IPad Pro 12.9-inch (2021 Vs. 2022): Which Should You Grab?
Hey tech enthusiasts! Let's dive deep into a head-to-head comparison of two titans in the tablet world: the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2021) and the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2022). If you're pondering which one to snag, you're in the right place. We're going to break down everything from the raw power under the hood to the nitty-gritty details of the display and design. By the end of this article, you'll have a crystal-clear picture of which iPad Pro best suits your needs and, of course, your wallet. So, buckle up, because we're about to explore the iPad Pro 2021 vs. 2022 showdown!
Design and Build Quality: A Familiar Face with Subtle Upgrades
Alright, let's kick things off with the physical aspects. The iPad Pro 12.9-inch models from both 2021 and 2022 boast a sleek, premium design. You're looking at a tablet that screams sophistication with its flat edges, rounded corners, and the iconic Apple logo on the back. Both models are crafted from high-quality aluminum, which not only gives them a premium feel but also contributes to their durability. But the changes are subtle. You would be hard-pressed to tell the difference just by looking at them from the outside. Both have the same dimensions and weight, making it tricky to distinguish them without a closer inspection or a peek at the model number.
One thing to keep in mind, guys, is that the 2022 model is ever-so-slightly thicker than the 2021 version, but we're talking about a hair's breadth here – you probably won't even notice it. The key is they still fit all of the same accessories like the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil, which is great news if you are upgrading from the older model. So, if you're a fan of the design of the 2021 model, you'll be pleased to know that the 2022 model sticks to the same winning formula. They both come in the same space gray and silver finishes, so you're not missing out on any color options. One significant thing to consider is the camera module. While the overall design is similar, the placement and look of the camera lenses are slightly different. It's a small change, but if you're super into aesthetics, you might notice it. Both models offer the same great build quality that we expect from Apple. Overall, the design is more of an evolution than a revolution, ensuring that both tablets look and feel premium. Now, let's talk about the displays, which is where things get really interesting.
Display: Mini-LED Magic and ProMotion Technology
Now, let's talk about the star of the show: the display. Both the 2021 and 2022 iPad Pro 12.9-inch models feature a stunning Liquid Retina XDR display, which is a fancy way of saying they offer amazing picture quality. The screen technology is where the 2021 iPad Pro made a splash. It introduced the Mini-LED backlighting, which allows for incredible contrast and brightness. This display tech provides deeper blacks, brighter whites, and a wider range of colors, making everything from movies to photos look absolutely gorgeous.
So, what about the 2022 model? Well, it keeps the same stunning Mini-LED display technology, so you're getting that same fantastic experience. This means that both the 2021 and 2022 models excel in displaying HDR content, with impressive dynamic range and detail. Both displays support ProMotion technology, which dynamically adjusts the refresh rate up to 120Hz. This makes everything feel incredibly smooth and responsive, from scrolling through web pages to playing graphically intensive games.
However, it's worth noting that the 2022 model has a slight edge with its display brightness and color accuracy. While the difference is not hugely noticeable in everyday use, the 2022 model is marginally brighter, providing a better viewing experience in direct sunlight. If you're a content creator or someone who appreciates precise color reproduction, you might find the 2022 model's display to be slightly more accurate. On the other hand, the 2021 model still holds its own, with a top-tier display that delivers a fantastic viewing experience. The bottom line is, both models offer exceptional display quality, making them perfect for creative tasks, media consumption, and everything in between. They both have great displays, but if you want the absolute best, the 2022 model has a slight advantage. Keep reading, because we will talk about what is under the hood next!
Performance: M1 vs. M2 Chip - Power Unleashed
Alright, let's move on to the performance – the heart and soul of any tablet! The 2021 iPad Pro packs the powerful M1 chip, the same one that powered Apple's Mac lineup at the time. This chip is a beast, offering incredible processing power and graphics performance. You'll be able to breeze through demanding tasks like video editing, 3D rendering, and playing high-end games without a hitch. The M1 chip also ensures that the iPad Pro is incredibly responsive, with apps launching quickly and multitasking feeling seamless.
Now, the 2022 iPad Pro steps it up a notch with the M2 chip, which is an upgrade from the M1. The M2 chip offers even more performance, with a faster CPU and GPU, which translates into snappier performance in real-world scenarios. You'll notice improved speeds when running complex tasks, working with large files, or playing the latest games. The M2 chip also features a more advanced media engine, which provides faster video encoding and decoding. It is a win for anyone who works with video files, as it speeds up rendering and exporting times.
So, is there a massive difference in day-to-day performance? Not necessarily. Both iPads are incredibly fast, and you probably won't notice a huge difference in basic tasks like browsing the web, checking emails, or using social media. However, if you're a power user or a creative professional who relies on demanding apps, the M2 chip will give you a noticeable edge. It is important to know that the M2 chip offers a significant boost in graphics performance, making it a better choice for gaming and other graphically intensive tasks. Apple has a great reputation for optimizing its software to take advantage of its hardware. Overall, the M2 chip provides a performance boost that is worth considering if you need the absolute best performance. But the M1 chip in the 2021 model is still a powerhouse, and it will handle anything you throw at it. Keep reading to see what else changed between the two iPad Pros!
Cameras: Enhanced Capabilities for Content Creation
Let's talk about cameras. Both the 2021 and 2022 iPad Pro models sport a versatile camera system that is perfect for both content creation and everyday use. On the back, you'll find a dual-camera setup with a 12MP wide-angle lens and a 10MP ultrawide lens. These cameras capture stunning photos and videos, with impressive detail and dynamic range. You can also record 4K video, so your videos look sharp and professional. The ultrawide lens is great for capturing expansive landscapes or fitting more people into a shot.
