IPad Pro 11-inch (2018) Vs. (2019): Which Is Right?

Hey guys! So, you're looking to snag an iPad Pro 11-inch, but you're wondering about the differences between the 2018 and 2019 models? You've come to the right place! Deciding between these two can be a bit tricky since they look super similar, but there are some key upgrades in the 2019 version that might just sway your decision. We're going to dive deep into what makes each of these tablets tick, so you can figure out which one is your perfect digital companion. Let's get this tech party started!

The Big Picture: Design and Display

When you first lay eyes on the iPad Pro 11-inch (2018) and the iPad Pro 11-inch (2019), you'll be hard-pressed to spot any major differences. Apple really nailed the design with the 2018 model, and they decided to stick with it for the 2019 iteration. Both boast that sleek, all-screen design with slim bezels, giving you an immersive viewing experience. The 11-inch Liquid Retina display on both is simply stunning, offering vibrant colors and incredible detail. Seriously, whether you're editing photos, watching your favorite shows, or sketching out your next masterpiece, the display on these iPads is top-notch. It's a true testament to Apple's commitment to visual excellence. The aluminum unibody construction feels premium and durable in hand, making it a device you'll want to hold onto. The USB-C port is also a huge plus, offering versatile connectivity for charging, data transfer, and hooking up accessories. It's a design that has stood the test of time, and frankly, it still feels cutting-edge even today. So, if design and display are your main priorities, rest assured that both the 2018 and 2019 models will absolutely blow you away. It's like choosing between two identical twins – they both look amazing! The lack of a home button and the Face ID integration further contribute to that seamless, modern aesthetic, making interactions fluid and intuitive.

Under the Hood: Performance Powerhouses

Now, let's talk about the guts of these beasts. This is where we start to see a more significant distinction. The iPad Pro 11-inch (2018) packed a serious punch with its A12 Bionic chip. At the time of its release, it was one of the most powerful mobile chips out there, capable of handling demanding tasks with ease. Whether you were multitasking between apps, editing 4K video, or playing graphics-intensive games, the A12 Bionic delivered smooth and responsive performance. It set a new standard for what a tablet could achieve. However, the iPad Pro 11-inch (2019) took things up a notch, or rather, several notches, by featuring the A12X Bionic chip. This chip is an absolute monster. It offers significantly enhanced CPU and GPU performance compared to the A12. What does this mean for you, the user? It means even faster app launches, quicker rendering times for complex projects, and the ability to handle even more demanding workflows without breaking a sweat. For creative professionals, gamers, or anyone who pushes their tablet to its limits, the A12X Bionic in the 2019 model provides a noticeable performance leap. It's not just a small upgrade; it's a substantial one that allows for smoother multitasking, more complex simulations, and an overall snappier user experience. Think of it like going from a really fast sports car to an even faster supercar – both are quick, but one is in a different league. This extra power also future-proofs your device, ensuring it can keep up with software updates and new applications for longer. The neural engine within the A12X also sees improvements, leading to better machine learning tasks and AI-powered features. So, while the 2018 model is still a performance champion, the 2019 model, with its A12X Bionic, truly solidifies its position as a portable powerhouse.

Camera Capabilities: More Than Just Selfies

Let's be real, when you think of an iPad, you probably don't think about its camera first. But hey, these iPads have decent cameras, and there's a slight upgrade to consider. The iPad Pro 11-inch (2018) comes equipped with a solid 12MP Wide rear camera and a 7MP TrueDepth front camera. The rear camera is capable of shooting excellent photos and 4K video, perfect for capturing moments or scanning documents. The front camera is great for FaceTime calls and unlocking your device with Face ID. It does everything you'd expect from a good tablet camera. Now, the iPad Pro 11-inch (2019) doesn't introduce a massive overhaul here, but it does bring a slightly improved camera system. While it retains the 12MP Wide rear camera, the real story is in the support for the new, faster Wi-Fi 6 standard. This isn't directly a camera upgrade, but it significantly impacts how you might use your camera, especially if you're transferring large photo or video files. Faster Wi-Fi means quicker uploads to cloud storage or faster sharing with colleagues and friends. The front camera remains the same at 7MP TrueDepth. So, while the image quality itself might not be dramatically different between the two models, the overall experience of capturing and sharing content can be enhanced by the faster connectivity of the 2019 model, especially if you're often working with large media files. It's about the ecosystem of how you use the camera, not just the lens itself. Think of it this way: the 2018 model takes great photos, but the 2019 model lets you send those great photos even faster. For many users, this improved workflow can be a genuine game-changer, especially in professional settings where time is money.

Battery Life: Power Through Your Day

Battery life is always a crucial factor, right? We all need our gadgets to keep up with our busy lives. The good news is that both the iPad Pro 11-inch (2018) and the iPad Pro 11-inch (2019) offer excellent battery performance. Apple typically designs its iPads to last through a full day of moderate use, and these models are no exception. You can expect similar battery longevity from both devices. Whether you're browsing the web, watching videos, working on documents, or getting creative with drawing apps, both the 2018 and 2019 iPads should comfortably get you through your day without needing to constantly hunt for a power outlet. They are both equipped with similarly sized batteries and power-efficient processors, which contribute to their impressive endurance. So, if you're worried about one model draining faster than the other, you can largely put those fears to rest. The slight differences in processor efficiency between the A12 Bionic and the A12X Bionic are unlikely to translate into a significant, day-to-day difference in battery life for most users. Apple has done a fantastic job optimizing the software and hardware integration to ensure that you get the most out of every charge. It’s about consistent, reliable power. This means you can rely on either device for long work sessions, travel days, or extended entertainment binges without battery anxiety. It's this dependable power that makes the iPad Pro line so versatile and beloved.

