IPad Pro 12.9 (2020) Vs (2021): Which Is Best?

Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into a comparison that many of you have been asking for: the iPad Pro 12.9-inch 2020 versus the iPad Pro 12.9-inch 2021. If you're trying to figure out which of these powerhouses is the right choice for you, you've come to the right place. We'll break down everything from display quality and performance to battery life and those all-important features that make each model unique. So, let's get started and find out which iPad Pro reigns supreme!

Design and Display: A Visual Feast

When it comes to design, both the 2020 and 2021 iPad Pro 12.9-inch models sport a sleek, modern look that we've come to expect from Apple. However, there's one major difference in the display department that sets them apart: the 2021 model features a Liquid Retina XDR display with mini-LED technology. This results in significantly improved brightness, contrast, and overall picture quality. The colors are more vibrant, the blacks are deeper, and the viewing experience is simply more immersive. The 2020 model, while still boasting a beautiful Liquid Retina display, doesn't quite reach the same level of visual fidelity. The refresh rate of 120Hz in both models provides smooth scrolling and responsiveness, making them a joy to use for everything from browsing the web to creating detailed artwork. The anti-reflective coating is also a welcome addition, reducing glare and making the display easier to see in bright environments. The build quality is top-notch on both models, with a premium feel that justifies their high price tags. The slim bezels and edge-to-edge display contribute to the overall immersive experience, making them ideal for watching movies, playing games, and getting creative. In terms of size and weight, the 2021 model is slightly thicker and heavier due to the mini-LED display technology, but the difference is hardly noticeable in everyday use. Both models feature a USB-C port for charging and connecting accessories, as well as support for the second-generation Apple Pencil. The magnetic connector on the side of the iPad allows you to easily attach and charge the Apple Pencil, ensuring that it's always ready when you need it. The Smart Keyboard Folio and Magic Keyboard are also compatible with both models, transforming them into powerful productivity machines. The design and display of the iPad Pro 12.9-inch models are truly impressive, offering a premium experience that is hard to beat. The choice between the 2020 and 2021 models ultimately comes down to whether you value the improved picture quality of the Liquid Retina XDR display enough to justify the higher price tag.

Performance: M1 vs. A12Z Bionic

Let's talk performance, because this is where things get really interesting. The 2020 iPad Pro is powered by Apple's A12Z Bionic chip, which was a beast in its own right at the time. It offered blazing-fast performance for everything from everyday tasks to demanding creative workflows. However, the 2021 iPad Pro takes things to a whole new level with Apple's M1 chip. This is the same chip that powers many of Apple's latest MacBooks and iMacs, and it brings a massive boost in performance to the iPad Pro. The M1 chip features an 8-core CPU and an 8-core GPU, which translates to significantly faster processing speeds and graphics performance. Apps launch instantly, multitasking is smoother than ever, and even the most demanding games and creative applications run flawlessly. Whether you're editing 4K video, creating complex 3D models, or playing graphics-intensive games, the M1 chip can handle it all with ease. The 2021 iPad Pro also features more RAM than the 2020 model, with up to 16GB available on higher-end configurations. This allows you to keep more apps open in the background without experiencing any slowdown, and it also improves overall multitasking performance. The A12Z Bionic chip in the 2020 iPad Pro is still a very capable performer, but it simply can't match the raw power of the M1 chip. If you're a power user who demands the absolute best performance, the 2021 iPad Pro is the clear winner. However, if you're primarily using your iPad for everyday tasks like browsing the web, checking email, and watching videos, the 2020 model will still provide a smooth and responsive experience. The performance of the iPad Pro models is truly impressive, offering a level of power and responsiveness that is unmatched by most other tablets on the market. The choice between the 2020 and 2021 models ultimately comes down to your individual needs and budget. If you need the absolute best performance for demanding tasks, the 2021 iPad Pro is the way to go. But if you're on a tighter budget and don't need the extra power, the 2020 model is still a great option.

Camera and Audio: Capturing and Listening

Moving on to the camera and audio capabilities, both the 2020 and 2021 iPad Pro 12.9-inch models offer excellent performance. The camera systems on both models are nearly identical, featuring a 12MP wide camera, a 10MP ultra-wide camera, and a LiDAR scanner. The LiDAR scanner is used to measure the distance to objects in the environment, which improves the accuracy of augmented reality (AR) applications and also helps to improve autofocus performance in low-light conditions. The image quality is excellent on both models, with sharp details, accurate colors, and good dynamic range. The cameras are also capable of recording 4K video at up to 60 frames per second, making them ideal for capturing high-quality footage. The front-facing camera on both models is a 7MP TrueDepth camera, which is used for Face ID authentication and also supports Animoji and Memoji. The image quality is good, but it's not quite as impressive as the rear cameras. In terms of audio, both models feature a four-speaker audio system that delivers rich, immersive sound. The speakers are loud and clear, with good bass response and a wide soundstage. They're perfect for watching movies, listening to music, and playing games. The microphones on both models are also excellent, capturing clear and accurate audio for video calls and recordings. Overall, the camera and audio capabilities of the 2020 and 2021 iPad Pro 12.9-inch models are top-notch. The image quality is excellent, the audio is immersive, and the microphones are clear. Whether you're capturing photos and videos or making video calls, you can expect a great experience. The choice between the two models ultimately comes down to your individual needs and preferences. If you're primarily using your iPad for photography and videography, the 2021 model may be worth the upgrade for the improved image processing capabilities of the M1 chip. But if you're primarily using your iPad for other tasks, the 2020 model will still provide an excellent experience.

