iPad Pro (2020, A12 series) vs iPad Pro (2021, M1 series)

The iPad Pro 2020, released in March 2020, and the iPad Pro 2021, released in May 2021, represent two consecutive generations of Apple's high-performance tablet line. While both devices share a similar design philosophy and operate on iPadOS, the 2021 model introduces a significant upgrade in processing power and display technology, particularly for the larger variant. Both tablets are designed to offer a versatile computing experience, bridging the gap between traditional tablets and laptops.

When considering the practical lifespan of these devices, several factors come into play, primarily their release dates and Apple's typical software support cycle.

• Release Timeline: The iPad Pro 2020 was released in March 2020, while the iPad Pro 2021 followed in May 2021. This means the 2021 model benefits from an additional year of being current.
• Software Longevity: Both devices receive regular iPadOS updates. The iPad Pro 2021, being a year newer, is expected to receive major software updates for approximately one year longer than the 2020 model, extending its functional lifespan for users who prioritize the latest features and security patches.
• Practical Lifespan: Both iPad Pro models are built with durable materials and are designed for sustained use. While the 2020 model remains a capable device, the 2021 model offers a slightly longer window of optimal performance and software compatibility due to its newer components.

The core difference in performance between these two iPad Pro generations lies in their internal processing capabilities, which impacts how they handle demanding tasks and multitasking.

• Processor Capabilities: The iPad Pro 2020 features a powerful processor that handles demanding applications and multitasking smoothly. The iPad Pro 2021, however, incorporates a desktop-class processor, delivering a substantial increase in speed and efficiency. This translates to noticeably faster app loading times, smoother performance in graphically intensive games, and more fluid handling of professional-grade creative applications like video editing and 3D rendering.
• Multitasking and RAM: The iPad Pro 2020 comes with 6GB of RAM across all storage configurations, allowing for robust multitasking. The iPad Pro 2021 offers 8GB of RAM for models with 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB of storage, and 16GB of RAM for models with 1TB or 2TB of storage. This increased RAM in the 2021 model, especially the 16GB option, provides more headroom for keeping numerous applications open simultaneously and working with very large files without performance degradation.
• Storage Options: Both generations offer a range of internal storage options, starting from 128GB and going up to 1TB for the 2020 model, and up to 2TB for the 2021 model, providing ample space for apps, media, and documents.

Both iPad Pro models offer high-quality displays, but the 12.9-inch variant of the 2021 model introduced a significant advancement in screen technology.

• Display Technology: Both the 11-inch models of the iPad Pro 2020 and 2021, and the 12.9-inch iPad Pro 2020, feature Liquid Retina IPS LCD displays with ProMotion technology for adaptive refresh rates up to 120Hz. The 12.9-inch iPad Pro 2021, however, upgrades to a Liquid Retina XDR display, which utilizes mini-LED backlighting. This technology provides a much higher contrast ratio, deeper blacks, and improved HDR performance compared to the standard Liquid Retina display.
• Brightness and Clarity: The Liquid Retina displays on both generations offer good brightness for various lighting conditions. The 12.9-inch iPad Pro 2021's Liquid Retina XDR display significantly enhances peak brightness for HDR content, making it particularly well-suited for professional creative work and media consumption. Both maintain a high pixel density for sharp text and images.
• Viewing Experience: The ProMotion technology on all models ensures a smooth and responsive viewing experience, whether scrolling through content or using the Apple Pencil. The enhanced contrast and brightness of the 12.9-inch 2021 model's display offer a more immersive visual experience, especially for content with high dynamic range.

The camera systems on both iPad Pro generations are capable, with the 2021 model introducing a notable enhancement for video conferencing.

• Rear Camera System: Both the iPad Pro 2020 and 2021 feature a dual-camera system on the rear, consisting of a 12-megapixel wide camera and a 10-megapixel ultra-wide camera. Both also include a LiDAR Scanner, which enhances augmented reality experiences and improves depth sensing for photography. Video recording capabilities are similar across both generations, supporting up to 4K resolution at various frame rates.
• Front Camera and Video Calls: The iPad Pro 2020 has a 7-megapixel front-facing camera. The iPad Pro 2021 introduces a 12-megapixel ultra-wide front camera with a feature called Center Stage. Center Stage automatically pans and zooms to keep the user centered in the frame during video calls, even as they move around, and expands the view if others join the call. This feature significantly enhances the video conferencing experience.
• Audio Quality: Both generations are equipped with a four-speaker audio system and studio-quality microphones, providing a rich audio experience for media consumption and clear sound capture for calls and recordings.