Ipad Pro Gen 1 Vs. Gen 3: Which Is The Best For You? (unveiling The Winner)
What To Know
- The Gen 1 model, released in 2015, features a traditional aluminum unibody construction with rounded edges, while the Gen 3 model, introduced in 2018, boasts a more modern and angular design with slimmer bezels.
- The iPad Pro Gen 1 offers a respectable battery life of up to 10 hours on a single charge, allowing for a full day of light usage.
- The Gen 1 model remains a capable device for basic tasks and light multitasking, while the Gen 3 model excels in performance, display quality, and overall functionality.
The iPad Pro has undergone significant advancements since its inception, with the Gen 1 and Gen 3 models representing two distinct eras in its evolution. As you navigate the decision-making process between these two generations, it’s crucial to understand their differences to make an informed choice that aligns with your needs and preferences. This comprehensive comparison delves into the key aspects that set the iPad Pro Gen 1 and Gen 3 apart, helping you determine which one is the ideal fit for your unique requirements.
Design and Build Quality: A Tale of Two Eras
The iPad Pro Gen 1 and Gen 3 showcase distinct design philosophies. The Gen 1 model, released in 2015, features a traditional aluminum unibody construction with rounded edges, while the Gen 3 model, introduced in 2018, boasts a more modern and angular design with slimmer bezels. Both generations offer a premium build quality, ensuring durability and longevity.
Display: Retina vs Liquid Retina – A Clash of Technologies
The iPad Pro Gen 1’s display is a 9.7-inch Retina display with a resolution of 2048 x 1536 pixels, delivering crisp and vibrant visuals. The Gen 3 model, however, takes the visual experience to new heights with its 11-inch or 12.9-inch Liquid Retina display, featuring a higher resolution of 2388 x 1668 pixels and a wider color gamut. The Liquid Retina display offers superior image quality, making it ideal for tasks that demand exceptional visual fidelity.
Performance: A Leap Forward in Computing Power
The iPad Pro Gen 1 is powered by the A9X chip, a capable processor that handles everyday tasks and light multitasking with ease. However, the Gen 3 model takes performance to another level with the A12X Bionic chip, delivering up to twice the performance of its predecessor. This significant boost in processing power makes the Gen 3 model ideal for demanding tasks such as video editing, graphic design, and augmented reality applications.
Camera: Capturing Moments with Enhanced Capabilities
The iPad Pro Gen 1 features a modest 12MP rear camera and a 1.2MP front-facing camera, suitable for basic photography and video calls. The Gen 3 model, on the other hand, boasts a more advanced 12MP rear camera with optical image stabilization and a 7MP TrueDepth front-facing camera with Face ID support. These enhancements result in superior image quality and enable features like Portrait mode and Animojis.
Battery Life: Enduring Power for All-Day Use
The iPad Pro Gen 1 offers a respectable battery life of up to 10 hours on a single charge, allowing for a full day of light usage. The Gen 3 model, however, takes battery performance to the next level with up to 10 hours of video playback or web browsing on Wi-Fi and up to 9 hours on cellular data. This extended battery life ensures uninterrupted productivity and entertainment throughout the day.
Accessories: Expanding Functionality and Connectivity
Both the iPad Pro Gen 1 and Gen 3 support the Apple Pencil, a versatile stylus that enhances note-taking, sketching, and digital art creation. The Gen 3 model, however, introduces the second-generation Apple Pencil, which magnetically attaches to the iPad and charges wirelessly. Additionally, the Gen 3 model is compatible with the Smart Keyboard Folio, a keyboard case that provides a comfortable typing experience and protects the iPad.
Software: Navigating the Evolving iPadOS Landscape
The iPad Pro Gen 1 and Gen 3 come pre-installed with different versions of iPadOS, Apple’s operating system designed specifically for iPads. The Gen 1 model initially ran iOS 9, which has since been updated to iPadOS 15.5. The Gen 3 model, on the other hand, runs iPadOS 16, the latest version of the operating system, which offers a host of new features and enhancements. These include improved multitasking, a redesigned home screen, and enhanced Apple Pencil integration.
Final Verdict: Choosing the Ideal iPad Pro for Your Needs
The iPad Pro Gen 1 and Gen 3 represent different eras in the evolution of Apple’s flagship tablet, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. The Gen 1 model remains a capable device for basic tasks and light multitasking, while the Gen 3 model excels in performance, display quality, and overall functionality. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on your individual needs and budget. If you prioritize affordability and basic functionality, the Gen 1 model may suffice. However, if you demand exceptional performance, a stunning display, and the latest features, the Gen 3 model is the clear choice.
Beyond the Comparison: Uncovering Additional Factors
In addition to the key differences discussed above, there are a few other factors to consider when choosing between the iPad Pro Gen 1 and Gen 3:
- Storage Capacity: The iPad Pro Gen 1 is available in 32GB, 128GB, and 256GB storage options, while the Gen 3 model offers 64GB, 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB storage options. Choose the storage capacity that best suits your content needs.
- Cellular Connectivity: Both the Gen 1 and Gen 3 models are available with Wi-Fi only or Wi-Fi + Cellular configurations. If you require internet access on the go, opt for the cellular-enabled model.
- Price: The iPad Pro Gen 1 is no longer available for purchase directly from Apple, but it can be found at discounted prices through third-party retailers. The Gen 3 model, on the other hand, starts at a significantly higher price.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
1. Q: Which iPad Pro generation is better for gaming?
A: The iPad Pro Gen 3 is better for gaming due to its more powerful A12X Bionic chip and Liquid Retina display with higher resolution and wider color gamut.
2. Q: Can I use the Apple Pencil with both the Gen 1 and Gen 3 iPad Pros?
A: Yes, both the Gen 1 and Gen 3 iPad Pros support the Apple Pencil. However, the Gen 3 model supports the second-generation Apple Pencil, which offers additional features and wireless charging.
3. Q: Which iPad Pro model has better battery life?
A: The iPad Pro Gen 3 has better battery life than the Gen 1 model, offering up to 10 hours of video playback or web browsing on Wi-Fi and up to 9 hours on cellular data.
4. Q: Can I upgrade the storage capacity of my iPad Pro?
A: No, the storage capacity of the iPad Pro is not expandable. Therefore, it’s important to choose the storage option that best suits your needs when purchasing the device.
5. Q: Which iPad Pro model is more affordable?
A: The iPad Pro Gen 1 is more affordable than the Gen 3 model. However, it’s worth noting that the Gen 1 model is no longer available for purchase directly from Apple and may be difficult to find at retail stores.
