IPad Pro Showdown: 2017 Vs. 2021 - Which Is Best?
Hey everyone! Choosing the right iPad Pro can feel like navigating a tech jungle. Two contenders often pop up: the iPad Pro 2017 and the iPad Pro 2021. Both are powerhouses, but they bring different strengths to the table. This comparison aims to break down the key differences, helping you decide which model fits your needs and budget. Let's dive in and see how these two tablets stack up! We'll explore everything from their designs and displays to their performance, cameras, and extra features. By the end, you'll have a clear picture of which iPad Pro reigns supreme for your specific use case. Buckle up, it's gonna be a fun ride!
Design and Build Quality: A Tale of Two iPad Pros
Alright, let's kick things off by examining the outward appearance and build quality of these two tablets. When it comes to the iPad Pro 2017, it still holds its own with a sleek, minimalist design that Apple is known for. It rocks a unibody aluminum design, giving it a premium feel. The bezels surrounding the display are noticeable, which was the design trend back then. It features the traditional home button with Touch ID for unlocking and authentication. Colors available were typically silver and space gray, offering a classic aesthetic. The 2017 model is available in both 10.5-inch and 12.9-inch screen sizes, giving users options based on their portability needs.
Moving on to the iPad Pro 2021, we see a more refined and modern design. It retains the same overall aesthetic as the previous generation, but with some key improvements. The bezels are slimmer, providing a more immersive viewing experience. The edges are squared off, adding a touch of contemporary flair. The 2021 model ditches the home button in favor of Face ID for unlocking. This means you get a full-screen display, making it feel more like a futuristic device. Colors available include silver and space gray. It also offers the option to choose from a 11-inch or 12.9-inch screen size. The 2021 model also has a slightly thicker build than the 2017 model to accommodate more advanced technology, but the difference is minimal. The build quality on both models is top-notch, with the 2021 model slightly edging out the older version thanks to its slimmer bezels and Face ID. In terms of design, the 2021 iPad Pro clearly takes the lead with its modern features, a more immersive display, and an overall more up-to-date look and feel. The iPad Pro 2017 remains an excellent tablet, but the 2021 model is simply the more refined and stylish option for those who want the latest and greatest in design.
In short, the iPad Pro 2021 comes out on top in the design and build quality round. It's more modern, sleek, and feature-rich. However, the iPad Pro 2017 still offers a premium feel and a timeless design that many users still appreciate. It all comes down to personal preference and whether you prioritize the latest features or a more classic design.
Display: Visual Feast - Comparing the Screens
Let's get into the heart of the matter: the display! The iPad Pro 2017 and the iPad Pro 2021 both boast fantastic screens, but there are some key differences that impact the overall viewing experience. The iPad Pro 2017 features a stunning Retina display with a resolution that varies depending on the screen size (10.5-inch or 12.9-inch). It offers vibrant colors, excellent brightness, and impressive viewing angles. One of its standout features is ProMotion technology, which enables a 120Hz refresh rate. This technology makes everything feel incredibly smooth and responsive, whether you're scrolling through web pages, playing games, or using the Apple Pencil. The display on the 2017 model is a joy to behold and delivers a fantastic visual experience for various tasks.
Now, let's turn our attention to the iPad Pro 2021. This model takes the display game to a whole new level. The Liquid Retina XDR display on the 12.9-inch model is an absolute game-changer. It uses mini-LED backlighting, offering incredible contrast ratios and stunning dynamic range. The blacks are deeper, the colors are more accurate, and the overall picture quality is simply breathtaking. The 11-inch model also has a Liquid Retina display, with great color and clarity. Both models benefit from ProMotion technology with a 120Hz refresh rate for super-smooth performance. The 2021 models also feature True Tone technology, which adjusts the display's color temperature to match the ambient lighting, making it easier on your eyes. The screen on the 2021 iPad Pro is a significant upgrade, especially on the 12.9-inch model. It's ideal for creative professionals, media enthusiasts, or anyone who simply appreciates the best possible visual experience. The display is a major highlight, and it's a key reason why the 2021 model stands out.
In a nutshell, the iPad Pro 2021 wins the display competition. Its Liquid Retina XDR display on the 12.9-inch model offers an unparalleled visual experience. While the iPad Pro 2017 still has a fantastic display with ProMotion technology, the 2021 model simply offers more advanced features and an overall superior picture quality. If you prioritize the best possible visual experience, then the 2021 iPad Pro is the clear winner.
Performance: Speed and Power Showdown
Alright, time to crank up the engines and delve into the performance capabilities of these two tablets. Performance is a crucial aspect, and the iPad Pro 2017 was no slouch back in its day. It's powered by the A10X Fusion chip, coupled with 4GB of RAM. This combination delivers smooth performance for everyday tasks, such as web browsing, email, and running various apps. It handles multitasking with ease, allowing you to switch between apps seamlessly. The A10X Fusion chip is still competent for most tasks, even by today's standards. The iPad Pro 2017 can also handle more demanding tasks like photo and video editing and gaming. Its overall performance will satisfy the vast majority of users, and it remains a capable tablet even years after its release.
