IPad Pro 12.9-Inch Showdown: 2017 Vs. 2018

Hey tech enthusiasts! Let's dive into a classic battle of the tablets: the 2017 iPad Pro 12.9-inch versus the 2018 iPad Pro 12.9-inch. Choosing between these two powerhouses can be tricky, so we're gonna break down the key differences to help you decide which one is the ultimate champ for your needs. We'll cover everything from performance and design to features and price. So, grab your favorite beverage, sit back, and let's get started!

Design and Display Face-Off

First up, let's talk about looks. The 2018 iPad Pro 12.9-inch received a significant design overhaul. Apple slimmed down the bezels, meaning the borders around the screen became much thinner. This gives the 2018 model a more modern and sleek appearance, making the screen feel even bigger despite having the same 12.9-inch display size. The 2017 model, while still a looker, has chunkier bezels, which some might consider a bit dated in comparison. It still feels premium, with its aluminum unibody design. Both models are available in the classic silver and space gray colors, so you won't miss out on those iconic Apple finishes. The weight difference is noticeable too, with the 2018 model being slightly lighter, making it a bit more comfortable to hold for extended periods. One of the major design shifts with the 2018 model was the removal of the Home button. This meant adopting Face ID for unlocking the device and authenticating payments. The 2017 model, of course, has the traditional Home button with Touch ID. Some folks prefer Touch ID, finding it quicker for certain tasks, while others embrace the convenience and extra security of Face ID. The display itself is where both iPads shine. You get the beautiful, vibrant Liquid Retina display on the 2018 model which is an improved version of the display on the 2017 model. The display has ProMotion technology, which enables a 120Hz refresh rate. This technology makes everything feel incredibly smooth, from scrolling through webpages to playing games. Both screens are fantastic for watching movies, editing photos, or simply browsing the web. Both models share the same resolution and support for features like True Tone, which automatically adjusts the screen's color temperature to match your environment. This provides a more comfortable viewing experience in various lighting conditions. The changes in display, while subtle, still gives the 2018 model an edge in terms of immersive experience.

Now, let's break down the display technologies further. The 2017 iPad Pro uses a Retina display, known for its sharpness and color accuracy. It's an excellent screen, delivering vivid visuals and great detail. The 2018 iPad Pro, on the other hand, boasts a Liquid Retina display, which is an evolution of the Retina technology. The Liquid Retina display features ProMotion technology, which dynamically adjusts the refresh rate up to 120Hz. What does this mean for you? Everything on the screen appears incredibly smooth. Scrolling through web pages, animations, and gaming all feel exceptionally fluid. This difference is noticeable, especially when you switch between the two devices. The faster refresh rate reduces motion blur, leading to a more immersive and responsive experience. Both displays have excellent brightness and wide color gamut support, ensuring that your content looks fantastic. However, the ProMotion technology in the 2018 model makes a notable difference in the overall viewing experience, especially if you are a gamer or someone who spends a lot of time scrolling. This seemingly minor difference can contribute to a more enjoyable and less tiring viewing experience over longer periods.

Performance and Power: Under the Hood

Alright, let's peek under the hood and talk about the brains and brawn of these iPads. The 2017 iPad Pro 12.9-inch is powered by the A10X Fusion chip, while the 2018 iPad Pro 12.9-inch gets a major upgrade with the A12X Bionic chip. This is where the 2018 model really flexes its muscles. The A12X Bionic is a beast, offering significantly faster performance than the A10X Fusion. This means quicker app launches, smoother multitasking, and overall snappier performance. Whether you're editing videos, playing graphics-intensive games, or juggling multiple apps, the 2018 model handles it with ease. The A12X Bionic also includes a Neural Engine, which accelerates machine learning tasks. This translates to improved performance for features like face recognition, augmented reality, and other AI-powered applications. Both iPads offer ample storage options, with both offering the standard 64GB, 256GB, and 512GB options. The 2018 model pushes the limit further with a 1TB storage option for those who need to store massive files or have large media libraries. While the 2017 model is no slouch, the 2018 model's performance boost is noticeable in day-to-day use. If you're a power user or planning to use your iPad for demanding tasks, the 2018 model's performance advantage will be a major selling point. The real-world difference is most evident when working with intensive applications, such as video editing software or complex graphic design programs. The A12X Bionic chip allows for faster rendering, smoother playback, and more responsive controls, ultimately saving you time and improving your workflow. Beyond the raw speed, the A12X Bionic also delivers improved power efficiency. This means that, despite the increased performance, the 2018 model can still provide excellent battery life, allowing you to work or play for hours on a single charge. This balance of power and efficiency makes the 2018 iPad Pro a compelling option for those who need a device that can keep up with their busy lives.

