iPad Pro (2018, A12 series) vs iPad Pro (2021, M1 series)

The iPad Pro 2018, released in October 2018, and the iPad Pro 2021, launched in May 2021, represent different generations of Apple's high-performance tablet line. While both devices share a similar design language and operate on iPadOS, the 2021 model introduces a significantly more powerful processor and notable display enhancements, particularly in the larger size, alongside camera system upgrades. Both offer a premium tablet experience, but cater to users with varying demands for processing power and visual fidelity.

When considering the longevity of these tablets, several factors come into play, including software support and physical durability. The iPad Pro 2018, being an older model, will naturally have a shorter remaining software support window compared to the 2021 model. Apple typically provides major iPadOS updates for about 5 to 7 years after an iPad's release. As of 2026, the 2018 iPad Pro is still receiving iPadOS updates, with some sources suggesting it may receive updates until iPadOS 26 or 27. The 2021 iPad Pro, with its newer M1 chip, is expected to receive software updates for a longer duration, potentially up to 7-10 years from its release.

• Software Support: The iPad Pro 2021 is expected to receive major iPadOS updates for a longer period, offering more years of access to the latest features and security enhancements. The 2018 model, while still supported, is closer to its end-of-life for major OS upgrades.
• Physical Durability: Both models feature a similar aluminum unibody design. Repairability scores for iPads generally indicate challenges due to the extensive use of adhesives, making repairs difficult and potentially costly. The 2018 iPad Pro received a low repairability score of 2 out of 10 from iFixit. While newer iPad Pro models have seen slight improvements in repairability, common repairs like battery replacement still involve removing the display, which can be a high-risk procedure.
• Expected Lifespan: For users prioritizing the latest software features and long-term compatibility with new applications, the 2021 iPad Pro offers a longer practical lifespan. The 2018 model remains capable for current tasks but will reach its software update limit sooner.

The performance difference between the iPad Pro 2018 and the iPad Pro 2021 is a significant distinguishing factor, primarily due to their internal processing units. The 2018 model is powered by an A12X Bionic chip, while the 2021 model features the M1 chip, which was a substantial leap in processing power for tablets.

• Processing Capabilities: The iPad Pro 2021, with its M1 chip, delivers a notable increase in processing power and graphics performance compared to the 2018 model. This translates to faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and more efficient handling of demanding applications like video editing, 3D rendering, and advanced gaming.
• Multitasking and Responsiveness: Users engaging in heavy multitasking or running multiple intensive applications simultaneously will experience a more fluid and responsive workflow on the 2021 iPad Pro. While the 2018 model still offers capable performance for everyday tasks, the M1 chip provides more headroom for future software and more complex workflows.
• Storage and Memory: The 2021 iPad Pro offers higher RAM configurations, with up to 16GB available in higher storage tiers, compared to the 2018 model's maximum of 6GB. This increased memory further enhances multitasking capabilities and performance with large files and complex projects. The 2021 model also introduced a 2TB storage option.

The display quality on both iPad Pro models offers a premium viewing experience, but the 2021 model, particularly the larger size, introduced a significant advancement in display technology.

• Display Technology: The 11-inch models of both the 2018 and 2021 iPad Pro feature a Liquid Retina IPS LCD display with ProMotion technology, offering a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, True Tone, and wide color support. However, the 12.9-inch iPad Pro 2021 features a Liquid Retina XDR mini-LED display, which provides superior contrast, deeper blacks, and higher peak brightness for HDR content compared to the IPS LCD of the 2018 12.9-inch model.
• Brightness and Clarity: The 12.9-inch 2021 model's mini-LED display can achieve significantly higher full-screen and peak brightness levels, making it better suited for viewing HDR content and use in bright outdoor environments. Both models offer high resolution and pixel density, resulting in sharp and detailed visuals.
• Viewing Experience: The ProMotion technology on both devices ensures smooth scrolling and responsive interactions. The enhanced contrast and brightness of the 12.9-inch 2021 model's display provide a more immersive viewing experience for movies and professional creative work that benefits from accurate color and dynamic range.

The camera systems on the iPad Pro models are designed for more than just casual photography, with the 2021 model offering notable enhancements for augmented reality and video conferencing.

• Rear Camera System: The iPad Pro 2018 features a single 12MP wide-angle rear camera. The iPad Pro 2021 upgrades this with a dual-camera system, including a 12MP wide-angle and a 10MP ultra-wide-angle lens, along with a LiDAR Scanner. The LiDAR Scanner enhances augmented reality (AR) experiences and improves autofocus in low-light conditions.
• Front Camera Capabilities: The 2018 model has a 7MP TrueDepth front camera. The 2021 model features an upgraded 12MP ultra-wide TrueDepth front camera with Center Stage. Center Stage automatically keeps the user in frame during video calls, even as they move around, providing a more engaging video conferencing experience.
• Video Recording and Audio: Both models are capable of recording 4K video. The 2021 model's additional microphones contribute to improved audio quality for recordings and calls.