IPad Pro 12.9-inch: 2021 Vs. 2022 - Which Should You Grab?

Hey tech enthusiasts! Are you guys on the hunt for a new tablet and have your eye on the iPad Pro 12.9-inch? Awesome choice! It's a beast of a machine. But here's the kicker: You've got the 2021 model and the 2022 model to consider. Don't worry, I'm here to break down the nitty-gritty so you can make the perfect decision. We'll dive into the specs, performance, display, and all the juicy details to help you choose between these two powerhouses. Let's get started, shall we?

Unveiling the Beasts: Quick Specs Comparison

Before we jump into the deep end, let's take a quick look at the core specs to get us oriented. This will set the stage for our detailed comparison. It's like a sneak peek before the main event, you know?

As you can see, the core components are similar, but there are some key differences that might sway your decision. We'll explore each aspect in detail, so you know exactly what you're getting. Ready to dig deeper?

The Heart of the Matter: Performance Showdown

Alright, let's talk about what really matters: performance! The 2021 iPad Pro 12.9-inch packs the mighty M1 chip. This chip was a game-changer when it was released, offering incredible speed and efficiency. You'll breeze through any task, from editing 4K videos to playing the most demanding games. Multitasking? No problem. The M1 laughs in the face of multiple apps running simultaneously. The performance is still top-notch even today. The M1 chip is a serious powerhouse.

Now, enter the 2022 iPad Pro 12.9-inch, armed with the M2 chip. This is the newer generation, meaning improved performance. Apple claims the M2 is up to 15% faster in CPU performance and up to 35% faster in GPU performance compared to the M1. In real-world terms, this means faster rendering, smoother gameplay, and even more responsiveness. This can be great if you work with video editing, or if you're a gamer that want to squeeze every last drop of frame rate from your games. The M2 chip isn't just a spec bump; it's a noticeable upgrade, especially for those who need peak performance. So if you're all about speed and future-proofing, the M2 is the way to go.

But here's a thought: the M1 is still incredibly powerful. Unless you're a heavy user who constantly pushes your device to its limits, you might not notice a huge difference in everyday tasks. If your needs involve only basic usage like browsing the internet or using social media, then you may not need the upgrade. Both devices will provide a fantastic user experience. Think about how you use your iPad. Do you need the absolute fastest performance, or would the M1 chip still do the job? Make your decision based on your use case.

Visual Feast: Display and Display Technology

Let's talk about the display, because, let's be honest, that's where the magic happens! The iPad Pro 12.9-inch models (both 2021 and 2022) feature the stunning Liquid Retina XDR display. This is a mini-LED display technology, and it's a huge deal. It offers incredible brightness, contrast, and color accuracy, making everything look absolutely gorgeous. Movies, photos, games – they all pop with vibrant colors and deep blacks. The display is a real treat for the eyes.

The 2021 iPad Pro 12.9-inch already sets a high bar with its display. But the 2022 model has some minor refinements. Apple says the 2022 model offers even better contrast and color accuracy, resulting in a slightly improved visual experience. You probably won't notice a massive difference unless you put them side-by-side, but the 2022 model pushes the boundaries of display technology a bit further. It is difficult to quantify the real-world advantages of this improvement. However, if you're a creative professional who is really focused on color accuracy, you might appreciate the subtle enhancements in the 2022 model.

Both devices offer an outstanding visual experience. The mini-LED display technology is what makes these iPad Pros truly shine. If you're a visual person, either model will be a fantastic choice. The displays are fantastic, and they'll make everything look amazing. It is unlikely that the minor display improvements on the 2022 model are going to make or break your purchasing decision. It's a matter of looking at which device suits your budget more.

Camera Capabilities: Snapshots and Video Calls

Okay, let's talk cameras. The iPad Pro 12.9-inch is not just for consuming content; it's also a surprisingly capable tool for capturing photos and videos. Both the 2021 and 2022 models have a 12MP Wide camera and a 10MP Ultrawide camera on the back. You can capture some pretty amazing shots with these cameras. The image quality is excellent, and you can even shoot 4K video.

