The 2021 iPad Pro lineup is the first to feature Apple's powerful M1 processor, and for that reason alone, you might think it's a must-buy. Comparing the 2021 iPad Pro to the 2020 iPad Pro is a much more complicated task than the processor alone. Sure, the screens are different, but the real question is whether or not you can choose to save a little money with the “old” model or if the new one is an absolute necessity for you. Let's see how to decide which of these two powerful iPads is right for you.
SummaryWhere they're similarWhere they're differentShow Cameras5G TechnologyPowerPriceWhich iPad is right for you? Closing ThoughtsThe two iPad Pro models may look very different, but they have more in common than you might think. Here is a brief overview of the features that both iPads share:
The screen is the part of the device that you engage with the most. The 2021 12.9-inch iPad Pro adds a Liquid Retina XDR display with mini-LED technology. Technical jargon aside, this basically means you're going to benefit from improved brightness and contrast. Apple thinks the 2021 12.9 model has the best screen ever released for an iPad. For anyone who loves HDR content, this is the best choice.
As for the 2021 11-inch iPad Pro, it sports the same Liquid Retina display as the 2020 model.
The iPad Pro 2021 camera is a big improvement, and it's one that even the average user will notice immediately. The 2021 model adds improved resolution from the 7MP sensor to 12MP and adds a 122-degree field of view.
Center Stage is also available on iPad now. This feature allows the iPad Pro 2021 to zoom in on you as you move around during a video call.
The iPad Pro 2021 model comes with 5G technology. Apple claims that under ideal conditions you can receive real-world speeds of up to 3.5GB/s, but we all know we don't live in a perfect world, right?
It's the biggest, X-factor that can make or break your buying decision. The 2020 iPad Pro uses the A12Z chipset (2.49 GHz clock speed) while the 2021 iPad Pro has the M1 chip (3.2 GHz clock speed). According to the results of MacBook Air M1 owners, it is a step ahead of previous generations.
There is no doubt that the M1 chip will be faster than the A12Z. On top of that, the iPad Pro 2020 is paired with (only) 6GB of RAM while the iPad Pro 2021 is paired with either 8GB or 16GB. So if you look at the raw power, there's no doubt that the iPad Pro 2021 lineup is a real beast.
All 2021 12.9″ iPad Pro models are priced higher than 2020 models, while only 5G 11″ models are more expensive than 2020. Of course, the still powerful 2020 model will now be stored in its "discontinued" state. If you're looking to save a little, expect a lot to come along on the 2020 model from Best Buy, Amazon, and more.
If you're just crazy about Apple products and want the absolute latest generation of all Apple devices, then it's a no brainer. Get out your credit card and get the iPad Pro 2021.
Other than that, the deciding factors come down to two main things:power and display. Do you need a faster, more powerful iPad Pro? Want a better display? Otherwise, the iPad Pro 2020 will be the best choice.
You could argue that the M1 chip and 5G are must-haves. The former is somewhat unknown at this time, as most iPad apps won't take advantage of the M1 processor at this time. This will change in the future, but for now, this is not a good enough reason to choose the 2021 model. When it comes to 5G, different countries are at different stages of 5G rollout, so this feature may not be useful to you where you are. For now, it's a "must have" thing rather than a "must have" feature. It may be better to wait a year or two when 5G technology becomes mature and more affordable.
Ultimately, the choice is yours. If you want to save some money, go for the iPad Pro 2020. If you want the latest and the best, the iPad Pro 2021 is undoubtedly the best tablet in the world. If you already own the 2020 model, there's little reason to upgrade at this time. The design is almost identical, the color options are the same, and the audio capabilities are almost exactly the same from year to year.
