iPad 8 (2020, A12 series) vs iPad Pro (2018, A12 series)

The iPad 2020, also known as the 8th generation iPad, was released in September 2020, offering a balance of performance and accessibility. The iPad Pro 2018, launched in October 2018, represents a more advanced line of tablets with enhanced features. Both devices operate on Apple's iPadOS, but the iPad Pro 2018 distinguishes itself with a more powerful processor and a more advanced display technology.

When considering the longevity of these tablets, several factors come into play, including their release dates and expected software support.

• Release Timeline: The iPad 2020 was released two years after the iPad Pro 2018. This difference in release year typically translates to a longer period of software updates for the newer device.
• Software Longevity: The iPad 2020 is expected to receive iPadOS updates for a longer duration than the iPad Pro 2018, providing extended compatibility with new features and security enhancements. As of 2025, the iPad 8th Gen supports iPadOS 26, indicating continued software compatibility. The iPad Pro 2018, while still receiving updates, may see its software support conclude sooner than the iPad 2020.
• Repairability: Both models are designed with Apple's standard repairability considerations. While specific repairability scores can vary, the availability of parts and service for both devices remains generally good, especially through quality-assured refurbished options.

The performance of these two iPads is a key differentiator, largely due to their respective processors and memory configurations.

• Processor Capabilities: The iPad 2020 is equipped with the A12 Bionic chip, which provides responsive performance for daily activities such as web browsing, video streaming, and light gaming. It handles multitasking smoothly and supports a range of productivity applications. The iPad Pro 2018 features the A12X Bionic chip, a more powerful variant designed for demanding professional workflows. This processor offers significantly enhanced graphics performance and greater computational power, making it well-suited for intensive tasks like advanced video editing, 3D rendering, and graphic design.
• Multitasking and Responsiveness: The iPad Pro 2018 typically comes with 4GB of RAM, with the 1TB storage model offering 6GB, allowing for more applications to run simultaneously without slowdowns and providing a fluid user experience. The iPad 2020 includes 3GB of RAM, which is sufficient for general multitasking but may show limitations when handling numerous complex applications concurrently.
• Storage Options: The iPad 2020 offers storage capacities of 32GB and 128GB. The iPad Pro 2018 provides a wider range of options, including 64GB, 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB, catering to users with larger storage needs for files, applications, and media.
• Battery Behavior: Both devices are designed to offer up to 10 hours of web surfing on Wi-Fi or video playback. User experiences generally align with these estimates, with the iPad 2020 sometimes exceeding 11 hours in video streaming tests.

The visual experience on these tablets differs significantly, primarily due to their display technologies and features.

• Display Technology and Clarity: The iPad 2020 features a 10.2-inch Retina IPS LCD display with a resolution of 2160 x 1620 pixels, offering clear visuals for everyday use. The iPad Pro 2018, available in 11-inch and 12.9-inch sizes, boasts a Liquid Retina IPS LCD display. This display offers higher resolutions (2388 x 1668 for 11-inch, 2732 x 2048 for 12.9-inch) and includes advanced features like P3 wide color support and True Tone technology for accurate color representation and adaptive white balance.
• Refresh Rate and Smoothness: A key distinction is the refresh rate. The iPad 2020 has a standard 60Hz refresh rate, which is suitable for most content consumption and general navigation. The iPad Pro 2018 features ProMotion technology, providing an adaptive refresh rate of up to 120Hz, resulting in smoother scrolling and more fluid motion, particularly noticeable in gaming and fast-paced content.
• Brightness Levels: The iPad 2020 offers a brightness of 500 nits, providing good visibility in various indoor lighting conditions. The iPad Pro 2018 has a higher peak brightness of 600 nits, which can be beneficial for outdoor use or in brightly lit environments.

The camera systems on these two iPads cater to different user needs, with the Pro model offering more advanced capabilities.

• Rear Camera System: The iPad 2020 features an 8-megapixel rear camera with an f/2.4 aperture, suitable for basic photography and document scanning. The iPad Pro 2018 comes with a 12-megapixel wide camera with an f/1.8 aperture, offering improved detail and low-light performance. It also supports 4K video recording at up to 60 frames per second.
• Front Camera and Video Conferencing: For video calls, the iPad 2020 has a 1.2-megapixel front-facing camera that records 720p HD video. The iPad Pro 2018 includes a 7-megapixel TrueDepth front camera, which supports Face ID for secure authentication and offers features like Portrait mode for selfies. This camera provides clearer video quality for video conferencing.
• Audio Experience: The iPad 2020 features stereo speakers. The iPad Pro 2018 enhances the audio experience with a four-speaker setup, delivering richer and more immersive sound, which is beneficial for media consumption and video calls.