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The Ultimate iPad Pro Comparison: A Comprehensive Guide for 2024

The iPad Pro line, introduced by Apple, was designed to blur the lines between a tablet and a full-fledged computer. With unparalleled performance, a stunning display, and a versatile range of accessories, the iPad Pro models cater to professionals and creatives alike. Whether you’re a graphic designer, video editor, or someone looking for a powerful, portable device, the iPad Pro can be a game-changer. But with multiple generations released over the past few years, which model should you choose? Let’s dive deep into the specifics and help you decide.

Why Choose an iPad Pro?

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let’s understand why someone might opt for an iPad Pro over a standard iPad. The Pro models are equipped with high-end processors, advanced display technologies, and support for professional-grade accessories like the Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard. This makes them ideal for tasks that require more power and precision, such as:

  • Graphic Design and Digital Art: The ProMotion display with Apple Pencil support offers a responsive and fluid drawing experience.
  • Video Editing: The powerful processors handle 4K video editing smoothly.
  • Productivity: Multitasking is a breeze with the larger screen and powerful multitasking features in iPadOS.

Now, let's compare the models from the past few years, including the newly announced 2024 models.

 11-inch iPad Pro Comparison

Feature

2020 (2nd Gen)

2021 (3rd Gen)

2022 (4th Gen)

2023 (5th Gen)

2024 (6th Gen)

Model

A2068

A2376

A2435

A2762

A2903

Processor

A12Z Bionic

M1

M2

M2

M3

RAM

6GB

8GB / 16GB (1TB & 2TB models)

8GB / 16GB (1TB & 2TB models)

8GB / 16GB (1TB & 2TB models)

8GB / 16GB (1TB & 2TB models)

Storage Options

128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB

128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB

128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB

128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB

128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB

Display

Liquid Retina, 600 nits

Liquid Retina, 600 nits

Liquid Retina, 600 nits

Liquid Retina, 600 nits

Liquid Retina, 600 nits

Refresh Rate

ProMotion technology (120 Hz)

ProMotion technology (120 Hz)

ProMotion technology (120 Hz)

ProMotion technology (120 Hz)

ProMotion technology (120 Hz)

Camera

12MP Wide, 10MP Ultra-Wide

12MP Wide, 10MP Ultra Wide

12MP Wide, 10MP Ultra Wide

12MP Wide, 10MP Ultra Wide

12MP Wide, 10MP Ultra Wide

Front Camera

7MP TrueDepth

12MP Ultra Wide TrueDepth

12MP Ultra Wide TrueDepth

12MP Ultra Wide TrueDepth

12MP Ultra Wide TrueDepth

LiDAR Scanner

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Connectivity

4G LTE, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0

5G, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0

5G, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3

5G, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3

5G, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.3

Battery Life

Up to 10 hours

Up to 10 hours

Up to 10 hours

Up to 10 hours

Up to 10 hours

Operating System

iPadOS 14 (upgradable)

iPadOS 15 (upgradable)

iPadOS 16 (upgradable)

iPadOS 17 (upgradable)

iPadOS 18 (upgradable)

 

 12.9-inch iPad Pro Comparison

Feature

2020 (4th Gen)

2021 (5th Gen)

2022 (6th Gen)

2023 (7th Gen)

2024 (8th Gen)

Model

A2069

A2377

A2436

A2764

A2904

Processor

A12Z Bionic

M1

M2

M2

M3

RAM

6GB

8GB / 16GB (1TB & 2TB models)

8GB / 16GB (1TB & 2TB models)

8GB / 16GB (1TB & 2TB models)

8GB / 16GB (1TB & 2TB models)

Storage Options

128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB

128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB

128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB

128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB

128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB

Display

Liquid Retina XDR, 1000 nits

Liquid Retina XDR, 1000 nits

Liquid Retina XDR, 1000 nits

Liquid Retina XDR, 1000 nits

Liquid Retina XDR, 1000 nits

Refresh Rate

ProMotion technology (120 Hz)

ProMotion technology (120 Hz)

ProMotion technology (120 Hz)

ProMotion technology (120 Hz)

ProMotion technology (120 Hz)

Camera

12MP Wide, 10MP Ultra Wide

12MP Wide, 10MP Ultra Wide

12MP Wide, 10MP Ultra Wide

12MP Wide, 10MP Ultra Wide

12MP Wide, 10MP Ultra Wide

Front Camera

7MP TrueDepth

12MP Ultra Wide TrueDepth

12MP Ultra Wide TrueDepth

12MP Ultra Wide TrueDepth

12MP Ultra Wide TrueDepth

LiDAR Scanner

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Connectivity

4G LTE, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0

5G, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0

5G, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3

5G, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3

5G, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.3

Battery Life

Up to 10 hours

Up to 10 hours

Up to 10 hours

Up to 10 hours

Up to 10 hours

Operating System

iPadOS 14 (upgradable)

iPadOS 15 (upgradable)

iPadOS 16 (upgradable)

iPadOS 17 (upgradable)

iPadOS 18 (upgradable)

 

Key Differences and Advancements

Performance and Speed of 

  • 2020 vs. 2021: The transition from the A12Z Bionic chip to the M1 chip was a significant leap, bringing desktop-class performance to the iPad Pro. This made multitasking smoother and more efficient, and the device could handle more demanding applications.
  • 2021 vs. 2022: The M2 chip brought incremental improvements, enhancing the already impressive capabilities of the M1, with better efficiency and slightly improved performance metrics.
  • 2023 vs. 2024: The latest M3 chip further pushes the boundaries with even faster processing speeds, improved graphics performance, and better power efficiency. This is particularly beneficial for professional users who rely on intensive applications.

Display Technology

  • The 12.9-inch models from 2021 onwards feature the Liquid Retina XDR display, which offers exceptional brightness and contrast, making it ideal for HDR content and professional photo and video editing.
  • The 11-inch models maintain the Liquid Retina display, which is still outstanding but lacks the XDR capabilities.

Camera Enhancements

  • Rear Cameras: While the camera systems have remained relatively consistent with 12 MP Wide and 10 MP Ultra Wide lenses.

Conclusion

The iPad Pro has evolved into a powerful tool suitable for a range of professional and creative tasks. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose the right model:

  • For Top Performance: The 2024 models with the M3 chip offer the best performance and future-proofing, ideal for demanding tasks like video editing and graphic design.
  • For Value: The 2022 and 2023 models with the M2 chip provide excellent performance at a lower cost, perfect for professionals on a budget.
  • For General Use: The 2020 and 2021 models still deliver solid performance and can be found at significant discounts, making them great for students and casual users.

In summary, while the latest iPad Pro models offer cutting-edge technology, older models can provide similar performance at a fraction of the cost, making them a smart choice for many users. Choose the model that best fits your needs and budget to get the best value from your investment.

For purchasing options and the latest discounts, visit our iPad collection.

Stay tuned for more updates and reviews on the latest tech trends and gadgets at Cellmigo.

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