Apple iPad Pro (2022) vs. iPad Pro (2021) | Digital trends

Another year, another iPad Pro. Yes, Apple’s premium tablet is now in its sixth generation, with the iPad Pro (2022) bringing some notable improvements to the table. This includes the inclusion of the very powerful M2 chip, which you’ll also find in the latest MacBook Pro. Thing is, if you disregard that new processor, is there anything else really significant under the hood of the tablet worth buying over the iPad Pro (2021)? from last year ?

We will answer this question by looking at the specs of each model and comparing their performance in terms of performance, displays, designs, batteries, cameras, and software. This should clarify which is the best tablet overall, and explain whether it’s worth upgrading if you already have last year’s iPad Pro.

Note: This article covers both the 11-inch and 12.9-inch versions of each model.

Specifications

Design, display and durability

Clearly, Apple is very, very happy with the design of its iPad Pro, since it hasn’t changed its fundamental appearance for several years. That means the iPad Pro (2022) is virtually identical to its predecessor, with the same edge-to-edge display and narrow bezels. Both devices are built with aluminum frames and rears, while the dimensions are also identical in the 11-inch and 12.9-inch versions. They also weigh the same, so you’ll have the same level of comfort and ease no matter which model you choose.

We have no choice but to point out that the screens are identical from generation to generation. If you opt for the 11-inch version of either iPad, you’ll get a Liquid Retina IPS LCD display with a resolution of 1688 x 2388 pixels (which equals 265 pixels per inch). If you opt for the 12.9-inch version, you’ll get a superior 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR mini-LED LCD panel that packs 2048 x 2732 pixels (also 265 ppi). Regardless of the size of your model, you will have a refresh rate of 120Hz, which allows for very smooth scrolling and animations.

Neither tablet is water resistant, so they’re not the most durable. That said, their screens are made with scratch-resistant glass that repels oil and fingerprints, while their aluminum frames obviously won’t crack like glass.

Winner: Tie

Performance, range and charging

We were amazed when the iPad Pro (2021) arrived with Apple’s M1 chip on board, giving it the kind of power that could handle any kind of task, app, or video game. Now the iPad Pro (2022) features the even more powerful M2 chip, which Apple says is around 20% faster than the M1. This likely means the new iPad can handle intensive multitasking more comfortably than the older model, although most people would struggle to see any real difference, given the power of the M1 chip. Both devices come with either 8GB or 16GB of RAM, giving them more than enough memory to thrive in 2022 and beyond.

In terms of internal storage, both devices start with 128GB as standard but can go up to 2TB (for an extra $1,100). Needless to say, this will be more than the vast majority of people need, although the higher-end options mean you can indeed turn your tablet into a laptop in disguise.

This is also a case of history repeating itself when it comes to batteries. Both models have cells with identical capacities, both in the 11-inch and 12.9-inch versions. Of course, the software (and processor) changes could potentially mean the iPad Pro (2022) makes its battery last a bit longer, though we’ll need a full review to confirm that.

For now, this round represents a slight victory for the new iPad Pro, as its more powerful chip may make it more useful for high-end business users.

Winner: Apple iPad Pro (2022)

Cameras

The new iPad Pro (2022) has older cameras too, sporting the same dual-lens rear setup as the 2021 model. depth perception. At the same time, it has a 12 MP ultra-wide selfie camera on the front, just like the iPad Pro (2021).

As before, the 12MP ultra-wide selfie camera supports the AI-powered Center Stage function, which enables impressive panoramic selfies. More generally, the rear lenses on both models are very good as far as tablet cameras go, capable of taking great shots in most normal situations. However, since there is no difference between the two, this round is another tie.

Winner: Tie

Software and updates

The iPad Pro (2022) will ship with iPadOS 16 right out of the box, bringing useful new features to the iPad experience. The most notable of these is Stage Manager, which is essentially a multitasking tool, allowing users to run up to eight apps at the same time. This makes it ideal for professional and creative users, and although the iPad Pro (2021) currently runs on iPadOS 15, it will receive the 16th version once it launches.

With updates, the iPad Pro (2022) can potentially be supported for a year longer than the older iPad. However, since Apple tends to support its devices for a long time, most users won’t really notice it.

Winner: Tie

Special features

Yes, there are no real differences between the two iPad Pros when it comes to special features. They both support 5G (if you buy the cellular versions), and they both support the new Stage Manager feature, as well as the Center Stage camera feature.

They are also equipped with a LiDAR sensor, enabling the use of a range of augmented reality applications. There’s also Face ID (for unlocking your device and for purchases) and support for the Magic Keyboard accessory, which means you can turn your iPad into a laptop.

Apart from that, they are basically very powerful and very reliable tablets.

Winner: Tie

Price and availability

The iPad Pro (2022) is now available to order on Apple’s website. The 11-inch version starts at $799 and goes up to $2,099 for the 2TB version with 5G. Likewise, the 12.9-inch version starts from $1,099 and goes up to $2,399 if you add 2TB of memory and cellular support.

The iPad Pro (2021) can no longer be ordered directly from Apple, although we’ve seen it on sale through various retailers (e.g. Best Buy, Amazon), so you might find it below its price of original detail.

Big winner: Apple iPad Pro (2022)

It’s almost the same device, but the iPad Pro (2022) only wins because of its more powerful M2 processor. Otherwise, both tablets look the same and have the same great screens, internal memory, software, special features, cameras, and batteries. In other words, if you already own last year’s iPad Pro, there’s really no need to upgrade. That said, the new iPad is a truly fantastic tablet, and while it doesn’t really offer any innovations, it outperforms all other similar devices on the market.

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