IPad Pro 12.9 (2020 Vs 2021): Which Should You Choose?

So, you're thinking about getting your hands on a shiny new iPad Pro 12.9-inch, huh? Excellent choice! But now you're faced with a dilemma: the 2020 model or the 2021 beast? Don't sweat it, guys! This article breaks down everything you need to know to make the right decision. We'll dive deep into the specs, features, and overall performance of both models, so you can confidently choose the iPad Pro that perfectly fits your needs and budget.

Display: A Visual Feast

Let's kick things off with the most visually stunning aspect: the display. The 2020 iPad Pro 12.9-inch boasts a Liquid Retina display that's absolutely gorgeous. You get ProMotion technology for smooth scrolling and responsiveness, P3 wide color for vibrant visuals, and True Tone to adjust the color temperature to match your surroundings. It's a fantastic display, no doubt. However, the 2021 iPad Pro 12.9-inch takes things to a whole new level with its Liquid Retina XDR display. This Mini-LED display offers significantly improved brightness, contrast, and dynamic range. Blacks are deeper, colors are more vibrant, and HDR content looks absolutely breathtaking. If you're a visual creative, like a photographer or videographer, or you simply love watching movies and TV shows in the highest quality, the 2021 model's display is a game-changer. The increased brightness also makes it more usable in bright outdoor conditions. While the 2020 model is no slouch, the 2021 version's display is a clear upgrade and a major selling point for those who prioritize visual fidelity. The difference is noticeable and enhances the overall user experience significantly, making everything from browsing photos to editing videos a more immersive and enjoyable experience. Keep in mind that this superior display technology does come at a premium, so you'll need to weigh the cost against the benefits. For casual users, the 2020 model might still offer a perfectly satisfactory viewing experience.

Performance: M1 vs. A12Z Bionic

Now, let's talk about what's under the hood: the processors. The 2020 iPad Pro 12.9-inch is powered by the A12Z Bionic chip, which is a very capable processor. It handles demanding tasks like video editing and gaming with ease. You won't find yourself waiting around for things to load or struggling with lag. But the 2021 iPad Pro 12.9-inch? It's a whole different ballgame. This one packs the M1 chip, the same chip that powers Apple's MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, and Mac mini. The M1 chip offers a massive performance boost over the A12Z Bionic. We're talking significantly faster CPU and GPU performance, which translates to snappier multitasking, smoother graphics, and the ability to handle even more demanding tasks without breaking a sweat. If you're a professional who uses their iPad Pro for resource-intensive tasks like 4K video editing, 3D modeling, or complex simulations, the M1 chip in the 2021 model is a must-have. It will significantly improve your workflow and allow you to do things that simply weren't possible on the 2020 model. Even for everyday tasks, the M1 chip makes a noticeable difference. Apps launch faster, web pages load quicker, and the overall user experience is just smoother and more responsive. The M1 chip also brings improved power efficiency, which can translate to longer battery life. While the A12Z Bionic is still a decent chip, the M1 is a huge leap forward and a key reason to choose the 2021 iPad Pro. The performance difference is substantial and will be noticeable in almost every task you perform.

Storage and RAM: How Much Do You Need?

Moving on to storage and RAM, both the 2020 and 2021 iPad Pro 12.9-inch models offer a range of storage options, starting from 128GB and going up to 1TB (2TB is available on the 2021). Consider how you plan to use your iPad Pro when deciding on storage. If you'll be storing a lot of large files, like photos, videos, or games, you'll definitely want to opt for a larger storage capacity. If you primarily use your iPad Pro for browsing the web, checking email, and light productivity tasks, 128GB might be sufficient. As for RAM, the 2020 iPad Pro models come with 6GB of RAM. The 2021 iPad Pro models come with 8GB of RAM for the 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB storage options, and a whopping 16GB of RAM for the 1TB and 2TB storage options. The extra RAM in the 2021 models can make a difference, especially when multitasking or working with large files. More RAM allows you to keep more apps open in the background without experiencing performance slowdowns. If you tend to have multiple apps open at the same time, or if you work with very large files, the 2021 model with more RAM will be a better choice. In practical terms, 8GB of RAM is generally sufficient for most users, but if you plan to push your iPad Pro to its limits, the 16GB option is worth considering. Carefully assess your storage and RAM needs based on your intended usage. It's always better to overestimate than underestimate, as you can't upgrade the storage or RAM after you purchase the iPad Pro.