Now, let's step into the future with the iPad Pro 2021, which houses the mighty M1 chip. This is a game-changer. The M1 chip offers a massive leap in performance compared to the A10X Fusion. It's significantly faster, more efficient, and capable of handling complex tasks with ease. The M1 chip offers faster performance for everything from opening and closing apps to running demanding creative software. It has a unified memory architecture, which results in snappier performance and improved multitasking capabilities. The iPad Pro 2021 can also handle 8GB or 16GB of RAM, depending on the storage configuration, which further boosts its performance. The M1 chip allows it to effortlessly tackle tasks like 4K video editing, complex 3D modeling, and running multiple resource-intensive applications simultaneously. The iPad Pro 2021 is a true powerhouse, perfect for users who require top-tier performance for creative work, gaming, or other demanding tasks.
In terms of performance, the iPad Pro 2021 takes the crown. The M1 chip delivers an unprecedented level of speed and power. While the iPad Pro 2017 still provides capable performance, it can't compete with the raw processing power of the M1. If you need a tablet that can handle the most demanding tasks, the 2021 iPad Pro is the clear choice. The M1 chip is a significant upgrade, making the 2021 model an ideal choice for power users, creatives, and gamers.
Camera Capabilities: Capturing the Moment
Let's switch gears and focus on the camera capabilities of these two iPads. The iPad Pro 2017 features a 12MP rear camera, capable of capturing high-quality photos and videos. The camera captures detailed images with good color accuracy, making it suitable for capturing photos and videos. It also supports 4K video recording, which allows you to capture memories in stunning detail. The front-facing camera is a 7MP FaceTime HD camera, which is perfectly suited for video calls and selfies. The camera system on the iPad Pro 2017 is versatile enough for everyday use. It also provides excellent performance for video calls and a handy document scanner.
Now, let's examine the iPad Pro 2021's camera setup. It features a dual-camera system on the rear, including a 12MP wide camera and a 10MP ultrawide camera. This setup provides more flexibility, allowing you to capture a wider range of shots, from landscapes to group photos. The ultrawide lens opens up creative possibilities, making it great for shooting in tight spaces. It also benefits from Smart HDR 3, which improves the dynamic range and overall image quality. The front-facing camera has been significantly improved, featuring a 12MP ultrawide camera with Center Stage. Center Stage automatically keeps you in frame during video calls, which improves the overall video call experience. The iPad Pro 2021 also has improved low-light performance, making it better for capturing images in challenging lighting conditions. The camera system on the iPad Pro 2021 is more advanced, offering greater flexibility and improved image quality. It's a significant upgrade over the iPad Pro 2017, providing a more versatile and enjoyable photography experience.
The iPad Pro 2021 is the clear winner in terms of camera capabilities. Its dual-camera system, ultrawide lens, and Center Stage functionality provide a more versatile and enjoyable photography experience. The iPad Pro 2017 still has a capable camera that will meet the needs of many users, but the iPad Pro 2021 simply offers a more modern and feature-rich camera system. If you prioritize capturing great photos and videos, the 2021 model is the best choice.
Additional Features and Considerations
Alright, let's wrap things up by looking at some extra features and considerations that can influence your decision. The iPad Pro 2017 supports the first-generation Apple Pencil, which is a great tool for creative professionals, students, or anyone who enjoys taking notes or drawing on their tablet. It has a Smart Connector for connecting to a keyboard, which allows you to turn your tablet into a productivity powerhouse. Battery life on the iPad Pro 2017 is very good, providing all-day performance for most users. It runs on iPadOS, which provides a user-friendly interface. It also includes Touch ID for secure authentication, and it has a headphone jack, which is absent in the 2021 model. It is available in various storage options, allowing users to choose the configuration that best suits their needs and budget.
The iPad Pro 2021 also supports the second-generation Apple Pencil, which attaches magnetically and charges wirelessly, providing a more seamless experience. It's compatible with the Magic Keyboard and other accessories, making it very versatile. It offers Thunderbolt connectivity for faster data transfer speeds. Battery life is also excellent, delivering all-day usage for the majority of users. It features Face ID, which provides a fast and secure way to unlock your tablet and authenticate purchases. However, it does not include a headphone jack, which may be a drawback for some users. The iPad Pro 2021 is available in various storage options, and it also comes with 5G connectivity for ultra-fast mobile internet speeds.
When making your decision, consider your budget, usage patterns, and needs. The iPad Pro 2017 remains a great value, and it's a solid choice if you don't need the latest and greatest features. If you need top-tier performance, a superior display, and advanced features like Face ID and Thunderbolt connectivity, the iPad Pro 2021 is the better option. The 2021 iPad Pro offers a more modern and feature-rich experience, perfect for users who want the very best. In the end, the best choice depends on your specific requirements and budget.
Conclusion: Making the Right Choice
So, which iPad Pro reigns supreme? It depends on your priorities! The iPad Pro 2021 is the clear winner in terms of performance, display quality (especially the 12.9-inch model), and camera capabilities. It's a powerhouse for those who need the best of the best. If you're a creative professional, a gamer, or a power user, the 2021 iPad Pro is the way to go.
However, the iPad Pro 2017 still holds its own. It's a more budget-friendly option that delivers smooth performance for everyday tasks, a beautiful display with ProMotion, and a reliable camera. If you're looking for a great tablet for general use, and are on a tighter budget, the 2017 iPad Pro is still a fantastic choice. You'll still enjoy a premium experience and access to the vast iPad app ecosystem. Both iPads offer incredible value, it just boils down to what you need and what you're willing to spend. Consider your budget, your typical usage, and the features that matter most to you. With these factors in mind, you'll be well-equipped to choose the perfect iPad Pro for your needs. Happy shopping!
