IPad Pro Showdown: 2017 Vs. 2021

Hey tech enthusiasts! Let's dive deep into a classic battle of the tablets: the iPad Pro 2017 vs. iPad Pro 2021. We're talking about two generations of Apple's powerhouse tablets, and figuring out which one might be the right fit for you. Whether you're a creative pro, a student, or just someone who loves a killer tablet experience, this comparison will break down the key differences and help you make an informed decision. So, grab your coffee (or your favorite beverage), and let's get started.

Design and Display: What Catches the Eye?

First impressions matter, right? Let's talk about the look and feel. The iPad Pro 2017 was a sleek device for its time. It kept the iconic design elements that defined the iPad family. You got the familiar aluminum unibody, rounded edges, and a noticeable bezel around the display. It was available in the classic silver, space gray, and the always popular gold, which added a touch of premium flair. The iPad Pro 2021, however, took things to a whole new level. Apple refined the design, making it more modern and minimalist. The edges are now flat, reminiscent of the iPhone 12 and later models, giving it a more squared-off aesthetic. The bezels were slimmed down significantly, maximizing the screen real estate and giving the tablet a more immersive feel. And yes, the color options remained largely the same, but the overall design language was a major step forward, offering a more contemporary and sophisticated look.

Now, let's talk screens. Both tablets boast impressive displays, but they have key differences. The 2017 model featured a vibrant Liquid Retina display with ProMotion technology, which enabled a 120Hz refresh rate. This means smoother scrolling, more responsive gaming, and a more fluid overall experience. The color accuracy and brightness were excellent for its time, making it a joy to use for content consumption, creative work, and everything in between. The 2021 model, however, brought some significant display upgrades. The Liquid Retina XDR display, which is a Mini-LED display, delivers exceptional contrast, deeper blacks, and a wider dynamic range, making your content pop with incredible detail and realism. This is particularly noticeable when watching HDR content or editing photos and videos. Plus, the 2021 model supports an even brighter display, making it easier to use outdoors or in brightly lit environments. The overall display experience on the 2021 iPad Pro is simply next level, offering a superior visual experience compared to its predecessor. In essence, while the 2017 iPad Pro has a great display, the 2021 model offers a clear visual upgrade that truly sets it apart. The design upgrade, combined with the superior display technology, makes the 2021 model a more appealing option in terms of aesthetics and the overall user experience.

Performance: Power Under the Hood

Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty: performance. This is where we see a significant divergence between the two models. The iPad Pro 2017 was powered by the A10X Fusion chip, a powerful processor for its time. It delivered smooth performance, handled multitasking with ease, and ran demanding apps and games without breaking a sweat. It was a serious contender, and for many users, it's still capable of holding its own in 2024. The iPad Pro 2021 stepped things up dramatically with the M1 chip, the same silicon that powers Apple's Mac computers. The M1 chip offers a massive performance boost over the A10X Fusion, with significantly faster processing speeds, improved graphics, and enhanced efficiency. This translates to snappier app launches, smoother multitasking, faster video rendering, and a more responsive overall experience. Gaming is also taken to new heights, with more demanding titles running flawlessly. The M1 chip gives the 2021 iPad Pro the power to handle anything you throw at it.

So, what does this mean in real-world terms? If you're a casual user who primarily uses your iPad for browsing the web, checking emails, and watching videos, the 2017 model will likely still meet your needs. But if you're a creative professional, a gamer, or someone who demands the best possible performance, the 2021 model is the clear winner. The M1 chip provides a noticeable performance boost that will enhance your workflow and make your tasks more efficient. Whether you're editing 4K videos, working with complex graphics, or running multiple apps simultaneously, the 2021 iPad Pro offers the power and performance you need to stay productive and creative. The difference in performance is really the biggest advantage of choosing the newer model, making it a worthwhile investment for those who need top-tier power. You'll definitely feel the difference when you switch between the two. The jump from the A10X to the M1 is quite impressive.

Accessories and Features: Beyond the Basics

Beyond the core specs, let's see what else these iPads bring to the table. Both support the Apple Pencil, which is essential for artists, note-takers, and anyone who wants to take full advantage of the iPad's touch interface. However, there's a difference. The 2017 model is compatible with the first-generation Apple Pencil, which charges via a Lightning port and attaches magnetically. The iPad Pro 2021 is compatible with the second-generation Apple Pencil, which attaches magnetically to the side of the iPad and charges wirelessly. The second-generation Apple Pencil offers improved latency, a more comfortable grip, and gesture support for double-tapping to switch between tools. The 2021 model also supports the Magic Keyboard, which transforms the iPad into a laptop-like device. The Magic Keyboard offers a trackpad, backlit keys, and a comfortable typing experience, making it perfect for productivity tasks.

