IPad Pro 2020 Vs 2021: 12.9-inch Comparison

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iPad Pro 2020 vs 2021: 12.9-inch Comparison

Hey guys! Thinking about upgrading your iPad Pro or just curious about the differences between the 2020 and 2021 models? You've come to the right place! This article dives deep into the nitty-gritty of the 12.9-inch iPad Pro versions, comparing everything from their displays and performance to battery life and more. We'll break it all down in a way that's easy to understand, so you can make the best decision for your needs. Let's get started!

Diving into the Display Differences

Okay, let's kick things off with the most visually striking difference: the display. The 2021 iPad Pro 12.9-inch boasts a Liquid Retina XDR display, while the 2020 model features a standard Liquid Retina display. What does this mean in real life? Well, the XDR display is a game-changer when it comes to brightness and contrast. It uses mini-LED technology, packing over 10,000 LEDs into the backlight. This results in incredible peak brightness, reaching up to 1,600 nits for HDR content and 1,000 nits for full-screen brightness. In contrast, the 2020 model's display is still fantastic, but it doesn't quite reach those heights. You'll notice deeper blacks, brighter highlights, and a wider dynamic range on the 2021 version, making HDR content truly pop. For creative professionals who work with photos and videos, this is a significant upgrade. The improved contrast ratio also makes for a more immersive viewing experience, whether you're watching movies or editing graphics. But, if you are more into the daily uses of an iPad, such as browsing the internet, social media usage, and media streaming, the difference between the two models may not be that obvious. However, for those who work with visuals, the Liquid Retina XDR display is certainly a feature that will be useful.

Both iPads support ProMotion technology, which means they have an adaptive refresh rate of up to 120Hz. This makes scrolling, gaming, and animations feel incredibly smooth and responsive. Whether you're sketching with the Apple Pencil or navigating through apps, the ProMotion display enhances the overall user experience. The displays also have wide color (P3) which provides vibrant and accurate colors, making photos and videos look true to life. Both iPads also feature True Tone technology, which adjusts the color temperature of the display to match the ambient lighting in your environment. This reduces eye strain and makes the screen more comfortable to view in different lighting conditions. Considering all these points, if display quality is your top priority, the 2021 iPad Pro is the clear winner thanks to its mini-LED technology and XDR capabilities. For those who prioritize peak visual performance for creative tasks or immersive media consumption, the upgrade to the 2021 model is well worth considering. However, the 2020 iPad Pro still offers an exceptional display experience, suitable for everyday tasks and general use.

Performance Powerhouse: M1 vs A12Z Bionic

Now, let's talk about what's under the hood. This is where the 2021 iPad Pro really shines. It's powered by Apple's M1 chip, the same silicon that's in their latest MacBooks and iMacs. This chip is an absolute beast, offering a massive leap in performance compared to the A12Z Bionic chip in the 2020 model. We're talking about up to 50% faster CPU performance and up to 40% faster graphics performance! What does this mean for you? Everything feels snappier and more responsive, from launching apps to multitasking to running demanding creative applications like Photoshop and video editing software. The M1 chip also brings a significant boost to machine learning tasks, making things like image recognition and augmented reality experiences run smoother and faster. If you're a professional who relies on your iPad for heavy workloads, the M1 chip is a game-changer. It allows you to tackle complex projects with ease and speed. Think editing 4K videos, creating intricate 3D models, or running multiple apps simultaneously without a hint of lag. The M1 chip's advanced architecture also contributes to better power efficiency, meaning you can get more done on a single charge.

On the other hand, the A12Z Bionic chip in the 2020 iPad Pro is no slouch either. It's still a very capable chip that can handle most tasks with ease. It's more than enough for everyday tasks like browsing the web, streaming videos, and playing games. However, when it comes to demanding tasks, the M1 chip simply blows it out of the water. The A12Z Bionic chip is based on a 7-nanometer process and features an eight-core CPU and an eight-core GPU. It also has a Neural Engine for accelerating machine learning tasks. While it was a top-of-the-line chip when it was released, it pales in comparison to the M1 chip's performance. For users who primarily use their iPad for basic tasks, the A12Z Bionic chip remains a solid performer. However, for professionals and power users who demand the best possible performance, the M1 chip is the clear choice. The M1 chip's integration of CPU, GPU, and Neural Engine on a single chip results in a more efficient and powerful system overall, making the 2021 iPad Pro a true powerhouse for any task. If performance is a critical factor for you, the M1 chip in the 2021 model is a compelling reason to upgrade.

Connectivity and Features: What's New?

Let's explore the connectivity and feature differences between these two iPad Pro generations. The 2021 iPad Pro takes things up a notch with the inclusion of Thunderbolt / USB 4. This is a major upgrade from the USB-C port on the 2020 model. Thunderbolt offers significantly faster data transfer speeds, allowing you to quickly move large files between your iPad and external storage devices. It also supports a wider range of accessories, including high-resolution displays and docking stations. If you frequently work with large files or need to connect your iPad to professional equipment, Thunderbolt is a huge advantage. The enhanced bandwidth allows for seamless integration with external devices, making the 2021 iPad Pro a more versatile tool for creative workflows. For instance, connecting to a Pro Display XDR is seamless.

