iPad Pro (2015, A9 series) vs iPad Pro (2016, A9 series)

When considering the long-term usability of these tablets, their release timelines are a primary factor. The 12.9-inch iPad Pro was introduced in late 2015, followed by the 9.7-inch model in early 2016. Both devices have reached the end of major iPadOS updates, with iPadOS 16 being the last significant operating system version they received.

• Software Longevity: Both models are no longer receiving the latest iPadOS versions, meaning they will not benefit from new features or optimizations. However, they may still receive occasional security updates for critical vulnerabilities.
• Practical Lifespan: For basic tasks like web browsing, email, and media consumption, both tablets remain functional. Users report that for undemanding tasks, the 2015 model is still perfectly usable in 2024. However, modern, resource-intensive applications may experience performance limitations due to older hardware and lack of software optimization.
• Repairability: As older devices, parts availability for repairs might vary, though common components are generally accessible. The physical durability of both models is comparable, featuring aluminum unibody designs.

Both iPad Pro models are powered by the A9X processor, designed to handle demanding applications and provide a responsive user experience. However, a key difference lies in their internal memory configurations, which impacts multitasking capabilities.

• Multitasking Efficiency: The 12.9-inch iPad Pro (2015) features 4GB of RAM, allowing it to manage more applications simultaneously and switch between them more smoothly. The 9.7-inch iPad Pro (2016) comes with 2GB of RAM, which can lead to apps reloading more frequently when switching between them, especially with several open.
• Application Responsiveness: For single-app usage and less intensive tasks, both tablets offer comparable performance, with quick app loading and fluid navigation. Users generally report that both devices handle everyday tasks without significant slowdowns.
• Battery Behavior: The 12.9-inch model has a larger battery capacity (10,307 mAh) compared to the 9.7-inch model (7,306 mAh). Despite the larger screen to power, both are designed to offer up to 10 hours of web browsing on Wi-Fi, providing a full day of typical use for most users.

The visual experience on these iPad Pro models is a significant differentiator, primarily due to their size and display technology advancements in the newer model.

• Display Technology and Clarity: Both tablets feature Retina IPS LCD displays, offering sharp visuals and good color reproduction. The 9.7-inch iPad Pro (2016) introduced True Tone technology, which automatically adjusts the display's white balance to match the ambient light, providing a more natural viewing experience. It also boasts a wider color gamut, resulting in more vibrant and accurate colors.
• Resolution and Viewing Area: The 12.9-inch iPad Pro (2015) offers a larger screen with a resolution of 2732 x 2048 pixels, providing ample space for split-screen multitasking and creative work. The 9.7-inch model has a resolution of 2048 x 1536 pixels, which, while smaller, maintains the same pixel density for a clear image.
• Brightness and Reflection: The 9.7-inch iPad Pro (2016) features a brighter display (500 nits) and lower reflectivity compared to the 12.9-inch model (400 nits), enhancing visibility in various lighting conditions, especially outdoors.

The camera systems received a notable upgrade in the 2016 iPad Pro, making it a more capable device for photography and video recording compared to its predecessor.

• Rear Camera Capabilities: The 9.7-inch iPad Pro (2016) features a 12-megapixel rear camera with a True Tone flash, capable of recording 4K video. This is a significant improvement over the 12.9-inch iPad Pro (2015), which has an 8-megapixel rear camera and lacks a flash, recording video up to 1080p.
• Front Camera Performance: For video calls and selfies, the 9.7-inch model offers a 5-megapixel FaceTime HD camera, providing clearer images. The 12.9-inch model includes a 1.2-megapixel front camera.
• Audio Experience: Both tablets are equipped with four stereo speakers, which automatically adjust sound output based on the device's orientation, providing an immersive audio experience for media consumption.

Beyond core performance and display, several practical elements differentiate these two iPad Pro models, influencing their suitability for different daily uses.

• Physical Dimensions and Portability: The 9.7-inch iPad Pro (2016) is considerably more compact and lighter, weighing around 437 grams (Wi-Fi model) and measuring 6.1 mm thin. The 12.9-inch iPad Pro (2015) is a larger device, weighing approximately 713 grams (Wi-Fi model) and measuring 6.9 mm thin, making it less portable but offering a larger workspace.
• Connectivity and Ports: Both models support Wi-Fi 802.11ac and Bluetooth 4.2. Cellular options were available for both. Both devices utilize a Lightning connector for charging and data transfer, and feature a Smart Connector for accessories like the Smart Keyboard.
• Security and Sensors: Both tablets include Touch ID for secure authentication and come with standard sensors like an accelerometer, gyroscope, and barometer.