The iPad Pro has long been the gold standard for tablets, but with each new iteration, the question remains: is the upgrade worth it? Today, we’re diving deep into a head-to-head comparison of two powerhouses: the iPad Pro 12.9-inch with the M1 chip and its successor, the iPad Pro 12.9-inch packing the M2 chip.
Both tablets promise incredible performance and stunning displays, but how do they stack up in the real world? We’ll explore the key differences, from raw processing power and graphics capabilities to battery life and the overall user experience. This comparison will help you determine which iPad Pro model is the perfect fit for your needs and budget.
Whether you’re a creative professional, a student, or simply someone who enjoys the best tech has to offer, understanding the nuances between the iPad Pro M1 and M2 is crucial. Get ready to discover which iPad Pro 12.9-inch model truly deserves a spot in your tech arsenal.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | iPad Pro 12.9″ M1 | M2 |
|---|---|---|
| Chip | M1 | M2 |
| Display | 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR | 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR |
| RAM | 8GB/16GB | 8GB/16GB |
| Storage | 128GB – 2TB | 128GB – 2TB |
| Cameras | 12MP Wide, 10MP Ultra Wide (Rear) / 12MP Ultra Wide (Front) | 12MP Wide, 10MP Ultra Wide (Rear) / 12MP Ultra Wide (Front) |
| Video Recording | 4K at 60 fps | 4K at 60 fps |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0, Thunderbolt / USB 4 | Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, Thunderbolt / USB 4 |
| Apple Pencil Support | 2nd Generation | 2nd Generation |
| Operating System | iPadOS | iPadOS |
| Audio | Four Speaker Audio | Four Speaker Audio |
| Display Technology | Mini-LED | Mini-LED |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz ProMotion | 120Hz ProMotion |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Processor
- iPad Pro 12.9 M1: Features the Apple M1 chip, an 8-core CPU and 8-core GPU. This provides excellent performance for demanding tasks and multitasking. However, it’s a generation older than the M2.
- M2: Equipped with the Apple M2 chip, boasting an 8-core CPU and either 8-core or 10-core GPU. It offers a noticeable performance boost over the M1, especially in graphics-intensive applications and video encoding.
- Winner: M2
Display
- iPad Pro 12.9 M1: Features the stunning Liquid Retina XDR display with mini-LED backlighting, offering incredible contrast and brightness. It provides a vibrant and immersive viewing experience.
- M2: Also features the Liquid Retina XDR display with mini-LED backlighting, identical to the M1. The display quality is the same, providing excellent contrast and brightness.
- Winner: Tie
RAM
- iPad Pro 12.9 M1: Comes with 8GB or 16GB of RAM, depending on the storage configuration. Sufficient for most users, but the larger RAM option is better for professional workflows.
- M2: Offers 8GB or 16GB of RAM, mirroring the M1 options. RAM capacity and performance are similar.
- Winner: Tie
Storage
- iPad Pro 12.9 M1: Available in 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, and 2TB storage options. Provides a range of choices to fit different user needs.
- M2: Also available in 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, and 2TB storage options. The storage options are identical.
- Winner: Tie
Connectivity
- iPad Pro 12.9 M1: Includes Thunderbolt / USB 4 port for fast data transfer and external display support. Supports Wi-Fi 6 and optional 5G.
- M2: Maintains Thunderbolt / USB 4 port and supports Wi-Fi 6E, offering faster Wi-Fi speeds. Also supports optional 5G.
- Winner: M2
Apple Pencil Support
- iPad Pro 12.9 M1: Compatible with the 2nd generation Apple Pencil, which magnetically attaches and charges. The writing and drawing experience is excellent.
- M2: Also compatible with the 2nd generation Apple Pencil, providing the same seamless integration and functionality.
- Winner: Tie
Camera System
- iPad Pro 12.9 M1: Features a 12MP Wide and 10MP Ultra Wide rear camera system, along with a 12MP Ultra Wide front camera with Center Stage. Excellent for video calls and photo capture.
- M2: Maintains the same camera system, including 12MP Wide and 10MP Ultra Wide rear cameras and a 12MP Ultra Wide front camera with Center Stage.
- Winner: Tie
Battery Life
- iPad Pro 12.9 M1: Offers up to 10 hours of web browsing or video playback. Battery life is quite good for a tablet.
- M2: Provides up to 10 hours of web browsing or video playback, the same as the M1 model.
- Winner: Tie
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Raw Processing Power | M2 |
| Connectivity | M2 |
| Value | iPad Pro 12.9″ M1 (Potentially) |
What They Have in Common
- Display Quality: Both iPad Pro models share the stunning 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR display with mini-LED backlighting, offering vibrant colors, deep blacks, and exceptional contrast for an immersive viewing experience. They both also feature ProMotion technology for a smooth 120Hz refresh rate.
- Apple Pencil Support: Both tablets are compatible with the 2nd generation Apple Pencil, providing a seamless and responsive drawing and note-taking experience with features like double-tap customization.
- Operating System: Both devices run on iPadOS, offering a consistent user experience with access to the App Store, multitasking features, and regular software updates from Apple.
- Camera System: Both models have similar camera setups, including a 12MP Wide and 10MP Ultra Wide rear camera, as well as a 12MP Ultra Wide front camera, enabling high-quality photos and video calls.
- Storage Options: Both the M1 and M2 iPad Pro models are available with the same storage configurations, ranging from 128GB to 2TB, catering to a wide range of user needs.
iPad Pro 12.9 M1 vs M2 Buying Guide
Performance and Speed
The M2 iPad Pro boasts a significant performance leap over the M1 model. The M2 chip features an 8-core CPU, offering up to 15% faster performance, and a 10-core GPU that delivers up to 35% faster graphics performance. This translates to smoother multitasking, faster app loading times, and enhanced capabilities in demanding tasks like video editing and gaming. The M1 is still a powerful chip, but the M2 offers a noticeable edge, especially for users who frequently work with resource-intensive applications. Consider your workflow and the types of apps you use when evaluating the performance difference.
