iPad Pro 5th Gen vs 6th Gen: Which iPad Reigns Supreme?
Are you torn between the power of the iPad Pro? You’re not alone! Deciding which model is right for you can be a challenge. We’re diving deep into the details to help you make the best choice between the iPad Pro 5th generation and the newer 6th generation.
Both tablets are powerhouses, designed for creative professionals and anyone who demands top-tier performance. However, there are key differences that set them apart. This comparison will explore their core specifications, including performance, display, and features.
Whether you’re a seasoned iPad user or considering your first, understanding the nuances of the iPad Pro 5th gen vs 6th gen is crucial. We’ll break down everything you need to know, from processor upgrades to display enhancements, so you can confidently choose the perfect iPad Pro for your needs.
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | iPad Pro 5th Gen | iPad Pro 6th Gen |
|---|---|---|
| Chip | M1 | M2 |
| Display | Liquid Retina XDR (12.9-inch) / Liquid Retina (11-inch) | Liquid Retina XDR (12.9-inch) / Liquid Retina (11-inch) |
| RAM | 8GB/16GB | 8GB/16GB |
| Storage | 128GB – 2TB | 128GB – 2TB |
| Front Camera | 12MP Ultra Wide | 12MP Ultra Wide (Landscape) |
| Rear Camera | 12MP Wide, 10MP Ultra Wide | 12MP Wide, 10MP Ultra Wide |
| Video Recording | 4K at 60 fps | 4K at 60 fps |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6E |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.3 |
| Apple Pencil Support | 2nd Generation | 2nd Generation |
| Thunderbolt / USB 4 | Yes | Yes |
| Colors | Silver, Space Gray | Silver, Space Gray |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Processor
- iPad Pro 5th Gen: Features the M1 chip, offering a significant performance boost over previous iPad Pro models. It handles demanding tasks smoothly but may feel less future-proof compared to newer chips.
- 6th Gen: Upgraded to the M2 chip, providing even faster performance and improved graphics. It’s noticeably faster than the M1, making it ideal for intensive tasks like video editing and gaming.
- Winner: 6th gen
Display
- iPad Pro 5th Gen: Offers a stunning Liquid Retina XDR display on the 12.9-inch model, with mini-LED backlighting for incredible contrast and brightness. The smaller models use a standard Liquid Retina display.
- 6th Gen: Maintains the Liquid Retina XDR display on the 12.9-inch model with mini-LED, providing excellent visuals. The 11-inch model retains the Liquid Retina display, but has improved brightness.
- Winner: 6th gen
Apple Pencil Support
- iPad Pro 5th Gen: Compatible with the 2nd generation Apple Pencil, offering low latency and useful features like double-tap customization.
- 6th Gen: Also compatible with the 2nd generation Apple Pencil, retaining the same features and functionality.
- Winner: Tie
Storage Options
- iPad Pro 5th Gen: Available in a range of storage options, from 128GB to 2TB, catering to various user needs.
- 6th Gen: Offers similar storage options, allowing users to choose the capacity that best suits their storage requirements.
- Winner: Tie
Connectivity
- iPad Pro 5th Gen: Features Thunderbolt/USB 4 port for fast data transfer and external display connectivity. Supports Wi-Fi 6 and optional 5G.
- 6th Gen: Also includes a Thunderbolt/USB 4 port and supports Wi-Fi 6E (faster Wi-Fi) and optional 5G.
- Winner: 6th gen
Camera System
- iPad Pro 5th Gen: Features a dual-camera system with a 12MP wide and 10MP ultrawide lens, along with a LiDAR scanner for enhanced AR experiences.
- 6th Gen: Maintains a similar camera system with a 12MP wide and 10MP ultrawide lens and LiDAR scanner, but with some improvements to image processing.
- Winner: Tie
Battery Life
- iPad Pro 5th Gen: Provides all-day battery life for typical usage, such as web browsing, video streaming, and light productivity tasks. Battery life can vary based on usage.
- 6th Gen: Offers similar all-day battery life, with performance comparable to the 5th generation.
- Winner: Tie
Design and Build Quality
- iPad Pro 5th Gen: Maintains the sleek and premium design of previous iPad Pro models, with a durable aluminum build.
- 6th Gen: Keeps the same design aesthetic with a focus on portability and durability.
- Winner: Tie
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Overall Performance | iPad Pro 6th Gen |
| Display Quality | Tie |
| Connectivity | iPad Pro 6th Gen |
| Value | iPad Pro 5th Gen (depending on price) |
| Camera | Tie |
What They Have in Common:
- Display Options: Both generations offer the choice of either 11-inch or 12.9-inch displays, providing users with flexibility in screen size based on their preference and portability needs. The display technology remains consistent across both generations.
- Apple Pencil Compatibility: Both iPad Pro models support the 2nd generation Apple Pencil, providing the same seamless integration for drawing, note-taking, and other creative tasks. The Apple Pencil attaches magnetically and charges wirelessly.
- Thunderbolt / USB 4: Both the 5th and 6th generation iPad Pro models feature a Thunderbolt / USB 4 port, ensuring fast data transfer speeds and compatibility with a wide range of accessories. This is crucial for professionals who need to move large files.
- Storage Options: Both generations provide the same storage options, starting at 128GB and going up to 2TB, allowing users to choose the capacity that best suits their storage needs for apps, files, and media.
