x 1840 pixels and the display size is quite large which measures at 12-inches diagonally offering a more expansive browsing, writing, and reading experience.
Scrolling through the 2.8K resolution of a TFT LCD display offers fluid motion, especially when we browse the web or viewing social media apps while enjoying the crisp images and text. All of these are possible due to its 144Hz maximum refresh rate and 280 PPI pixel density.
The refresh rate can also be automatically adjusted between different levels, including as low as 30Hz, when the Dynamic refresh rate option is enabled which helps to conserve battery life.
The screen boasts a peak brightness of up to 1000 nits, ensuring excellent visibility outdoors, while indoor usage is even more comfortable for the eyes at a minimum brightness of 600 nits.
Another standout feature of the screen is its PaperMatte display, which uses a special nanoscale anti-glare etching technology that the brand claims could eliminate 99% of light interference. So far, I’m highly impressed, when light beams onto the screen, especially outdoors under direct sunlight, there’s almost no glare, making images highly visible, and text is easy to read over extended periods of time.
With the PaperMatte display, when we try to draw or doodle on the device, it feels incredibly natural as it replicates the sensation of writing on actual paper which elevates the overall user experience.
Hardware, Performance and Accessories
At the core of the HUAWEI MatePad 12 X, it is powered by a 5 nanometer Kirin T90A octa-core processor with maximum clock speeds up to 2.2GHz and paired with a Maleoon 910 for its GPU.
It is equipped with 12GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage which is enough to ensure users a smooth multitasking and ample space for apps, photos, and videos. However, it lacks a microSD slot for those who wants an additional storage. If you require more space, the best solution will be investing on an external storage option such as USB drives or a cloud-based solutions. It’s a practical alternative to meet your storage needs for the meantime.
To enhance signal connectivity, the tablet is equipped with a 2-in-1 Speaker Antenna Cavity design which results in a 20% performance boost in antenna reception compared to its predecessor. Although we were connected to our phone’s mobile data, we experienced seamless connectivity, even while testing the tablet in a coffee shop or a mall. So, I think it works really well.
The HUAWEI MatePad 12 X has the essential accessories for users utilizing the device for work or creative artwork. You have the HUAWEI Smart Magnetic Keyboard and HUAWEI M-Pencil (3rd generation) with both accessories using its very own short-range wireless connection with NearLink technology.
The HUAWEI M-Pencil (3rd Generation) has ultra-low latency, due to the NearLink technology, as it lets users feel incredibly natural and fluid to use for writing, drawing, and note-taking experience.
It’s compatible with the company’s proprietary apps like GoPaint and HUAWEI Notes, which we will tackle in a moment.
With over 10,000 pressure-sensing levels supporting the M-Pencil accurately captures subtle variations in pressure. It also has some other practical functionalities like Double-tap function allows for quick switching either to use a pen or eraser and palm rejection technology ensures that accidental touches on the screen don’t interfere.
I appreciate how the M-Pencil (3rd Generation) effortlessly fastens to the top edge side of the tablet via its strong magnetic attachment and wireless charging feature. However, despite the strong magnetic hold, I’ve experienced that the M-Pencil can sometimes detach when the tablet is placed in a backpack, likely due to bumping from other items. As a result, I typically check the M-Pencil and reattach it whenever I place the tablet in my backpack again.
Unlike other tablets that lack their very own Bluetooth keyboard, this device spares you the hassle of purchasing online a generic Bluetooth keyboard and hoping it is compatible and be functional. The HUAWEI Smart Magnetic Keyboard is designed to enhance the productivity and compatible already for the HUAWEI MatePad 12 X.
It attaches magnetically to the back of the tablet, transforming it into a laptop-like device for an efficient typing experience making it ideal for work and study. It is slim and lightweight design adding a minimal bulk to the tablet while providing a sturdy and stable typing surface.
We like how the keyboard has a comfortable key travel and responsive keys for an accurate and efficient typing. Plus, it has PC-Like shortcut functions just the same as in a usual laptop or PC to save you a lot of time.
This model does not have a touchpad for easy navigation but you can still use a Bluetooth mouse to pair it with the tablet.
Expect the HUAWEI MatePad 12 X to produce really good audio quality as it is fitted with six-speakers and incorporating HUAWEI’s Sound spatial model algorithm, SmartBass bass enhancement algorithm, and AI Smart Audio Mixer. The result will provide users clear vocals, good mid-range tones, and bass is also present in the audio. Watching your favorite videos, listening to music, and playing games on this tablet will undoubtedly be a treat for your ears.
The device does not support a 3.5mm audio port for wired headphones however, using a USB-C dongle is possible. For those with earbuds or Bluetooth speakers, you can easily connect them via Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity, which provides access to Huawei’s Histen sound effects for an immersive spatial audio experience.
The tablet’s biometric authentication relies solely on face recognition, as it does not include a fingerprint scanner. Additionally, users can enhance security with a 6-digit PIN lock screen password or smart unlock, which works when connected to a Bluetooth wearable.
