iPad Pro vs. iPad: Which should you buy?

iPads are versatile and host a variety of features that support all kinds of tasks. Whether you're creating a business proposal, sketching, watching a movie, or playing an immersive game, iPad is a way to get it done. Should you buy the feature-heavy iPad Pro (2021), or the entry-level iPad (2021)? Let's break it down to find out! 

The iPad Pro (2021) hosts some excellent features that earn it the Pro title such as — a faster processor, a larger display with more advanced features, and ample storage options, but it's not the best fit for everyone. Plus, it comes with a much higher price tag. The iPad (2021) has the features you need to cover the basics and is a great tablet for most users. If you're trying to decide between the two, there are a few things to consider. Really, it all comes down to your budget and the how you plan on using your device. 

iPad Pro (2021) vs. iPad (2021): What are the differences?

If you're new to the world of iPads and you're looking for an affordable device that'll let you browse the web, game, read, watch videos, or even fire up your text editor of choice to get some work done, then the iPad (2021) might be the choice for you. On the flip side, if you're looking for something with more power to drive your creative endeavors, maybe you are a content creator or AR developer, then the iPad Pro is the way to go. Let's stack them side by side to help you decide. 

As you can see, there are some significant differences between the latest iPad Pro and iPad. iPad Pro obviously offers a lot more, but it's going to cost you at least three times what iPad will cost you. Before you spend your coin on a new device, you need to ask yourself how these differences will affect the way you use your iPad. Let's dive deeper. 

iPad Pro (2021) vs. iPad (2021): Breaking down the specs

The iPad Pro (2021) is Apple's most powerful iPad yet. With the inclusion of the M1 chip, it's using the same processor as your MacBook Pro (2021) and MacBook Air (2021). When paired with the Magic Keyboard, it could replace your computer. The iPad (2021) isn't quite as powerful with its A13 bionic chip, and doesn't hold up as a computer replacement, but it's a great entry-level iPad for most users. 

iPad Pro (2021) vs. iPad (2021): Processing power and battery life

One of the most significant differences between iPad Pro (2021) and iPad (2021) is processing power. iPad Pro is powered by Apple’s M1 chip, while iPad is powered by the aged A13 bionic chip. The incorporation of the M1 chip on iPad Pro makes it the fastest device of its kind. Remember, this is the same chip that powers MacBook Pro (2021) and MacBook Air (2021), so you’re going to get the same processing speed you get with those laptops.

iPad Pro however, is much thinner and lighter than both MacBook Pro and MacBook Air, so you get the incredible power efficiency of the M1 in a much smaller, even more portable package. The M1 equates to faster performance and graphics — you’ll experience a noticeable difference between iPad Pro and iPad in this arena.

iPad Pro features an 8-core CPU and GPU. It also features LiDAR, so you can build and unlock intricate AR models and play games with console-quality graphics and higher frame rates.

The two iPads are on the same mediocre level when it comes to battery life, offering up to 10 hours of web browsing or media consumption on Wi-Fi or up to 9 hours of the same using cellular data. When your battery does run out, you'll be able to charge the iPad Pro via the new Thunderbolt (USB 4 port) or smart connector, while the iPad still has Apple's older Lightning connector, as well as a smart connector. 

iPad Pro (2021) vs. iPad (2021): Display

When it comes to display, you’re going to get a larger, brighter, cleaner, more detailed view with iPad Pro; especially if you splurge for the 12.9-inch size, as it features an XDR liquid retina display. The XDR display delivers true-to-life detail with a 1,000,000:1 contrast ratio. This serves exceptionally well for viewing and editing HDR photos and videos or while streaming your favorite movies and TV shows. It also features 1000 nits of full-screen brightness and 1600 nits of peak brightness. Plus, advanced display technologies like P3 wide color, True Tone, and ProMotion make the overall viewing experience elite.

iPad offers a nice 10.2-inch, color, retina display that’s great for watching movies, working on projects, or sketching. Like iPad Pro, it does offer True Tone, which adjusts the display to the color temperature of the room to make viewing comfortable in any light.

iPad Pro (2021) vs. iPad (2021): Camera 

When it comes to camera systems, iPad Pro clearly comes out on top in terms of rear-facing cameras. It features a 12MP Wide camera and 10MP Ultra Wide camera, while iPad only offers a rear facing 8MP Wide camera. iPad Pro’s camera system provides for excellent, high-quality photo capture, and can even serve as a multicamera option for filmmaking. With the powerful ISP in the M1 chip, iPad Pro features Smart HDR 3 and LiDAR.

The LiDAR scanner measures how long it takes light to reflect back from objects, so it can create a depth map of any space you’re in and unlock immersive AR experiences. It also more accurately focuses images and videos in low-light conditions to reduce capture time.

When it comes to front facing camera systems, iPad Pro offers a 12MP Ultra Wide, TrueDepth camera, while iPad offers a 12MP Ultra Wide, FaceTime HD Camera. Both can take exceptional selfies and provide quality FaceTime interaction. Both also use Center Stage which automatically pans to keep you centered in the frame.

iPad Pro (2021) vs. iPad (2021): Accessories and storage

In terms of accessories, iPad Pro is compatible with Apple Pencil (2nd generation), Magic Keyboard, and the Smart Keyboard Folio. iPad is compatible with Apple Pencil (1st generation), and Smart Keyboard.

In terms of storage, you get way more with iPad Pro (2021). It offers 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, and 2TB options, while iPad (2021) only offers 64GB and 256GB options. This again, puts iPad Pro at the forefront if you’re looking for a device to replace your computer.

iPad Pro (2021) vs. iPad (2021): Which should you buy?

It all comes down to what you're looking to get out of your iPad. If you want to develop AR apps and games, work with high-res footage as a content creator, or replace your computer, then the iPad Pro is the way to go as it is clearly Apple's best iPad. You can pick between the 11-inch and 12.9-inch options, depending on how much screen you need, and it is also fully compatible with Apple's Magic Keyboard, Smart Keyboard Folio, or Logitech Folio Touch. 

Now, if you are planning to use your iPad for general activities like browsing the web, playing games, reading, or watching a few movies, save yourself hundreds of dollars and go with iPad (2021). Sure, its got an older design and smaller screen, but its A13 processor will keep it humming along for most tasks for years to come.