IPad Pro M2 Vs. IPad Pro 3rd Gen: Which Should You Buy?

Hey tech enthusiasts! Let's dive deep into a showdown: the iPad Pro M2 versus the iPad Pro 3rd Gen. Choosing the right iPad Pro can be a tough call, especially with impressive specs and features on both sides. This article breaks down everything you need to know, from performance and display to design and value, helping you make the best decision. Ready to find out which iPad Pro is the perfect match for you? Let's get started!

Performance: M2 Chip vs. Older Tech

When we talk about performance, the M2 chip is the star of the show in the newer iPad Pro. It's a powerhouse, and the difference is noticeable, especially for power users. The M2 chip boasts an 8-core CPU, providing up to 15% faster performance than the M1 chip in previous generations. The GPU gets a major upgrade too, with a 10-core GPU, which delivers up to 35% faster graphics performance. This translates to smoother multitasking, faster app loading times, and a more responsive overall experience. Gamers, video editors, and anyone who demands top-tier performance will feel the difference.

But don't count out the iPad Pro 3rd Gen. While it doesn't have the M2's raw power, it's still a very capable device. The A12X Bionic chip, found in the 3rd Gen, is no slouch. It handles everyday tasks with ease, and it's still a great choice for web browsing, streaming, and light creative work. The A12X Bionic chip includes a Neural Engine that handles machine learning tasks, contributing to features like face recognition and advanced photo editing. This iPad Pro handles a variety of intensive tasks, such as video editing, and graphic design tasks without any problems.

In real-world use, you'll see faster export times when editing videos on the M2 iPad Pro. Games load quicker, and the overall experience is snappier. However, the 3rd Gen iPad Pro can still get the job done, and it's an excellent choice if you're not pushing the limits of performance. The performance difference is considerable, but whether it's a deal-breaker depends on your specific needs.

Display: Liquid Retina vs. Liquid Retina XDR

Display quality is essential for an immersive viewing experience, and both of these iPad Pros deliver, although in slightly different ways. The iPad Pro 3rd Gen features a beautiful Liquid Retina display, which looks stunning. It has excellent color accuracy, vibrant colors, and good brightness. This means that everything you watch, read, or create looks great on the screen. The display has ProMotion technology, which means the refresh rate can go up to 120Hz. This results in incredibly smooth scrolling and fluid animations, making everything feel incredibly responsive. This is a noticeable improvement, making the user experience incredibly satisfying.

The iPad Pro M2 steps up the game even more, offering a Liquid Retina XDR display on select models. This is a mini-LED display that offers incredible contrast and brightness. With over 1,000,000:1 contrast ratio, you can see more details in both the light and dark areas of your content. This display technology provides a significant improvement, particularly when watching HDR content or working on color-sensitive tasks. The Liquid Retina XDR is truly a visual feast, making it a joy to use for creative professionals and entertainment lovers alike.

Whether you go for the Liquid Retina or the Liquid Retina XDR, you're in for a treat. The Liquid Retina display on the 3rd Gen is still excellent. However, if you are looking for the best visual experience possible, the Liquid Retina XDR on the M2 is the clear winner. The display is the key component, and its quality is a major factor in the overall iPad Pro experience.

Design and Build Quality: Sleek and Familiar

In terms of design, both the iPad Pro M2 and the 3rd Gen share a similar aesthetic. They both feature sleek, modern designs with slim bezels and flat edges. Both are made from high-quality materials and feel premium in hand. The build quality of both is top-notch, ensuring that your iPad Pro can withstand everyday wear and tear.

The iPad Pro M2 keeps the same design language as its predecessor, so if you like the way the iPad Pro looks, you'll feel right at home. It's available in the same silver and space gray colors, providing a sense of familiarity. The design is all about clean lines, making it look elegant and sophisticated. The flat-edge design also makes the iPad Pro more comfortable to hold for extended periods, and it is a design choice that many users appreciate.

