IPad Pro 11-inch Face-Off: 2018 Vs 2019 - Which Reigns Supreme?
Hey tech enthusiasts! Let's dive into a head-to-head showdown between two powerhouses: the iPad Pro 11-inch from 2018 and its successor from 2019. If you're pondering which one suits your needs (or which one to snag on the used market), you're in the right place, my friends. We'll dissect the specs, performance, design, and features to help you make an informed decision. So, grab your favorite beverage, sit back, and let's get started!
Design and Build Quality: A Familiar Yet Refined Look
When we talk about the iPad Pro 11-inch 2018 vs 2019, the design is where things get interesting, because at first glance, they look remarkably similar, almost identical. Both models boast that sleek, all-screen design that Apple is known for, with those slim bezels and rounded corners that make the iPad Pro line so recognizable. The build quality is top-notch, as you'd expect from Apple. These are premium devices, crafted from high-grade materials that exude a sense of luxury. The aluminum unibody construction feels solid and durable in your hands, giving you the confidence that it can withstand the rigors of daily use.
However, there are subtle differences to note. The 2018 model may feel slightly more rounded in the edges compared to the 2019 model. The placement of the microphones and speakers might have seen minor tweaks, but these are minute details that only the most discerning eyes will notice. Both the 2018 and 2019 models feature the USB-C port, a welcome addition that has made the iPad Pro much more versatile. This port allows for faster data transfer, external display support, and compatibility with a wide range of accessories.
One significant design choice is the inclusion of the Smart Connector. Located on the back, this magnetic connector allows for seamless pairing with the Smart Keyboard Folio. This is a game-changer for anyone who wants to transform their iPad Pro into a more productive workstation. It's a clean and elegant solution that eliminates the need for Bluetooth pairing, ensuring a stable and reliable connection. If we're talking about the overall design, both models share the same DNA. They both represent the pinnacle of tablet design, and it's clear that Apple prioritized functionality, aesthetics, and user experience. The smooth glass display, combined with the slim bezels and premium materials, creates a truly immersive and enjoyable experience. Whether you're watching movies, browsing the web, or creating content, the iPad Pro delivers an exceptional level of sophistication. Both iPads have the great feature of supporting the second-generation Apple Pencil, which attaches magnetically to the side of the device for charging and storage. The Apple Pencil offers even more functionality with this generation, including double-tap gestures for quick access to tools. The magnetic attachment is a lifesaver, ensuring that your precious stylus won't be easily lost. The sleek and modern aesthetic is one of the key selling points of the iPad Pro, and both the 2018 and 2019 models deliver in spades.
Display: The Visual Feast
Now, let's talk about the display – the window to your digital world. Both the iPad Pro 11-inch 2018 and 2019 feature stunning Liquid Retina displays. These displays are not just screens; they're works of art, delivering vibrant colors, incredible detail, and a truly immersive viewing experience. The Liquid Retina technology is what truly sets these displays apart. They have smooth, adaptive refresh rates and are designed to provide the best possible viewing experience under any circumstances. The displays offer fantastic color accuracy, wide viewing angles, and impressive brightness levels. They support a P3 wide color gamut, which means that you'll see richer, more accurate colors in your photos, videos, and games.
The displays also support ProMotion technology, a dynamic refresh rate that adjusts up to 120Hz. What does this mean for you? It means buttery-smooth scrolling, responsive gameplay, and an overall more fluid user experience. ProMotion makes everything feel faster and more intuitive, whether you're swiping through web pages, sketching with the Apple Pencil, or playing graphics-intensive games. The display on both models is a joy to behold. It’s perfect for everything from creative tasks to casual entertainment. The brightness is excellent, making it easy to use the iPad Pro in various lighting conditions. The anti-reflective coating helps to minimize glare, ensuring that you can always see your content clearly.
The resolution is sharp, and the colors are vibrant, making it a great display for all types of usage. Whether you are using it for work or play, the display is one of the best features of both the 2018 and 2019 models. The 11-inch size is perfect for portability while still providing plenty of screen real estate for productivity tasks and media consumption. Both the 2018 and 2019 models share the same display technology, offering an amazing visual experience that will impress even the most discerning users. The Liquid Retina display is one of the main reasons why the iPad Pro is a premium device. The impressive color accuracy and wide viewing angles make it perfect for creative work and media consumption. ProMotion technology further enhances the experience, making everything feel smooth and responsive. So, in terms of display quality, both models are equal in their performance, offering a top-notch viewing experience.
Performance: Power Under the Hood
Let's get down to the core of what makes these devices tick – their performance. The iPad Pro 11-inch 2018 is powered by the A12X Bionic chip, and the 2019 model steps up the game with the A12Z Bionic chip. Both chips are absolute beasts, but there are some nuances we need to discuss. The A12X Bionic is a powerhouse, featuring an 8-core CPU and a 7-core GPU. It delivers blazing-fast performance, effortlessly handling demanding tasks like video editing, gaming, and multitasking. The A12Z Bionic, found in the 2019 model, takes things to the next level. While it retains the 8-core CPU, the GPU is upgraded to an 8-core design. This makes the A12Z even more capable, particularly when it comes to graphics-intensive tasks. The A12Z is optimized for improved thermal management and enhanced sustained performance, which means it can handle demanding workloads for longer periods without throttling. In the real world, the performance differences between the two chips are not drastically noticeable in everyday use. However, when you start pushing the iPads with heavy tasks, the A12Z in the 2019 model starts to show its prowess. Video editors, graphic designers, and gamers will appreciate the extra power and the enhanced performance of the GPU.
