Ipad Pro 2020 Vs 2021

In April 2021, Apple updated its popular iPad Pro lineup, introducing a faster M1 chip, a Liquid Retina XDR display, a Thunderbolt port, and more, replacing the previous models from March 2020. Being only a year apart, the 2020 ‌iPad Pro‌ has more in common with its 2021 successor than it has in contrast, including key features such as the design and rear camera setup. Liquid Retina display with 264 ppi, full lamination, oleophobic and anti-reflective coating, P3 Wide Color, and True Tone

Apple’s specification breakdown shows that the two ‌iPad‌ Pros share an overwhelming majority of features.

Even so, there a number of meaningful differences between the 2020 and 2021 ‌iPad‌ Pros that are worth highlighting, including their display technologies, processors, and front-facing cameras. 2020 iPad Pro Liquid Retina LED display with 600 nits max brightness (typical)

2021 iPad Pro Liquid Retina XDR mini-LED display with 1,000 nits max full-screen brightness. The 12.9-inch 2020 ‌iPad Pro‌, as well as the two generations of the 11-inch models, have the exact same Liquid Retina LED display, featuring 120Hz ProMotion, full lamination, an anti-reflective coating, P3 wide color, and True Tone. The result is an improved visual experience that captures the brightest highlights and subtle details in even the darkest images.

Now creative professionals, including photographers, videographers, and filmmakers, can view and edit true-to-life HDR content on the ‌iPad Pro‌. If you can take advantage of the new display by consuming or creating HDR media, the 12.9-inch ‌iPad Pro‌ presents a clear upgrade over the 2020 model. 6GB in the ‌2020 ‌iPad Pro‌ will be adequate for casual users, but 8GB will be defter at handling multiple windows of the same application and a range of intense background tasks.

Ultimately, iPadOS is excellent at memory management, so it is unlikely that the amount of RAM in your ‌‌iPad‌‌ will be important in most cases. Even so, the 2021 model adds Smart HDR 3 and extended dynamic range for video up to 30 fps. The improved specifications of the 2021 model’s camera facilitate a 2x optical zoom out and Center Stage for video calls.

As well as being considerably faster, Thunderbolt opens up the potential for compatibility with a much broader range of Thunderbolt-only accessories such as external hard drives and monitors. Therefore, if the 2021 ‌‌iPad Pro‌, which starts at $799, is already moving out of your price range and you want an accessory such as the $299 Magic Keyboard, you may need to opt for the ‌older ‌iPad Pro‌ to bring down the overall cost. The ‌iPad Air‌ offers a large number of features shared with the ‌iPad Pro‌, such as the latest all-screen design, a fast, capable processor, practical features like USB-C, and compatibility with the latest Apple accessories, all at a lower price point.

Unless you need ‌iPad Pro‌ features such as a more advanced camera setup, ‌Face ID‌, more RAM, or stereo audio recording, the ‌iPad Air‌ is the best option for the average consumer. The ‌M1‌ chip shows a distinct performance bump over the A12Z, but most users will likely not have workflows that can take advantage of the added power. 5G connectivity is the only other reason that it may be worth buying the 2021 ‌iPad Pro‌, but again only a minority of users who choose the cellular configuration will likely be able to take advantage of it. If you are intending to keep your ‌iPad Pro‌ for more than a few years, it may be worth buying the newer model to ensure better performance over time through successive updates and with more demanding apps. For the latest pricing on 2020 and 2021 models, check out the iPad Pro section of our Apple Deals roundup.

iPad Pro 2020 vs 2021 – What’s The Difference?

The 2020 model of the iPad Pro sports a 12.9-inch Liquid Retina LED that features 120Hz ProMotion, full lamination, and anti-reflective coating, P3 wide colour, and True Tone. One big benefit of the 2021 model’s display is that creative professionals and editors can view and edit HDR content on the 2021 iPad Pro. While the 2021 iPad Pro no doubt offers better performance than the 2020 model, for most casual users this extra boost won’t be needed.

For most users, this difference won’t matter much, since 6GB is plenty for casual tasks like web browsing and streaming.

