Ipad Pro 11 Gen 2 Vs Gen 3: Is It Worth The Upgrade? full Comparison
What To Know
- The iPad Pro 11 Gen 2 and Gen 3 both feature a dual-camera system on the back, consisting of a 12MP wide-angle lens and a 10MP ultrawide lens.
- Whether you need a device for basic tasks or a powerhouse for handling large files and demanding applications, there’s an iPad Pro 11 with the perfect amount of storage for you.
- However, if you’re on a tighter budget or don’t need the extra performance and features, the Gen 2 is still a great option and offers excellent value for the price.
The iPad Pro 11-inch has been a popular choice for creative professionals since its inception. With its powerful performance, stunning display, and versatile software, it’s no wonder that many artists, designers, and photographers have adopted it as their go-to device. In 2020, Apple released the second generation of the iPad Pro 11-inch, and in 2021, they followed up with the third generation. So, what are the differences between these two generations? And which one is right for you? In this comprehensive comparison guide, we’ll take a closer look at the iPad Pro 11 Gen 2 vs Gen 3, examining their key features, performance, and overall value to help you make an informed decision.
Performance: A12Z Bionic vs M1 Chip
One of the most significant differences between the iPad Pro 11 Gen 2 and Gen 3 is the processor. The Gen 2 is powered by the A12Z Bionic chip, while the Gen 3 features the M1 chip. The M1 chip is a game-changer, offering a substantial boost in performance over its predecessor. It features an 8-core CPU, an 8-core GPU, and a 16-core Neural Engine, making it incredibly fast and capable of handling even the most demanding tasks. Whether you’re editing 4K videos, creating complex 3D models, or playing graphics-intensive games, the iPad Pro 11 Gen 3 with the M1 chip will deliver a smooth and responsive experience.
Display: Liquid Retina vs Liquid Retina XDR
Both the iPad Pro 11 Gen 2 and Gen 3 boast stunning Liquid Retina displays with a resolution of 2388 x 1668 pixels. However, the Gen 3 takes it a step further with its Liquid Retina XDR display. This advanced display features mini-LED technology, which allows for incredible contrast ratios and HDR content playback. With a peak brightness of 1600 nits, the Gen 3’s display is exceptionally vibrant and immersive, making it ideal for photographers, videographers, and anyone who works with color-critical content.
Camera System: Dual-Camera vs LiDAR Scanner
The iPad Pro 11 Gen 2 and Gen 3 both feature a dual-camera system on the back, consisting of a 12MP wide-angle lens and a 10MP ultrawide lens. The Gen 3, however, adds a LiDAR scanner to the mix. This advanced sensor measures the distance between the iPad and surrounding objects, enabling features like augmented reality (AR) and 3D scanning. The LiDAR scanner also improves the performance of the camera in low-light conditions and enhances the accuracy of portrait mode photos.
Battery Life: All-Day Performance
Both the iPad Pro 11 Gen 2 and Gen 3 offer excellent battery life, lasting up to 10 hours of video playback or web browsing on a single charge. This makes them ideal for professionals who need a device that can keep up with their demanding workflows throughout the day.
Storage Options: Up to 2TB
The iPad Pro 11 Gen 2 and Gen 3 come in a variety of storage options, ranging from 128GB to 2TB. This flexibility allows users to choose the model that best suits their needs and budget. Whether you need a device for basic tasks or a powerhouse for handling large files and demanding applications, there’s an iPad Pro 11 with the perfect amount of storage for you.
Accessories: Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard
The iPad Pro 11 Gen 2 and Gen 3 are compatible with the second-generation Apple Pencil and the Magic Keyboard. These accessories enhance the functionality of the iPad Pro, turning it into a versatile productivity and creative tool. The Apple Pencil is perfect for artists, designers, and note-takers, while the Magic Keyboard provides a comfortable typing experience and a trackpad for precise cursor control.
Which iPad Pro 11 is Right for You?
So, which iPad Pro 11 is right for you? Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and budget. If you’re looking for the most powerful and capable iPad Pro 11, the Gen 3 with the M1 chip and Liquid Retina XDR display is the way to go. However, if you’re on a tighter budget or don’t need the extra performance and features, the Gen 2 is still a great option and offers excellent value for the price.
Beyond the Comparison: Exploring the Latest Features
In addition to the key differences outlined above, the iPad Pro 11 Gen 3 introduces a few additional features that set it apart from its predecessor. These include:
- 5G Connectivity: The Gen 3 supports 5G networks, providing blazing-fast internet speeds for downloading large files, streaming video, and more.
- Thunderbolt/USB 4 Port: The Gen 3 features a Thunderbolt/USB 4 port, enabling faster data transfer speeds and compatibility with a wider range of peripherals.
- Center Stage: The Gen 3’s front-facing camera features Center Stage, a new technology that automatically keeps you centered in the frame during video calls.
The Verdict: A Powerful Choice for Creative Professionals
Whether you choose the iPad Pro 11 Gen 2 or Gen 3, you’ll get a powerful and versatile device that can handle even the most demanding creative tasks. The Gen 3 offers a significant performance boost, a stunning Liquid Retina XDR display, and additional features like 5G connectivity and Center Stage. However, the Gen 2 is still a great option for those who don’t need the extra power and features and are on a tighter budget. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Which iPad Pro 11 has a better processor?
A: The iPad Pro 11 Gen 3 features the M1 chip, which offers significantly better performance than the A12Z Bionic chip in the Gen 2.
Q: Which iPad Pro 11 has a better display?
A: The iPad Pro 11 Gen 3 features a Liquid Retina XDR display with mini-LED technology, providing higher brightness, better contrast, and support for HDR content.
Q: Which iPad Pro 11 has a better camera system?
A: The iPad Pro 11 Gen 3 features a LiDAR scanner in addition to the dual-camera system found in the Gen 2. This enables features like augmented reality (AR) and 3D scanning, and improves the performance of the camera in low-light conditions.
Q: Which iPad Pro 11 has better battery life?
A: Both the iPad Pro 11 Gen 2 and Gen 3 offer excellent battery life, lasting up to 10 hours of video playback or web browsing on a single charge.
Q: Which iPad Pro 11 has more storage options?
A: Both the iPad Pro 11 Gen 2 and Gen 3 come in a variety of storage options, ranging from 128GB to 2TB.
Q: Which iPad Pro 11 is compatible with the Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard?
A: Both the iPad Pro 11 Gen 2 and Gen 3 are compatible with the second-generation Apple Pencil and the Magic Keyboard.