In terms of RAM, the 2018 model starts with 4GB of RAM and can go up to 6GB in certain configurations. The 2019 model also offers configurations with 4GB or 6GB of RAM. The amount of RAM you choose will have a direct impact on your multitasking experience and how smoothly your iPad can handle demanding apps. Both models offer a range of storage options, allowing you to choose the amount of space that best suits your needs. The storage options range from 64GB to 1TB. The faster processing speeds and improved graphics capabilities make the 2019 model a bit more future-proof, especially if you plan on using your iPad Pro for demanding tasks for years to come. In conclusion, the 2019 model has a slight edge in performance, especially for those who need the extra GPU power or want to ensure top-notch performance.
Cameras: Capture the Moment
Okay, guys, let's talk about cameras. Both the iPad Pro 11-inch 2018 and 2019 come with excellent camera systems, making them great for video calls, snapping photos, and even scanning documents. However, there are some differences to note. The 2018 model features a single 12MP wide-angle camera on the back, capable of capturing great photos and videos. It can record 4K video at up to 60 frames per second, providing you with high-quality footage for your memories. It also includes features like Smart HDR for more dynamic range and improved image quality. The 2019 model takes things a step further with a dual-camera system. It includes the same 12MP wide-angle camera but adds a 10MP ultrawide lens. This gives you more flexibility to capture wider shots, allowing you to fit more into your frame. The ultrawide lens is particularly useful for landscape photography, group shots, and capturing immersive video footage.
The 2019 model also features improved image processing thanks to its more powerful A12Z Bionic chip. This means that photos and videos taken with the 2019 model often look better, with more detail, better color accuracy, and improved low-light performance. Both models offer a 7MP front-facing camera with support for Face ID. Face ID works incredibly well, allowing you to unlock your iPad Pro securely and quickly. It also works with Apple Pay for secure online purchases. The front-facing camera is great for video calls, and the quality is excellent. The 2019 model also has a slightly improved front-facing camera. So, if you're a photography enthusiast, the 2019 model is the clear winner, thanks to its versatile dual-camera system.
Battery Life: Keeping You Powered Up
Battery life is a crucial factor for any mobile device. Fortunately, both the iPad Pro 11-inch 2018 and 2019 offer excellent battery life, allowing you to use your device for hours on end without needing to plug it in. Apple claims up to 10 hours of web surfing on Wi-Fi or video playback for both models. In real-world testing, both models tend to live up to these claims, offering all-day battery life for most users. Of course, the actual battery life will vary depending on your usage patterns. If you're constantly gaming, video editing, or using demanding apps, you can expect the battery to drain faster. But for general use, such as browsing the web, checking emails, and watching videos, you can easily get a full day's use out of either iPad Pro.
Both models support fast charging, so you can quickly top up your battery when needed. The included 18W power adapter will charge the iPad Pro at a decent speed, and you can always invest in a more powerful charger for even faster charging. Considering the excellent performance and features offered by both models, the battery life is truly impressive. It is one of the key reasons why the iPad Pro is a great device for productivity and entertainment. So, whether you choose the 2018 or 2019 model, you can rest assured that you'll have plenty of power to get you through your day.
Software and Features: The iPadOS Experience
Software and features are where the iPad Pro 11-inch 2018 and 2019 truly shine. They both run on iPadOS, Apple's mobile operating system specifically designed for the iPad. iPadOS is packed with features and optimizations to make the most of the iPad's capabilities. It offers a user-friendly interface, powerful multitasking features, and a vast ecosystem of apps optimized for the larger screen. The 2018 model originally shipped with iOS 12, but it's fully compatible with the latest versions of iPadOS. This means that you'll receive all the latest features, security updates, and performance improvements that Apple has to offer.
The 2019 model also runs on iPadOS, and it also benefits from all the latest features and updates. Both models support features like Sidecar, which allows you to use your iPad as a second display for your Mac. They also support Universal Control, which allows you to control multiple Apple devices with a single mouse and keyboard. iPadOS is constantly evolving, with Apple adding new features and enhancements with each major release. Both models will continue to receive software updates for years to come, ensuring that you always have access to the latest features and security improvements. The iPad Pro offers a great user experience, thanks to its powerful hardware and user-friendly software. You will appreciate the features, whether you choose the 2018 or 2019 model. The operating system is designed to provide you with a smooth, intuitive, and enjoyable experience.
Which iPad Pro 11-inch Should You Choose?
So, after all of that, which iPad Pro 11-inch should you choose? It depends on your needs and budget. The iPad Pro 11-inch 2018 is still an excellent device. It offers great performance, a stunning display, and a premium design. It's an excellent choice if you're looking for a great tablet experience without spending a fortune. It's perfect for everyday use, from browsing the web to streaming media, creating content and more.
The iPad Pro 11-inch 2019 is the superior device. It has a faster processor, an improved camera system, and a few other enhancements. If you want the absolute best performance, the most versatile camera system, and the latest features, the 2019 model is the way to go. It's the perfect choice for professionals, creatives, and anyone who wants the ultimate iPad Pro experience. If you are looking for the best performance and features, it is the better choice. However, if your budget is tight, the 2018 model is still a very capable tablet. You can't go wrong with either model. So, consider your needs, budget, and desired features to make the best decision for you. Both models represent the pinnacle of tablet technology. Whichever you choose, you're sure to enjoy a premium experience.