However, if you intend to put your iPad through its paces with intensive tasks like editing and coding, then the extra choice of RAM offered in the 2021 model might come in handy. The rear camera of both the 2020 and 2021 models of the iPad Pro are exactly the same in terms of hardware, with both tablets sporting ƒ/1.8 12MP Wide and ƒ/2.4 12MP Ultra Wide rear cameras, though the 2021 model adds Smart HDR 2 and an extended dynamic range for videos. The 2021 model also offers a Thunderbolt USB-C port, which allows for faster charging and enhanced compatibility with peripherals including external hard drives and monitors. The biggest differences between the two models are in the details: enhanced 5G connectivity, a better front-facing camera, and a faster processor might be big draws for some users with data plans and intensive needs, but for most casual iPad users the 2020 iPad Pro is still a fantastic choice of tablet with many years of use ahead of it.

iPad Pro 11 inch 2nd Gen 2020 vs iPad Pro 11 inch 4th Gen 2022 Comparison

The iPad Pro 11” (2020) specs include an Apple A12Z chip, up to 1TB of storage space, USB-C, WiFi 6 (802.11ax), Bluetooth 5.0, and a 7MP TrueDepth front camera.

iPad Pro 2020 vs 2021 – What’s The Difference?

The 2020 model of the iPad Pro sports a 12.9-inch Liquid Retina LED that features 120Hz ProMotion, full lamination, and anti-reflective coating, P3 wide colour, and True Tone. One big benefit of the 2021 model’s display is that creative professionals and editors can view and edit HDR content on the 2021 iPad Pro. While the 2021 iPad Pro no doubt offers better performance than the 2020 model, for most casual users this extra boost won’t be needed. For most users, this difference won’t matter much, since 6GB is plenty for casual tasks like web browsing and streaming.

However, if you intend to put your iPad through its paces with intensive tasks like editing and coding, then the extra choice of RAM offered in the 2021 model might come in handy. The rear camera of both the 2020 and 2021 models of the iPad Pro are exactly the same in terms of hardware, with both tablets sporting ƒ/1.8 12MP Wide and ƒ/2.4 12MP Ultra Wide rear cameras, though the 2021 model adds Smart HDR 2 and an extended dynamic range for videos. The 2021 model also offers a Thunderbolt USB-C port, which allows for faster charging and enhanced compatibility with peripherals including external hard drives and monitors. The biggest differences between the two models are in the details: enhanced 5G connectivity, a better front-facing camera, and a faster processor might be big draws for some users with data plans and intensive needs, but for most casual iPad users the 2020 iPad Pro is still a fantastic choice of tablet with many years of use ahead of it.

iPad Pro 12.9 2021 vs 2020: which Apple tablet is best for you?

That’s a tricky question, with much of it coming down to how cheaply you can find the iPad Pro 12.9 (2020) and how important it is for you to have the latest technology. Having said that, both of these tablets are still highly remarkable portable devices, and more than competent for the vast majority of what you might need to do while on the move (or at home). We’ve looked at all the features and specs of both tablets, while also paying attention to any design changes and anything else you might need to know before you consider buying one. Alternatively, if you want to go the cellular 5G route, expect to pay a bit more for the benefits of not having to rely solely on Wi-Fi when you’re out and about.

Stock is easily available, both via Apple directly, and at many different online and bricks-and-mortar retailers. However, that does mean you can find it at a considerable discount at various third-party retailers, providing you don’t mind shopping around or potentially buying a refurbished model.

Apple has played it safe with both tablets so expect an aluminum rear and frame for both models too, and both have glass fronts that are crying out for a case to protect it. Other design choices are predictably similar with both tablets offering quad speakers and all the relevant ports at the bottom of the devices. Silver and Space Grey are your only options if you’re keen on expressing yourself with a different color palette.

The new model has a peak brightness of 1,600 nits compared to just 600 on the iPad Pro 2020, but honestly, that’s likely something that few users will ever actually need.

The iPad Pro 12.9 (2021) has a beautiful Mini LED screen (Image credit: TechRadar) The iPad Pro 12.9 (2020) has similar rear cameras to the 2021 model (Image credit: Future)

The biggest distinction is when it comes to the two tablets’ core specs, and that’s also where the iPad Pro 12.9 (2021) ends up light years ahead of all competition. It can act as a laptop thanks to having as much power as a MacBook, and it can do basically everything you could want from video editing to music creation.

iPad Pro 12.9 (2021) vs. iPad Pro 12.9 (2020): Does the M1 make a difference?

