IPad Pro 2021 Vs 2022: Which Is Right For You?

Alright guys, let's dive into a comparison that many of you have been waiting for: the iPad Pro 2021 vs. the iPad Pro 2022. Now, I know what you're thinking – is the newer model really that much better? We're going to break it all down, from performance and display to those all-important creative features, to help you decide if it's worth the upgrade or if the 2021 model still holds its own. Whether you're a digital artist, a student, a business pro, or just someone who loves having the best tech, this comparison is for you. We'll cover the key differences that actually matter in your day-to-day use, so buckle up!

Performance Powerhouse: M1 vs. M2 Chip

One of the biggest talking points when comparing the iPad Pro 2021 vs. iPad Pro 2022 has to be the chip. The 2021 iPad Pro rocked the incredible M1 chip, which was a massive leap forward for Apple's tablets. It offered desktop-class performance in a portable package, handling pretty much anything you threw at it with ease. Think seamless multitasking, smooth video editing, and gaming that felt console-level. Now, the 2022 iPad Pro steps things up with the even more powerful M2 chip. This isn't just a minor tweak; the M2 chip brings significant improvements in CPU and GPU performance, plus enhanced media engine capabilities. What does this mean for you, the user? Well, it translates to even faster processing speeds, quicker rendering times for complex projects, and a generally snappier experience across the board. If you're someone who pushes their iPad to the limit – maybe you're doing intensive 3D rendering, editing 4K footage on the fly, or running multiple demanding apps simultaneously – the M2 chip in the 2022 model will definitely feel like a noticeable upgrade. For everyday tasks like browsing, email, and streaming, you might not see a huge difference, but knowing you have that extra power under the hood for future-proof applications is always a win. The M2 also introduces ProRes video editing directly on the device, which is a game-changer for mobile videographers. So, while the M1 was already fantastic, the M2 in the 2022 iPad Pro offers a tangible boost for power users and sets a new benchmark for tablet performance.

Display and Design: Subtle Refinements

When you put the iPad Pro 2021 and iPad Pro 2022 side-by-side, you'll notice that the design hasn't undergone a radical overhaul. Apple tends to refine rather than reinvent, and that's certainly the case here. Both models feature stunning Liquid Retina XDR displays (on the 12.9-inch models) and Liquid Retina displays (on the 11-inch models), offering incredible color accuracy, brightness, and the buttery-smooth 120Hz ProMotion technology. The core display experience remains largely the same, which is fantastic news because it was already top-tier. However, the 2022 iPad Pro does introduce a subtle yet significant feature: Apple Pencil hover. This allows the Apple Pencil (2nd generation) to be detected up to 12mm above the screen, providing a preview of where the pen will mark or draw before you actually touch the surface. This is a huge win for artists and illustrators, offering a more precise and intuitive drawing experience, almost like drawing on paper. It adds a new layer of control and accuracy that wasn't present on the 2021 model. In terms of physical design, both tablets boast that sleek, flat-edged aesthetic that has become iconic. The bezels are minimal, maximizing screen real estate. The build quality is, as expected from Apple, premium and durable. So, while the visual design is nearly identical, the Apple Pencil hover functionality on the 2022 model is a standout improvement that enhances the creative workflow significantly. It’s these small but impactful additions that Apple often focuses on, making the user experience even more refined.

