What Are the Key Differences Between M1 iPad Pro and 2018 Model?

TL;DR

The M1 iPad Pro significantly outperforms the 2018 model, featuring a dual camera system, better display brightness, and the powerful M1 chip. It offers enhanced RAM options and support for Thunderbolt, ensuring greater longevity and efficiency for demanding tasks. For those prioritizing the latest technology and software updates, the M1 iPad Pro is the recommended choice.

Transcript

welcome back everyone let's go ahead and talk about and discuss and compare the m1 ipad pro and the ipad pro third generation from 2018. now i will tell you as i always state if you have all the money in the world getting the most expensive ipad you can get for the money is the best way and that happens to be the m1 ipad pro but the 2018 ipad is yo... Read More

Key Insights

• 🎨 Design similarities exist between the M1 iPad Pro and the 2018 model, making them visually comparable while housing distinct performance differences.
• 🥶 The M1 iPad Pro incorporates Thunderbolt capability, enhancing its connectivity options significantly compared to the older model.
• 👶 Display quality is improved in the newer model, including better brightness levels and quality with features like ProMotion.
• 🫥 The M1 chip's performance is akin to that of devices like MacBooks, blurring the lines between tablets and traditional laptops.
• 👤 The introduction of advanced software features, such as Center Stage, enhances user experience on the M1 iPad Pro.
• 🔋 Real-world performance indicates improved battery life on the M1 version, despite its smaller battery capacity.
• 🍵 Enhanced RAM options enable the M1 iPad Pro to handle demanding tasks and multitasking more efficiently than the third generation.

Questions & Answers

Q: Does the iPad Pro 3rd gen have an M1 chip?

No. The M1 chip is only in the newer M1 iPad Pro. The 2018 iPad Pro 3rd gen uses an older chipset that the reviewer compares to roughly an iPhone Xs level of power, with the difference between the two chips described as enormous.

Q: How do the rear cameras compare between the M1 iPad Pro and the 3rd gen?

The M1 iPad Pro has a dual camera setup: a 12-megapixel wide, a 10-megapixel ultra-wide, plus a LiDAR sensor. The 2018 iPad Pro 3rd gen only has a single 12-megapixel standard lens. Both are very good cameras and can shoot 4K at 60fps, so the reviewer says there isn't one strong reason to switch between them for photos.

Q: What are the front camera differences between the two iPads?

The M1 iPad Pro has a 12-megapixel ultra-wide front camera that can record 1080p at 60fps and fit more into the frame. The 3rd gen has only a 7-megapixel front camera. The M1's front camera also adds a face-tracking feature (Center Stage) that follows you during video calls like FaceTime, which the reviewer calls a big improvement.

Q: Do the M1 iPad Pro and iPad Pro 3rd gen look the same?

From the front they look almost identical, with essentially the same bezels and Face ID. Both have aluminum backs, flat sides, and feel roughly the same weight, so one doesn't feel noticeably heavier or more expensive than the other. The camera setup on the back is the main visual giveaway of which model you're holding.

Q: What are the display and port differences?

Both models have 120Hz panels, but the M1 iPad Pro's display is described as better looking with higher brightness. Both use USB-C on the bottom, but only the M1 iPad Pro adds a Thunderbolt port, which lets you connect a third-party Thunderbolt display. The reviewer was surprised the 3rd gen didn't already include Thunderbolt.

Q: Which iPad Pro will last longer?

The M1 iPad Pro is expected to outlast the 3rd gen (and even the 4th gen) because of its far more powerful M1 chip. The 3rd gen's older chipset may last about as long as an iPhone 11 in terms of software updates, while the M1's longevity is less certain but likely longer given how much more capable it is.

Q: Does the M1 iPad Pro have a better microphone?

Yes. The reviewer highlights the studio-quality mic on the M1 iPad Pro as a notable differentiating factor over the 3rd gen. Combined with the upgraded front camera and face tracking, it makes the M1 model stronger for video calls and recording.

Q: Which iPad Pro should you buy?

If you can afford it, the reviewer recommends the M1 iPad Pro as the best option for the money because it has the newer tech and longer expected support. That said, the 2018 iPad Pro 3rd gen is still a very good iPad with a solid camera, so it remains a reasonable pick given how many similarities the two share.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The M1 iPad Pro boasts a superior camera system and display compared to the 2018 iPad Pro, with enhancements including a dual camera setup and improved brightness.

• Performance-wise, the M1 chip and increased RAM in the newer iPad provide better longevity and efficiency, aligning more closely with MacBook capabilities.

• While both models are solid options, the M1 iPad Pro is recommended for those seeking the latest technology and longer software support.