IPad Pro 11 (2021) Vs (2022): Which Should You Buy?

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iPad Pro 11 (2021) vs (2022): Which Should You Buy?

So, you're thinking about getting your hands on a shiny new iPad Pro 11-inch, huh? Awesome! But then you hit a snag: the 2021 model versus the 2022 version. What's the real difference, and more importantly, which one should you actually buy? Don't sweat it, guys, I'm here to break it all down in plain English (or whatever language you prefer!). We'll dive into the nitty-gritty, comparing the specs, features, and overall value to help you make the smartest choice for your needs and your wallet. Let’s get started!

Design and Display: Spot the Difference (If You Can!)

Okay, let's be real. If you put the 2021 and 2022 iPad Pro 11-inch models side-by-side, you'd be hard-pressed to tell them apart at first glance. Apple stuck with a winning formula, keeping the same sleek, modern design. You've got those flat edges, the slim bezels, and that premium feel that just screams "iPad Pro." Both models boast a stunning Liquid Retina display with ProMotion technology, meaning you get buttery-smooth 120Hz refresh rates. This makes everything from scrolling through websites to playing graphic-intensive games an absolute joy. The brightness, color accuracy, and overall visual experience are top-notch on both devices.

However, there are a couple of minor differences. The 2022 model is ever-so-slightly heavier, we're talking a few grams here, which you likely won't even notice. Also, the camera bump on the rear might be a tiny bit different, but again, it's not a major design overhaul. In a nutshell, if you're looking for a drastically different look, you won't find it here. Both iPads are gorgeous and well-built. For most users, the design will be a complete non-issue; the performance and internal upgrades are where the real differences lie and what should be the focus of your decision-making process. Consider what you will be using the iPad for – is it for creative tasks where color accuracy is paramount? Or is it more for general use and entertainment? This will help you prioritize which features are most important to you. Don't get caught up in the minute differences in design, focus on what truly matters for your daily usage.

Performance: M1 vs. M2 – Is the Hype Real?

Alright, let's get to the juicy stuff: performance! This is where the 2022 iPad Pro 11-inch really shines, thanks to its brand-new M2 chip. Now, the 2021 model is no slouch, sporting the already incredibly powerful M1 chip. Both chips are system on a chip (SoC), which means that they integrate the CPU, GPU, and RAM into a single chip. But the M2 takes things up a notch. Apple claims that the M2 offers up to 15% faster CPU performance and up to 35% faster GPU performance compared to the M1. In real-world use, this translates to snappier multitasking, faster loading times, and smoother performance in demanding applications like video editing and 3D rendering.

For everyday tasks like browsing the web, checking email, and streaming videos, you probably won't notice a huge difference between the two. Both iPads will handle these tasks with ease. However, if you're a power user who regularly works with large files, edits videos, or plays graphically intensive games, the M2 chip will definitely give you a noticeable boost. The increased memory bandwidth in the M2 also contributes to its improved performance, especially when dealing with large datasets. It's important to consider your workflow and the types of tasks you'll be performing on your iPad. If you're a professional creative or someone who demands the absolute best performance, the M2 is worth the upgrade. If you're a casual user, the M1 is still incredibly capable and will likely meet your needs just fine. It's all about finding the right balance between performance and price.

Features: What's New and Noteworthy?

Beyond the chip upgrade, the 2022 iPad Pro 11-inch also brings a few other noteworthy features to the table. One of the biggest additions is support for Apple Pencil hover. This allows you to see a preview of where your Apple Pencil will touch the screen before you actually make contact. It's a subtle but useful feature that can improve precision and accuracy, especially for artists and designers. Another improvement is the enhanced media engine in the M2 chip, which enables faster video encoding and decoding. This is particularly beneficial for video editors and content creators.

The 2022 model also supports Wi-Fi 6E, which offers faster wireless speeds and lower latency compared to the Wi-Fi 6 found in the 2021 model. However, to take advantage of Wi-Fi 6E, you'll need a compatible router. Both iPads support 5G connectivity, but the 2022 model may offer slightly improved 5G performance in some areas. Both models still use the same great display and camera systems. The display is bright and vibrant, great for consuming content and creating. The camera system is competent for video calls and casual photography. Neither model has major upgrades to other features like speakers or battery life. The 2022 model is more of an iterative upgrade than a complete overhaul, so it's worth considering whether the new features are worth the extra cost for your specific needs.

