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2021 M1 iPad Pro vs. 2020 iPad Pro: Is It Worth Upgrading?

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In our latest YouTube video, MacRumors videographer Dan goes hands-on with the new 12.9-inch 2021 M1 iPad Pro and compares it to the 2020 12.9-inch iPad Pro to answer the question "Is it worth upgrading?"


Compared to the 2020 iPad Pro, the 2021 model features an upgraded M1 chip that's faster, a new Center Stage option powered by an Ultra Wide front-facing camera, a much improved mini-LED display that has much better contrast and blacker blacks, and a Thunderbolt port that improves connectivity with peripherals.

Make sure to check out the video to see what Dan thought and whether it's worth upgrading at this point in time, and watch to the end to see a Magic Keyboard comparison.

For a full rundown on all of the differences between the 2020 and the 2021 iPad Pro models, we have an in-depth iPad Pro Buyer's Guide that's designed to help you decide whether to make a purchase, plus there's also a version that compares the 2021 iPad Pro to the more affordable iPad Air.

Article Link: 2021 M1 iPad Pro vs. 2020 iPad Pro: Is It Worth Upgrading?
 
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https://www.macrumors.com/2021/05/28/2021-m1-ipad-pro-2020-ipad-pro-comparison/
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No, it's not worth upgrading!

Edit: I have never owned an iPad but I feel compelled to share my wisdom.

Edit #2: On second thoughts, as an $AAPL shareholder, I strongly recommend you upgrade.

Edit #3: And if you don't own an iPad, there's never been a better time to get one.

Edit #4: This should not be construed as medical, legal, or financial advice.

Edit #5: Struck out the original recommendation to avoid confusion.
 
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This whole topic is something that is completely subjective. It is all in what you are using your machines for and the work that is being produced. In my line of work, I find the new 2021 to be a machine that is something that I can be productive on. I could also be productive on my 2020 device, but now I have a better looking screen along with 5G technology built in. For me, it was worth it, too, because of having a tech budget built into my job position. If I don’t use it each year, I lose it. Simple as that.
 
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Looked good until zoomed in...

bloom.png
 
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MacRumors said:


In our latest YouTube video, MacRumors videographer Dan goes hands-on with the new 12.9-inch 2021 M1 iPad Pro and compares it to the 2020 12.9-inch iPad Pro to answer the question "Is it worth upgrading?"


Compared to the 2020 iPad Pro, the 2021 model features an upgraded M1 chip that's faster, a new Center Stage option powered by an Ultra Wide front-facing camera, a much improved mini-LED display that has much better contrast and blacker blacks, and a Thunderbolt port that improves connectivity with peripherals.

Make sure to check out the video to see what Dan thought and whether it's worth upgrading at this point in time, and watch to the end to see a Magic Keyboard comparison.

For a full rundown on all of the differences between the 2020 and the 2021 iPad Pro models, we have an in-depth iPad Pro Buyer's Guide that's designed to help you decide whether to make a purchase, plus there's also a version that compares the 2021 iPad Pro to the more affordable iPad Air.

Article Link: 2021 M1 iPad Pro vs. 2020 iPad Pro: Is It Worth Upgrading?
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I got ipad mini 2.. I ordered the new one and i am getting it tomorrow or Monday.. after watching the video i have doubts if it's worth it.. should wait for 1-2 years.. :rolleyes:
 
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I upgraded from a 2018 and it was for sure worth it just for the display, especially if you use your iPad to watch movies in bed often. My 2018 sees daily usage and the battery is starting to let go, my AC+ was done, as well as just general wear and tear. Given how much value I get out of it daily, I could easily justify upgrading.

I still prefer my X900H for movies just due to size, but this is like 99% of the way there and infinitely more portable.
 
I upgraded my 2017 iPP 10.5 to a 2021 iPP 11. Has it changed my electronic life? Not much. But it is faster, and the Logitech Combo Touch keyboard is pretty fly. (It would be great if Logitech would sell a non-keyboard cover that could be substituted for the heavier keyboard when on the go.)
 
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deebinem said:
Wisest fawking comment I've heard in this threads for the past 3 weeks...

Seriously people, if you have the chance, go see them in person and make a decision based on your needs.
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Thank you for this. The fact of the matter is that we cannot assume what someone else needs or wants based on what we assume their position in life is all about. If someone asks for help or assistance or advice, this is one thing, but ASSUMING we know what is best for someone else is just flat out asinine.
 
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If my iPad was getting enough use that I could notice lag, and issue with multitasking... maybe time for an upgrade if I use the device that much? But really, I get this underlying feeling that iPadOS holds iPads back if processing power is no longer a limitation. Let's see what is brought to the table with the M1 in a week and a half, with iPadOS 15 revealed.
 
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Yes, the topic is subjective. However, basic comparisons can still be made with the understanding being made about which type of work flow may or may not benefit. Even then, there are exceptions. I believe that this is the kind of thing Dan was doing with the video. The video isn't meant to be a definitive answer but, a general litmus test that gives the general viewer an idea of what to expect and look for.

Even seeing the iPad Pro in person at the Apple Store may not be as accurate a test as purchasing and making use of the 14 day return window. Lighting at the Apple Store is a different world than at home, not to mention you won't be able to truly test the iPad Pro with some or many of the apps you may use on a daily basis.
 
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dannyyankou said:
Short answer: If you have an 11 inch 2020 iPad Pro, absolutely not. If you have a 12.9 inch 2020 iPad Pro, maybe. If you have a 12.9 inch 2018 iPad Pro, definitely.
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I don’t know about that (bolded). Certainly pre 2018, upgrade is well worth it. After 2018, yeah sure the new ones are better and upgrade if you can, but certainly not definitely. They still speed along like rockets.
 
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cupcakes2000 said:
I don’t know about that (bolded). Certainly pre 2018, upgrade is well worth it. After 2018, yeah sure the new ones are better and upgrade if you can, but certainly not definitely. They still speed along like rockets.
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Writing this on a 2018 12.9 which is still lightning fast, with a decent screen and all-day battery (despite daily use). Not even slightly tempted right now. Perhaps iPadOS will change things in the summer but I doubt it. There’s nothing I can find that really tests the 2018 hardware still.
 
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