IPad Pro 2021 Vs 2022: Which One's Right For You?

Hey tech lovers! Ever wondered about the iPad Pro lineup and which model reigns supreme? Today, we're diving headfirst into a comparison showdown: the iPad Pro 2021 versus the iPad Pro 2022. Both tablets are powerhouses, but they pack different punches under the hood. Whether you're a creative pro, a student, or just someone who loves a top-tier tablet experience, understanding the nuances between these two iPads is key. So, buckle up as we dissect the specs, features, and overall performance to help you make the best choice. This guide is all about giving you the lowdown, so you can strut into the Apple store (or click that 'buy' button) with confidence. Let's get started, shall we?

Design and Display: What Meets the Eye?

Let's kick things off with the design and display, the first things you notice when you pick up a tablet. The iPad Pro 2021 and iPad Pro 2022 share a very similar design language. You'll find the same sleek, flat-edged design that's become an Apple staple. Both boast stunning Liquid Retina displays, which is Apple-speak for vibrant colors, deep blacks, and incredible detail. The 2021 model featured mini-LED backlighting in the 12.9-inch version, delivering impressive contrast and HDR performance, offering an immersive viewing experience, especially when watching movies or editing photos. This technology allows for much deeper blacks and brighter highlights.

Now, the 2022 model maintains this high standard but doesn't introduce any major design changes. It continues to offer the same premium feel with its aluminum build and slim profile. The displays on both models offer ProMotion technology, meaning a dynamic refresh rate up to 120Hz. This makes everything from scrolling through web pages to playing games incredibly smooth and responsive. Honestly, it's one of those features that, once you experience it, you can't go back! The bezels are thin, maximizing the screen real estate, and the overall aesthetic is undeniably premium. So, in terms of design and display, both are top-notch. The biggest difference is the presence of mini-LED backlighting on the larger 2021 model, which gives it a slight edge in contrast. Ultimately, you're getting a fantastic viewing experience with either of these iPad Pros. It really comes down to whether you prioritize the very slight upgrade in display technology or if you're more focused on the internal performance upgrades, as we'll discuss next. One thing is for sure, these iPads are designed to impress, making them look as good as they perform. The build quality feels solid, and the display is a joy to look at. From an aesthetic perspective, you won't be disappointed with either model. So, let's explore more about these features.

Key Differences and Similarities

• Design: Both iPads share the same design language with flat edges and a premium aluminum build. No major design changes were implemented between the 2021 and 2022 versions.
• Display: Both feature Liquid Retina displays with ProMotion technology (120Hz refresh rate). The 12.9-inch 2021 model has mini-LED backlighting for enhanced contrast. The display is bright, vibrant, and incredibly smooth on both devices, making them ideal for all kinds of tasks and entertainment. You're getting a top-tier viewing experience either way.

Performance: Power Under the Hood

Now, let's get into the nitty-gritty: performance. This is where the iPad Pro 2022 flexes its muscles a bit more. The 2021 model is powered by the M1 chip, which was a significant leap forward in tablet performance at the time. It made the iPad Pro a powerhouse, capable of handling demanding tasks like video editing, gaming, and graphic design with ease. The M1 chip offers blazing-fast performance, ensuring that apps open quickly and multitasking is seamless. Whether you're working with large files, running multiple apps simultaneously, or playing graphically intense games, the iPad Pro 2021 won't disappoint.

However, the iPad Pro 2022 ups the ante with the M2 chip. The M2 chip offers improvements in both CPU and GPU performance, making it even faster and more efficient. The M2 chip in the 2022 model delivers a noticeably faster experience, particularly in tasks like video rendering and complex graphics processing. You'll feel the difference, especially if you're a professional user who pushes their iPad to its limits. Think smoother performance in demanding apps, faster load times, and more responsive multitasking. Additionally, the M2 chip brings enhanced media engine capabilities, which can speed up video encoding and decoding.

