IPad Pro M1 Vs. IPad Pro 2017: Which Tablet Reigns?

Hey guys! So, you're trying to figure out which iPad Pro is the right fit for you, huh? You're in luck! We're diving deep into a head-to-head comparison of the iPad Pro M1 (the newer kid on the block) versus the iPad Pro 2017 (the tried-and-true veteran). This article is your ultimate guide, breaking down the key differences to help you make the best decision for your needs and your wallet. We'll be looking at everything from performance and display quality to the all-important question of whether it's worth upgrading. Trust me, it's a journey, but by the end of this, you'll be an iPad Pro expert! Let's get started. Get ready to have your questions answered and maybe even find a new favorite gadget. Let's do this!

Performance Face-Off: M1 Chip vs. A10X Fusion

Alright, let's talk about the heart and soul of these tablets: their processors. This is where the iPad Pro M1 truly shines. The M1 chip, the same one found in some MacBooks, is an absolute powerhouse. It's built on a completely different architecture than the A10X Fusion chip found in the iPad Pro 2017. This means the M1 offers a massive leap in performance. We're talking about blazing-fast speeds, smoother multitasking, and the ability to handle even the most demanding apps and games without breaking a sweat. If you're into things like video editing, running complex simulations, or just want a tablet that feels lightning-fast, the M1 is the clear winner. The A10X Fusion chip in the iPad Pro 2017 is no slouch, mind you. It was a beast in its day, and it can still handle most everyday tasks with ease. However, when you put them side-by-side, the difference is undeniable. The M1 chip can handle the tasks quicker than the older iPad. Now, this doesn't mean the iPad Pro 2017 is suddenly obsolete. It still runs iOS smoothly, and it's perfectly capable of browsing the web, checking emails, and streaming videos. But if you're a power user or plan on pushing your tablet to its limits, the M1 is the way to go. The overall performance will be much better, and you'll notice it immediately. If you are looking for a device that offers more power, the iPad Pro M1 is the obvious choice. The extra power means better and faster performance. The A10X is still good and is still able to do things, but it is much slower than the M1. It is important to know that before buying or deciding which to buy. Consider what you are going to be using it for. The newer chip is more than capable, the older chip is not the same. It is an important question to ask. The main idea here is that there is a big difference between the two chips.

RAM and Storage: The Supporting Cast

Beyond the raw processing power, RAM and storage also play a crucial role. The iPad Pro M1 typically comes with more RAM than the iPad Pro 2017, which further contributes to its multitasking prowess. More RAM allows you to keep more apps open in the background without experiencing slowdowns. Storage options also vary. The iPad Pro M1 offers a wider range of storage configurations, including higher-capacity models. This is great if you plan on storing a lot of photos, videos, or large files directly on your tablet. While the iPad Pro 2017 offers sufficient storage options, the M1's expanded choices give you more flexibility. So, when thinking about this, consider what you are going to be storing on the device. Think about your photos, your videos, and all of the files you have. This will give you a better idea on what you want. It also depends on the price range you want as well. The higher the storage the higher the price. If you don't need a lot of storage, you don't need to get the more expensive version. This is also something to think about before deciding.

Display and Design: A Visual Feast

Let's get visual! Both the iPad Pro M1 and the iPad Pro 2017 boast stunning displays, but there are some key differences to consider. The iPad Pro 2017 features a brilliant Retina display, known for its vibrant colors and sharp details. The iPad Pro M1 takes things up a notch with its Liquid Retina XDR display, which is available on some models. This display technology delivers incredible contrast, with deeper blacks and brighter whites, resulting in a more immersive viewing experience. It's particularly noticeable when watching HDR content. Design-wise, both iPads have a sleek and premium feel. The iPad Pro 2017 sports a classic design with slightly thicker bezels compared to the iPad Pro M1, which has a more modern, edge-to-edge display on some models, giving it a more contemporary look. The iPad Pro M1 also features thinner bezels, and it looks a lot more modern. If the display is important to you, consider the differences, especially the HDR content. The contrast is much better and gives you a more immersive experience. The display is a core part of the experience. It's what you are looking at all the time. It is important to make sure that the experience is good and that the display is something that you want to enjoy. Think about this as well before deciding.