Display and Visuals
Both iPads share the stunning Liquid Retina XDR display with mini-LED backlighting, offering incredible contrast and vibrant colors. However, the M2 model introduces the ability to hover the Apple Pencil above the screen, allowing for more precise interactions and previews before making a mark. This feature enhances the drawing and writing experience significantly. While the visual quality is excellent on both devices, the M2’s subtle upgrades, especially the Apple Pencil hover, elevate the user experience. The display remains a key differentiator for both models. (See Also: Adobe Pro Vs Docusign )
Storage and Memory
Both iPad Pro models offer a range of storage options, typically starting at 128GB and going up to 2TB. The base models share the same RAM, but the higher-end M2 models can come with 16GB of RAM, providing a boost for intensive tasks and better multitasking capabilities. The amount of storage you need depends on your usage. Heavy content creators and those who store large files should opt for more storage. Consider your current needs and future storage requirements when choosing your iPad Pro configuration.
Connectivity and Ports
The M2 iPad Pro features Wi-Fi 6E, offering faster wireless speeds, and Bluetooth 5.3 for improved connectivity compared to the M1’s Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0. Both models include a Thunderbolt / USB 4 port for fast data transfer and external display support. These connectivity improvements on the M2 are beneficial, especially for users who rely on fast wireless speeds and connect to external devices frequently. The port remains the same on both models, offering versatility.
Battery Life
Both the M1 and M2 iPad Pro 12.9-inch models offer similar battery life, typically providing up to 10 hours of web browsing or video playback. Real-world battery performance can vary depending on usage patterns, screen brightness, and the types of apps being used. While there’s no significant difference in battery life between the two models, it is still a key factor for users on the go. Consider your daily usage patterns when evaluating battery life expectations.
Price and Value
The M1 iPad Pro is often available at a lower price point than the M2, especially in the used or refurbished market. This makes the M1 an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers who still want a high-performance tablet. The M2 offers improved performance and features, but it comes at a premium. Evaluate your budget and determine which features are most important to you when deciding between the two models. Consider the long-term value and the features that will best meet your needs. (See Also: 40 Vs 32 Tv )
Who Should Buy What?
Buy iPad Pro 12.9″ M1 If…
- You want a powerful tablet at a potentially lower price point, as the M1 model may be available at a discount.
- Your needs are met by the existing performance of the M1 chip and you don’t require the latest generation.
- You prioritize value and are looking for a high-end tablet without the absolute latest features.
- You are upgrading from an older iPad and want a significant performance boost without spending the maximum.
Buy M2 If…
- You want the absolute latest performance, especially for demanding tasks like video editing and gaming.
- You want the slightly improved performance in the M2 chip.
- You need the latest connectivity features like Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3.
- You want the most advanced iPad Pro experience and are willing to pay a premium.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences between the M1 and M2 iPad Pro 12.9-inch models?
The M2 iPad Pro features a faster M2 chip with improved CPU and GPU performance, Wi-Fi 6E, and the Apple Pencil hover feature. It also has potentially more RAM in the higher-end configurations. The M1, while still powerful, lags behind in these key areas. The M2 has a slight edge in performance and connectivity.
Is the M2 iPad Pro significantly faster than the M1?
Yes, the M2 iPad Pro offers a noticeable performance boost, especially in graphics-intensive tasks. The M2 chip provides up to 15% faster CPU performance and up to 35% faster GPU performance. This translates to quicker app loading, smoother multitasking, and improved overall responsiveness. The difference is more pronounced in demanding workflows.
Does the M2 iPad Pro have a better display than the M1?
Both models share the Liquid Retina XDR display with mini-LED backlighting, offering stunning visuals. The M2’s main display upgrade is the Apple Pencil hover feature, allowing for more precise interactions. The visual quality is virtually identical, but the hover feature enhances the user experience for artists and note-takers.
How does the battery life compare between the M1 and M2 iPad Pro?
The battery life is very similar on both models, offering approximately 10 hours of web browsing or video playback. Actual battery life can vary based on usage. There is no significant advantage in battery life between the two models. Users should expect similar battery performance from either device. (See Also: Lansky Vs Work Sharp )
What are the storage options available for each model?
Both the M1 and M2 iPad Pro 12.9-inch models offer multiple storage options. They typically start at 128GB and go up to 2TB. The higher storage configurations are ideal for users who store large files. The available storage is similar across both generations, allowing flexibility for user’s needs.
Which iPad Pro is better for creative professionals?
The M2 iPad Pro is the better choice for creative professionals due to its enhanced performance, especially in graphics tasks, and the Apple Pencil hover feature. These improvements translate to smoother workflows and more precise interactions. The M1 is still powerful, but the M2 offers a more refined experience.
Is the M1 iPad Pro still a good buy in 2024?
Yes, the M1 iPad Pro remains a very good buy in 2024, especially if you’re looking for a powerful tablet at a more affordable price. It still offers excellent performance and a stunning display, making it a great option for many users. The M1 is a great value, especially when compared to the newer model.
Final Verdict
The M2 iPad Pro 12.9-inch offers a notable performance boost, enhanced connectivity, and the innovative Apple Pencil hover feature. While the M1 iPad Pro remains a powerful and capable device, the M2 provides a more refined user experience, particularly for demanding tasks and creative workflows. The price difference should be considered.
Winner: iPad Pro 12.9 M2