Camera: Minor Tweaks, Same Great Shots

When it comes to the camera, both the 2021 and 2022 iPad Pro 11-inch models offer a similar experience. You get a dual-lens rear camera system with a 12MP wide lens and a 10MP ultrawide lens. There's also a LiDAR scanner for improved augmented reality (AR) experiences and more accurate depth sensing. The image quality is excellent in good lighting conditions, and the cameras perform well in low-light situations too. The front-facing camera is also a 12MP ultrawide lens with Center Stage, which automatically keeps you in the frame during video calls.

The 2022 model does have a slight edge in terms of image processing, thanks to the M2 chip. This can result in slightly better dynamic range and more accurate colors in some photos and videos. However, the differences are subtle and most users probably won't notice them. Both iPads can record video at up to 4K resolution at 60fps, and they support features like cinematic video stabilization. Overall, the camera performance is excellent on both devices and should be more than sufficient for most users. The improvements in the 2022 model are incremental, focusing on software processing enhancements rather than major hardware upgrades. For casual users, the camera performance on both models will likely be indistinguishable. If you're a professional photographer or videographer, you might appreciate the slight improvements in the 2022 model, but for everyday use, both iPads offer excellent camera capabilities.

Battery Life: All-Day Power for Both

Good news, guys! Battery life is pretty much identical between the 2021 and 2022 iPad Pro 11-inch models. Apple claims up to 10 hours of web surfing on Wi-Fi or watching video. In real-world use, you can easily get through a full day of moderate use on either device. If you're doing more demanding tasks like video editing or gaming, you might need to top up the battery at some point during the day, but overall, the battery life is excellent. Both iPads support 20W USB-C charging, so you can quickly recharge them when needed. Battery life is a critical consideration for any mobile device, and the iPad Pro 11-inch delivers consistent and reliable performance in this area. Whether you're using it for work, entertainment, or creative tasks, you can count on the battery to last throughout the day. The consistency in battery life between the 2021 and 2022 models means that this shouldn't be a deciding factor when choosing between the two. Instead, focus on the other features and performance upgrades that differentiate the models.

Price: How Much Are You Willing to Spend?

Now, let's talk about the elephant in the room: price. The 2022 iPad Pro 11-inch is naturally going to be more expensive than the 2021 model. However, the price difference may not be as significant as you think, especially if you can find a good deal on the older model. The exact price will depend on the storage configuration and whether you choose a Wi-Fi-only or Wi-Fi + Cellular model. Keep an eye out for sales and discounts, as you can often find the 2021 model at a significantly reduced price. It's essential to weigh the cost against the benefits of the M2 chip and other new features. If you're on a tight budget, the 2021 model is still an excellent option that offers incredible value for money. However, if you're willing to spend a bit more, the 2022 model offers a performance boost and some nice-to-have features that may be worth the extra cost. Consider your budget and prioritize the features that are most important to you. Don't overspend on features you don't need. The 2021 model is still incredibly capable and can handle most tasks with ease. Shop around and compare prices from different retailers to ensure you get the best deal possible. Also, consider buying a refurbished model to save even more money.

Which One Should You Buy?

Okay, so after all that, which iPad Pro 11-inch should you actually buy? Here's the breakdown:

  • Buy the 2022 iPad Pro if:
    • You're a power user who needs the absolute best performance for demanding tasks like video editing, 3D rendering, or gaming.
    • You want the latest and greatest features, like Apple Pencil hover and Wi-Fi 6E.
    • Price is not a major concern.
  • Buy the 2021 iPad Pro if:
    • You're on a budget and want to save some money.
    • You don't need the absolute best performance and are happy with the still-excellent M1 chip.
    • You don't care about the latest features like Apple Pencil hover.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and budget. Both iPads are fantastic devices that offer a premium experience. You really can’t go wrong with either! Hopefully, this comparison has helped you make a more informed decision. Happy shopping, guys!