Connectivity: Wi-Fi and Cellular Smarts

When it comes to staying connected, both iPads offer robust options, but there's a key difference that favors the newer model. The iPad Pro 11-inch (2018) supports Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), which was the standard for fast wireless internet at the time. It also offers LTE connectivity for those who need to be online on the go. These are perfectly adequate for most users and provide a smooth online experience for browsing, streaming, and downloading. However, the iPad Pro 11-inch (2019) steps up its game with Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) support. Wi-Fi 6 is the latest generation of Wi-Fi technology, offering faster speeds, improved efficiency, and better performance in crowded network environments. What does this mean in practical terms? If you're in a home or office with a Wi-Fi 6 router, you'll experience quicker downloads, smoother streaming of high-resolution content, and a more responsive internet connection overall. It's especially beneficial if you're downloading large files, like video projects or software updates, or if you frequently work in public places with many other Wi-Fi users. The difference might not be dramatic on a simple web page, but for data-intensive tasks, Wi-Fi 6 is a clear winner. The cellular models also benefit from these advancements in wireless technology, ensuring you stay connected reliably and quickly wherever you are. So, while the 2018 model is still well-connected, the 2019 model is future-proofed with the latest and greatest in wireless technology, offering a tangible advantage for power users and those who demand the absolute best in connectivity speeds and stability. It’s like upgrading from a highway to a superhighway – you get there faster and smoother.

The Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard Experience

For many, the iPad Pro isn't just a tablet; it's a creative tool or a productivity machine, and that's where accessories like the Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard come in. Both the iPad Pro 11-inch (2018) and the iPad Pro 11-inch (2019) are fully compatible with the Apple Pencil (2nd generation). This is fantastic news because the Apple Pencil 2 is a game-changer with its magnetic attachment, wireless charging, and double-tap functionality for switching tools. The experience of drawing, sketching, or annotating is equally superb on both models, thanks to the smooth glass surface and low latency. The iPads' displays are designed to feel like paper, providing a natural and responsive drawing experience. When it comes to the Magic Keyboard, this is where things get a little nuanced. The 2018 iPad Pro was designed to work with the original Magic Keyboard, and the 2019 iPad Pro was designed to work with the same Magic Keyboard. Wait, did I say that right? Yes, you heard me! The 2019 iPad Pro 11-inch (often referred to as the '2020' model due to its release timing, though it shares the same chassis as the 2018) is compatible with the Magic Keyboard that features a trackpad and backlit keys. The 2018 iPad Pro also works with this newer Magic Keyboard, which is pretty cool. This means you can turn either of these iPads into a pretty capable laptop replacement. The overall typing and trackpad experience will be fantastic on both. The key here is that if you're buying a 2019 model, you're getting the same excellent accessory support as the earlier one. It’s all about how these iPads integrate into your workflow. Whether you're a student taking notes, an artist creating digital art, or a professional responding to emails, the Pencil and Keyboard combo makes them incredibly versatile. The seamless integration and responsive feel of these accessories truly elevate the iPad Pro experience, making it a powerful tool for almost any task.

Price and Value Proposition

Alright, let's talk about the elephant in the room: price. Typically, when a new model comes out, the older one gets a price drop, making it a more attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. The iPad Pro 11-inch (2018), being the older model, is generally available at a lower price point, especially if you're looking at refurbished or used options. This makes it an incredible value for money if you want that premium iPad Pro experience without breaking the bank. You're getting a powerful device with a fantastic display and all the core features that make the iPad Pro great. On the other hand, the iPad Pro 11-inch (2019), with its upgraded A12X Bionic chip and Wi-Fi 6 support, will command a higher price. This extra cost buys you that noticeable performance boost and future-proofed connectivity. If you're a power user who needs every ounce of performance for demanding tasks like video editing, complex graphic design, or serious gaming, the investment in the 2019 model might be well worth it. However, if your usage is more mainstream – browsing, streaming, note-taking, casual gaming, and general productivity – the 2018 model might offer a more compelling price-to-performance ratio. It really boils down to your needs and your budget. Think about what you'll be doing most with your iPad. For many, the performance gap might not justify the price difference. But for those who truly push the limits of their devices, the 2019 model's enhancements could be crucial. It's a classic trade-off between saving money now and investing in future-proofing and enhanced capabilities. Consider checking out certified refurbished models from Apple, as they offer significant savings and come with the same warranty as new products, making either choice a smarter buy.

So, Which iPad Pro 11-inch Should You Get?

Alright, guys, let's wrap this up! We've dissected the iPad Pro 11-inch (2018) and the iPad Pro 11-inch (2019), and now it's time for the big decision. If you're looking for the absolute best bang for your buck and your needs are more on the general productivity and entertainment side, the iPad Pro 11-inch (2018) is still an absolutely stellar choice. It offers a premium experience, a gorgeous display, and more than enough power for the vast majority of users. You'll save some cash, and honestly, you'll be getting a device that feels incredibly modern and capable even today. It’s a smart buy for anyone who wants a high-end tablet without the highest-end price tag.

However, if you're a power user, a creative professional, a hardcore gamer, or someone who simply wants the fastest, most future-proofed device available, then the iPad Pro 11-inch (2019) is likely your winner. The A12X Bionic chip offers a significant performance leap, and the Wi-Fi 6 support means you'll be zipping around the internet faster than ever. This is the device for those who will truly feel the difference in demanding applications and workflows. It's an investment in cutting-edge performance and connectivity that will serve you well for years to come.

Ultimately, the choice hinges on your specific use case and budget. Both are fantastic tablets, but one might just align better with your digital life. Happy iPad hunting!