IPad Pro Showdown: 2020 Vs. 2018 Models Compared

by Jhon Lennon 49 views

Hey tech enthusiasts! Ever found yourself staring at two shiny iPads, wondering which one is the ultimate champion? Well, you're in luck! Today, we're diving deep into the iPad Pro universe, specifically pitting the 2020 (4th generation) model against its predecessor, the 2018 (3rd generation) iPad Pro. This isn't just a specs comparison; we're talking about real-world performance, design nuances, and whether that upgrade is worth your hard-earned cash. So, buckle up, grab your favorite beverage, and let's unravel this tech puzzle together! This in-depth comparison will help you decide which iPad Pro reigns supreme for your needs.

Design and Display: A Tale of Two iPads

When it comes to the design, both the 2020 and 2018 iPad Pro models share a striking resemblance, sporting the sleek, all-screen design that's become an iPad hallmark. Both feature flat edges and rounded corners, a departure from the earlier models. However, there are subtle yet significant differences. The 2020 model has a slightly thicker camera bump on the back to accommodate its more advanced camera system (more on that later). While both are available in the same Space Gray and Silver colors, the overall feel is remarkably similar, offering a premium, high-end experience. Holding either one feels like holding a piece of futuristic art.

Now, let's talk about the display, because, let's be honest, that's where the magic happens. Both iPads boast Liquid Retina displays with ProMotion technology, meaning they offer incredibly smooth scrolling and responsiveness, thanks to a 120Hz refresh rate. Colors pop, blacks are deep, and everything looks stunning. Both models deliver a fantastic visual experience, making them ideal for creative tasks, gaming, and simply enjoying your favorite content. They both have True Tone technology, which adjusts the display's color temperature to match the ambient light in your environment, making the screen easier on your eyes. So, in terms of the basic display quality, you're getting a top-notch experience with either model. The bezels are slim, the display is gorgeous, and you'll be hard-pressed to find a better tablet screen on the market. In terms of raw display quality, the two iPads are virtually neck and neck, offering an exceptional visual experience that will captivate and immerse you in your content. The Liquid Retina display, combined with ProMotion, makes both models a joy to use for everything from browsing the web to editing photos and videos. Both screens are vibrant, clear, and responsive, making for an enjoyable experience. No matter which iPad Pro you choose, you'll be getting a display that's a cut above the rest, ready to dazzle you with its clarity and brilliance.

The Camera: Beyond the Lens

Let's move on to the cameras. This is where we start to see a more significant divergence between the two models. The 2018 iPad Pro features a single 12MP wide-angle rear camera, which is perfectly capable of taking great photos and videos. The photos look good. The 2020 model, on the other hand, steps things up with a dual-camera system, including a 12MP wide-angle lens and a 10MP ultra-wide lens. This addition opens up a whole new world of creative possibilities. With the ultra-wide lens, you can capture more of the scene, which is great for landscape shots, group photos, or even just fitting more into your frame. The 2020 iPad Pro also features a LiDAR scanner, which is a key component for augmented reality (AR) applications. The LiDAR scanner helps the iPad map its surroundings with incredible accuracy, which improves AR experiences, making them more realistic and immersive. This means that AR apps can place virtual objects more precisely in your real-world environment. LiDAR also speeds up autofocus in low-light conditions, so your photos will be sharper. So, if you're a photographer or you're just someone who enjoys taking photos and videos, the 2020 iPad Pro's camera system is a clear winner. You will get enhanced versatility and better image quality. The addition of the ultra-wide lens and the LiDAR scanner makes the 2020 model a more powerful tool for both creative tasks and everyday use. The 2020 model has the upper hand when it comes to the camera system.

Performance and Processing Power: The Heart of the Beast

Now, let's get down to the performance! Both iPads are powerhouses, but they achieve their speed through different means. The 2018 iPad Pro is powered by the A12X Bionic chip, which was a technological marvel at the time of its release. This chip handles everything from demanding games to complex video editing with ease. The 2020 iPad Pro, however, comes equipped with the A12Z Bionic chip, which is an iterative upgrade over the A12X. While the A12Z isn't a massive leap in raw processing power, it does offer some notable improvements. In some ways it delivers slightly better sustained performance and enhanced graphics capabilities. The A12Z is optimized for tasks such as video editing, and it can handle complex workflows with improved efficiency. The performance is close, but the A12Z Bionic chip in the 2020 model has a slight edge in some areas. Both models provide blazing-fast performance, ensuring that you can tackle even the most demanding tasks without a hitch. The overall experience is going to be seamless. In real-world usage, you may not notice a huge difference between the two chips in everyday tasks like web browsing, email, and social media. But if you're a power user who does a lot of video editing, graphic design, or gaming, the improvements in the A12Z Bionic chip might be noticeable. The difference is more substantial for those who push their iPads to the limit.

Battery Life and Accessories: The Supporting Cast

Battery life is a crucial factor for any tablet, and both the 2018 and 2020 iPad Pro models deliver excellent endurance. You can expect to get a full day of use out of either one. Actual battery life varies depending on usage, but both models are designed to last a long time. Both support fast charging, so you can quickly top up the battery when needed. You'll likely get the same battery life from both iPads, enabling you to use it for an extended period. With light to moderate use, you'll easily get a full day's use from either device.

When it comes to accessories, both models are compatible with the second-generation Apple Pencil, which magnetically attaches to the side of the iPad for charging and pairing. The Apple Pencil offers an incredibly precise and responsive writing and drawing experience, making it a must-have accessory for creative professionals and students alike. The second-generation Apple Pencil is a true game-changer. Both models support the Smart Keyboard Folio, which transforms your iPad into a productivity powerhouse. The Smart Keyboard Folio provides a comfortable typing experience. Both are great accessories.

Conclusion: Which iPad Pro is Right for You?

So, which iPad Pro should you choose? It really depends on your needs and budget. If you're on a budget and can find a good deal on a 2018 iPad Pro, it's still an excellent choice. You'll get a stunning display, a powerful processor, and all the features you need for everyday tasks, creative work, and entertainment. The 2018 iPad Pro remains a fantastic device. However, if you're a power user or if you value the latest features, the 2020 iPad Pro is the better option. The updated camera system, the LiDAR scanner, and the slightly improved performance make it the more versatile and future-proof choice. The 2020 model offers a better experience. Consider your workflow and priorities. Both iPad Pros are exceptional tablets, and you won't be disappointed with either one. The choice comes down to how much you're willing to spend. Consider whether the upgrades in the 2020 model justify the price difference. The 2020 iPad Pro brings more to the table. If you want the absolute best and have the budget, the 2020 iPad Pro is the way to go. Otherwise, the 2018 model will still blow you away with its performance and features.

Final Verdict:

  • Choose the 2020 iPad Pro if: You want the best camera system, the latest AR capabilities, and the slightly enhanced performance. It’s the ultimate choice if budget isn’t a primary concern. The upgrades make it the best for anyone looking for the most advanced features.
  • Choose the 2018 iPad Pro if: You're looking for a great value and you don't need the latest features. It still offers outstanding performance, a beautiful display, and a premium experience at a potentially lower price point. It's the perfect choice if you're looking for a more affordable option.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on what you value most. Both are amazing tablets!