Ipad Pro Gen 3 Vs. Gen 4: Which Should You Buy?

The iPad Pro series, renowned for its cutting-edge technology and versatile functionality, has witnessed significant advancements over the years. The third and fourth generations of the iPad Pro, released in 2018 and 2020 respectively, showcase remarkable improvements in various aspects. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the intricacies of the iPad Pro Gen 3 vs Gen 4, exploring their key differences in design, display, performance, camera capabilities, battery life, and more.

Design: Sleek Elegance Meets Refined Functionality

At first glance, the iPad Pro Gen 3 and Gen 4 exude an air of sophistication with their sleek and minimalist designs. Both iterations feature a premium aluminum unibody construction, ensuring durability and a luxurious feel. However, the Gen 4 introduces a subtle yet significant design change: the removal of the headphone jack. This decision, while potentially inconvenient for some users, aligns with Apple’s broader shift towards wireless connectivity.

Display: Liquid Retina XDR Redefines Visual Fidelity

The display is a crucial element that sets the iPad Pro apart from its competitors. The Gen 3 boasts a stunning Liquid Retina display with a resolution of 2732 x 2048 pixels and a pixel density of 264 pixels per inch (ppi). While impressive in its own right, the Gen 4 takes visual fidelity to new heights with its Liquid Retina XDR display. Featuring a resolution of 2732 x 2048 pixels and a pixel density of 264 ppi, the Gen 4’s display delivers exceptional clarity, vibrant colors, and deep blacks. Additionally, the Gen 4’s display supports ProMotion technology, enabling refresh rates of up to 120Hz for smoother scrolling and animations.

Performance: A Quantum Leap in Processing Power

The iPad Pro Gen 3 and Gen 4 are equipped with powerful processors that handle demanding tasks with ease. The Gen 3 features the Apple A12X Bionic chip, which offers significant improvements over its predecessor. However, the Gen 4 takes performance to another level with the Apple A12Z Bionic chip. This cutting-edge processor boasts an 8-core CPU and an 8-core GPU, delivering remarkable speed and responsiveness. Whether you’re editing videos, creating graphics, or playing immersive games, the Gen 4’s superior processing power ensures a seamless and lag-free experience.

Camera: Capturing Moments with Enhanced Versatility

The iPad Pro Gen 3 and Gen 4 feature capable camera systems, allowing users to capture stunning photos and videos. Both generations sport a 12-megapixel rear camera with features like autofocus, optical image stabilization, and 4K video recording. The Gen 4, however, introduces a notable upgrade in the form of a LiDAR scanner. This innovative technology enables faster and more accurate autofocus, improved depth sensing for portrait mode, and enhanced augmented reality (AR) experiences.

Battery Life: Enduring Power for All-Day Productivity

Battery life is a crucial factor for mobile devices, especially for professionals who rely on their iPads for extended periods. The iPad Pro Gen 3 offers impressive battery life, lasting up to 10 hours on a single charge. The Gen 4 matches this exceptional endurance, delivering up to 10 hours of battery life. Both generations support fast charging, allowing users to quickly replenish the battery when needed.

Software: Navigating the iPadOS Ecosystem

The iPad Pro Gen 3 and Gen 4 run on the latest iPadOS, Apple’s operating system specifically designed for tablets. iPadOS offers a range of features and functionalities tailored to the larger screen and unique capabilities of the iPad. With iPadOS, users can multitask with multiple apps simultaneously, take advantage of the Apple Pencil’s advanced capabilities, and enjoy a host of productivity and creativity apps.

Which iPad Pro is Right for You?

The decision between the iPad Pro Gen 3 and Gen 4 ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize affordability and are content with a slightly older design, the Gen 3 remains a compelling option. However, if you seek the latest and greatest in terms of performance, display technology, and camera capabilities, the Gen 4 is the clear choice.

Final Note: Embracing the Future of Tablet Computing

The iPad Pro Gen 3 and Gen 4 represent significant milestones in the evolution of tablet technology. While the Gen 3 offers a solid foundation of features and performance, the Gen 4 pushes the boundaries with its cutting-edge display, enhanced processing power, and versatile camera system. Ultimately, the choice between these two remarkable devices hinges on your specific requirements and budget.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

Q: Which iPad Pro generation has the better display?
A: The Gen 4 features a Liquid Retina XDR display with improved clarity, vibrant colors, and deeper blacks compared to the Gen 3’s Liquid Retina display. Additionally, the Gen 4’s display supports ProMotion technology for smoother scrolling and animations.

Q: How does the performance of the Gen 3 compare to the Gen 4?
A: The Gen 4 boasts superior performance thanks to its Apple A12Z Bionic chip, which offers an 8-core CPU and an 8-core GPU. This results in faster processing speeds and improved responsiveness, making the Gen 4 ideal for demanding tasks like video editing, graphic design, and gaming.

Q: Does the Gen 4 have a better camera system than the Gen 3?
A: Yes, the Gen 4 features an enhanced camera system with a LiDAR scanner. This technology enables faster and more accurate autofocus, improved depth sensing for portrait mode, and enhanced AR experiences.