So, if raw processing power is your top priority, the iPad Pro 2022 takes the lead. But let's be real, the iPad Pro 2021 is still incredibly powerful. Most users will find that the M1 chip provides more than enough performance for their daily needs. It’s only the most demanding users who will truly see the benefits of the M2 chip. The M1 chip is still a beast, capable of handling almost anything you throw at it. The performance differences are not night and day, but they are there, especially if you plan to use your iPad for professional video editing, graphic design, or other processor-intensive tasks.

Detailed Performance Comparison

• Chip: The 2021 features the M1 chip, while the 2022 boasts the M2 chip. The M2 offers performance improvements in both CPU and GPU.
• Speed: The M2 chip provides a performance boost over the M1, especially noticeable in demanding tasks like video editing and complex graphics processing. Expect faster performance and more efficient multitasking on the M2-equipped iPad.
• Real-World Usage: Both iPads handle demanding tasks with ease. The M1 is still incredibly powerful, while the M2 provides an edge for professional users.

Cameras: Snap and Create

Let's talk about cameras, an aspect that’s important for many users. Both the iPad Pro 2021 and 2022 feature impressive camera systems, but there are a few notable differences. On the back, you’ll find a dual-camera setup with a 12MP wide and a 10MP ultra-wide lens. These cameras capture great photos and videos, making your iPad a versatile tool for capturing memories or creating content. The addition of the LiDAR scanner is another shared feature. The LiDAR scanner enhances augmented reality experiences and improves low-light focusing, allowing for faster and more accurate autofocus in dim conditions. This is super helpful for both photography and scanning objects for AR applications.

When it comes to the front-facing camera, the iPad Pro 2022 has a significant upgrade with the introduction of the Landscape mode. This means that the front-facing camera is designed to be used horizontally. With Center Stage, the front camera automatically keeps you in frame during video calls, and it expands or zooms in based on who's in the shot. This is super helpful when you're moving around during calls or if there are multiple people in the frame. The 2021 model also has a great front-facing camera, but it lacks the Landscape mode and other features found in the 2022. Both iPads can record high-quality video, with support for 4K recording at various frame rates. They also offer features like cinematic video stabilization, so your footage will look smooth.

So, both iPads are equipped with excellent cameras that are more than capable of capturing stunning photos and videos. However, if you're big on video calls and want the latest front-facing camera features, the iPad Pro 2022 has a clear advantage with its Landscape mode and Center Stage. Otherwise, the rear cameras on both models provide great results, making them ideal for both creative work and casual photography.

Camera Features Compared

• Rear Cameras: Both feature a 12MP wide and 10MP ultra-wide lens, along with a LiDAR scanner for improved AR and low-light performance. You can capture high-quality photos and videos on both models.
• Front Camera: The 2022 has a 12MP ultra-wide front camera with Landscape mode and Center Stage. The 2021 has a good front-facing camera, but it lacks these features.
• Video Recording: Both support 4K video recording, ensuring crisp and detailed footage. You'll get high-quality videos on either device, but the 2022 offers some advanced features.

Accessories and Ecosystem: Adding to the Experience

One of the great things about the iPad Pro is the extensive ecosystem of accessories available. Whether you're using the iPad Pro 2021 or the 2022, you'll have access to a wide range of accessories that can elevate your experience. Both models support the second-generation Apple Pencil, which attaches magnetically to the side of the iPad and charges wirelessly. The Apple Pencil is a must-have for anyone who enjoys taking notes, drawing, or doing any kind of creative work on their iPad. It's incredibly responsive and feels natural to use.

Both iPads are also compatible with Apple's Magic Keyboard, a fantastic accessory that turns your iPad into a laptop-like device. The Magic Keyboard has a built-in trackpad, backlit keys, and a floating cantilever design that allows you to adjust the screen angle. It’s a game-changer for anyone who needs to do a lot of typing on their iPad. You can also connect to external displays, use various USB-C hubs, and expand your storage with external drives.

