Ipad Pro 12.9 Gen 3 Vs Gen 4: Which Generation Is Worth Your Money?

In the realm of high-end tablets, the iPad Pro 12.9-inch model has consistently stood as a beacon of innovation and technological prowess. With the release of the fourth-generation iPad Pro 12.9-inch in 2020, Apple once again raised the bar, introducing a slew of upgrades that left many wondering how it compares to its predecessor, the third-generation iPad Pro 12.9-inch. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the intricacies of each generation, highlighting their key differences and similarities to help you make an informed decision about which one suits your needs and budget.

Performance: A Leap into the Future

At the heart of the iPad Pro 12.9 Gen 4 lies the A12Z Bionic chip, an absolute powerhouse that delivers blazing-fast performance, leaving the A12X Bionic chip in the Gen 3 in its dust. This generational leap translates into smoother multitasking, effortless handling of demanding apps, and an overall more responsive user experience. Whether you’re a graphic designer working on intricate projects, a video editor crafting cinematic masterpieces, or a gamer seeking immersive experiences, the Gen 4’s superior processing capabilities will elevate your productivity and entertainment to new heights.

Display: Refinement and Innovation

Both the Gen 3 and Gen 4 iPad Pro 12.9-inch models boast stunning Liquid Retina displays with a resolution of 2732 x 2048 pixels. However, the Gen 4 takes the visual experience a step further with its ProMotion technology, which dynamically adjusts the display’s refresh rate up to 120Hz. This results in incredibly smooth scrolling, fluid animations, and an overall more immersive experience, especially when gaming or using the Apple Pencil.

Camera System: Capturing Moments with Precision

While both generations feature a 12MP rear camera with optical image stabilization, the Gen 4 introduces a new 10MP ultrawide camera, expanding your photographic possibilities. This additional lens allows you to capture wider scenes, fit more people into group shots, and take stunning landscape panoramas. The Gen 4 also boasts an improved front-facing camera with a 7MP sensor, ensuring higher-quality selfies and video calls.

Battery Life: Powering Your Day

In terms of battery life, the Gen 3 and Gen 4 iPad Pro 12.9-inch models offer similar endurance, lasting up to 10 hours of continuous video playback or web browsing on a single charge. This means you can power through your tasks, stream your favorite shows, or indulge in creative projects without worrying about running out of juice.

Storage Options: Accommodating Your Digital World

Both the Gen 3 and Gen 4 iPad Pro 12.9-inch models come in a variety of storage configurations, ranging from 128GB to 1TB. This allows you to choose the capacity that best suits your needs, whether you’re a casual user or a professional who requires ample space for large files, apps, and media.

Design: Maintaining Elegance and Functionality

In terms of design, the Gen 3 and Gen 4 iPad Pro 12.9-inch models share a strikingly similar aesthetic. Both feature sleek aluminum bodies, slim bezels, and the iconic flat-edged design that has become synonymous with the iPad Pro lineup. The overall look and feel remain largely unchanged, ensuring a cohesive design language across generations.

Features and Accessories: Enhancing Your Experience

The Gen 4 iPad Pro 12.9-inch introduces several new features and accessories that further enhance the user experience. These include support for the second-generation Apple Pencil, which magnetically attaches to the side of the tablet for charging and pairing. The Magic Keyboard, with its backlit keys and integrated trackpad, transforms the iPad Pro into a versatile laptop-like device. Additionally, the Gen 4 model features a LiDAR scanner, which enables more accurate augmented reality experiences and improved depth-sensing capabilities.

The Verdict: Choosing the Right iPad Pro 12.9 for You

Ultimately, the decision between the iPad Pro 12.9 Gen 3 and Gen 4 depends on your specific needs, budget, and priorities. If you’re looking for the most powerful and feature-rich iPad Pro experience, with the latest A12Z Bionic chip, ProMotion display, and ultrawide camera, then the Gen 4 is the clear choice. However, if you’re on a tighter budget or prioritize value for money, the Gen 3 remains a compelling option, offering solid performance, a stunning display, and a capable camera system.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Which generation has a better processor?

A: The Gen 4 iPad Pro 12.9-inch features the A12Z Bionic chip, which offers superior performance compared to the A12X Bionic chip in the Gen 3.

Q: Does the Gen 4 have a better display than the Gen 3?

A: Yes, the Gen 4 introduces the ProMotion display with a 120Hz refresh rate, resulting in smoother scrolling and more fluid animations.

Q: Which model has a more versatile camera system?

A: The Gen 4 iPad Pro 12.9-inch features an additional ultrawide camera, allowing for wider shots and more creative photography options.

Q: Is there a significant difference in battery life between the two generations?

A: No, both the Gen 3 and Gen 4 iPad Pro 12.9-inch models offer similar battery life, lasting up to 10 hours of continuous video playback or web browsing on a single charge.

Q: Which generation supports the second-generation Apple Pencil?

A: Only the Gen 4 iPad Pro 12.9-inch supports the second-generation Apple Pencil, which features magnetic charging and pairing.