IPad Pro 12.9 (2020) Vs (2021): Which Should You Choose?

Hey guys! Ever found yourself in a tech store, staring at two shiny new iPads, wondering which one to swipe your card for? Today, we're diving deep into the iPad Pro 12.9-inch, pitting the 2020 model against its 2021 successor. We'll break down the nitty-gritty, making sure you know exactly what you're getting for your hard-earned cash. No tech jargon overload, just straight-up facts to help you make the best choice! Let's get started!

Display: Seeing is Believing

When it comes to displays, the iPad Pro 12.9-inch models are known for their stunning visuals. The 2020 iPad Pro already boasted a fantastic Liquid Retina display, offering vibrant colors, sharp details, and ProMotion technology for a smooth 120Hz refresh rate. This made everything from scrolling through web pages to watching movies an absolute joy. However, the 2021 model takes things up a notch with its new Liquid Retina XDR display. This display incorporates mini-LED technology, which drastically improves the contrast ratio and brightness. What does this mean for you? Deeper blacks, brighter highlights, and an overall more dynamic and immersive viewing experience.

For creative professionals, the enhanced color accuracy and wider dynamic range of the 2021 model are particularly beneficial. Imagine editing photos or videos and seeing every subtle detail with incredible clarity. The improved display allows for more precise color grading and a better representation of how your work will look on other devices. Gamers will also appreciate the vibrant visuals and smooth motion, making gameplay even more engaging and realistic. The difference might seem subtle on paper, but in person, the Liquid Retina XDR display is a noticeable upgrade, especially when viewing HDR content. The enhanced brightness also makes the 2021 model more usable in bright outdoor conditions, reducing glare and improving visibility. For those who prioritize display quality and frequently consume or create visual content, the 2021 iPad Pro's display is a compelling reason to upgrade. This is a significant leap forward that enhances the overall user experience and sets a new standard for tablet displays.

Performance: Under the Hood

The engine that drives these iPads is where we find another significant difference. The 2020 iPad Pro is powered by the A12Z Bionic chip, which, at the time, was a powerhouse. It handled everything you threw at it with ease, from demanding apps to complex multitasking. But the 2021 iPad Pro? It's rocking the M1 chip – the same chip found in Apple's MacBook Air and MacBook Pro laptops. This isn't just a small bump in performance; it's a massive leap. We're talking about significantly faster CPU and GPU performance. Apps launch quicker, games run smoother, and complex tasks like video editing are noticeably faster.

The M1 chip also brings other benefits, such as improved machine learning capabilities. This means that features like object recognition in photos and real-time language translation are faster and more accurate. The increased processing power also allows for more advanced augmented reality (AR) experiences, making the 2021 iPad Pro a more compelling device for AR enthusiasts and developers. For professionals who rely on their iPad for demanding tasks, the M1 chip is a game-changer. It enables workflows that were previously only possible on a laptop or desktop computer. The ability to run professional-grade applications like Final Cut Pro and Logic Pro on an iPad opens up new possibilities for content creation and productivity. The M1 chip also provides more headroom for future software updates and features, ensuring that the 2021 iPad Pro remains a powerful and capable device for years to come. The difference in performance between the A12Z and M1 chips is substantial and is a key factor to consider when choosing between the two models. If you prioritize speed, responsiveness, and the ability to handle demanding tasks, the 2021 iPad Pro with the M1 chip is the clear winner.

Camera: Capturing the Moment

Both the 2020 and 2021 iPad Pro 12.9-inch models come equipped with a similar camera setup, featuring a 12MP Wide camera, a 10MP Ultra Wide camera, and a LiDAR Scanner. The LiDAR Scanner is a particularly cool feature, as it enhances AR experiences by accurately measuring distances to objects in the environment. This leads to more realistic and immersive AR apps and games. However, the 2021 model gets a notable upgrade with its front-facing camera. It features a 12MP Ultra Wide camera with Center Stage, a feature that automatically keeps you in the frame during video calls, even if you move around.

The Center Stage feature is incredibly useful for video conferencing, online classes, and staying connected with family and friends. It ensures that you are always the focus of the conversation, even if you are multitasking or moving around your workspace. The improved front-facing camera also captures sharper and more detailed images, making video calls look more professional. While the rear cameras are similar in both models, the 2021 iPad Pro benefits from the enhanced image processing capabilities of the M1 chip. This results in slightly better image quality, especially in low-light conditions. The M1 chip also enables features like Smart HDR 3, which optimizes the colors and details in your photos for a more natural and balanced look. While the camera system may not be the primary reason to choose one model over the other, the improved front-facing camera and enhanced image processing of the 2021 iPad Pro are welcome additions. For those who frequently use their iPad for video calls or content creation, the 2021 model offers a more compelling camera experience.

Storage: How Much Do You Need?