The ecosystem is identical for both models, so you can rest assured that you can use the same accessories for either the iPad Pro 2021 or the 2022. This flexibility makes the iPad Pro a versatile device that can adapt to your needs. The vast number of apps available in the App Store also enhances the user experience. You'll find a massive library of apps optimized for iPad, from productivity tools to creative apps and games. The ecosystem makes the iPad Pro a powerful and adaptable device. So, no matter which model you choose, you can expand its capabilities with a wide range of accessories and a rich app ecosystem.

Accessory Compatibility

• Apple Pencil: Both are compatible with the second-generation Apple Pencil, offering a seamless writing and drawing experience. Whether you choose the 2021 or the 2022, you can enjoy the same features with the Apple Pencil.
• Magic Keyboard: Both support the Magic Keyboard, turning the iPad into a laptop-like device. Get ready for a desktop-like experience on both devices, enhancing productivity and comfort.
• Other Accessories: Both support a range of other accessories, including USB-C hubs, external displays, and storage devices. You'll have plenty of options to customize and expand your iPad setup.

Battery Life: Keeping the Power On

Battery life is a critical factor for any tablet, and both the iPad Pro 2021 and 2022 deliver impressive performance in this area. You can expect all-day battery life with either model, allowing you to work, play, and create without constantly worrying about charging. Apple claims up to 10 hours of web browsing or video playback on a single charge. In real-world use, you’ll typically get a full day of use, even with heavy multitasking, video streaming, and gaming. Of course, the actual battery life will vary depending on your usage.

Both models charge via USB-C, making it convenient to charge with the same cable you use for many other devices. The iPad Pro also supports fast charging, so you can quickly top up the battery when needed. The difference in battery life between the 2021 and 2022 is negligible. The M2 chip in the 2022 is designed to be more power-efficient, but the real-world difference is not very significant. You should expect similar battery performance from both models. So, whether you opt for the 2021 or the 2022, you can count on excellent battery life to keep you productive and entertained throughout the day. So, you're getting a good deal with either device and don't need to worry much about running out of power.

Battery Performance Summary

• Battery Life: Expect all-day battery life with both models, typically around 10 hours of web browsing or video playback.
• Charging: Both charge via USB-C and support fast charging for quick power-ups. You can conveniently charge either device with the same cable as many other devices.
• Real-World Usage: Battery life will vary based on usage, but both offer excellent performance, and you likely won't notice a significant difference between the two models in daily usage.

Which iPad Pro Should You Buy? The Final Verdict

Alright, it's decision time! So, which iPad Pro is the best choice for you? Let's break it down to help you make the right call. If you already own an iPad Pro 2021, there’s no urgent need to upgrade to the 2022 unless you absolutely must have the latest and greatest. The M1 chip in the 2021 is still incredibly powerful, and it will handle most tasks with ease. You'll get excellent performance, a stunning display, and a great overall experience. If you're a professional who relies on intense tasks like video editing or complex graphic design, then the 2022's M2 chip and enhanced media engine might give you a noticeable performance boost. The improved front-facing camera with Landscape mode and Center Stage is another compelling reason to choose the 2022, especially if you take a lot of video calls.

However, if you're coming from an older iPad or are new to the iPad Pro world, the 2021 is still a fantastic option, especially if you can find it at a discounted price. It offers nearly the same user experience as the 2022 for less money. You'll still get a powerful tablet with a beautiful display and access to all the accessories and apps you need. In summary, if you need the absolute best performance and the latest features, the iPad Pro 2022 is the way to go. But if you’re looking for a great value and don't need the absolute cutting edge, the iPad Pro 2021 is still a top-tier tablet that won't disappoint. Either way, you're getting a premium tablet experience. So, consider your budget, your usage needs, and what features are most important to you, and choose the iPad Pro that fits you best. Happy shopping!

Final Recommendations

• Choose the iPad Pro 2022 if: You need the absolute best performance, enhanced front-facing camera features, and are willing to pay a premium.
• Choose the iPad Pro 2021 if: You want a powerful tablet at a potentially lower price point, and don't need the latest performance upgrades or front-facing camera enhancements. If you don't need to have the latest and greatest, the 2021 model offers exceptional value.