iPad Air 3 (2019, A12 series) vs iPad Pro (2017, A10 series)

The iPad Air 2019 and the iPad Pro 2017 are two distinct tablet models from Apple, released in March 2019 and June 2017, respectively. While both offer a premium tablet experience running on iPadOS, they cater to slightly different user needs due to their internal hardware and display characteristics. The iPad Air 2019 features a newer processor, while the iPad Pro 2017 introduced advanced display technology and a more capable camera system.

When considering the longevity of these devices, several factors come into play, including their release timelines, operating system support, and overall build quality.

• Release Timeline: The iPad Air 2019 was released in March 2019, making it approximately two years newer than the iPad Pro 2017, which debuted in June 2017. This difference in age directly impacts the expected duration of software support.
• OS Support Duration: The iPad Air 2019, with its A12 Bionic chip, is likely to receive major iPadOS updates for a longer period than the iPad Pro 2017, which features the A10X Fusion chip. The iPad Pro 2017 has likely reached its end of major OS updates with iPadOS 17. This means the Air 2019 offers a longer runway for accessing the latest features and security enhancements.
• Practical Lifespan: Both devices are built with durable aluminum unibodies. The practical lifespan for either tablet, assuming careful use, can extend beyond their official software support, especially for tasks that do not require the latest software features. However, for users who prioritize up-to-date software and security, the iPad Air 2019 presents a more future-proof option.

The performance of these iPads is largely determined by their internal processing power and how efficiently they handle various tasks.

• Processing Capabilities: The iPad Air 2019 is equipped with a newer generation processor, which generally translates to more efficient handling of demanding applications and smoother multitasking. The iPad Pro 2017, while still capable, uses an older processor.
• System Responsiveness: Users of the iPad Air 2019 can expect a highly responsive experience, with applications launching quickly and seamless transitions between tasks. The iPad Pro 2017 also offers strong performance for everyday use, but the Air 2019's newer chip provides a noticeable advantage in more intensive scenarios like complex gaming or video editing.
• Storage Options: Both models offer various storage configurations, allowing users to choose based on their needs for apps, media, and documents. The amount of available storage directly impacts how many files and applications can be stored on the device without relying on cloud services.
• Battery Behavior: Both iPads are designed to provide a full day of typical use. The iPad Air 2019 has a 30.2 Wh battery, while the 10.5-inch iPad Pro 2017 has a 30.4 Wh battery. Real-world battery life can vary based on usage patterns, such as continuous video streaming or heavy application use.

The visual experience on these tablets is a key differentiator, with both offering high-quality displays but with distinct features.

• Display Technology: Both the iPad Air 2019 and the iPad Pro 2017 feature IPS LCD Retina displays, providing sharp text and vibrant colors. However, the iPad Pro 2017 distinguishes itself with ProMotion technology, which enables a variable refresh rate up to 120Hz for smoother scrolling and more fluid motion. The iPad Air 2019 has a standard 60Hz refresh rate.
• Brightness and Clarity: The iPad Pro 2017 offers a brighter display, with a peak brightness of 600 nits, compared to the iPad Air 2019's 500 nits. This can make a difference in outdoor visibility or brightly lit environments. Both displays support True Tone, which adjusts the white balance to match ambient light, and wide color (P3) for accurate color reproduction.
• Screen Size and Lamination: Both models feature a 10.5-inch display, offering a substantial viewing area for media consumption and productivity. Both screens are fully laminated and have an anti-reflective coating, reducing glare and improving the viewing experience.

While tablets are not typically primary photography devices, their camera systems are important for video calls, document scanning, and occasional photo capture.

• Rear Camera Capabilities: The iPad Pro 2017 features a more advanced rear camera system with a 12-megapixel sensor and optical image stabilization, capable of recording 4K video. The iPad Air 2019 has an 8-megapixel rear camera without optical image stabilization, recording video up to 1080p HD. For detailed photography or video recording, the iPad Pro 2017 offers superior hardware.
• Front Camera Performance: Both tablets are equipped with a 7-megapixel front-facing camera, suitable for video conferencing and selfies. They both support 1080p HD video recording for clear video calls.
• Audio Experience: The iPad Pro 2017 features a four-speaker audio system, providing a richer and more immersive sound experience, particularly for media consumption. The iPad Air 2019 has a two-speaker system. Both include dual microphones for clear audio input during calls or recordings.