iPad 9 (2021, A13 series) Vs iPad Pro (2020, A12 series)

The iPad 2021, also known as the 9th generation iPad, and the iPad Pro 2020 represent distinct offerings within Apple's tablet lineup. Released in September 2021, the iPad 2021 serves as a capable general-purpose tablet, while the iPad Pro 2020, launched in March 2020, was designed for more demanding professional workflows. Both devices operate on iPadOS, but they differ significantly in display technology, processing capabilities for intensive tasks, and advanced features.

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

• Release Timeline: The iPad Pro 2020 was released in March 2020, while the iPad 2021 followed in September 2021. The iPad 2021 was discontinued in May 2024, whereas the iPad Pro 2020 was discontinued earlier, in April 2021.
• Software Longevity: Given the current date, the iPad 2021, with its newer internal components, is likely to receive major iPadOS updates for a slightly longer period than the iPad Pro 2020. Both models are built to last, offering robust construction suitable for daily use.
• Practical Lifespan: Users can expect several years of reliable performance from either device. However, those prioritizing the absolute longest possible software support might find the iPad 2021 to have a marginal advantage due to its later release and newer processor generation.

The performance capabilities of these two iPads cater to different user needs, primarily influenced by their internal components and available memory.

• Processing Power: The iPad 2021 features a capable processor that handles everyday applications, web browsing, and casual gaming smoothly. The iPad Pro 2020, on the other hand, is equipped with a more powerful processor designed for intensive tasks, offering enhanced performance for professional applications, complex graphic rendering, and advanced multitasking.
• Multitasking and Responsiveness: The iPad 2021 comes with 3GB of RAM, which is sufficient for typical tablet usage. The iPad Pro 2020 includes 6GB of RAM, allowing it to manage a greater number of open applications and more demanding workflows without experiencing slowdowns. This difference in memory contributes to a more fluid experience when switching between multiple heavy applications on the Pro model.
• Storage Options: The iPad 2021 is available with 64GB or 256GB of internal storage. The iPad Pro 2020 offers a wider range of storage capacities, starting from 128GB and extending up to 1TB, providing more flexibility for users with large files or extensive app libraries.

The visual experience on these tablets presents a notable distinction, particularly concerning display technology and features.

• Display Technology and Clarity: The iPad 2021 features a 10.2-inch Retina IPS LCD display with a resolution of 2160 x 1620 pixels, providing clear visuals for general content consumption. The iPad Pro 2020 offers a Liquid Retina IPS LCD display, available in 11-inch and 12.9-inch sizes, with higher resolutions (2388 x 1668 for 11-inch, 2732 x 2048 for 12.9-inch) and a consistent pixel density.
• Brightness and Smoothness: Both models include True Tone technology, which adjusts the display's color temperature to match ambient light. The iPad 2021 has a typical brightness of 500 nits. The iPad Pro 2020 boasts a higher brightness of 600 nits, which can be beneficial for outdoor use. Additionally, the iPad Pro 2020 incorporates ProMotion technology, offering an adaptive refresh rate up to 120Hz for smoother scrolling and more responsive interactions, a feature not present on the iPad 2021.
• Viewing Experience: The larger screen options and ProMotion technology on the iPad Pro 2020 provide a more immersive and fluid viewing experience, particularly for fast-paced content or detailed creative work.

The camera systems on these two iPads are designed with different priorities, impacting their photographic and video capabilities.

• Rear Camera System: The iPad 2021 is equipped with an 8MP wide rear camera, suitable for basic photography and document scanning. The iPad Pro 2020 features a more advanced dual-camera setup on the rear, including a 12MP wide camera and a 10MP ultra-wide camera, along with a LiDAR Scanner. The LiDAR Scanner enhances augmented reality experiences and improves depth sensing.
• Front Camera and Video: For video calls and selfies, the iPad 2021 has a 12MP ultra-wide front camera with Center Stage, which automatically keeps the subject in frame during video calls. The iPad Pro 2020 includes a 7MP TrueDepth front camera, which supports Face ID. Both devices are capable of recording HD video, with the iPad Pro 2020 offering more advanced video recording features due to its more versatile rear camera system.
• Audio Experience: The iPad 2021 provides stereo speakers. The iPad Pro 2020 enhances the audio experience with a four-speaker system, delivering richer and more immersive sound for media consumption.