iPad 6 (2018, A10 series) vs iPad Pro (2015, A9 series)

The iPad 2018, released in March 2018, and the iPad Pro 2015, launched in November 2015 (12.9-inch) and March 2016 (9.7-inch), are both Apple tablets designed for a range of tasks from casual use to more demanding creative work. While both devices operate on Apple's iPadOS, they differ significantly in their internal processing capabilities, display technologies, and accessory support. The iPad 2018 offers a more recent hardware foundation, while the iPad Pro 2015, particularly its 9.7-inch variant, introduced advanced display and camera features for its time.

When considering the long-term usability of these tablets, their release timelines and subsequent software support are key factors.

• Software Longevity: The iPad 2018, being a newer device, has received major iPadOS updates for a longer period, with support extending to iPadOS 17.2. It is likely to receive security updates for some time, potentially even iPadOS 18, offering a more extended period of current software functionality. In contrast, the iPad Pro 2015 models concluded their major operating system updates with iPadOS 16.7.14, released in February 2026, and are considered to have reached the end of their major OS update cycle with iPadOS 17 in 2023 due to hardware limitations.
• Expected Practical Lifespan: Users prioritizing the latest software features and security updates will find the iPad 2018 offers a longer practical lifespan. While the iPad Pro 2015 remains functional for basic tasks, its inability to run newer iPadOS versions means it will gradually lose compatibility with new applications and features.
• Physical Durability: Both models feature an aluminum unibody construction, providing a sturdy feel. Repairability for iPads of this generation is generally comparable, though professional service is often required for internal components.

The performance of these tablets is largely determined by their respective internal components, impacting how smoothly they handle various applications and tasks.

• Processing Power: The iPad 2018 features a more recent generation of Apple's processors, which generally translates to improved efficiency and faster execution of tasks compared to the iPad Pro 2015's chip. This allows the iPad 2018 to handle demanding apps and multitasking more smoothly. The iPad Pro 2015's processor, while powerful for its release year, particularly in graphics, may show its age with newer, more intensive applications.
• Multitasking and Responsiveness: The iPad 2018 offers a more responsive experience for everyday use, including web browsing, app launching, and switching between applications. For users who frequently engage in light to moderate multitasking, the iPad 2018 provides a snappier feel. The iPad Pro 2015, especially the 12.9-inch model with 4GB of RAM, was capable of handling multiple applications simultaneously, but the newer architecture of the iPad 2018 offers a more optimized experience for current software demands.
• Battery Behavior: Both devices are rated for approximately 10 hours of web browsing over Wi-Fi or video playback. In real-world usage, the iPad 2018 often demonstrates comparable or slightly better battery efficiency for general tasks due to its newer, more optimized processor, even with a slightly smaller battery capacity than the 12.9-inch iPad Pro 2015. However, for very demanding graphical tasks, the iPad Pro 2015's powerful graphics component could lead to faster battery drain.

The visual experience on these tablets is shaped by their display technologies, offering distinct characteristics for different user preferences.

• Display Technology and Clarity: Both the iPad 2018 and iPad Pro 2015 models feature Retina IPS LCD displays, providing sharp text and clear images with a resolution of 2048 x 1536 pixels (9.7-inch models) or 2732 x 2048 pixels (12.9-inch Pro) at 264 pixels per inch. However, the iPad 2018's display is not fully laminated and lacks an anti-reflective coating, which can result in a noticeable gap between the glass and the LCD, and more reflections in bright environments.
• Advanced Display Features: The 9.7-inch iPad Pro 2015 stands out with advanced display features like True Tone technology, which automatically adjusts the display's white balance to match the ambient light, and a wider P3 color gamut for more vibrant and accurate colors. These features are absent on the iPad 2018 and the 12.9-inch iPad Pro 2015.
• Brightness and Viewing Experience: While both offer good brightness for indoor use, the iPad Pro 2015 models, particularly the 9.7-inch, may offer a slightly more premium viewing experience due to the laminated display and advanced color technologies, which can be beneficial for creative professionals or those who consume a lot of media.

The camera systems on these iPads cater to different needs, with some notable distinctions in their capabilities.

• Rear Camera Performance: The iPad 2018 and the 12.9-inch iPad Pro 2015 both feature an 8-megapixel rear camera capable of recording 1080p HD video at 30 frames per second. The 9.7-inch iPad Pro 2015, however, boasts a more advanced 12-megapixel rear camera, offering improved detail and color accuracy, and supports 4K video recording. This makes the 9.7-inch iPad Pro 2015 a more capable device for photography and videography.
• Front Camera Capabilities: For video calls and selfies, the iPad 2018 and the 12.9-inch iPad Pro 2015 are equipped with a 1.2-megapixel front-facing camera. The 9.7-inch iPad Pro 2015 again offers an upgrade with a 5-megapixel front camera, providing clearer images and better performance for video conferencing.
• Audio for Media and Calls: The iPad Pro 2015 models feature a four-speaker audio system, delivering a richer and more immersive sound experience, especially for media consumption, compared to the dual speakers found on the iPad 2018. This can enhance the experience of watching movies or listening to music without headphones.