The 2 MB configuration had already been released in Germany in October 1994 as the higher memory capacity was necessary for improved German language support. Due to tepid sales, Apple announced a rebate program for the purchase of a MessagePad 120 and qualified accessory. It was discontinued in June 1996.

The MessagePad 120 utilized the form factor of the MessagePad 110, but without the rubberized surface. It used the same 20 MHz ARM 610 processor, and was available in two memory configurations: with 1 or 2 MB of static RAM. 639 or 687 KB was used by Newton OS 1.3 in these respective configurations, leaving 385 or 1,361 KB available for user data.

Storage space could be expanded through the PCMCIA Type II slot, which increased power capacity to 325 mA, compared to 115 mA in the MessagePad 110. The 320 x 240 monochrome LCD display featured improved visibility over its predecessor.