IPad Pro 2017 Vs 2018: Which Tablet Reigns Supreme?

Hey guys! Choosing the right iPad Pro can feel like navigating a tech jungle, right? Today, we're diving deep into a comparison that many of you have been curious about: the iPad Pro 2017 vs. iPad Pro 2018. Both tablets are powerhouses, but they have some key differences that might sway your decision. We'll break down the specs, performance, design, and features to help you figure out which one is the perfect fit for your needs. Whether you're a creative professional, a student, or just a tech enthusiast, understanding these differences is crucial.

Design and Display: A Tale of Two iPad Pros

Let's kick things off by looking at the design and display. The iPad Pro 2017 and 2018 models share a similar aesthetic, but some subtle yet significant changes set them apart. The 2017 model, with its slightly thicker bezels and iconic Home button, still holds its own in terms of design. It feels sturdy and well-built, with the familiar aluminum unibody construction that Apple is known for. The available colors are silver, space gray, and gold, providing a classic Apple look.

Now, fast forward to 2018. Apple made some notable design tweaks. The most obvious change is the move to a nearly bezel-less display, which allowed for a larger screen in a similar-sized body. The Home button is gone, replaced by the swipe-up gestures we've come to love from the iPhone X and later models. The 2018 model also ditched the gold color option, offering silver and space gray, plus a new color, the sleek and modern black (or, more accurately, 'space grey'). The overall impression is one of modernism and sophistication. This design refresh gave the 2018 model a more contemporary look, making the screen the center of attention. This shift also made the 2018 model look more like a big iPhone, which is a significant plus for anyone already invested in the iOS ecosystem. The display quality on both is stunning, with vibrant colors, excellent brightness, and crisp details. The 2018 model also introduced ProMotion technology, which means the screen refreshes at up to 120Hz, making everything from scrolling to gaming feel incredibly smooth. The display is sharper and more responsive, which makes the whole user experience more premium.

In a nutshell, the 2018 model has a more modern, edge-to-edge design, resulting in a larger screen size. The lack of the Home button streamlines the aesthetic. The 2017 model is still a beautiful tablet, but the design feels a bit dated in comparison. Also, if you’re a stickler for the absolute latest, the bezels are not as slim on the 2017. If you are one of those folks, this is a clear win for the 2018.

Performance and Specs: Power Under the Hood

Alright, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of performance and specs. This is where the real differences become apparent. The iPad Pro 2017 packs a punch with the A10X Fusion chip. This chip was a beast back in its day, handling demanding tasks with ease. It’s still a powerful performer, capable of running multiple apps, editing photos and videos, and playing graphics-intensive games. The base model usually starts with 64GB of storage, which is enough for most users, with options for larger storage configurations, up to 512GB. You are less likely to encounter lag or slowdown, no matter what you throw at it. For general use, you'll still get a snappy and responsive experience.

The iPad Pro 2018 takes things up a notch with the A12X Bionic chip. This chip is a significant upgrade, offering a notable increase in performance. It's faster in almost every way, from launching apps to handling complex tasks like 4K video editing or running augmented reality (AR) applications. The 2018 model also had improvements in its graphics processing, making gaming and other graphically demanding tasks even smoother. The storage options also got a boost, starting at 64GB and going all the way up to a massive 1TB. This additional storage is perfect for users who work with large files or need to store a lot of content on their devices.

In terms of raw power, the 2018 model outshines the 2017 model significantly. The A12X Bionic chip makes a noticeable difference, especially if you plan to do any intensive tasks. If you're a casual user, you might not notice the difference, but for creative professionals or power users, the 2018 model offers a clear advantage. The 2018 iPad Pro's performance improvements are most noticeable when multitasking, with faster app loading and smoother transitions. So, if your workload includes video editing, graphic design, or heavy gaming, the 2018 is the clear champion. If you mostly browse the web, check emails, and watch videos, the 2017 will still get the job done. The 2018 has more power, faster processing, and better graphics. However, the 2017 is still a very capable device. Whether that performance upgrade is worth the extra cost is a personal decision, depending on your needs.

Features and Accessories: The Ecosystem Experience

Let's talk about features and accessories. Both the 2017 and 2018 iPad Pro models support the Apple Pencil. However, the 2018 model introduced the second-generation Apple Pencil, which has some exciting upgrades. The second-generation Pencil magnetically attaches to the side of the iPad Pro, and it charges wirelessly. This is a massive improvement over the first-generation Pencil, which had to be plugged into the Lightning port for charging. The second-gen Pencil is also easier to pair and has a tap gesture to switch tools, such as the brush or the eraser.

For connectivity, both models offer Wi-Fi and cellular options. They both have a USB-C port (2018) / Lightning port (2017). This allows for fast data transfer and charging. The 2018 model has an advanced USB-C port, which supports external displays and other accessories. This expands the tablet's capabilities, essentially turning it into a mini workstation.

The key differences here are the charging and pairing of the Apple Pencil and the USB-C port. The 2018 model has a more convenient and feature-rich ecosystem, especially if you plan on using the Apple Pencil or connecting external devices. If accessories and ease of use are priorities, the 2018 model has the clear edge, in the form of a more advanced, well-integrated ecosystem. You'll also appreciate the USB-C port's versatility. If you prefer the older Apple Pencil and don't need the advanced capabilities of USB-C, the 2017 is still a good choice. While both iPad Pros support smart keyboards, the 2018 model supports the new Smart Keyboard Folio, which attaches magnetically and is more streamlined than the older model. The 2018’s Smart Keyboard Folio provides better key travel and an overall more comfortable typing experience.

Price and Value: Making the Right Choice for Your Budget

Okay, let's address the elephant in the room: price and value. The iPad Pro 2018, being the newer model, typically costs more than the 2017 model. However, this is relative, since both devices are now a few years old. The prices will vary based on the storage capacity, the condition, and whether you are buying new or used. Considering the features and performance upgrades, the 2018 model offers better value for your money, especially if you are looking for long-term use and want the latest features.

The 2017 model, on the other hand, can be a great deal if you're on a budget. It still delivers excellent performance, and you can often find it at a significantly lower price than the 2018 model. This makes it an attractive option for users who want an iPad Pro experience without breaking the bank. The 2017 is a good value for your money. If the cost is a major factor, the 2017 is a great way to save money while still getting a premium tablet experience. Do your homework. Shop around. You might just find that the 2017 is the smarter financial move. However, if you plan to keep your device for a long time, the extra investment in the 2018 could be worth it, given its enhanced features and extended software support. Always consider your budget and needs, because that's the bottom line.

Which iPad Pro Should You Choose?

So, which iPad Pro is the right one for you? Here's a quick summary to help you decide:

• Choose the iPad Pro 2018 if: You want the latest design, top-of-the-line performance, the best display, and features like the second-generation Apple Pencil and USB-C. You're a creative professional, a power user, or someone who wants the most up-to-date features and specs. You have a budget for a premium device.
• Choose the iPad Pro 2017 if: You're on a budget and want a great tablet experience without spending a lot of money. You don't need the absolute latest features, and you're happy with the performance of the A10X Fusion chip. You want a great tablet that is still highly functional and can do everything you need. You're fine with the first-generation Apple Pencil and a Lightning port.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific needs, your budget, and how you plan to use the iPad Pro. Both models are capable machines. I hope this comparison has helped you narrow down your choices and make an informed decision. Happy shopping, guys!