iPad Pro Question for artists: M1 to M4 worth it?

[Macmamamac]

I’m currently using an M1 iPad Pro 12.9” and thinking about upgrading to the new M4 model. I use the m1 everyday for my freelance work - apps like Procreate, Clip Studio, and Adobe Fresco. I also do some video editing from time to time.

The three major upgrades – the M4 chip, OLED screen, and the new Apple Pencil Pro – have me wondering if it’s worth making the switch. For those who’ve upgraded or are familiar with these changes, how have they impacted your experience with content creation? Has the M4 chip significantly boosted performance in apps, especially when multitasking or working with large files? Is the OLED screen noticeably better for things like colour accuracy and brightness? And what are your thoughts on the new Apple Pencil Pro – does it add enough to the drawing experience to make the upgrade worthwhile?

I’d love to hear your real-world opinions and experiences.

Thanks in advance!

 

[Zwhaler]

I would wait for next gen. (11" M4 owner here)

 

[Soccerrick10]

I'm running the M4 13" side by side with my M1 12.9". I wasn't planning to upgrade to the M4 just yet. But, my wife surprised me with the M4 for my birthday.

Like you, my 12.9" is my everyday, everything device. I do use a Mac mini as a print server. Otherwise, I've run my business exclusively with my iPad for more than 5 years now. I am now retired but still use my iPad for my part time photography business. I don't do video, but the iPad is a dream for editing photos.

I've only been using them together for a couple of weeks. But, almost every time, I go to the M4 because of the weight and the screen is incredible. The new pencil capabilities really are fantastic. I'd say, if it's not a stretch financially, go for it. There would be no real down side to waiting. So, keeping it is also a strong decision. If I didn't get it as a gift, I probably would have waited. Having it now, I'm really glad I do.

Not sure this really helps your decision. But, I know I'm not returning mine...

 

[FreakinEurekan]

Not an artist, but holding the M4 iPad vs the M1 is a TOTALLY different experience - M4 is noticeably thinner and feels GREAT in the hands. The display is significantly better too - and the M1 was no slouch!

I wouldn't say M1 to M4 is a "Night and day" kind of improvement... but it IS noticeable. Whether it's worth the cost is between you and your accountant

 

[ctjack]

Not an artist nor ipad user.

But as a m1 air laptop user, thrilled to see new m4 air because it is 2x times faster in cpu speeds.

 

[teohyc]

You'll just be spending money to do the same things your M1 iPad Pro already can.

Unless you really need the new features from Apple Pencil Pro.

 

[Adamj53]

Worth it for the OLED screen IMO.

 

[teohyc]

Worth it for the OLED screen IMO.

I only bought into OLED because of the extra brightness that is needed for me to work in very bright environment. If they had used a 500 nits OLED, I won't upgrade either.

 

[ProbablyDylan]

The new pencil is nice. Squeezing is so much more intuitive than trying to get the double tap to register. On top of that, the screen is downright gorgeous.

 

[Macmamamac]

I would wait for next gen. (11" M4 owner here)

Can you elaborate? Did you use the m1 before you upgraded?

 

[Moi Ici]

I’ve gone from 2018 iPad Pro 11 to m4 iPad Pro 11 and I’m absolutely delighted. The screen is a joy. It is an amazing machine. Zero regrets.

 

[aevan]

I’m currently using an M1 iPad Pro 12.9” and thinking about upgrading to the new M4 model. I use the m1 everyday for my freelance work - apps like Procreate, Clip Studio, and Adobe Fresco. I also do some video editing from time to time.

The three major upgrades – the M4 chip, OLED screen, and the new Apple Pencil Pro – have me wondering if it’s worth making the switch. For those who’ve upgraded or are familiar with these changes, how have they impacted your experience with content creation? Has the M4 chip significantly boosted performance in apps, especially when multitasking or working with large files? Is the OLED screen noticeably better for things like colour accuracy and brightness? And what are your thoughts on the new Apple Pencil Pro – does it add enough to the drawing experience to make the upgrade worthwhile?

I’d love to hear your real-world opinions and experiences.

Thanks in advance!

- Performance-wise, it’s faster but you won’t really notice it in drawing apps or regular use.
- Screen on M4 is better, but not as much as you might think, as M1 has an excellent Mini LED screen.
- The M4 is lighter and feels nicer.

For an artist, the biggest difference will be in the Pencil, as Hover (not present on M1 iPad Pro) is really great, and depending on your style and brushes, barrel roll is quite nice. So is the squeeze gesture.

None of these things might be worth the price on their own, but combined, they do make a compelling upgrade. Still, nothing dramatic. I jumped from M1 to M4 and love it, but M1 is still really good. On the other hand, I think the M4 is a really good generation to buy if you can.