Camera and Photo Sample
The HUAWEI MatePad 12 X has dual cameras on its back panel comprising of a 13MP main camera with an aperture of f/1.8 accompanied by an 8MP ultrawide camera with f/2.2 aperture. There’s also a LED flash to provide that extra light for your photos.
For selfies, the front camera has an 8MP lens with an aperture of f/2.2.
For video recordings, both the rear and front cameras can capture footage at a maximum of 4K resolution at 30 frames per second. If the 4K resolution isn’t necessary then the 1080p and 720p resolutions are also available with two frame rates at 30fps and 60fps.
The camera app is very basic with the other functions properly laid out. There are three shooting modes available to use with Beauty for portrait shots, Photo, and Video. Then clicking the more options will give access to five more shooting modes including Stickers, Pro, Documents, Panorama, and Time-lapse.
It has three zoom switch options to take the necessary focal length like the Wide, 1x and 10x which is the maximum zoom capabilities of the camera.
Here are some sample photos we took using the HUAWEI MatePad 12 X.
1x Photo mode, Indoor, Ambient Lighting
Ultra-wide mode, Indoor, Ambient Lighting
1x Photo mode, Indoor, Ambient Lighting
1x Photo mode, Outdoor, Sunny Weather
Ultra-wide mode, Outdoor, Sunny Weather
10x Photo mode, Outdoor, Sunny Weather
Selfie, Indoor, Ambient Lighting
In terms of image quality, both the front and rear cameras can capture decent photos in well-lit outdoor conditions or under bright ambient lighting indoors, such as in malls, restaurants, and similar settings. If under low lighting conditions, the quality of the photo becomes too soft with noise present as well.
Video calls even at 1080p resolution, are decently smooth and clear as long as there is adequate lighting to enhance the image quality especially if you’re doing virtual meetings or online classes.
Software and Apps
The HUAWEI MatePad 12 X ships out with the latest HarmonyOS version 4.2 installed.
If you need to install other apps, you can download at the HUAWEI AppGallery especially for Google Mobile Services (GMS) like Chrome, Gmail and more. If you can’t find the other apps you can download GBox or APK’s from third-party sources although we must warn you some a security risk.
HarmonyOS offers extensive personalization features such as customizing your wallpaper, apply desired themes, change icons and fonts, and add widgets for quick access to information or functions from your favorite apps.
Although you can install Microsoft Office on this tablet, it comes preloaded with the WPS Office app, allowing you to easily open, update, or edit Word, PowerPoint, and Excel documents. We had no trouble opening any MS Office files at all and was able to send it to a client for checking.
If you like to draw, doodle, or simply need to take out that creative inspiration, the HUAWEI MatePad 12 X has a versatile digital painting tool with the GoPaint app.
Designed for artists of all levels, it is powered by the FangTian Painting Engine 2.0 offering a set of realistic brushes with new ones like Fluid, Splatter, and dual-effect brushes. There are various traditional media-inspired textures like oil painting, ink, and watercolor to match their style. The area for the design has an 8K canvas support and efficient editing tools for seamless creativity.
Artists and designers will appreciate the ability to create up to 500 layers for the drawings, colors, or sketches to be easily edited or adjusted without affecting other layers.
Other apps would consume more power and battery of the device, the GoPaint app is efficient in both power and memory usage for a smooth drawing experience while minimizing the risk of device lag or excessive battery drain, even when you’re working with large canvases or multiple tons of layers.
For students and young professionals, there is a growing demand for digital note-taking to efficiently record topics or meetings during lectures, group discussions, or client presentations.
The HUAWEI MatePad 12 X addresses this need with its practical digital notebook app already pre-installed with HUAWEI Notes. The HUAWEI Notes offers a variety of rich templates, including business designs, traditional Chinese styles, and layouts tailored specifically for students.
HUAWEI Notes has an efficient toolbar that organizes the usual tools you’ll need, such as markers, ballpens, lassos, photo access and more. Plus, you can easily choose your desired color options. All these tools are conveniently placed at top center to improve the users productivity.
The app also allows users a multi-note opening feature to open or manage several notes simultaneously and a one-touch split-screen functionality for a side by side comparison.
A convenient, and innovative feature found on the app is the Note Replay. It combines audio recording with real-time note-taking, setting it apart from basic speech-to-text transcription. You can now seamlessly synchronize handwritten notes with the recorded audio, making it easier to review and retain important information very useful for students, professionals.
The HUAWEI Notes can help users enjoy a quick, efficient, creative, and personalised notetaking experience.
Battery Life
Despite its very slim profile, the HUAWEI MatePad 12 X has a substantial battery capacity housing a 10,100 mAh battery and supports 66W SuperCharge fast charging to quickly juice up the battery.
HUAWEI claims that the tablet can support up to 14 hours of local video playback, 12 hours of web browsing, and 8 hours of intensive comprehensive learning.