We examine their specs, designs, displays, performance, cameras, software, and special features, evaluating which one is the best device overall. iPad Pro (2021) iPad Pro (2020) Size 280.6 x 214.9 x 6.4mm (11.05 x 8.46 x 0.25 inches) 280.6 x 214.9 x 5.9mm (11.05 x 8.46 x 0.23 inches) Weight 682 grams (Wi-Fi), 685 grams (5G) (1.5 pounds) 641 grams (Wi-Fi), 643 grams (LTE) (1.41 pounds) Screen 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR mini-LED LCD 12.9-inch Liquid Retina IPS Screen resolution 2048 x 2732 pixels (265 pixels per inch) 2048 x 2732 pixels (265 pixels per inch) Operating system iPadOS 14 iPadOS 14 Storage 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB MicroSD card slot No No Processor Apple M1 Apple A12Z Bionic RAM 8GB, 16GB 6GB Camera Dual 12-megapixel and 10MP ultrawide, LiDAR, 12MP ultrawide front Dual 12MP and 10MP ultrawide, LiDAR, 7MP front Video 4K at 60 fps, 1080p at 240 fps 4K at 60 fps, 1080p at 240 fps Bluetooth version Bluetooth 5.0 Bluetooth 5.0 Ports USB-C USB-C Fingerprint sensor No No Water resistance No No Battery 10,758mAh 40.88Wh Fast charging (18W) 9,720mAh 36.71Wh Fast charging (18W) App marketplace Apple App Store Apple App Store Network support AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon (Cellular models only) AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon (Cellular models only) Colors Silver, Space Gray Silver, Space Gray Price $1,099+ $1,000+ Buy from Apple Best Buy Review score 4.5 out of 5 stars 4.5 out of 5 stars

Basically, such tech allows for enhanced backlighting that improves the brightness of the display while also deepening the blacks on offer. As for durability, neither tablet is water resistant, although they do feature scratch-resistant glass that’s also oleophobic (i.e. it repels oil and fingerprints).

This puts them on level pegging, but because the newer iPad Pro does have a detectably better screen, we’re giving it this opening round. That’s right, the iPad Pro (2021) is basically a highly portable laptop, and with 8GB — or 12GB — of RAM, it will outperform the 2020 version by a noticeable margin. They’ll both be as versatile and as useful as each other, with our review of the 2020 model finding that it takes decent photos in the vast majority of conditions, even if it isn’t quite up to the same level as the iPhone 12 or leading Android phones. Given the regularity with which most of us take selfies and video calls these days, this proves to be more than just a fancy gimmick, so we’re giving yet another round to the newer iPad Pro. It’s also worth pointing out that Apple hasn’t yet stopped supporting any iPad Pro model (and we’re now onto the fifth generation), so you’ll be able to use both for many years before actually needing to upgrade. Both devices also harness Face ID (for unlocking and purchases) and even support the Magic Keyboard accessory, letting you turn both of them into a glorified laptop. Again, there isn’t a massive difference between either device, but the inclusion of 5G support is another feature that does just enough to tip the scales in favor of the newer iPad Pro. Still, there are plenty of good deals available from retailers such as Best Buy and Amazon, and you are likely to find it at a small ($100) discount right about now, so get shopping.

That said, if you’re not too fussed about selfies or 5G support, the iPad Pro (2020) is certainly worth buying if you can find a new model for less than its launch price.

iPad Pro 2021 vs iPad Pro 2020: What’s new?

In our iPad Pro 2021 (12.9-inch) review we found a great deal to like about the 12.9-inch tablet’s remarkably bright display and speedy M1-powered performance. The 11-inch version packs the same M1 chip but only the 12.9-inch iPad Pro 2021 has the new mini-LED display, an upgrade that ratchets up your picture quality tremendously. We wish the price stayed the same, but the 12.9-inch iPad Pro’s mini-LED display, M1 chip and improved TrueDepth camera may be worth that extra cash to some. And while that’s a fine display, the lack of mini-LED and XDR tech make it seem a less interesting upgrade.

Apple’s rating the M1 chip for 50% faster CPU performance over what the A12Z Bionic was capable of giving the iPad Pro 2020. Apple rates the iPad Pro 2021 as offering up to 10 hours of surfing the web on Wi-Fi, the same amount as the 2020 model. And the 2020 model lived up to that estimation on the Tom’s Guide battery test, turning in a time of 10 hours and 16 minutes. All models share the same machined aluminum back and thin bezels, and the 11-inch iPad Pro of 2021 and 2020 measure 9.74 x 7.02 x 0.23 inches. That said, we doubt anyone would notice the small shift in thickness (which is rumored to be a result of the new mini-LED display). To help make the endless stream of video calls better, Apple’s upgraded the resolution from the 7MP sensor in last year’s model, but also given the camera a 122-degree field of view.

And that field of view comes in especially handy with Center Stage, a new feature that zooms in on you when you move around while on a video call. But since the 12.9-inch iPad Pro 2021 is a little thicker, it’s going to be a bit snug if you slot it into a Magic Keyboard from previous years.

