IPad Pro 2017 Vs. IPad Pro 2018: Which Tablet Reigns Supreme?
Hey tech enthusiasts! Ever found yourself staring at two shiny tablets, wondering which one deserves a spot in your life? Well, if you're torn between the iPad Pro 2017 and the iPad Pro 2018, you're in the right place. We're about to dive headfirst into a comparison, breaking down the specs, features, and overall experience to help you decide which iPad Pro is the ultimate champion for you. Let's get started, shall we?
Design and Build: The Aesthetics Battle
Let's be real, guys – the way a device looks and feels matters! The iPad Pro 2018 definitely brought some significant design changes to the table. While the 2017 model still holds its own, the 2018 version feels like a leap forward. You'll notice the most significant difference when you turn it around. The iPad Pro 2018 sheds the traditional home button and gets slimmer bezels, giving it a sleek, all-screen design that's pure eye candy. This shift allows for a larger screen size within a similar footprint, making your content feel more immersive.
The iPad Pro 2017, while not exactly outdated, has a more traditional look with its thicker bezels and the iconic home button. Both models boast a premium build, with an aluminum unibody that feels sturdy and luxurious. In terms of dimensions, the iPad Pro 2018 is slightly thinner and lighter than its predecessor. This might not sound like a huge deal, but when you're holding your tablet for hours, every gram counts! The new design also allowed Apple to move the speakers, making for a richer audio experience, especially when watching videos or playing games. The iPad Pro 2018 does away with the headphone jack. This might be a deal-breaker for some, but the world of wireless headphones has come a long way, so it's not the end of the world.
So, if you're all about that modern, minimalist aesthetic, the iPad Pro 2018 takes the crown. The edge-to-edge display and slimmer design give it a more premium feel. However, the iPad Pro 2017 is still a looker and it's built to last. It’s all about personal preference, but the design is a key differentiator.
Display: Visual Feast and Refresh Rate Revelations
Alright, let's talk screens. After all, it's what you'll be staring at most of the time. Both the iPad Pro 2017 and 2018 feature stunning Retina displays, known for their vibrant colors, excellent brightness, and sharp details. However, there's a secret ingredient in the iPad Pro 2018 that gives it a definite edge: ProMotion. What is ProMotion, you ask? It's Apple's fancy tech that enables a 120Hz refresh rate. This means the screen refreshes the image 120 times per second, making everything feel buttery smooth. Scrolling, animations, and even gaming become incredibly responsive and fluid. Once you experience ProMotion, it’s hard to go back!
The iPad Pro 2017 has a lovely screen, but it’s limited to a standard 60Hz refresh rate. It’s still a great display, don’t get me wrong, but the lack of ProMotion means animations and scrolling aren't as slick. The difference might not be immediately obvious, but it's a game-changer for the overall user experience. This smoother experience is particularly noticeable when using the Apple Pencil. The ProMotion technology makes drawing, writing, and sketching feel incredibly natural, as if the pen is directly connected to the screen. You'll notice less latency, and the response is immediate.
Both iPads support True Tone technology, which automatically adjusts the display's color temperature based on the ambient light. This makes the screen easier on your eyes in various lighting conditions. In terms of display quality, both models are fantastic, but the ProMotion display of the iPad Pro 2018 truly elevates the experience. If you value a smooth and responsive experience, the iPad Pro 2018 is the clear winner here.
Performance: Power Under the Hood
Underneath the hood, both iPads pack a punch, but the iPad Pro 2018 is a noticeable upgrade. The iPad Pro 2017 is powered by the A10X Fusion chip. This chip is still a beast, capable of handling demanding tasks like video editing, gaming, and multitasking. It offers snappy performance and smooth operation for most users. You won't be disappointed by its speed and responsiveness.
However, the iPad Pro 2018 takes things to the next level with the A12X Bionic chip. This chip is a powerhouse, offering a significant performance boost over the A10X Fusion. You'll notice faster app loading times, smoother multitasking, and improved performance in graphically intensive games and applications. The A12X Bionic chip makes the iPad Pro 2018 feel incredibly responsive, and it can handle just about anything you throw at it. The A12X Bionic chip also features a dedicated neural engine, which is a key component for machine learning tasks. This means that the iPad Pro 2018 is better equipped for tasks like image recognition, augmented reality, and other AI-powered features.