Battery Life: Power to Last

Battery life is always a crucial factor when considering a new device, and the iPad Pro 12.9-inch models don't disappoint. Both the 2020 and 2021 versions offer impressive battery life, easily lasting through a full day of typical use. You can expect around 10 hours of web browsing, video watching, or light productivity tasks on a single charge. Of course, battery life will vary depending on your usage habits and the tasks you're performing. Demanding activities like gaming or video editing will drain the battery faster, while lighter tasks like reading or note-taking will allow you to stretch the battery even further. The 2021 iPad Pro, despite its more power-hungry mini-LED display, manages to maintain similar battery life to the 2020 model thanks to the efficiency of the M1 chip. This is a testament to Apple's engineering prowess, as they've managed to pack even more performance into the 2021 model without sacrificing battery life. Both models support fast charging via the USB-C port, allowing you to quickly top up the battery when needed. The included power adapter can charge the iPad from 0% to 100% in around 2-3 hours. Overall, the battery life of the 2020 and 2021 iPad Pro 12.9-inch models is excellent. You can confidently use these devices throughout the day without worrying about running out of power. Whether you're a student, a professional, or a casual user, you'll appreciate the long-lasting battery life of these iPads. The choice between the two models ultimately comes down to your individual needs and priorities. If battery life is your top concern, both models will serve you well. But if you also value the improved performance and display quality of the 2021 model, it's worth considering even though it doesn't offer a significant advantage in battery life.

Key Features and Software: What Sets Them Apart?

Let's dive into the key features and software that distinguish the 2020 and 2021 iPad Pro 12.9-inch models. Both iPads run on iPadOS, Apple's tablet-specific operating system, which is designed to take full advantage of the large display and powerful hardware. iPadOS offers a range of features that enhance productivity, creativity, and entertainment, including multitasking capabilities, Apple Pencil support, and a robust app ecosystem. The 2021 iPad Pro, with its M1 chip, benefits from faster app launch times, smoother multitasking, and improved performance in demanding applications. It also supports features like Center Stage, which uses the ultra-wide front camera to automatically keep you in the frame during video calls, even as you move around. This is a particularly useful feature for remote workers, students, and anyone who frequently participates in video conferences. Another key difference between the two models is the availability of 5G connectivity on the 2021 iPad Pro. This allows you to connect to the fastest cellular networks, providing faster download and upload speeds when you're on the go. The 2020 iPad Pro only supports 4G LTE connectivity, which is still plenty fast for most tasks, but not quite as future-proof as 5G. Both models support the second-generation Apple Pencil, which offers precise input, low latency, and a range of features like tilt and pressure sensitivity. The Apple Pencil is an essential accessory for artists, designers, and anyone who enjoys taking handwritten notes or sketching. The Smart Keyboard Folio and Magic Keyboard are also compatible with both models, transforming them into powerful productivity machines. These keyboards offer a comfortable typing experience and include a trackpad for precise cursor control. Overall, the key features and software of the 2020 and 2021 iPad Pro 12.9-inch models are excellent. The 2021 model offers a few advantages, such as the M1 chip, Center Stage, and 5G connectivity, but both models provide a premium tablet experience. The choice between the two ultimately comes down to your individual needs and priorities. If you value the latest technology and features, the 2021 iPad Pro is the way to go. But if you're on a tighter budget and don't need the extra features, the 2020 model is still a great option.

Price and Value: Making the Right Choice

Now, let's get down to the nitty-gritty: price and value. The 2020 iPad Pro 12.9-inch is generally more affordable now, especially if you're looking at refurbished or used models. This makes it a very attractive option for those who want a high-end iPad experience without breaking the bank. You still get a fantastic display, powerful performance (thanks to the A12Z Bionic chip), and all the core iPadOS features. However, the 2021 iPad Pro 12.9-inch commands a higher price tag, especially for the configurations with more storage. This is justified by the inclusion of the M1 chip, the stunning Liquid Retina XDR display, and features like Center Stage and optional 5G connectivity. When considering value, think about how you plan to use your iPad. If you're a professional who needs the best possible performance for demanding tasks like video editing or graphic design, the 2021 model is worth the investment. The M1 chip will significantly speed up your workflow and allow you to handle more complex projects. If you're a student or casual user who primarily uses the iPad for browsing, streaming, and light productivity, the 2020 model offers excellent value for money. It's still a very capable device that can handle most tasks with ease. Another factor to consider is the longevity of the device. The 2021 iPad Pro, with its M1 chip, is likely to receive software updates and support for longer than the 2020 model. This means that you'll be able to enjoy the latest features and security updates for years to come. Ultimately, the choice between the 2020 and 2021 iPad Pro 12.9-inch models comes down to your individual needs, budget, and priorities. Weigh the pros and cons of each model carefully, and choose the one that best fits your lifestyle and usage patterns. Remember to consider the total cost of ownership, including accessories like the Apple Pencil and Smart Keyboard Folio, when making your decision.

Conclusion: Which iPad Pro Wins?

Alright, folks, let's wrap things up! Deciding between the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020) and the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2021) really boils down to what you need and what you're willing to spend. The 2021 iPad Pro is undoubtedly the more powerful machine, boasting that incredible M1 chip and the stunning Liquid Retina XDR display. If you're a creative professional or someone who demands top-tier performance, this is the one to go for. However, don't count out the 2020 iPad Pro just yet! It's still an incredibly capable tablet that offers a fantastic experience at a more budget-friendly price. For everyday tasks, creative hobbies, and general use, it holds its own beautifully. Ultimately, there's no wrong choice here. Both iPads are fantastic devices. Just think about what features matter most to you and choose accordingly. Happy shopping, and I hope this comparison helped you make a more informed decision!