iPad Pro (2021, M1 series) vs iPad Pro (2024, M4 series)

The iPad Pro 2021 M1 Series and the iPad Pro 2024 M4 Series represent distinct generations of Apple's professional-grade tablets, each offering advanced capabilities for demanding tasks. While both run on iPadOS and share a similar design philosophy, the M4 Series introduces significant advancements in display technology, processing power, and a refined physical form. This comparison will explore the practical differences between these two powerful devices to help users determine which model best suits their needs.

Evaluating the practical lifespan of these iPad Pro models involves considering their release timelines, software support, and potential for long-term use.

• Release Timeline: The iPad Pro 2021 M1 Series was released in May 2021, while the iPad Pro 2024 M4 Series launched in May 2024. This three-year difference means the M4 model will inherently receive software updates for a longer period, extending its functional life.
• OS Support: Both devices benefit from Apple's consistent iPadOS updates. The M1 iPad Pro is still well-supported, with expectations to receive major updates like iPadOS 26 and Apple Intelligence, indicating strong longevity. However, the M4 model, being newer, is positioned to receive these updates for an additional three years beyond the M1, offering a longer window of access to the latest features and security enhancements.
• Practical Lifespan: Both models are built with durable aluminum enclosures. The M4 Series features a thinner and lighter design, crafted from 100% recycled aluminum, which contributes to its overall refined build. While repairability scores can vary, both devices are designed for professional use and are expected to withstand years of regular operation. Users prioritizing the absolute longest software support and access to future features will find the M4 Series more aligned with their needs.

The performance of these iPad Pro models is driven by their respective processors, impacting how smoothly they handle demanding applications and multitasking.

• Processing Capabilities: The iPad Pro 2021 M1 Series features a powerful processor that delivers robust performance, capable of handling intensive tasks like 4K video editing, complex graphic design, and running multiple applications simultaneously without significant slowdowns. The iPad Pro 2024 M4 Series, however, integrates a next-generation processor designed for even greater speed and power efficiency, offering a noticeable improvement in responsiveness for the most demanding professional workflows and advanced AI features.
• Multitasking and Responsiveness: Both models offer configurations with ample unified memory, with the M1 Series providing up to 16GB and the M4 Series also offering up to 16GB in higher storage configurations. This allows for efficient multitasking, keeping numerous apps active in the background. The M4 Series, with its more advanced architecture, provides a smoother and more immediate response, particularly when dealing with large files or complex projects that push the limits of the hardware.
• Storage Options: The M1 Series was available with storage options ranging from 128GB up to 2TB. The M4 Series starts at 256GB and goes up to 2TB, eliminating the lower 128GB option and providing more base storage for users.

The display is a primary point of differentiation, with the M4 Series introducing a significant technological leap.

• Display Technology: The 11-inch iPad Pro 2021 M1 Series features a Liquid Retina IPS LCD display, while the 12.9-inch M1 model boasts a Liquid Retina XDR display with Mini-LED technology, offering excellent contrast and brightness. The iPad Pro 2024 M4 Series, in contrast, features an Ultra Retina XDR display across both its 11-inch and 13-inch models, utilizing Tandem OLED technology. This advanced OLED panel delivers true blacks and exceptional color accuracy.
• Brightness and Clarity: Both the 12.9-inch M1 and the M4 models achieve up to 1000 nits of full-screen HDR brightness and 1600 nits peak brightness for HDR content, with the M4 also offering 1000 nits for SDR content. The M1 11-inch model has a typical brightness of 600 nits. The M4's Tandem OLED design allows for consistent high brightness across the entire screen, enhancing viewing in various lighting conditions.
• Refresh Rate and Features: Both generations feature ProMotion technology, providing an adaptive refresh rate up to 120Hz for smooth scrolling and responsive interactions. The M4 Series also offers an optional nano-texture display glass on 1TB and 2TB models, designed to reduce glare in bright environments.

Both iPad Pro generations offer capable camera systems, though the M4 Series introduces some refinements and changes.

• Rear Camera System: The iPad Pro 2021 M1 Series includes a dual-camera setup on the rear, featuring a 12MP Wide camera and a 10MP Ultra-Wide camera, alongside a LiDAR Scanner for enhanced depth sensing and augmented reality applications. The iPad Pro 2024 M4 Series streamlines this to a single 12MP Wide camera, retaining the LiDAR Scanner and adding an Adaptive True Tone flash for improved document scanning and photography.
• Front Camera and Video Calls: Both models feature a 12MP Ultra-Wide front camera with Center Stage, which automatically keeps users framed during video calls. A notable change in the M4 Series is the relocation of the front camera to the landscape edge, optimizing it for video conferencing when the iPad is used with accessories like a keyboard.
• Video Recording and Audio: Both generations support 4K video recording, with the M4 Series offering advanced features like ProRes video recording and an enhanced media engine for professional workflows. Both provide multiple microphones for clear audio capture and robust speaker systems for media consumption.