The front-facing camera is where things get interesting. Both models have a 12MP Ultra Wide front camera with Center Stage. Center Stage is a super cool feature that automatically keeps you in the frame during video calls, even if you move around. This is a game-changer for video conferencing. Your family, friends and colleagues will definitely appreciate this feature! If you love to take video calls, this feature will make a big difference. It's great for keeping you centered and engaged.

While the camera hardware is largely the same, the 2022 iPad Pro 12.9-inch features some improvements in image processing thanks to the M2 chip. This means slightly better image quality, especially in low-light conditions. You might notice some subtle differences in the way the photos look, but it's not a night-and-day difference. If you're a serious photographer, this could be a factor. If you mainly use your iPad for video calls and casual snapshots, both devices will get the job done very well. Think about how important the camera is to you before making your purchase.

Connectivity and Accessories: Staying Connected

Let's talk connectivity and accessories. Both the 2021 and 2022 iPad Pro models support Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0. Both models also feature Thunderbolt / USB 4 ports for fast data transfer and connecting to external displays and accessories. This is super convenient, especially if you plan to use your iPad Pro as a workstation. You'll be able to connect to external monitors, hard drives, and other peripherals without any issues.

The 2022 iPad Pro 12.9-inch has an edge in connectivity with Wi-Fi 6E support. This offers faster Wi-Fi speeds if you have a compatible router. This can be a noticeable upgrade if you often find yourself downloading large files or streaming high-resolution videos. The 2022 model is designed for a fast and efficient connection to the Internet. But it's worth noting that you'll need a Wi-Fi 6E router to take advantage of this feature. Think about if the Wi-Fi 6E will make a difference in your workflow.

As for accessories, both iPad Pro models are compatible with the second-generation Apple Pencil and the Magic Keyboard. The Apple Pencil is a must-have if you like to draw, sketch, or take notes. It's incredibly responsive and precise. The Magic Keyboard turns your iPad Pro into a laptop-like experience. This is great for typing emails, writing documents, and getting work done on the go. Both the Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard are excellent accessories that enhance the iPad Pro experience. If you're serious about productivity, these are a worthwhile investment. Think about which accessories you need and which ones are important for you.

Price and Value Proposition

Now, let's talk about the important aspect: price! The 2021 iPad Pro 12.9-inch is generally available at a lower price point now that it's an older model. This makes it an attractive option if you're looking for a high-end tablet without breaking the bank. You'll be able to find great deals on the 2021 model, especially if you're buying it refurbished or used. This can represent an amazing value. If you want the best performance for your budget, the 2021 model might be the way to go.

The 2022 iPad Pro 12.9-inch starts at the same price as the 2021 model. You get the latest technology and the best performance available. While the initial investment might be higher, you're getting a device that's built for the future. The 2022 model is great for those who value speed and efficiency. Consider your budget and your needs. If the extra performance and features of the 2022 model justify the price, go for it! If you don't need the latest and greatest, the 2021 model is a great choice and a solid value.

The Verdict: Which iPad Pro is Right for You?

So, which iPad Pro 12.9-inch should you choose? Let's break it down to make things easier:

• Choose the 2021 model if: You are looking for a fantastic tablet experience at a lower price. You don't need the absolute fastest performance or Wi-Fi 6E. You want to save some money and still get a top-of-the-line iPad Pro experience.
• Choose the 2022 model if: You want the best possible performance and future-proofing. You're willing to pay a little more for the latest technology. You want the fastest Wi-Fi speeds and the best possible image processing.

Ultimately, the choice depends on your personal needs and budget. Both models are exceptional tablets. The 2021 model offers amazing value, while the 2022 model pushes the boundaries of performance and features. Think about how you'll use your iPad Pro, and then make the decision that's right for you. Happy shopping, guys!