IPad Pro 12.9 (2017) Vs (2018): Which Should You Choose?
Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the iPad Pro 12.9 world, specifically comparing the 2017 and 2018 models. If you're scratching your head, trying to figure out which of these powerhouse tablets is the right fit for you, then you've come to the right place. We're going to break down everything from performance and design to features and price, so you can make an informed decision. Let's get started!
Design and Display: A Visual Feast
When it comes to design, both the iPad Pro 12.9 (2017) and the iPad Pro 12.9 (2018) are undeniably premium. The 2017 model sports the classic iPad look with noticeable bezels around the display and a physical home button. It’s sleek, feels great in hand, and screams 'high-end'. The screen is fully laminated, has an anti-reflective coating, and supports the P3 wide color gamut, making visuals pop with vibrant colors and deep blacks. The ProMotion technology, which dynamically adjusts the display's refresh rate up to 120Hz, ensures incredibly smooth scrolling and responsiveness, whether you're browsing the web or sketching with the Apple Pencil. However, the 2018 iPad Pro brings a more modern aesthetic to the table.
The 2018 edition waves goodbye to the home button and slims down the bezels significantly, resulting in a more immersive edge-to-edge display. This design change not only looks more contemporary but also reduces the overall footprint of the device, despite maintaining the same 12.9-inch screen size. The corners of the display are now rounded, mirroring the design language of iPhones. While the screen technology remains largely the same – fully laminated, anti-reflective coating, P3 wide color – the reduced bezels make for a more captivating viewing experience. The lack of a home button also introduces Face ID, Apple's facial recognition system, for secure and convenient unlocking and authentication. This design overhaul gives the 2018 model a clear advantage in terms of aesthetics and modernity. The smaller bezels not only look better but also make the tablet feel more manageable despite having the same large display. For those who appreciate a modern, minimalist design, the 2018 iPad Pro is the clear winner. Ultimately, the choice comes down to personal preference: do you prefer the classic iPad look with a home button, or the more modern, edge-to-edge design with Face ID?
Performance: Power Under the Hood
Let's talk performance, because, let's face it, what good is a pretty tablet if it can't handle your workload? The iPad Pro 12.9 (2017) is powered by Apple's A10X Fusion chip, which, at the time of its release, was an absolute beast. This chip features a six-core CPU and a 12-core GPU, delivering impressive performance for everything from everyday tasks to demanding creative workflows. Multitasking is a breeze, and you can easily juggle multiple apps without experiencing any slowdown. The A10X Fusion chip also provides ample power for gaming, allowing you to enjoy graphics-intensive titles with smooth frame rates and stunning visuals. Whether you're editing photos, creating digital art, or producing music, the 2017 iPad Pro can handle it all with ease.
On the other hand, the iPad Pro 12.9 (2018) kicks things up a notch with Apple's A12X Bionic chip. This chip is a true powerhouse, featuring an eight-core CPU and a seven-core GPU, and it delivers a significant performance boost over its predecessor. The A12X Bionic chip is so powerful, in fact, that it rivals the performance of some laptops. Apps launch in the blink of an eye, multitasking is even smoother, and demanding tasks like video editing and 3D rendering are handled with remarkable speed. The A12X Bionic chip also includes a Neural Engine, which accelerates machine learning tasks, enabling features like real-time photo and video analysis. The performance difference between the two models is noticeable, especially when it comes to demanding tasks. The 2018 iPad Pro feels snappier, more responsive, and more capable of handling anything you throw at it. If you're a power user who needs the absolute best performance, the 2018 iPad Pro is the clear choice.
Features: Beyond the Basics
Beyond the core specs, let's dive into some of the features that differentiate the iPad Pro 12.9 (2017) and the iPad Pro 12.9 (2018). The 2017 model has a Touch ID fingerprint sensor embedded in the home button for secure unlocking and authentication. It also supports the first-generation Apple Pencil, which offers precise and responsive input for sketching, drawing, and note-taking. The 2017 iPad Pro features a Smart Connector for attaching accessories like the Smart Keyboard, allowing you to transform the tablet into a makeshift laptop. It also has a four-speaker audio system that delivers rich, immersive sound. The camera system on the 2017 iPad Pro is capable, with a 12-megapixel rear camera and a 7-megapixel front camera, allowing you to capture high-quality photos and videos.
The 2018 iPad Pro introduces a few key feature upgrades. As mentioned earlier, it replaces Touch ID with Face ID, Apple's facial recognition system, which offers a more modern and convenient way to unlock your device. It also supports the second-generation Apple Pencil, which magnetically attaches to the side of the iPad Pro for charging and pairing. The second-generation Apple Pencil also features a customizable double-tap gesture, allowing you to quickly switch between tools or perform other actions. The 2018 iPad Pro replaces the Lightning port with a USB-C port, allowing you to connect to a wider range of accessories and displays. It also has an improved camera system with Smart HDR, which enhances the dynamic range of your photos. While both models offer a great set of features, the 2018 iPad Pro has a few key advantages, including Face ID, support for the second-generation Apple Pencil, and a USB-C port.
Price and Value: Bang for Your Buck
Alright, let's get down to brass tacks: price. When they were first released, the iPad Pro 12.9 (2017) was priced competitively, but now, you can often find it at a lower price point, especially on the used market. This makes it an attractive option for those who want a large-screen iPad Pro without breaking the bank. It still offers excellent performance and features, making it a great value for the money. You're getting a premium device with a fantastic display, capable performance, and access to the vast iPad ecosystem. If you're on a budget, the 2017 iPad Pro is definitely worth considering.
The iPad Pro 12.9 (2018), on the other hand, was more expensive at launch, and it still commands a higher price on the used market. However, the price reflects the upgraded performance, design, and features that it offers. You're getting a more modern device with a faster processor, a more immersive display, Face ID, and support for the second-generation Apple Pencil. If you're willing to spend the extra money, the 2018 iPad Pro is a worthwhile investment, especially if you plan on using it for demanding tasks or creative workflows. Ultimately, the best value depends on your individual needs and budget. If you're looking for the most affordable option, the 2017 iPad Pro is a great choice. But if you're willing to pay more for the best possible performance and features, the 2018 iPad Pro is the way to go.
Conclusion: Which iPad Pro Reigns Supreme?
So, after all that, which iPad Pro 12.9 should you choose: the 2017 or the 2018 model? Well, it really boils down to your needs and budget. If you're looking for a fantastic large-screen tablet that can handle most tasks with ease, and you don't want to spend a fortune, the 2017 iPad Pro is still a great option. It offers excellent performance, a beautiful display, and access to the vast iPad ecosystem. However, if you want the absolute best performance, a more modern design, Face ID, and support for the second-generation Apple Pencil, the 2018 iPad Pro is the clear winner. It's more expensive, but the upgrades are worth it if you're a power user or a creative professional. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and priorities. Both iPads are excellent devices, and you won't be disappointed with either one. Happy tablet hunting!