iPad 7 (2019, A10 series) vs iPad Pro (2017, A10 series)

The iPad 2019, also known as the 7th generation iPad, is a general-purpose tablet released in 2019. The iPad Pro 2017, available in 10.5-inch and 12.9-inch variants, is a more performance-oriented tablet that debuted in 2017. Both devices operate on Apple's iPadOS, offering a consistent user experience. However, the Pro model features a more advanced display and camera system, alongside a more powerful internal processor. This comparison will explore their practical differences to help users determine which device best suits their needs.

The iPad 2019 was released two years after the iPad Pro 2017, giving it a slight advantage in terms of software longevity.

• Software Support: The iPad 2019, launched with iPadOS 13, is expected to receive software updates for a longer period than the iPad Pro 2017, which started with iOS 10.3.2. Both currently support iPadOS 17, but the 2019 model will likely see one more major OS update, extending its functional lifespan.
• Physical Design: Both models feature an aluminum unibody design, offering a similar level of structural integrity. Neither device includes advanced screen protection like Ceramic Shield, which was introduced in later models.
• Practical Lifespan: Users can expect both tablets to remain functional for everyday tasks for several years, though the iPad 2019's newer release date suggests a slightly longer period of optimal performance and software compatibility.

While both tablets utilize processors from the A10 series, the iPad Pro 2017 features a more advanced variant, leading to differences in handling demanding tasks.

• Processing Power: The iPad Pro 2017's processor provides a noticeable boost in performance, particularly when running graphically intensive applications, editing high-resolution media, or engaging in complex multitasking. The iPad 2019 handles everyday apps and light multitasking smoothly, but may show limitations with intensive workloads.
• Multitasking and Responsiveness: The iPad Pro 2017 generally offers a more fluid and responsive experience, especially when switching between multiple demanding applications or working with large files. The iPad 2019 provides a solid experience for general use, including web browsing, streaming, and productivity apps, but might exhibit minor delays with heavier loads.
• Storage Options: The iPad Pro 2017 offers higher base storage configurations, starting at 64GB and going up to 512GB, beneficial for users who store many large files, apps, or media. The iPad 2019 starts at 32GB, with a maximum of 128GB, suitable for lighter users but potentially requiring more careful storage management.

The display is a significant differentiator between these two iPad models, particularly for visual tasks and media consumption.

• Display Technology: Both devices feature Retina IPS LCD displays, offering good color accuracy and wide viewing angles. The iPad Pro 2017 introduces ProMotion technology, allowing for an adaptive refresh rate up to 120Hz, resulting in smoother scrolling, more fluid animations, and a more responsive feel with the Apple Pencil. The iPad 2019 has a standard 60Hz refresh rate.
• Brightness and Clarity: The iPad Pro 2017's display offers higher peak brightness, making it more comfortable to use in brightly lit environments or outdoors. Both provide sharp text and clear images for typical viewing, but the Pro's enhanced brightness contributes to better visibility.
• Screen Size Options: The iPad Pro 2017 is available in both 10.5-inch and 12.9-inch screen sizes, providing options for users who prefer a compact form factor or a larger canvas for creative work and media. The iPad 2019 comes in a single 10.2-inch size.

The camera and audio capabilities vary between the two models, with the iPad Pro 2017 offering a more advanced setup.

• Camera System: The iPad Pro 2017 features a more capable rear camera with a higher resolution sensor, optical image stabilization (OIS), and a brighter aperture, leading to better performance in challenging lighting conditions and more detailed photos. It also supports 4K video recording. The iPad 2019's camera is suitable for casual photos, document scanning, and video calls, but lacks the Pro model's advanced features.
• Front Camera and Video Calls: The iPad Pro 2017 includes a higher-resolution front-facing camera with Retina Flash, enhancing video call quality and selfie performance, especially in low light. The iPad 2019's front camera is adequate for standard video conferencing.
• Audio Experience: The iPad Pro 2017 is equipped with four stereo speakers, delivering a richer and more immersive audio experience for media consumption, gaming, and video calls. The iPad 2019 features two stereo speakers, which provide clear audio but lack the depth and volume of the Pro model's setup.