Camera and Connectivity: Staying Current

Let's talk cameras and connectivity in our iPad Pro 2021 vs. 2022 showdown. On the back, both the 2021 and 2022 iPad Pro models feature a capable dual-camera system with a 12MP wide and a 10MP ultra-wide lens, along with a LiDAR scanner. They both excel at scanning documents, AR experiences, and general photography. The front-facing camera is also the same – a 12MP Ultra Wide camera with Center Stage, which is brilliant for video calls, keeping you perfectly framed even as you move around. So, visually, not a whole lot has changed here. However, where the 2022 iPad Pro pulls ahead is in its connectivity. It introduces Wi-Fi 6E support. This newer Wi-Fi standard offers faster speeds, lower latency, and greater capacity compared to Wi-Fi 6, especially in environments with many connected devices. If you frequently work with large files, stream high-resolution content, or engage in real-time collaboration online, Wi-Fi 6E can make a noticeable difference in your overall experience. For those who rely heavily on a stable and fast wireless connection, this is a significant upgrade. Both models also support 5G cellular connectivity (if you opt for the cellular version), ensuring you stay connected wherever you go. While the camera hardware is largely a wash between these two generations, the inclusion of Wi-Fi 6E in the 2022 iPad Pro provides a more future-proof and robust networking experience for those who need the best and fastest wireless speeds available.

Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard: The Ecosystem Advantage

When considering the iPad Pro 2021 vs. iPad Pro 2022, it's crucial to look at the accessories that complete the experience. Both tablets are compatible with the fantastic Apple Pencil (2nd generation) and the Magic Keyboard, transforming the iPad into a versatile productivity machine. However, as mentioned earlier, the 2022 iPad Pro unlocks a new level of functionality with the Apple Pencil thanks to the hover feature. This allows for greater precision and a more intuitive drawing or writing experience, which is a massive deal for creative professionals. For the Magic Keyboard, both generations of iPad Pro work seamlessly, offering that tactile typing experience and trackpad functionality. The design and performance of the Magic Keyboard haven't changed dramatically between these two iPad models. The real synergy comes from how the new hardware features of the 2022 iPad Pro enhance the use of these accessories. For instance, the M2 chip's improved performance coupled with the hover functionality of the Apple Pencil makes complex digital art or detailed note-taking even more fluid and responsive. The ecosystem advantage is strong for both, but the 2022 model offers subtle yet significant enhancements that make these accessories even more powerful and enjoyable to use. If you're heavily invested in the Apple Pencil workflow, the hover feature alone might be enough to justify the newer model. It’s these little touches that elevate the iPad Pro from a tablet to a true creative and productive powerhouse.

Who Should Buy Which iPad Pro?

So, after breaking down the iPad Pro 2021 vs. iPad Pro 2022, who should be reaching for which model? Let's make it simple, guys.

Choose the iPad Pro 2021 if:

• You're on a budget: The 2021 iPad Pro is still an incredibly powerful tablet. You can often find it at a more attractive price point, especially on the refurbished market or during sales. It offers fantastic performance with the M1 chip, a stunning display, and all the core features you need for productivity and creativity.
• Your needs are standard: For everyday tasks, note-taking, web browsing, streaming, and even moderate creative work, the M1 chip is more than capable. You won't feel like you're missing out on core functionality.
• Apple Pencil hover isn't a priority: If you don't plan on using the Apple Pencil extensively for detailed drawing or precise annotation, the lack of hover won't be a dealbreaker.

Choose the iPad Pro 2022 if:

• You need the absolute best performance: The M2 chip offers a significant performance boost, especially for demanding tasks like high-end video editing, 3D rendering, or running complex applications. Future-proofing is also a factor here.
• Precision creative work is your jam: The Apple Pencil hover feature is a game-changer for digital artists, illustrators, and anyone who needs that extra layer of precision and control when drawing or annotating.
• You want the fastest Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi 6E offers superior speed and lower latency, which is crucial for heavy internet users, remote workers, and those who frequently transfer large files wirelessly.
• You want the latest and greatest: Sometimes, you just want the newest tech, and the 2022 iPad Pro delivers that with its incremental but valuable upgrades.

Ultimately, both are phenomenal devices. The 2021 iPad Pro remains a powerhouse, but the 2022 model refines the experience with a faster chip, the brilliant hover feature for the Apple Pencil, and next-gen Wi-Fi. Consider your specific use case and budget, and you'll make the right choice. Happy iPad hunting!