Looking at the graphics performance, the 2018 model significantly outperforms the 2017 model. The A12X Bionic chip has a powerful integrated graphics processor (GPU), which delivers a smoother gaming experience and faster rendering for graphics-intensive apps. This is great news for gamers and anyone using applications that rely heavily on visual processing. The enhanced graphics capabilities of the 2018 model allow for playing the latest games at higher frame rates with better visual quality. Additionally, this increased graphics power benefits creative professionals using apps like Adobe Photoshop or Autodesk Sketchbook, enabling them to work more efficiently and create more detailed artwork. The A12X Bionic chip's neural engine also plays a role in enhancing graphics performance through machine learning techniques, further optimizing the visual experience.

Accessories and Ecosystem

Let's talk about the extras. Both models support the Apple Pencil, but there's a key difference. The 2017 iPad Pro works with the first-generation Apple Pencil, which charges by plugging directly into the iPad's Lightning port. The 2018 iPad Pro, on the other hand, uses the second-generation Apple Pencil, which magnetically attaches to the side of the iPad for charging and pairing. The second-generation Apple Pencil also has some cool new features, like double-tap gestures to quickly switch tools. It is a more integrated and user-friendly experience. The 2018 model also supports the Smart Keyboard Folio, which attaches magnetically and provides a comfortable typing experience. The 2017 model is compatible with the older Smart Keyboard, which connects via the Smart Connector. The placement of the Smart Connector has changed on the 2018 model as well, meaning you cannot use the older keyboards on the newer model. This is something to consider if you already have an older keyboard. The ecosystem is otherwise pretty similar, with both iPads running iPadOS and having access to the App Store and all its apps. Both generations offer support for accessories like USB-C adapters (for the 2018) and Lightning adapters (for the 2017) to connect to external devices like cameras, displays, and storage devices. The 2018 model with its USB-C port brings broader compatibility and faster data transfer speeds, making it more flexible for connecting with a wide range of devices. Overall, the ecosystem experience is quite seamless across both models, but the second-generation Apple Pencil and Smart Keyboard Folio give the 2018 a slight edge in terms of ease of use and features.

Regarding the Apple Pencil compatibility, the change is significant. The 2018 model's second-generation Apple Pencil not only charges wirelessly but also offers a more intuitive experience with its double-tap gestures. These gestures allow users to switch between tools, erase, or change settings quickly, without needing to reach for the screen. This is a game-changer for digital artists, note-takers, and anyone who uses the Apple Pencil regularly. The magnetic attachment to the side of the iPad is also a smart design choice, making the pencil easier to store and less prone to getting lost. The shift in keyboard compatibility with the Smart Keyboard Folio is also a notable change. The 2018 model’s keyboard has a more streamlined design and offers better protection for the iPad. It is designed to be easily adjustable for different viewing angles, providing more flexibility for users. However, if you already own an older Smart Keyboard, this change means you’ll need to purchase a new one to match the new iPad. The Smart Connector has moved and has changed the functionalities to match the second-generation Apple Pencil. Overall, the ecosystem differences between the two generations focus on user convenience and more advanced features.

Which iPad Pro Should You Buy?

So, which iPad Pro is right for you? It really depends on your needs and budget. If you're looking for the best performance, a more modern design, and the latest features, the 2018 iPad Pro 12.9-inch is the clear winner. The A12X Bionic chip, Face ID, the second-generation Apple Pencil support, and the updated design make it the premium choice. However, it will cost you more. If you're on a tighter budget and don't need the absolute latest and greatest, the 2017 iPad Pro 12.9-inch is still a fantastic tablet. It offers excellent performance, a beautiful display, and access to all the apps and features that iPadOS has to offer. You'll still get a great experience, especially if you can snag a good deal on a used or refurbished model. Consider your usage patterns. If you're going to use your iPad Pro primarily for web browsing, media consumption, and light productivity tasks, the 2017 model might be sufficient. If you plan to heavily use resource-intensive applications, engage in gaming, or rely on features like Face ID, the 2018 model is a better fit. Evaluate the importance of the Apple Pencil and Smart Keyboard functionality to your workflow. If you frequently use these accessories, the second-generation versions supported by the 2018 model offer a more seamless and advanced experience. Also consider where you buy your products, as the prices may vary from different vendors. Keep an eye out for discounts and promotions. Retailers often offer deals on older models, which can make the 2017 iPad Pro an even more attractive option. On the other hand, the 2018 iPad Pro might be available at a competitive price during certain sales events. Weigh the cost against the features you need, and don't hesitate to go for the best option that matches your budget and requirements.

In a nutshell, both of these iPads are awesome, but the 2018 model just edges out the 2017 model in features, performance, and overall design. Happy shopping!