Connectivity is another area where the 2021 model has an edge. It features Thunderbolt/USB 4, which provides faster data transfer speeds and allows you to connect to a wider range of accessories, such as external displays and high-speed storage devices. The 2017 model, on the other hand, uses a Lightning port, which is still capable but less versatile. The 2021 iPad Pro also boasts a better camera system. It has a 12MP wide-angle lens, a 10MP ultra-wide-angle lens, and a LiDAR scanner for enhanced augmented reality experiences. The 2017 model has a single 12MP wide-angle lens. The added lenses and LiDAR scanner on the 2021 model enable more creative possibilities and improve the accuracy of AR applications. In a nutshell, the 2021 model gives you more options in terms of accessories and features. The Thunderbolt port, the Magic Keyboard compatibility, and the enhanced camera system make it a more versatile and future-proof device. While the 2017 model is still a solid performer, the 2021 model provides a more complete and modern experience. The overall experience feels more refined with the new features.

Battery Life: Keeping the Juice Flowing

Battery life is crucial for a tablet, especially if you're planning to use it on the go. Both the 2017 and 2021 models offer decent battery life, but there are some nuances. The iPad Pro 2017 can typically last for around 10 hours of web browsing or video playback. However, it can vary depending on usage. If you're running demanding apps or games, the battery life might be shorter. The iPad Pro 2021 also offers about 10 hours of battery life, but the M1 chip's efficiency can sometimes lead to slightly better battery performance compared to the 2017 model. However, the difference is not always significant. The type of tasks you perform can impact battery life on both models. Intensive tasks like video editing or gaming will drain the battery faster than more basic activities.

So, in terms of battery life, both models are pretty comparable. The 2021 model might have a slight edge in certain situations due to the efficiency of the M1 chip, but it's not a night-and-day difference. If battery life is a top priority, make sure to consider your usage patterns. If you frequently engage in power-hungry activities, it's always a good idea to keep a charger handy. Both iPads are reliable in this respect. You can rely on them to last through a typical workday or a long flight. Just keep in mind that the real-world battery life can vary based on several variables, including the apps you're running, the screen brightness, and the network connectivity. But for the most part, you can expect a full day's worth of use. The choice between the two won't be made on the basis of battery life alone, unless your use-case is very particular and battery-intensive. Just be mindful of the charging habits you might have to adopt.

Price and Value: Making the Right Choice

Let's talk money, guys. The iPad Pro 2017 is now available at a lower price point, making it a great option for budget-conscious buyers. You can often find them on the used market or refurbished from reputable sellers. This makes it an attractive option for those who want a powerful tablet without breaking the bank. The iPad Pro 2021, being the newer model, comes with a higher price tag. It reflects the upgraded features, the M1 chip, and the improved display. If you're willing to pay more, the 2021 model offers significant advantages in performance, display quality, and features. However, the value proposition depends on your needs and budget. If you're a casual user or if your budget is tight, the 2017 model is still a solid choice that can save you some cash.

If you're a power user or a creative professional who needs the latest and greatest technology, the 2021 model is worth the investment. It provides a more future-proof experience and will likely last longer. Consider your budget, your usage patterns, and the features that are most important to you. If you primarily use your iPad for basic tasks, the 2017 model is more than sufficient. But if you're looking for the best possible performance, the best display, and a more feature-rich experience, the 2021 model is the clear winner. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your priorities. The lower price and the solid performance of the older model may sway users who don't need all the upgrades of the 2021 model. Consider where you're comfortable spending your money and where the biggest gains can be found in your use-case.

Conclusion: Which iPad Pro Reigns Supreme?

So, which iPad Pro is the champion? It depends on your individual needs and budget. The iPad Pro 2017 is still a capable tablet that offers great value for the price. It's an excellent choice for casual users, students, and anyone who wants a powerful tablet without spending a fortune. The iPad Pro 2021, however, is the clear winner in terms of performance, display quality, and features. It's the best choice for creative professionals, gamers, and anyone who demands the best possible experience. The M1 chip is a game-changer, and the improved display and features make it a more versatile and future-proof device. If you can afford it, the 2021 model is the superior choice. If you're on a budget and don't need the absolute best, the 2017 model is still a very good option. Weigh the pros and cons, consider your usage patterns, and make the decision that's right for you. Happy tablet-ing!