- Rear Camera System: Both iPad Pro generations share the same dual-camera system on the back, comprising a 12MP Wide and a 10MP Ultra Wide lens. This ensures consistent photo and video quality between the two models.
iPad Pro 5th Gen vs 6th Gen Buying Guide
Performance and Processor
The 6th generation iPad Pro boasts the M2 chip, offering a significant performance leap over the 5th generation’s M1 chip. The M2 provides faster CPU and GPU performance, leading to smoother multitasking, faster app loading times, and enhanced graphics capabilities for demanding tasks like video editing and gaming. This difference is noticeable in real-world usage, especially for professionals. The M2’s advanced Neural Engine also boosts machine learning performance, improving tasks like image processing.
Display Technology and Quality
Both generations feature stunning Liquid Retina XDR displays with ProMotion technology for adaptive refresh rates up to 120Hz. However, the 6th generation may offer slight improvements in screen brightness and color accuracy. The mini-LED backlighting in both models provides exceptional contrast and dynamic range, making content appear vibrant and lifelike. Consider the display quality a tie with minor advantages to the 6th generation for subtle improvements.
Camera Capabilities
The camera systems in both iPad Pro generations are excellent. Both offer a 12MP Wide camera, a 10MP Ultra Wide camera, and a LiDAR scanner for depth sensing and augmented reality applications. The 6th generation might have slight software enhancements for image processing and video recording. Both models support Center Stage, which keeps you in the frame during video calls. The differences are marginal for most users.
Connectivity and Ports
Both models feature Thunderbolt / USB 4 ports for fast data transfer and external display connectivity. The 6th generation may have slightly improved Wi-Fi performance and Bluetooth capabilities. Both support 5G connectivity for cellular models. Consider the differences in connectivity a matter of incremental improvements rather than a significant leap forward, especially in real-world scenarios.
Battery Life and Efficiency
Battery life is comparable between the 5th and 6th generation iPad Pros, offering around 10 hours of web browsing or video playback. The M2 chip in the 6th generation might offer slightly better power efficiency, but the difference is unlikely to be substantial in everyday use. The overall battery experience is similar. Both models provide excellent battery performance for their class.
Price and Value for Money
The 5th generation iPad Pro is typically available at a lower price point, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. The 6th generation, while more expensive, offers the latest technology and improved performance. Consider your budget and usage needs. If you don’t require the absolute latest processor, the 5th generation provides excellent value. Assess whether the performance gains justify the price difference.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy iPad Pro 5th Gen If…
- You want a powerful tablet and don’t need the absolute latest performance.
- You find a significant price difference compared to the 6th generation.
- Your workflow doesn’t heavily rely on the M2 chip’s specific enhancements.
- You are upgrading from an older iPad and want a substantial improvement without the absolute latest.
Buy iPad Pro 6th Gen If…
- You want the absolute best performance available in an iPad, for demanding tasks.
- You plan to use the iPad for intensive creative tasks, like video editing or complex graphics.
- You want the latest features, including Wi-Fi 6E and the enhanced performance of the M2 chip.
- You want the best possible future-proofing for your tablet.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main performance difference?
The primary performance difference lies in the processor. The 6th generation utilizes the M2 chip, offering faster CPU and GPU performance compared to the 5th generation’s M1 chip. The M2 excels in demanding tasks like video editing and gaming due to its advanced architecture and enhanced processing capabilities. This results in quicker app loading times and smoother multitasking.
Does the display quality differ significantly?
While both generations feature excellent Liquid Retina XDR displays with ProMotion technology, the 6th generation might have minor improvements in brightness and color accuracy. The mini-LED backlighting provides exceptional contrast and dynamic range in both models. The differences are subtle, and both offer a premium viewing experience, making it a less crucial factor.
Are the cameras different?
The camera systems are very similar in both generations, including a 12MP Wide camera, a 10MP Ultra Wide camera, and a LiDAR scanner. The 6th generation may have slightly enhanced image processing capabilities through software. Both support Center Stage. The differences will be hard to distinguish in most common usage scenarios, such as taking photos and recording videos.
What about connectivity options?
Both models feature Thunderbolt / USB 4 ports for fast data transfer and external display connectivity. The 6th generation might have slightly improved Wi-Fi performance and Bluetooth capabilities, offering a more stable and faster connection. Both support 5G connectivity for cellular models. Overall, the differences are minor and may not be noticeable during general usage.
Is battery life different?
Battery life is comparable between the two generations, offering around 10 hours of web browsing or video playback. The M2 chip in the 6th generation may offer slightly better power efficiency. The practical battery life will be similar, depending on usage patterns, such as screen brightness, app usage, and background processes. The differences are minimal.
Which is better for gaming?
The 6th generation, with its M2 chip, offers a superior gaming experience. The improved GPU performance provides faster frame rates, smoother graphics, and enhanced visual fidelity. Games will load faster, and you’ll experience less lag. However, both generations offer great gaming experiences. The M2 chip in the 6th generation provides a noticeable advantage.
Which should I buy?
Consider your budget and performance needs. The 5th generation offers excellent value if you don’t need the absolute latest processor. The 6th generation provides the best performance for demanding tasks. Assess your use case to determine which generation best fits your needs, budget, and desired performance level.
Final Verdict
The 6th generation iPad Pro, with its M2 chip, offers a significant performance boost over the 5th generation. It’s a noticeable upgrade for users who heavily rely on their iPad for demanding tasks like video editing, gaming, and complex workflows. While the 5th generation remains a capable device, the 6th generation’s improved processor and slightly enhanced features make it the superior choice for those seeking the best possible performance and future-proofing.
Winner: iPad Pro 6th Gen