Using the 66W charger, the MatePad 12 X achieved an initial charge of 20% within the first 15 minutes then after 30 minutes it increased to 61%. It took us approximately around 1 hour and 36 minutes to fully charge the tablet from 0 to 100%.
With the battery at 87%, we watched YouTube videos continuously for 3 hours with the screen brightness set to 70% and the volume at 60%. Our usage consumed approximately 22% of the battery which left us 65% remaining.
With our continuous use involving video streaming, social media browsing, and simultaneous input from the keyboard and M-Pencil, the tablet was able to last up till the afternoon. A great advantage of a tablet like the MatePad 12 X is its compatibility with any power banks which allows for convenient charging anywhere even on the go without the need for a wall outlet.
What We Like
- Premium Design with Slim Profile
- Lightweight
- Refreshing Colorway
- Sharp and Vibrant Screen
- PaperMatte Display
- 144Hz Refresh Rate
- 4K Video Resolution
- 1080p at 60fps
- Large Battery Capacity
- 66W SuperCharge
- Superb Sound Quality
- HUAWEI M-Pencil (3rd Gen)
- HUAWEI Smart Magnetic Keyboard
- GoPaint and HUAWEI Notes
- WPS Office
- Super Device and SuperHub
What We Want
- 5mm Audio Port
- Expandable Storage
- SIM Card Tray
- IP Rating
Conclusion
First, I would like to share my thoughts on the design. The overall aesthetics of the HUAWEI MatePad 12 X are premium-looking that offers a refreshing and elegant vibe without being overly flashy. Its lightweight design and slim profile make it easy to carry and convenient to slip into your bag. This impressive tablet is a stylish choice for users seeking a device that feels both unique and refined.
The performance is pretty solid, it’s capable of handling almost all everyday tasks while leaving room for entertainment and playtime. The cameras are reliable enough to capture clear documents, particularly for work, or photos to preserve those important moments. Video calls, on the other hand, are dependable, offering good image quality in well lighted conditions.
The battery life of the MatePad 12 X is so far impressive. For long work or study hours, the 66W charger provides fast recharging, or you can opt for a portable power bank for added convenience.
Let’s not forget the included software on the HUAWEI MatePad 12 X. It comes with GoPaint, ideal for artists and designers, as well as HUAWEI Notes and WPS Office, perfect for young professionals. These tools make the device an all-in-one device for productivity and creativity. With these set of great apps, it is tailored to various users, the HUAWEI MatePad 12 X stands out as an all-around and user-focused tablet.
The available HUAWEI accessories are a great addition for the tablet. The HUAWEI M-Pencil (3rd Generation) is a top-tier stylus that combines precision and responsiveness, making it a powerful tool for designers, students, or young professionals for a seamless digital note writing and drawing experience. Meanwhile, the HUAWEI Smart Magnetic Keyboard significantly enhances the functionality of the MatePad 12 X, providing a PC-like experience. It is a popular accessory for users looking to maximize the tablet’s productivity.
By adding a Bluetooth mouse to the combination of the Smart Magnetic keyboard and M-Pencil, along with pre-installed software like WPS Office, HUAWEI Notes, and GoPaint, you’ll have a high-spec laptop or PC-like experience.
In summary, the HUAWEI MatePad 12 X is for everyone along with its array of new features and compatible accessories, it is well-suited to cater to the different needs and preferences of users whether for work, school, or creative expression.
Full Specifications – HUAWEI MatePad 12 X
- Price: PHP 37,999
- Color: Greenery
- Dimensions: 183 x 270 x 5.9mm
- Weight: 555 grams (Including Battery)
- Display Size: 12 inches
- Type: LCD
- Refresh Rate: 144Hz
- Resolution: 2800 × 1840 pxiels
- Pixel Density: 280 PPI
- Screen-to-body Ratio: 88%
- Screen Colour: 16.7 million colours, P3 wide colour gamut
- Brightness: 1,000 nits
- Processor: Kirin T90A Octa-core
- RAM: 12GB
- Storage: 256GB
- OS: HarmonyOS 4.2
- Rear Camera: 13 MP (f/1.8 aperture, AF), 8 MP (wide angle, f/2.2 aperture, FF), LED flash
- Front Camera: 8 MP (f/2.2 aperture)
- Video Resolution: (Rear) Up to 3840 × 2160 pixels @30fps / Up to 1080P (1920 × 1080) @30fps
- Battery: 10,100 mAh
- Fast Charge: 66W SuperCharge
- Standard charger: 11V/6A charger
- Quick charging: Supports 11V/6A (Max) fast charging / Compatible with 9V/2A or 5V/2A fast charging
- Connectivity: WLAN 2.4 GHz/5 GHz, Bluetooth 5.2, NearLink, OTG, PC Data Sync, USB Type-C
- Sensor: Ambient optical sensor, Gravity sensor, Hall sensor, Gyroscope