For everyday tasks, you might not notice a huge difference between the two models. However, if you're a power user who works with demanding apps, or if you want the best possible performance for gaming or creative tasks, the iPad Pro 2018 is the way to go. The performance difference is especially noticeable when running professional creative software like Adobe Photoshop or Final Cut Pro.
Apple Pencil and Accessories: Enhanced Creativity
If you're into drawing, sketching, or taking notes, the Apple Pencil is a must-have accessory. The iPad Pro 2017 is compatible with the first-generation Apple Pencil, which charges via a Lightning port. The iPad Pro 2018 introduces the second-generation Apple Pencil, which magnetically attaches to the side of the iPad for charging and pairing. This second-generation Apple Pencil has a more ergonomic design and features double-tap gestures for quick access to tools. The charging method is much more convenient, and the overall experience is a step up.
Additionally, the iPad Pro 2018 supports the Smart Keyboard Folio, which connects magnetically and offers a more streamlined typing experience. The iPad Pro 2017 uses the older Smart Keyboard, which is also a decent keyboard, but it lacks the premium feel and design of the newer Folio.
So, if you're considering the Apple Pencil, the iPad Pro 2018 provides a superior experience with the second-generation Apple Pencil. The magnetic charging and improved design make it a joy to use. The iPad Pro 2018 also supports the Smart Keyboard Folio, which is a big improvement over the previous Smart Keyboard.
Camera: Snapping Memories
Let’s face it, most people don’t buy an iPad for its camera, but both the iPad Pro 2017 and 2018 have capable cameras for photos and videos. Both models have a 12MP rear camera that can capture high-quality photos and videos. The iPad Pro 2018 adds Smart HDR, which improves the dynamic range and overall image quality. The front-facing camera on the iPad Pro 2018 has been upgraded to support Face ID, while the iPad Pro 2017 uses Touch ID.
Face ID offers a secure and convenient way to unlock your iPad and authorize purchases. It’s also faster and more reliable than Touch ID. While the cameras on both models are good, the iPad Pro 2018 has a slight edge with Smart HDR and Face ID. The front-facing camera on the iPad Pro 2018 supports Portrait Mode, which allows you to create images with a blurred background effect. Portrait mode adds a professional touch to your selfies and video calls.
If you take a lot of photos and videos with your iPad, the iPad Pro 2018 is a slight upgrade. However, the camera on the iPad Pro 2017 is still perfectly fine for most users.
Price and Value: Making the Decision
Okay, let's talk money. The iPad Pro 2017 is generally available at a lower price point than the iPad Pro 2018, especially if you're looking at the used or refurbished market. This makes it an attractive option if you're on a budget. You still get a great tablet with excellent performance, a stunning display, and access to the vast iPad ecosystem.
The iPad Pro 2018 comes with a higher price tag due to its updated design, more powerful processor, and enhanced features. If you're looking for the absolute best, and you're willing to pay for it, the iPad Pro 2018 is the way to go. The ProMotion display, the A12X Bionic chip, and the second-generation Apple Pencil make it a superior device.
Consider your needs and budget. If you're a casual user, the iPad Pro 2017 might be the better value. If you're a power user or creative professional, the iPad Pro 2018 is worth the extra investment.
Conclusion: Choosing Your iPad Pro Champion
So, which iPad Pro is the winner? The answer depends on your individual needs and preferences. The iPad Pro 2017 is a great tablet that still holds its own. It offers excellent performance, a beautiful display, and a premium build quality. It's a fantastic choice if you're looking for a great value and you don't need the latest and greatest features.
The iPad Pro 2018 is the superior tablet in terms of performance, design, and features. The ProMotion display, the A12X Bionic chip, and the second-generation Apple Pencil make it an exceptional device. If you're a power user or creative professional, the iPad Pro 2018 is worth the investment.
Ultimately, the best choice is the one that best suits your needs and budget. Consider what you'll be using your iPad for, how much you're willing to spend, and which features are most important to you. Happy tablet hunting!