On the front, both models feature a 12MP ultrawide TrueDepth camera. This camera is used for Face ID, which lets you securely unlock your iPad and authorize purchases. The front camera also supports Center Stage, which automatically keeps you in the frame during video calls, even if you move around. In the 2022 model, Apple made some improvements to the front-facing camera. It is still a 12MP ultrawide lens but it is now able to record video in a higher resolution. You will experience higher image quality and a better experience on video calls. So if you are on a lot of video calls, this might make a difference for you!
One of the biggest improvements in the 2022 model is the enhancements to the video recording capabilities. The new Media Engine on the M2 chip allows for faster video encoding and decoding, which leads to improved video quality and faster processing times. This is a huge win for video editors and content creators who need to work with high-resolution video. Overall, both iPads have excellent camera systems. So, the 2022 model offers slightly better video capabilities and a more advanced front-facing camera. It is a good option if you do a lot of video calls or shoot videos. If you are not as concerned with video, then the 2021 model will still meet your needs! Let's explore the battery life of these tablets!
Battery Life: Staying Powered Throughout Your Day
Battery life is a critical factor when it comes to tablets, especially if you're planning on using them on the go. Both the 2021 and 2022 iPad Pro 12.9-inch models offer excellent battery life, so you can count on them to last all day. When you're using the tablet for typical tasks, like browsing the web, checking emails, and watching videos, you can expect to get around 10 hours of battery life. This is great for those long commutes, travel days, or when you simply don't have access to a power outlet.
Of course, if you're doing more power-intensive tasks like gaming or video editing, your battery life will be slightly shorter. But even under heavy use, you should still be able to get a few hours of use before needing to recharge. It is important to note that the battery life can vary based on factors like screen brightness and the specific apps you're using. But in general, you can expect the 2022 model's battery to perform similarly to the 2021. Both models have the same battery capacity, so you won't see a significant difference in how long they last on a single charge.
So, you do not have to worry about running out of power with either model. Both iPads can comfortably handle a full day of use. If you are planning on using your tablet for heavy workloads, then you might want to bring a charger or power bank with you. Overall, the battery life is one of the strengths of both models, making them perfect companions for work or play. You will get a similar performance on both devices, so you will be satisfied with either one! Now, let's explore some other features of these iPads!
Additional Features: The Perks of the iPad Pro
Alright, let's touch on some other cool features that both the 2021 and 2022 iPad Pro models bring to the table. Both models support Wi-Fi 6, which is great for fast and reliable internet speeds. You'll be able to stream videos, download files, and browse the web without any lag. And if you opt for the cellular model, you'll also get 5G connectivity, so you can stay connected even when you're away from Wi-Fi. It is important to know that you can buy these in multiple storage options. Both models come in a range of storage capacities, from 128GB to 2TB. So, you can choose the storage option that best suits your needs, whether you're a casual user or a power user who needs to store a lot of media files.
Both models also support the second-generation Apple Pencil. This is a must-have accessory for anyone who wants to take notes, draw, or edit photos and videos on their iPad. The Apple Pencil attaches magnetically to the side of the iPad Pro, where it charges and pairs wirelessly. The Magic Keyboard is another great accessory that is compatible with both models. It transforms your iPad into a laptop-like experience, with a built-in trackpad and comfortable keys. And, of course, both models run on iPadOS, which is packed with features designed to make your iPad experience seamless and intuitive. Overall, these additional features add to the versatility and appeal of the iPad Pro models. From fast connectivity to support for the Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard, you get a premium tablet experience. But, let's not forget the price tag! Let's talk about the pricing of the tablets!
Price and Value: Making Your Decision
Let's talk money, guys! The price of an iPad Pro 12.9-inch is going to be a key factor in your decision. The 2021 model is now available at a lower price point, since it is an older model. You can often find great deals on the 2021 iPad Pro, especially if you're looking at refurbished models or open-box deals. This makes it an attractive option for those who want a top-of-the-line tablet without breaking the bank.
The 2022 model, on the other hand, comes with a higher price tag. This is because it features the latest technology, including the M2 chip and enhanced video capabilities. The price also depends on the storage configuration you choose. You will pay more for higher storage capacities. If you are looking for the absolute best performance and the latest features, the 2022 model is worth considering. However, if your budget is a concern, the 2021 model offers incredible value. Overall, the best choice depends on your needs and budget. If you're on a tight budget, the 2021 model is a great choice. But, if you want the absolute best performance and are willing to pay a premium, the 2022 model is the way to go. You have to think about how you will use the tablet, to make the best decision for you. This brings us to our conclusion!
Conclusion: Which iPad Pro is Right for You?
So, after all of this, which iPad Pro 12.9-inch is the one for you? Here's a quick recap to help you decide. The iPad Pro 2021 is still a powerhouse, with a stunning Mini-LED display, a blazing-fast M1 chip, and excellent overall performance. It's a fantastic choice if you want a premium tablet experience at a more affordable price. The iPad Pro 2022, on the other hand, takes things to the next level with the M2 chip, enhanced video capabilities, and a slightly improved display. It's the best choice for power users, content creators, and anyone who wants the absolute best performance.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and budget. If you want the absolute best and can afford the premium price, the 2022 model is a no-brainer. But if you want a high-end tablet without spending a fortune, the 2021 model is still an amazing option. No matter which model you choose, you're getting a top-of-the-line tablet that will deliver an incredible experience. Thanks for tuning in, guys! We hope this comparison has helped you make an informed decision. Happy shopping!