ProMotion Technology: Smooth Operator

The iPad Pro M1 also benefits from ProMotion technology. This feature dynamically adjusts the display's refresh rate up to 120Hz. What does that mean for you? It means incredibly smooth scrolling, fluid animations, and a more responsive feel, especially when using the Apple Pencil. The iPad Pro 2017 doesn't have ProMotion, so the experience is still good, but not quite as buttery smooth. If you are going to be using the Apple Pencil, the ProMotion will give you the best experience. The fluidity and the experience will feel a lot better. It is a big factor when comparing the two.

Camera Capabilities: Snap Happy

While iPads aren't typically the first choice for photography, both models have capable cameras for taking photos and videos. The iPad Pro M1 features a more advanced camera system with improved image quality and additional features like Center Stage, which automatically keeps you in frame during video calls. The iPad Pro 2017's camera is still decent, but it doesn't offer the same level of performance or features. If you are someone who takes a lot of photos and videos with your iPad, the iPad Pro M1 is the better choice. The front-facing camera is much better as well. The features of the newer iPad will make your experience better, especially with video calls. Overall, both are fine, but the iPad Pro M1 is the winner in this department.

Video Recording: Staying in Focus

When it comes to video recording, the iPad Pro M1's camera system offers enhancements like better stabilization and support for higher frame rates. This translates to smoother, more professional-looking videos. Again, the iPad Pro 2017 can still record good-quality videos, but the iPad Pro M1 gives you an edge if video recording is important to you.

Accessories and Ecosystem: The Apple Advantage

One of the biggest strengths of the iPad Pro is its ecosystem of accessories. Both models are compatible with the Apple Pencil (although the iPad Pro M1 supports the second-generation Apple Pencil, which is magnetically attached and charges wirelessly). Both also work with the Smart Keyboard or Magic Keyboard, transforming your iPad into a more versatile productivity machine. The availability of accessories for both models is a plus, but the iPad Pro M1 offers some accessory advantages due to its updated design. The magnetic charging is much easier to use. You can also pick the Apple Pencil 2nd generation, so the iPad Pro M1 is better in this category.

Software Support: Staying Up-to-Date

Apple is known for its excellent software support. The iPad Pro M1 will receive software updates for longer, ensuring you have access to the latest features and security enhancements. The iPad Pro 2017 is still receiving updates, but its support lifecycle will eventually come to an end. This is something to consider. The newer iPad will have support for longer. So you are going to have a better experience overall. The software support is a big factor and should be something to think about before you make a decision.

Price and Value: Making the Right Choice

Price is always a major factor. The iPad Pro 2017 is generally available at a lower price point, especially if you buy it used or refurbished. This makes it a great value proposition if you're on a budget. The iPad Pro M1 is more expensive, but its superior performance, display, and features justify the price for many users. It is a more expensive device, but it offers a lot more as well. You need to consider your budget and what you are looking for. The older iPad can be a good value. Consider all the things we talked about, and that will give you a better idea on what to buy. It all depends on your budget. If your budget is higher, you can get a better iPad. If your budget is lower, you can still get a good iPad.

Assessing Your Needs: What Matters Most?

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and priorities. Ask yourself these questions:

• What will I primarily use my iPad for? (Work, creative tasks, entertainment, casual browsing?)
• How important is performance to me? (Do I need to run demanding apps or multitask heavily?)
• How much am I willing to spend? (What is my budget?)

Answer these questions to help you to make the right choice. It will help you narrow down your choices and make the decision a lot easier. If you are doing basic things, the older iPad is just fine. If you want more power, the newer one will be a better choice. The main thing is to ask the right questions.

The Verdict: Which iPad Pro Should You Choose?

So, which iPad Pro reigns supreme? For most users, the iPad Pro M1 is the clear winner. Its blistering performance, stunning display, and advanced features make it the ultimate tablet experience. However, the iPad Pro 2017 remains a capable and affordable option, especially for users who don't need the latest and greatest. Here's a quick summary:

• Choose the iPad Pro M1 if: You want top-of-the-line performance, a gorgeous display, the latest features, and you don't mind spending more.
• Choose the iPad Pro 2017 if: You're on a budget, you don't need the absolute best performance, and you're happy with a still-excellent tablet experience.

No matter which iPad Pro you choose, you're getting a fantastic tablet. Happy choosing, and enjoy your new iPad! I hope this article helps you decide. Take your time, and don't rush. This is an important decision. Think about everything we have talked about. This will give you the best experience possible! Enjoy!