iPad 6 (2018, A10 series) Vs iPad Pro (2020, A12 series)

When considering the longevity of these tablets, several factors come into play, including their release timeline, software support, and physical durability.

• Release Timeline: The iPad 2018 was released in March 2018, making it two years older than the iPad Pro 2020, which launched in March 2020. This age difference directly impacts their expected software support lifespan.
• OS Support Duration: The iPad 2018 shipped with iOS 11.3 and is upgradeable to iPadOS 17.2 or 17.3, with its maximum supported operating system being iPadOS 17. The iPad Pro 2020, released with iPadOS 13.x, is compatible with later updates, including iPadOS 18, offering a longer period of current software features and security updates.
• Repairability: Both devices present challenges for repair due to the extensive use of adhesives in their construction. The iPad 2018 received an iFixit repairability score of 2 out of 10, primarily due to strong adhesives, though its non-laminated display can make glass replacement less complex. The iPad Pro 2020 scored slightly higher at 3 out of 10, also hampered by adhesives, but features a modular USB-C port which is a minor improvement for repairability.

The performance of a tablet is crucial for its responsiveness and ability to handle various applications, from everyday browsing to intensive creative work.

• Processing Capabilities: The iPad 2018 is equipped with a processor that handles everyday tasks smoothly, making it suitable for general use, web browsing, and educational applications. However, it may show limitations with newer, more demanding applications over time. The iPad Pro 2020 features a more advanced processor, designed for higher performance. This allows it to manage demanding apps, complex multitasking, and graphics-intensive tasks like video editing or advanced gaming with greater fluidity and speed.
• Multitasking and Responsiveness: The iPad 2018 comes with 2GB of RAM, which supports side-by-side apps, though switching between multiple active applications might cause some to pause. The iPad Pro 2020, with 6GB of RAM across all configurations, offers a more robust multitasking experience, keeping more applications active simultaneously and providing a generally smoother and more responsive user experience.
• Storage Options: The iPad 2018 was available with 32GB or 128GB of internal storage. The iPad Pro 2020 offers more generous base storage starting at 128GB, with options extending to 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB, providing ample space for large files, applications, and media.

The display is a primary interface for any tablet, and there are notable differences in the screen technology and features between these two models.

• Display Technology and Clarity: The iPad 2018 features a 9.7-inch LCD Retina display with a resolution of 2048 x 1536 pixels, resulting in a pixel density of 264 pixels per inch (ppi). This display provides clear visuals for general use. The iPad Pro 2020, available in 11-inch (2388 x 1668 pixels) and 12.9-inch (2732 x 2048 pixels) sizes, boasts a Liquid Retina display, also at 264 ppi. This display offers enhanced color accuracy and a wider color gamut (P3).
• Advanced Display Features: The iPad 2018's display is not laminated, lacks an anti-reflective coating, and does not support True Tone technology, which adjusts the screen's white balance to ambient light. The iPad Pro 2020, however, includes a fully laminated display with an anti-reflective coating, True Tone, and ProMotion technology, which enables an adaptive refresh rate up to 120Hz for smoother scrolling and more fluid motion.
• Brightness: The iPad 2018 offers a typical brightness suitable for indoor use. The iPad Pro 2020 provides higher brightness levels, reaching up to 600 nits, which improves visibility in brighter environments and enhances the viewing experience for HDR content.

While tablets are not typically primary photography devices, their camera systems are increasingly important for video calls, document scanning, and augmented reality applications.

• Rear Camera System: The iPad 2018 features a single 8-megapixel rear camera with an f/2.4 aperture, capable of recording 1080p video. This camera performs well in good lighting conditions for general photos and document capture. The iPad Pro 2020 significantly upgrades the rear camera setup, including a 12-megapixel wide camera (f/1.8) and a new 10-megapixel ultra-wide camera (f/2.4), alongside a LiDAR scanner for enhanced depth sensing and augmented reality experiences. It can record 4K video at up to 60 frames per second.
• Front Camera Performance: For video calls and selfies, the iPad 2018 includes a 1.2-megapixel front-facing camera with an f/2.2 aperture, supporting 720p video recording. The iPad Pro 2020 features a 7-megapixel TrueDepth front camera, also with an f/2.2 aperture, which provides clearer video calls and enables Face ID for secure authentication.
• Audio and Speakers: The iPad 2018 has stereo speakers located at the bottom of the device. The iPad Pro 2020 enhances the audio experience with a four-speaker system that delivers more immersive sound, adapting to the tablet's orientation.

Beyond core performance and display, several other features contribute to the overall user experience and versatility of these tablets.

• Connectivity and Ports: The iPad 2018 supports Wi-Fi 802.11ac and Bluetooth 4.2. It features a Lightning connector for charging and data transfer, and retains a 3.5mm headphone jack. The iPad Pro 2020 steps up to Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) and Bluetooth 5.0, offering faster and more reliable wireless connections. It adopts a USB-C port, which provides greater versatility for connecting to external displays and accessories, but it omits the traditional headphone jack.
• Biometric Security: The iPad 2018 uses Touch ID for biometric authentication, integrated into the home button. The iPad Pro 2020 replaces Touch ID with Face ID, utilizing its TrueDepth camera system for facial recognition.
• Dimensions and Build: The iPad 2018 has a 9.7-inch display and maintains a traditional tablet design. The iPad Pro 2020, available in 11-inch and 12.9-inch models, features a more modern design with slimmer bezels and squared-off edges. Both devices are constructed with aluminum, offering a durable feel. The iPad 2018 supports the first-generation Apple Pencil, while the iPad Pro 2020 supports the second-generation Apple Pencil, which attaches magnetically and charges wirelessly, and is also compatible with the Magic Keyboard.