Struggling to choose between the iPad Pro 9.7 and the iPad 6th generation? You’re not alone! Both tablets offer a compelling blend of performance, portability, and features, making the decision a tough one for potential buyers.
This in-depth comparison will break down everything you need to know to make the right choice. We’ll explore the key differences in display, performance, design, and features, so you can determine which iPad best suits your needs and budget.
Whether you’re a student, a creative professional, or simply looking for a great tablet for everyday use, this guide will help you navigate the nuances between the iPad Pro 9.7 and the iPad 6th Gen. Get ready to find your perfect iPad match!
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | iPad Pro 9.7 | iPad 6th Gen |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 9.7-inch | 9.7-inch |
| Resolution | 2048 x 1536 | 2048 x 1536 |
| Processor | A9X chip | A10 Fusion chip |
| RAM | 2GB | 2GB |
| Storage Options | 32GB, 128GB, 256GB | 32GB, 128GB |
| Rear Camera | 12MP | 8MP |
| Front Camera | 5MP | 1.2MP |
| Apple Pencil Support | Yes (Apple Pencil 1st gen) | Yes (Apple Pencil 1st gen) |
| Smart Keyboard Support | Yes | Yes |
| Audio | Four Speaker Audio | Stereo Speakers |
| Weight | 437g (Wi-Fi) / 444g (Cellular) | 469g (Wi-Fi) / 478g (Cellular) |
| Release Year | 2016 | 2018 |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Display
- iPad Pro 9.7: Features a 9.7-inch Retina display with True Tone technology, which adjusts the screen’s color temperature to match ambient lighting. This provides a more natural and comfortable viewing experience. The display is also fully laminated with anti-reflective coating.
- iPad 6th Gen: Boasts a standard 9.7-inch Retina display. While sharp and vibrant, it lacks True Tone and the anti-reflective coating found in the Pro model. It still offers a good viewing experience, but not as advanced.
- Winner: ipad pro 9.7
Processor
- iPad Pro 9.7: Equipped with the A9X chip, offering significant processing power for demanding tasks, alongside the M9 coprocessor for motion tracking. This provides smooth performance for multitasking and graphics-intensive applications.
- iPad 6th Gen: Runs on the A10 Fusion chip, a capable processor that provides solid performance for everyday tasks, web browsing, and gaming. It is less powerful than the A9X, but still offers a fluid user experience.
- Winner: ipad pro 9.7
Apple Pencil Support
- iPad Pro 9.7: Compatible with the original Apple Pencil, offering precise input for drawing, note-taking, and other creative tasks. This enhances productivity and creative potential.
- iPad 6th Gen: Also supports the original Apple Pencil, providing similar functionality to the Pro model in terms of stylus input.
- Winner: Tie
Camera
- iPad Pro 9.7: Features a 12MP rear camera with 4K video recording and a 5MP front-facing camera. The camera offers better image quality and video capabilities compared to the 6th gen.
- iPad 6th Gen: Includes an 8MP rear camera with 1080p video recording and a 1.2MP front-facing camera. The camera quality is adequate for basic use, but inferior to the Pro.
- Winner: ipad pro 9.7
Audio
- iPad Pro 9.7: Offers four-speaker audio, providing a richer and more immersive sound experience. This is a significant advantage for media consumption.
- iPad 6th Gen: Has a standard two-speaker setup, which provides decent audio, but lacks the depth and immersion of the Pro model’s four speakers.
- Winner: ipad pro 9.7
Design and Build Quality
- iPad Pro 9.7: Features a premium design with a thinner and lighter body. The Pro model feels more refined and high-end.
- iPad 6th Gen: Has a more basic design, but still offers a sturdy build quality. It is slightly thicker and heavier than the Pro model.
- Winner: ipad pro 9.7
Storage Options
- iPad Pro 9.7: Offered in various storage configurations, including higher capacities which gives more flexibility.
- iPad 6th Gen: Offers standard storage options, but with less variety compared to the Pro model.
- Winner: ipad pro 9.7
Price
- iPad Pro 9.7: Generally more expensive, reflecting its superior features and performance.
- iPad 6th Gen: More affordable, making it a better value for budget-conscious buyers.
- Winner: ipad 6th gen
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Display Quality | iPad Pro 9.7 |
| Processor | iPad Pro 9.7 (for raw power), iPad 6th Gen (for newer architecture) |
| Audio | iPad Pro 9.7 |
| Value | iPad 6th Gen |
| Portability | iPad Pro 9.7 |
| Camera | iPad Pro 9.7 |
What They Have in Common
- Display Size: Both iPads share a 9.7-inch Retina display with the same resolution, offering a similar viewing experience for content consumption and productivity tasks.
- Apple Pencil Support: Both devices are compatible with the first-generation Apple Pencil, providing users with the ability to draw, write, and take notes with precision.
- Smart Keyboard Support: Both iPads support the use of a Smart Keyboard, transforming them into more versatile devices for typing and productivity.
- Operating System: Both iPads run on iPadOS, ensuring access to the same apps, features, and user interface.
- Wi-Fi and Cellular Options: Both models are available in both Wi-Fi only and Wi-Fi + Cellular configurations, allowing users to connect to the internet in various environments.
iPad Pro 9.7 vs iPad 6th Gen Buying Guide
Performance and Processing Power
The iPad Pro 9.7 boasts a superior processor, the A9X chip, offering significantly faster performance than the iPad 6th Gen’s A10 Fusion chip. This difference is noticeable in demanding tasks like video editing, gaming, and multitasking. Apps launch quicker, and overall system responsiveness is smoother on the Pro model. The A9X chip also allows for more complex graphics rendering, enhancing the visual experience in games and other graphically intensive applications. Consider your typical usage – if you frequently handle large files or use resource-heavy apps, the Pro is a better choice.