The 3rd Gen iPad Pro also features a similar design, offering the same premium feel and build quality. Its design is timeless, and it still looks great, even against the newer model. The 3rd Gen shares the same color options, so you'll have the same choices available. If you're upgrading from an older iPad Pro, you'll find the transition to the 3rd Gen to be seamless because the designs are so alike. The similarities in design mean both devices are easily interchangeable in everyday use.

Features: What's New and Noteworthy

Both iPad Pros pack a bunch of features, but the M2 model brings some exciting additions to the table. One of the standout features is the new Apple Pencil hover experience. When the second-generation Apple Pencil is near the screen, the display can detect it without actually touching it. This allows for improved precision and new interactions, like seeing a preview of your stroke before you make it. It is great for artists and anyone who uses the Apple Pencil for sketching or note-taking.

The M2 iPad Pro also supports Wi-Fi 6E, offering faster and more reliable wireless connectivity. This is great for streaming content, downloading large files, and staying connected on the go. The M2 also features a faster Thunderbolt port, enabling quicker data transfer speeds and supporting external displays with higher resolutions. These features, although subtle, contribute to an enhanced experience.

While the 3rd Gen iPad Pro doesn't have the Apple Pencil hover feature or Wi-Fi 6E, it still comes equipped with a lot of great features. It has Face ID for secure unlocking and convenient authentication, plus a great camera system that can capture high-quality photos and videos. It also supports the second-generation Apple Pencil, so you can still take advantage of all its features.

Ecosystem: Accessories and Compatibility

One of the great things about the iPad Pro is the ecosystem of accessories available. Both the M2 and 3rd Gen models are compatible with the second-generation Apple Pencil and the Magic Keyboard. These accessories can transform your iPad Pro into a powerful creative tool or a productivity powerhouse.

The Apple Pencil lets you sketch, take notes, and annotate documents with ease. The Magic Keyboard provides a comfortable typing experience and includes a trackpad, so you can easily navigate and control your iPad Pro. These accessories greatly increase the versatility of your iPad Pro. The availability of accessories enhances the value of the iPad Pro, regardless of which model you choose.

Compatibility with these accessories is a plus, and it means you can use the same accessories with either the M2 or the 3rd Gen models. The ability to use the same accessories saves you money and eliminates the need to buy different accessories depending on which iPad Pro you have. The extensive accessory selection demonstrates the versatility of the iPad Pro.

Value and Price: Weighing Your Options

When making your decision, the price of the iPad Pro is an important factor. The iPad Pro M2 is the newer model, so it comes with a higher price tag. It will give you the latest features, the improved performance, and a better display. This is a worthy choice if you are on the cutting edge of tech.

The 3rd Gen iPad Pro is more affordable, making it a great option for those who are more budget-conscious. You can often find refurbished models or deals on the 3rd Gen, which can provide a great value. Although it may not be as powerful as the M2, it is still a very capable device that can handle a lot of tasks. Depending on your needs, the 3rd Gen iPad Pro can be a very smart choice.

When evaluating the value, think about how you will use your iPad Pro. If you are a professional, if you need the latest and greatest features, or if you want the best performance, the M2 is the better choice. If you are a casual user, then the 3rd Gen iPad Pro provides a great experience at a lower price point. The price and value proposition will greatly influence your decision. Think about your budget, and choose the option that best fits your needs.

iPad Pro M2 vs. 3rd Gen: Which One Should You Buy?

Choosing between the iPad Pro M2 and the 3rd Gen depends on your needs and budget. The M2 iPad Pro is the superior choice if you prioritize performance, display quality, and the latest features. It's perfect for creative professionals, gamers, and anyone who wants the best possible iPad experience. You will get a future-proof device that delivers top-tier performance.

On the other hand, the 3rd Gen iPad Pro is an excellent option if you are on a budget or if you do not need the highest level of performance. It is still a very capable device that can handle a wide variety of tasks. It is great for everyday use, and it is a more affordable option. It provides great value for the price.

Ultimately, both are fantastic tablets. Consider your needs, budget, and desired features to decide which is the best fit for you. Good luck with your decision, and enjoy your new iPad Pro! The iPad Pro offers a great experience, regardless of which model you choose. Consider your specific needs to make the best choice.