Another notable addition to the 2021 model is 5G connectivity. If you opt for the cellular version, you'll be able to take advantage of the blazing-fast speeds of 5G networks (where available). This is a game-changer for professionals who need to stay connected on the go. Imagine downloading large files, streaming high-resolution videos, or participating in video conferences without any lag. 5G connectivity turns your iPad into a truly mobile workstation. The 2020 iPad Pro, while still offering cellular options, only supports 4G LTE. While 4G LTE is still fast, it can't match the speed and responsiveness of 5G. If you rely on cellular data for your work or entertainment, the 2021 iPad Pro's 5G capabilities are a significant upgrade. Both models support Wi-Fi 6, which provides fast and reliable wireless connectivity on compatible networks. However, the 5G support in the 2021 model provides a distinct advantage for users who need the fastest possible mobile data speeds.

Both iPads feature a fantastic camera system, but the 2021 model has a few tricks up its sleeve. It includes a new 12MP Ultra Wide front camera with Center Stage. This feature automatically pans and zooms to keep you in the frame during video calls, even if you move around. It's perfect for video conferencing, online classes, or just catching up with friends and family. The Center Stage feature makes video calls more engaging and natural, as you don't have to worry about staying perfectly still. The 2020 iPad Pro has a 7MP front camera, which is still good, but it doesn't offer the Center Stage functionality. The rear camera systems on both models are also excellent, with the 2021 model offering slightly improved image processing thanks to the M1 chip. Considering all these connectivity and feature enhancements, the 2021 iPad Pro clearly leads the way with Thunderbolt, 5G, and Center Stage. These additions make it a more versatile and powerful tool for both professionals and casual users.

Battery Life and Other Considerations

Let's not forget about battery life! Both the 2020 and 2021 iPad Pro 12.9-inch models offer excellent battery performance, typically providing around 10 hours of web browsing or video playback on Wi-Fi. In real-world usage, this translates to a full day of work or entertainment on a single charge. The efficient design of both iPads, combined with their respective chips, ensures that you won't be constantly searching for a power outlet. While the M1 chip in the 2021 model is more powerful, it's also more power-efficient, so you might even see slightly better battery life compared to the 2020 version under heavy use. However, the difference is usually negligible for typical everyday tasks. For most users, both iPads will easily last through a full workday or a long flight without needing a recharge.

Another factor to consider is the storage options. Both the 2020 and 2021 iPad Pro models are available in a variety of storage capacities, ranging from 128GB to 2TB. If you work with large files, such as high-resolution photos and videos, or if you plan to install a lot of apps, you'll want to opt for a model with more storage. The 2TB option is particularly useful for professionals who need to keep a vast library of files readily accessible. Cloud storage is always an option, but having ample onboard storage ensures that you can work offline and access your files quickly. The price difference between the storage tiers can be significant, so it's essential to assess your storage needs carefully. If you're unsure, it's always better to err on the side of more storage, as you can't upgrade it later.

Finally, let's talk about design and accessories. Both the 2020 and 2021 iPad Pro models share the same sleek design with slim bezels and an edge-to-edge display. They're both compatible with the second-generation Apple Pencil and the Magic Keyboard, which are fantastic accessories for creative tasks and productivity. The Apple Pencil provides a natural and responsive drawing experience, while the Magic Keyboard turns your iPad into a capable laptop replacement. The only slight design difference is that the 2021 model is a tad thicker (0.5mm) to accommodate the mini-LED display, but it's barely noticeable. The compatibility with the same accessories means that if you're upgrading from the 2020 model, you can continue using your existing Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard. Ultimately, when it comes to battery life and other considerations, both iPads offer a premium experience. The 2021 model might have a slight edge in battery efficiency, but the differences are minimal for most users. The storage options and accessory compatibility are largely the same, making it easier to choose based on your specific needs and budget.

The Verdict: Which iPad Pro Should You Choose?

So, the big question: which iPad Pro should you choose? It really boils down to your needs and budget. If you're a creative professional who demands the best possible performance and display quality, the 2021 iPad Pro 12.9-inch with the M1 chip and Liquid Retina XDR display is the clear winner. The Thunderbolt connectivity, 5G support, and Center Stage feature are also significant advantages. However, if you primarily use your iPad for everyday tasks like browsing, streaming, and light productivity, the 2020 iPad Pro is still an excellent choice. It offers plenty of power, a beautiful display, and a more affordable price tag. You'll still get a premium iPad experience without breaking the bank.

Here's a quick breakdown to help you decide:

  • Choose the 2021 iPad Pro if:
    • You need the best possible performance for demanding tasks.
    • You want the stunning Liquid Retina XDR display.
    • Thunderbolt connectivity and 5G support are important to you.
    • You use your iPad for video conferencing and want the Center Stage feature.
  • Choose the 2020 iPad Pro if:
    • You want a premium iPad experience at a lower price.
    • You don't need the M1 chip's extra power.
    • The standard Liquid Retina display is sufficient for your needs.
    • You don't require Thunderbolt connectivity or 5G support.

Ultimately, both the 2020 and 2021 iPad Pro 12.9-inch models are fantastic devices. The 2021 version offers some significant upgrades, but the 2020 model remains a very capable and cost-effective option. Think about how you'll use your iPad and what features are most important to you, and you'll be able to make the right decision. Happy shopping, guys!