When it comes to storage, both the 2020 and 2021 iPad Pro models offer a range of options to suit different needs. The 2020 model is available in 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB configurations. The 2021 model offers the same options, but also adds a massive 2TB configuration for users who need even more space. If you plan to store a lot of large files, such as 4K videos, high-resolution photos, or extensive libraries of music and books, then a higher storage capacity is essential.

For creative professionals who work with large project files, the 1TB or 2TB options may be necessary. Keep in mind that you cannot expand the storage on an iPad after purchase, so it's important to choose a capacity that will meet your needs for the long term. Cloud storage services like iCloud, Google Drive, and Dropbox can help supplement the internal storage, but they require an internet connection and may not be suitable for all types of files. When deciding how much storage you need, consider your current usage patterns and how they may change in the future. If you are unsure, it's always better to err on the side of more storage, as you can never have too much. The availability of a 2TB option on the 2021 iPad Pro is a significant advantage for users who require a large amount of local storage for their work or entertainment.

Connectivity: Staying Connected

Both the 2020 and 2021 iPad Pro 12.9-inch models offer excellent connectivity options, including Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0. Wi-Fi 6 provides faster and more reliable wireless connections, while Bluetooth 5.0 allows you to connect to a wide range of accessories, such as headphones, keyboards, and mice. However, the 2021 model takes connectivity to the next level with the addition of Thunderbolt / USB 4 support. This allows for faster data transfer speeds and the ability to connect to external displays and other peripherals with higher bandwidth requirements.

The Thunderbolt / USB 4 port on the 2021 iPad Pro is a significant upgrade for professionals who need to transfer large files quickly or connect to high-resolution displays. It also enables the use of Thunderbolt-based accessories, such as external storage drives and audio interfaces, which offer even faster performance and more advanced features. The 2021 iPad Pro also supports 5G cellular connectivity, providing faster download and upload speeds when you are on the go. This is particularly useful for professionals who need to access and share large files while working remotely. While both models offer excellent connectivity options, the Thunderbolt / USB 4 port and 5G support on the 2021 iPad Pro provide a clear advantage for users who require the fastest and most versatile connectivity options. Whether you are transferring large files, connecting to external displays, or working remotely, the 2021 iPad Pro offers the connectivity features you need to stay productive and connected.

Battery Life: Powering Through the Day

When it comes to battery life, both the 2020 and 2021 iPad Pro models offer similar performance. You can expect to get around 10 hours of use from both devices when browsing the web, watching videos, or working on documents. However, the 2021 model may experience slightly shorter battery life when performing more demanding tasks, such as video editing or gaming, due to the increased power consumption of the M1 chip.

Despite the more powerful processor, Apple has optimized the M1 chip to be energy-efficient, so the difference in battery life is not significant in most use cases. Both models also support fast charging, allowing you to quickly recharge the battery when needed. Keep in mind that battery life can vary depending on your usage patterns, screen brightness, and other factors. To maximize battery life, you can adjust the screen brightness, disable background app refresh, and limit the use of location services. Overall, both the 2020 and 2021 iPad Pro models offer excellent battery life that should be sufficient for most users. Whether you are working on the go, attending meetings, or relaxing at home, you can expect to get a full day of use from your iPad without needing to recharge.

Price: What's Your Budget?

Price is always a key consideration, right? Generally, the 2020 iPad Pro is going to be a bit more budget-friendly, especially if you're buying it used or refurbished. The 2021 model, with all its fancy upgrades like the M1 chip and Liquid Retina XDR display, commands a higher price tag. Think about what features are must-haves for you. If you're a casual user who mainly surfs the web, watches videos, and does some light productivity work, the 2020 model might be the sweet spot. But if you're a creative pro or someone who demands the best performance, the 2021 model could be worth the extra investment.

Consider the long-term value as well. While the 2021 iPad Pro is more expensive upfront, it's likely to receive software updates and support for a longer period. This means it will remain a capable and relevant device for years to come. Also, keep an eye out for deals and discounts. Apple products often go on sale, especially around holidays and back-to-school season. You might be able to snag a 2021 iPad Pro for a price that's closer to the 2020 model. Ultimately, the best iPad Pro for you depends on your individual needs and budget. Weigh the pros and cons of each model carefully and choose the one that offers the best value for your specific requirements.

Conclusion: Making the Right Choice

Alright, guys, let's wrap this up! Choosing between the 2020 and 2021 iPad Pro 12.9-inch really boils down to your needs and budget. If you're looking for a powerful tablet that can handle most tasks with ease and you don't want to break the bank, the 2020 iPad Pro is still a fantastic option. But, if you crave the absolute best performance, a breathtaking display, and future-proof features like the M1 chip and Thunderbolt connectivity, the 2021 iPad Pro is the way to go. Hopefully, this breakdown has helped you make a more informed decision. Happy shopping!