> I’m looking for a truly portable stand that’s sturdy enough for the larger Pro model but compact enough to slide into a backpack sleeve. sooo i totally get the struggle!! i actually started out using a super cheap plastic stand i got off amazon and it literally snapped the first time i put my 12.9 pro on it lol. major fail... i was so worried about my screen cracking!! anyway, after that i did some digging and found a real winner. For your situation, I would suggest the Satechi R1 Aluminum Hinge Holder Foldable Stand. ngl it was a total game changer for me. it's made of solid aluminum so it doesn't feel flimsy at all, and it basically folds completely flat. i slide it right into my backpack sleeve next to my ipad mini and it fits perfectly. i mean, it's sturdy enough for drawing on the big pro but still works for watching movies on the mini. plus the hinges are really stiff so it stays where u put it. definitely a decent option if you're traveling a lot!! gl!

Similar situation here - I went through this last year and honestly spent way too much money on big-name accessories that ended up being way too heavy or just annoying to pack. Just sharing my experience: I eventually picked up the Ugreen Foldable Desktop Tablet Stand for like $15, and ngl, it’s been a total lifesaver. I was worried it wouldn't handle my 12.9 Pro, especially for drawing, but it’s surprisingly stable if you dont set the angle too low. Basically, it’s just a simple plastic and rubber design, so it’s light enough for the Mini too. I also tried the Lamicall Foldable Tablet Stand LN02, which is a bit more metal-heavy but still folds totally flat. Tbh, the Ugreen one is just easier to toss in a bag sleeve without worrying about scratching other stuff. It’s not as "premium" as the ones mentioned earlier, but for the price, the value is hard to beat for frequent travel. Plus, if I lose it at a cafe, it’s not a huge financial hit!! gl findin the right one.

Respectfully, I'd consider another option. I've been testing hardware for ages, and while hinge stands like the Satechi are decent, they often struggle with the weight of the 12.9-inch Pro over time—the tension eventually gives out, especially if you're drawing. - Twelve South Compass Pro for iPad: This is basically the gold standard for traveling. It’s a tripod design made of heavy-gauge steel. It’s way sturdier for the 12.9 model because of the physics of the weight distribution. Plus, it folds down tiny like a chocolate bar.
- Moft Snap Tablet Stand: If you really want to save space, this uses magnets. It’s super thin, fits in any sleeve, and works across different sizes without any bulk. But yeah, for the Pro, I’d go with the Compass Pro. It’s got that specific secondary leg for a lower drawing angle that won't collapse under pressure... literally. gl!