Recently, Apple introduced the iPad Pro 11 and followed up with the latest iPad 10.2 stamping its commitment to continually improve devices that customers love. If you have been thinking about buying one of these upgraded tablets you might be asking if; the iPad Pro vs. iPad 2019: Which is the better iPad to buy?
With the continued unveiling of new iPads by Apple, buying decisions aren’t getting any easier. For instance; the iPad Pro vs. iPad 2019: Which is the better iPad to buy? Both iPads are iconic but moderate users will find the iPad 2019 to be competent. On the other hand, heavy users like artists and professionals are better off with the more powerful iPad Pro 11.
Since their introduction to the market, iPads have been great devices and Apple does an outstanding job in ensuring that you have a powerful device to use on the go. But with so many versions available that incorporate different technology, making a decision can be tricky.
Choosing the right iPad doesn’t have to be daunting, our guide will help you understand the devices and make the process easier.
How They Stack Up
One of the most distinct differences between the iPad Pro and iPad 7th generation is the price. However, both devices are designed with great performance in mind but the specs are quite different.
But let’s look at the numbers and a comparison of their specs to help understand where the differences lie.
iPad 10.2 (2019)
The 7th generation 10.2-inch iPad is a recent entry-level iPad succeeding the previous 9.7-inch iPad model.
In terms of design, the 2019 iPad 10.2” comes in a similar design as its predecessor. But this one has a 10.2 inch screen compared to the smaller 9.7 inch screen in the older iPad. This not only boosts the screen real estate but slightly improves the resolution and delivers 264ppi density.
The 2019 iPad has Touch ID onboard but the screen lacks anti-reflective coating and the display is not fully laminated. However, there is an air gap between the screen which means it is cheaper to replace in case it gets damaged.
It uses the flagship A10 Fusion chip with an M10 coprocessor just like its predecessor. A big difference though being the 2019 iPad 10.2 supports Apple Smart Keyboard. This is a great improvement if you will be using the device to do lots of typing. Also, it supports the 1st Generation Apple Pencil.
The base model has 32GB of storage and 4GB RAM but you can also get the 128GB model. This can be a good move if you wish to use the device to store media files but for light usage, the 32GB model should serve you right. Similarly, the base version is a WIFI only version but a 4G model is also available at an extra cost.
iPad Pro 11
The iPad Pro 11 was built to succeed its predecessor- the iPad Pro 10.5 which has been among the best gaming tablets. It comes in an impressive design overhaul offering a bigger screen size. The edge-to-edge screen means that bezels are slimmer thus doing away with Touch ID in favor of Face ID. The aluminum edges have also been squared away into a more elegant design.
Apple uses the A12 X Bionic processor on the iPad Pro 11 which is newer hardware designed to offer enhanced capabilities to work on the go. This means the iPad Pro 11 is powerful enough to handle games, edit photos, and videos.
While the screen size is bigger, the pixels are still 264ppi. The Liquid Retina Display is fully laminated and has True Tone Technology meaning the device auto-adjusts the screen depending on the available ambient light and features ProMotion Technology.
The base model has 64GB of storage but subsequent models have 128GB, 526GB, and 1TB. While it doesn’t support dual SIMs, it uses both Nano-SIM and eSIM. The move to USB-C connector means that you can connect the iPad Pro to external displays, charge devices, and Ethernet adapters.
This iPad Pro uses the 2nd Generation Apple Pencil which charges wirelessly and attaches magnetically on the iPad. While the newer Apple Pencil can’t be used with older iPads, you can use it across multiple iPad Pro 11. The Smart Keyboard Folio attaches to the iPad Pro 11 via the smart connector dots found at the back.
Choosing
With the recent entrants in the iPad line of devices, Apple has clearly succeeded in making your choices less obvious. At the same time, it has created clear-cut differences that will make sure you’ll choose the one you like.
While the iPad Pro 11 uses the A12 X Bionic processor which is faster, the A10 processor on the iPad 10.2 is not mediocre. Unless you are a heavy user and you have the iPads side by side, noticing the difference might not be easy.
The iPad Pro 11 has an advanced Liquid Retina Display plus the enhanced ability to save power and boost performance on demand. Besides, it has a superior 12MP rear camera capable of recording 4K videos. However, the differences in screen size are marginal between the two iPads.
Conclusion
Clearly, the differences between the two iPads are significant when considering the display and processor technology. At the same time, design and screen size differences are subtle.
The devices are designed for different users assuming you want to explore the full capabilities of the iPad. With that said, students and average users will find the iPad 10.3 ideal and it can be a great choice that delivers on a gamut of tasks. On the other hand, professionals and artists will find the iPad Pro 11 more satisfying.