Camera and Connectivity: Staying Connected

Let's peek at the camera and connectivity features. Both the 2020 and 2021 iPad Pro 12.9-inch models sport excellent camera systems. You get a 12MP Wide camera and a 10MP Ultra Wide camera on the rear, as well as a LiDAR Scanner for improved augmented reality experiences. The front-facing camera is a 7MP TrueDepth camera on the 2020 model. However, the 2021 iPad Pro steps it up with a 12MP Ultra Wide front camera with Center Stage. Center Stage is a fantastic feature that automatically keeps you in the frame during video calls, even if you move around. It's perfect for video conferencing and online learning. In terms of connectivity, both models offer Wi-Fi 6 for fast wireless speeds. However, the 2021 iPad Pro also offers optional 5G connectivity, while the 2020 model is limited to 4G LTE. If you need blazing-fast internet speeds on the go, the 2021 model with 5G is the way to go. The inclusion of Thunderbolt / USB 4 on the 2021 model also allows for faster data transfer speeds and support for more accessories. While the camera systems are similar, the improved front camera with Center Stage and the option for 5G connectivity give the 2021 model a slight edge in this category. If you frequently use your iPad Pro for video calls or need the fastest possible internet speeds on the go, these features could be worth the upgrade. The Thunderbolt port is also a significant advantage for professionals who need to transfer large files quickly or connect to high-resolution displays.

Design and Build Quality: Familiar Territory

When it comes to design and build quality, both the 2020 and 2021 iPad Pro 12.9-inch models are virtually identical. You get the same sleek, premium design with slim bezels and a sturdy aluminum construction. They both feel incredibly well-built and look absolutely gorgeous. The dimensions are almost the same, although the 2021 model is slightly thicker to accommodate the Mini-LED display. However, the difference is so small that you're unlikely to notice it. Both models also support the second-generation Apple Pencil, which attaches magnetically to the side of the iPad Pro for charging and storage. They also work with the Magic Keyboard, which provides a comfortable typing experience and a built-in trackpad. In terms of design and build quality, there's really not much to differentiate the two models. They both offer the same premium experience that you'd expect from an iPad Pro. If you're happy with the design of the 2020 model, you won't be disappointed with the 2021 model, as it's essentially the same. The slight increase in thickness is negligible and doesn't affect the overall usability or portability of the device. Ultimately, the design and build quality are not major factors to consider when choosing between these two models.

Battery Life: Powering Through the Day

Let's talk about battery life. Both the 2020 and 2021 iPad Pro 12.9-inch models offer excellent battery life, typically lasting around 10 hours of web browsing or video playback on Wi-Fi. However, the 2021 iPad Pro with the M1 chip may offer slightly better battery life due to the chip's improved power efficiency. In real-world usage, you can expect both models to easily last through a full day of moderate use. If you're doing more demanding tasks like video editing or gaming, you may need to charge them more frequently. But overall, battery life is not a major concern with either model. Both iPads support fast charging via USB-C, so you can quickly top them up when needed. The actual battery life you experience will vary depending on your usage patterns and screen brightness. But in general, you can expect both models to provide all-day battery life for most tasks. While the M1 chip may offer a slight advantage in terms of power efficiency, the difference is unlikely to be significant enough to be a major deciding factor. Both iPads offer excellent battery life that should be sufficient for most users.

Price: Balancing Budget and Features

Finally, let's talk about price. The 2020 iPad Pro 12.9-inch is generally more affordable than the 2021 iPad Pro 12.9-inch. The price difference can be significant, especially if you're looking at higher storage configurations. If you're on a tight budget, the 2020 model is a great option that still offers excellent performance and features. However, if you're willing to spend more, the 2021 model offers significant upgrades in terms of display, performance, and features. Consider your budget and how you plan to use your iPad Pro when making your decision. If you're a professional who needs the best possible performance and features, the 2021 model is worth the investment. But if you're a casual user who primarily uses their iPad Pro for browsing the web, checking email, and light productivity tasks, the 2020 model may be a better value. Keep an eye out for deals and discounts, as the prices of both models can fluctuate. Ultimately, the best iPad Pro for you is the one that fits your needs and budget.

Conclusion: Making the Right Choice

So, which iPad Pro 12.9-inch should you choose: the 2020 or the 2021? It really depends on your needs and budget. If you're a professional who demands the best possible performance and a stunning display, the 2021 iPad Pro with the M1 chip and Liquid Retina XDR display is the clear winner. However, if you're on a tighter budget and don't need the absolute best performance, the 2020 iPad Pro is still an excellent choice that offers a great experience. Consider your priorities and weigh the pros and cons of each model before making your decision. No matter which one you choose, you're sure to be happy with your iPad Pro! Good luck, guys!