iPad 8 (2020, A12 series) vs iPad Pro (2017, A10 series)

The iPad 2020, released in September 2020, and the iPad Pro 2017, launched in June 2017, represent different tiers within Apple's tablet lineup. While both devices offer a versatile tablet experience, the iPad Pro 2017 was designed as a premium device with advanced features for its time, whereas the iPad 2020 serves as a more accessible option. Key differentiators lie in their display technology, processing power, and camera capabilities, influencing their suitability for various user needs.

When considering the long-term usability of these tablets, their release timelines and Apple's software support policies are important factors. The iPad 2020, being a newer device, generally benefits from a longer expected period of major iPadOS updates compared to its Pro counterpart.

• Software Longevity: The iPad 2020, launched with iPadOS 14, is expected to receive major iPadOS updates for a few more years, extending its functional lifespan for new features and app compatibility. The iPad Pro 2017, originally running iOS 10.3.2 and upgradable to iPadOS 17.x, is likely nearing the end of its major operating system update cycle, though it may continue to receive security updates for some time.
• Physical Durability: Both devices feature an aluminum unibody design. The iPad Pro 2017 has been noted in repair assessments as being challenging to repair due to the extensive use of adhesive and a fused front panel, which can increase the complexity and cost of screen repairs. Information on the repairability of the iPad 2020 is less specific, but Apple iPads generally present similar repair challenges.
• Practical Lifespan: Users prioritizing the latest software features and extended compatibility with new applications may find the iPad 2020 offers a longer practical lifespan. For tasks not requiring the absolute latest software, the iPad Pro 2017 remains functional, but its software support window is closing.

The processing power and internal configurations of these two iPads contribute to their overall responsiveness and ability to handle various tasks, from everyday browsing to more demanding applications.

• Processing Capabilities: The iPad 2020 is equipped with a newer generation A12 Bionic chip, which includes a Neural Engine. This processor provides efficient performance for daily tasks, app loading, and general multitasking. The iPad Pro 2017 features the A10X Fusion chip, which was a powerful processor at its release, capable of handling demanding applications and complex workflows smoothly.
• Multitasking and Responsiveness: The iPad Pro 2017 comes with 4GB of RAM, offering a slight advantage in managing multiple open applications and browser tabs without frequent reloads. The iPad 2020 includes 3GB of RAM, which is sufficient for most typical tablet usage scenarios. Both devices provide a fluid user experience for general navigation and media consumption.
• Storage Options: The iPad 2020 is available with 32GB or 128GB of internal storage. The iPad Pro 2017 offered more generous storage configurations, starting at 64GB and going up to 512GB, providing more room for large files, applications, and media.

The display is a primary interaction point for any tablet, and these two models offer distinct visual experiences that cater to different user expectations.

• Display Technology and Clarity: The iPad Pro 2017 features a 10.5-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 2224 x 1668 pixels, resulting in a pixel density of 264 ppi. It also boasts ProMotion technology, enabling a 120Hz refresh rate for smoother scrolling and more responsive interactions, and True Tone for adaptive white balance. The display is fully laminated and has an anti-reflective coating. The iPad 2020 has a 10.2-inch Retina IPS LCD display with a resolution of 2160 x 1620 pixels, also at 264 ppi, but with a standard 60Hz refresh rate.
• Brightness and Viewing Experience: The iPad Pro 2017 offers a higher typical brightness of 600 nits, which can improve visibility in bright environments. The iPad 2020 provides 500 nits of brightness. The ProMotion technology on the iPad Pro 2017 makes a noticeable difference in the fluidity of motion, particularly when scrolling or using the Apple Pencil for drawing and note-taking.
• Screen Size and Design: While the iPad Pro 2017 has a slightly larger screen at 10.5 inches, both devices offer ample screen real estate for productivity and entertainment. The iPad Pro 2017's laminated display reduces the gap between the glass and the LCD, making content appear closer to the surface.

For many users, a tablet's camera system is important for document scanning, video calls, and casual photography. There are notable differences in the camera capabilities of these two iPads.

• Rear Camera System: The iPad Pro 2017 is equipped with a more advanced 12-megapixel rear camera with an f/1.8 aperture and optical image stabilization (OIS), capable of recording 4K video. The iPad 2020 features an 8-megapixel rear camera with an f/2.4 aperture, suitable for everyday photos and document scanning, and records 1080p video.
• Front Camera and Video Calls: For video conferencing and selfies, the iPad Pro 2017 includes a 7-megapixel front-facing camera with an f/2.2 aperture. The iPad 2020 has a 1.2-megapixel front camera with an f/2.4 aperture. The higher resolution front camera on the Pro model generally provides clearer images for video calls and self-portraits.
• Audio Experience: The iPad Pro 2017 features a four-speaker audio system, delivering a richer and more immersive sound experience, especially for media consumption. The iPad 2020 has a two-speaker stereo setup. Both devices include a 3.5mm headphone jack.