Both sizes of the new iPad Pro 2021 deliver a huge speed boost, but the real upgrade is in the 12.9-inch model. The 12.9-inch iPad Pro 2021 has a whole new screen with the mini-LED tech, which should make your shows, movies and everything else you watch on the tablet even better than ever. Only those who find that iPad Pro to be not fast enough, or are seriously impressed by Center Stage, should consider upgrading this year.

Apple iPad Pro (2021) vs iPad Pro (2020): review

And, specifically, the 12.9-inch iPad Pro (2021) has a new Liquid Retina XDR display with micro-LED tech. And, specifically, the 12.9-inch iPad Pro (2021) has a new Liquid Retina XDR display with micro-LED tech. Specifically, those who already have the iPad Pro 2020 might be a bit worried that their tablets have quickly become obsolete, overshadowed, and outperformed.

But since iPadOS 14 doesn’t really do much with all the processing power it has on tap, the iPad Pro (2020) is still a very good tablet. Since it also sells some pretty expensive accessories for it (*ahem* Magic Keyboard), users will be happy to know they can still use them with the new iPads. Back to the look of the tablets — there’s nothing new — it’s an all-screen rectangle with bezels thin enough to stay out of the way, thick enough to provide grip room.

And, on the back, we have the same camera module as on the 2020 iPad Pros, then a triple-dot Smart Connector near the bottom. You can rest assured that the new slates are filled with magnets, too, to continue sticking to the aforementioned accessories. The screen on the iPad Pro 12.9 is now called Liquid Retina XDR — it still has a 120 Hz refresh rate, but also a 1600 nit peak brightness and a 1 million to 1 contrast ratio. In contrast to that, the OLED panel uses millions of tiny organic LEDs — basically, each pixel on the screen provides its own light and color, so there’s no need for a backlight. It’s the old backlight technology, but the illuminating panel that’s behind the LCD substrate layer consists of mini-LEDs that can be 0.2 mm or smaller. This means that the backlight can be divided in a lot of small sectors, allowing better control and precision when lighting the different parts of a screen.

It’s the old backlight technology, but the illuminating panel that’s behind the LCD substrate layer consists of mini-LEDs that can be 0.2 mm or smaller. This means that the backlight can be divided in a lot of small sectors, allowing better control and precision when lighting the different parts of a screen. With this tech, the iPad Pro 12.9 (2021) offers superior contrast and Apple boasted about insane color accuracy.

Again — if you are a professional that constantly unloads 4K footage and massive picture files on their iPad, this will be a definite plus.

There’s talk that Apple is going to announce some major new updates to iPadOS at this year’s WWDC (on the 7th of June) . Some optimistic leaks and speculations suggest we might see Final Cut Pro for iPad, which is kind of insane to think about.

Yeah, that’s a thing now — Apple openly announces the RAM capacities of its new iPads, which it never used to do for mobile devices at all. But it has me wondering — will the WWDC-announced upgrades render the 2020 iPad Pro with their 6 GB of RAM models obsolete?

Well, if you do, rest assured that photos taken with the iPad Pros look pretty nice — they seem to be on par with the iPhone 11 Pro

There’s a reason for that crazy-wide lens — Apple is using the wider FOV to bring a new feature, specifically designed for video calls. See, with Center Stage enabled, the caller doesn’t see the full view of your selfie camera. And it’s not janky or ultra-fake — the effect is actually very smooth, kind of like you have your own professional operator following your face around in a natural manner.

So, if you are in a call with somebody, you don’t need to stay nailed to the iPad — you can move around freely and the camera will track you. If somebody else steps into the camera’s field of view, it will recognize that there is a new face and it will zoom out to catch both of you in the shot. For those of you that bought themselves a Magic Keyboard and an Apple Pencil 2, you will be happy to know that the iPad Pro (2021) will support them fully. The iPad Pro 12.9 (2021) specifically will be a bit tighter fit in an older version of the Magic Keyboard — that’s because the new tablet is 0.5 mm thicker than last year’s edition.

The iPad Pro 12.9 (2021) specifically will be a bit tighter fit in an older version of the Magic Keyboard — that’s because the new tablet is 0.5 mm thicker than last year’s edition. There were no new accessories announced, but it’s worth mentioning that — yes — the iPad Pro (2021) comes with a USB Type-C port.

iPad Pro 11 inch 2nd Gen 2020 vs iPad Pro 11 inch 3rd Gen 2021 Comparison

To compare, the key specs for the iPad Pro 11” (2021) include an Apple M1 chip, up to 2TB of storage space, USB-C with support for Thunderbolt / USB 4, and an ultra-wide-angle 12MP TrueDepth front-facing camera with Center Stage.