iPad Pro (2021, M1 series) Vs iPad Pro (2024, M4 series)

The iPad Pro 2021 M1 Series and the iPad Pro 2024 M4 Series represent distinct generations of Apple's high-performance tablets, released in 2021 and 2024, respectively. While both devices operate on iPadOS and offer a premium tablet experience, the M4 model introduces significant advancements in display technology, a more efficient processor, and a refined design. These differences cater to varying user priorities, from visual fidelity to raw processing power and portability.

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

• Release Timeline and OS Support: The iPad Pro M1 series, launched in 2021, has already received several major iPadOS updates. The M4 series, released in 2024, benefits from a newer starting point, meaning it will likely receive major iPadOS updates for a longer duration, potentially extending its software support by an additional two to three years compared to the M1. Apple typically provides 5-7 years of major OS updates and longer for security updates.
• Software Longevity Expectations: Both models are designed to handle demanding applications, but the M4's newer architecture may be better optimized for future iPadOS features, especially those leveraging advanced machine learning capabilities. Users prioritizing the absolute longest possible software support and access to the latest features will find the M4 series more future-proof.
• Repairability: Historically, iPads have presented challenges for repair. The M1 iPad Pro received a repairability score of 3 out of 10 from iFixit. The M4 iPad Pro shows some improvement, with a provisional iFixit score of 5 out of 10, partly due to Apple's self-service repair program. However, battery replacements remain complex due to the display's integration.

Both iPad Pro series offer robust performance, but the M4 model brings notable enhancements in processing efficiency and capability.

• Processor Capabilities: The iPad Pro M1 series features a powerful processor that handles demanding applications, multitasking, and creative workflows smoothly. The M4 series, however, incorporates a next-generation processor designed for even greater efficiency and speed. While day-to-day tasks like browsing and app launching may feel similarly responsive on both, the M4 demonstrates faster performance in intensive tasks such as video export and complex 3D rendering.
• RAM and Storage: Both generations offer configurations with 8GB or 16GB of unified memory, depending on the storage capacity. The M4's memory bandwidth is higher, contributing to overall system responsiveness, particularly in memory-intensive applications. Storage options range from 128GB up to 2TB for the M1, and from 256GB up to 2TB for the M4, providing ample space for various user needs.
• Battery Behavior: Both models are designed to provide a full day of typical use. While the M4 iPad Pro features a slightly smaller battery capacity in the 13-inch model compared to the 12.9-inch M1, its more efficient processor often results in comparable or even slightly better battery endurance in real-world usage scenarios.

The display is a key differentiator between these two iPad Pro generations, offering distinct visual experiences.

• Display Technology: The 11-inch M1 iPad Pro features an IPS LCD Liquid Retina display, while the 12.9-inch M1 model boasts a Mini-LED Liquid Retina XDR display, known for its deep blacks and high contrast. The M4 iPad Pro series, in both 11-inch and 13-inch sizes, introduces a Tandem OLED Ultra Retina XDR display. This advanced OLED technology provides superior contrast, true blacks, and vibrant colors across the entire screen.
• Brightness and Clarity: The M1 models offer up to 600 nits of SDR brightness, with the 12.9-inch Mini-LED reaching 1600 nits peak for HDR content. The M4 models significantly boost SDR brightness to 1000 nits and maintain 1600 nits peak for HDR, making them noticeably brighter, especially in well-lit environments or outdoors.
• Refresh Rate and Features: Both generations feature ProMotion technology, offering adaptive refresh rates up to 120Hz for smooth scrolling and responsive interactions. The M4 also offers an optional nano-texture display glass on higher storage configurations, which helps reduce glare in various lighting conditions.

The camera systems on both iPad Pro models are capable, with the M4 introducing some refinements and a shift in front camera placement.

• Rear Camera System: The M1 iPad Pro features a dual-camera setup on the rear, including a 12MP Wide and a 10MP Ultra-Wide lens, alongside a LiDAR Scanner. The M4 iPad Pro simplifies this to a single 12MP Wide camera, retaining the LiDAR Scanner, but removing the Ultra-Wide lens. It compensates with an Adaptive True Tone Flash, which enhances document scanning by intelligently removing shadows.
• Front Camera and Video: Both models include a 12MP Ultra-Wide front camera with Center Stage, which keeps subjects in frame during video calls. A notable ergonomic improvement on the M4 is the relocation of the front camera to the landscape edge, making it more natural for video conferencing when the tablet is used horizontally. Video recording quality is strong on both, with 4K capabilities.
• Audio Experience: Both generations feature a four-speaker audio system and studio-quality microphones, providing a rich sound experience for media consumption and clear audio for calls and recordings.