Display Quality
The iPad Pro 9.7 features a superior display with True Tone technology, which automatically adjusts the screen’s color temperature to match the ambient lighting. This results in a more comfortable and natural viewing experience, reducing eye strain. The Pro also offers a wider color gamut, displaying more vibrant and accurate colors. While the iPad 6th Gen has a good display, it lacks these advanced features, making the Pro a better option for content consumption and creative work where color accuracy is essential. The Pro also has a laminated display. (See Also: Air Fryer Vs Toaster Oven )
Accessories and Features
The iPad Pro 9.7 supports the Apple Pencil (1st generation) and the Smart Keyboard, expanding its functionality for creative tasks and productivity. The iPad 6th Gen also supports the Apple Pencil (1st generation), but not the Smart Keyboard. This gives the Pro an edge in terms of versatility. The Pro also includes a better camera system and four speakers, providing a more immersive audio-visual experience. Consider which accessories you’ll need; the Pro offers better options for advanced users.
Portability and Design
Both iPads are relatively portable, but the iPad Pro 9.7 is slightly thinner and lighter than the iPad 6th Gen, making it more comfortable to hold for extended periods. The design is sleek and modern for both. The Pro’s design includes the four-speaker system, which the 6th generation does not have. Both are generally easy to carry around and are well-suited for on-the-go use. Consider your comfort preferences when selecting, as the differences in weight and thickness are subtle but noticeable.
Price and Value
The iPad 6th Gen is generally more affordable than the iPad Pro 9.7, making it a better value for budget-conscious buyers. The Pro offers more features and better performance, but comes at a higher price point. Evaluate your budget and needs. If you only need a tablet for basic tasks like web browsing and email, the iPad 6th Gen offers excellent value. However, if you require advanced features and performance, the Pro is worth the investment.
Storage Options
Both models come in various storage configurations. The iPad Pro 9.7 may have offered higher storage options at the time of its release, potentially offering more storage capacity for large media files and apps. The iPad 6th Gen offers adequate storage for average users. Assess your storage needs based on the files, apps and media you intend to store on your device. Consider how much space you will need for your use case and select the device that offers the storage capacity you require. (See Also: Sonos Sub Mini Vs Sub 4 )
Who Should Buy What?
Buy iPad Pro 9.7 If…
- You prioritize a higher-quality display with better color accuracy and anti-reflective coating.
- You want superior audio quality with four-speaker audio.
- You desire a more powerful processor for demanding tasks.
- You value a thinner and lighter design.
Buy iPad 6th Gen If…
- You’re looking for a more affordable option.
- You prioritize a newer processor and potentially better battery life.
- You are a student or casual user needing basic functionality.
- You don’t need the advanced features of the iPad Pro.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences in performance?
The iPad Pro 9.7 has a more powerful A9X chip, resulting in significantly faster performance compared to the iPad 6th Gen’s A10 Fusion chip. This translates to quicker app launches, smoother multitasking, and better performance in graphically intensive applications like games and video editing. The Pro handles complex tasks with greater ease.
Does the iPad Pro 9.7 have a better display?
Yes, the iPad Pro 9.7 features a superior display with True Tone technology, which automatically adjusts the screen’s color temperature. It also offers a wider color gamut, resulting in more vibrant and accurate colors. These features enhance the viewing experience and are beneficial for content consumption and creative work.
Which iPad supports the Apple Pencil?
Both the iPad Pro 9.7 and the iPad 6th Gen support the Apple Pencil (1st generation). This allows users to take notes, draw, and perform other creative tasks with greater precision and control. The Apple Pencil enhances the versatility of both iPads for various uses.
What about the camera quality?
The iPad Pro 9.7 boasts a better camera system, offering higher resolution and improved image quality compared to the iPad 6th Gen. This makes the Pro a better choice for capturing photos and videos. The Pro’s camera is more capable and produces better results in various lighting conditions. (See Also: Sonos Ace Vs Bose Qc Ultra )
Are there any differences in design?
The iPad Pro 9.7 is slightly thinner and lighter than the iPad 6th Gen. It also features a four-speaker audio system, providing a more immersive audio experience. Both iPads have sleek and modern designs, but the Pro offers a more premium feel, and the four-speaker system offers an improved audio experience.
How do the accessories compare?
The iPad Pro 9.7 supports the Apple Pencil (1st generation) and Smart Keyboard, while the iPad 6th Gen only supports the Apple Pencil (1st generation). The Smart Keyboard expands the Pro’s functionality, making it more suitable for productivity tasks. If you plan to use a keyboard, the Pro is the better choice.
Which iPad is a better value for the money?
The iPad 6th Gen is generally more affordable, making it a better value for budget-conscious buyers. The iPad Pro 9.7 offers more features and better performance, but comes at a higher price. Consider your budget and your needs when making your decision.
Final Verdict
The iPad Pro 9.7 offers superior performance, a better display, and more advanced features, making it a better choice for users who require demanding performance and creative capabilities. While the iPad 6th Gen provides excellent value, the Pro’s enhanced capabilities justify its higher price for those who need them. The Pro is the better tablet overall.
Winner: iPad Pro 9.7