iPad 5 (2017, A9 series) vs iPad Pro (2020, A12 series)

The iPad 2017, also known as the 5th generation iPad, was released in March 2017 as a more accessible tablet option. In contrast, the iPad Pro 2020, launched in March 2020, represents Apple's professional-grade tablet line, offering enhanced capabilities. Both devices operate on Apple's iPadOS, providing a consistent software experience, but they differ significantly in their hardware and intended use cases, particularly concerning performance, display technology, and accessory support.

When considering the longevity of these tablets, their release dates and subsequent software support are key factors. The iPad 2017 is an older model, having been released in March 2017, while the iPad Pro 2020 was introduced three years later in March 2020.

• Software Updates: The iPad 2017 shipped with iOS 10.3.2 and is upgradeable to iPadOS 16.7.2, indicating a substantial period of software support. The iPad Pro 2020, starting with iPadOS 13.4, is expected to receive software updates for a longer duration due to its newer release, extending its practical lifespan for modern applications.
• Expected Lifespan: Users can anticipate the iPad Pro 2020 to remain fully functional and supported for a longer period, making it a more future-proof option for those who keep their devices for many years. The iPad 2017, while still capable for basic tasks, is closer to the end of its major software update cycle.
• Repairability: Both models present challenges for repair. The iPad 2017 received a low repairability score of 2 out of 10 from iFixit, largely due to extensive use of adhesive for components like the front panel and battery. The iPad Pro 2020 also scored low, at 3 out of 10, with similar difficulties in disassembly and component replacement, including a strongly glued screen. This suggests that professional repair services are generally required for both devices.

The performance capabilities of these two iPads show a notable difference, primarily due to the generational gap in their internal processing hardware. This impacts how smoothly they handle various tasks, from everyday browsing to demanding creative applications.

• Processing Power: The iPad 2017 is equipped with an A9 chip, which provides sufficient power for general use, web browsing, and light productivity. The iPad Pro 2020 features the A12Z Bionic chip, offering significantly enhanced processing and graphics performance. This allows the Pro model to handle intensive applications, advanced gaming, and professional-grade creative work with greater ease.
• Multitasking and Responsiveness: With 2GB of RAM, the iPad 2017 can manage basic multitasking, but may experience slowdowns with multiple demanding apps open. The iPad Pro 2020, with 6GB of RAM, provides a much smoother multitasking experience, allowing users to switch between applications and run complex workflows without noticeable lag.
• Storage Options: The iPad 2017 was available with 32GB or 128GB of internal storage. The iPad Pro 2020 offers a wider range of storage configurations, starting from 128GB and going up to 1TB, catering to users with extensive storage needs for large files, apps, and media.
• Battery Behavior: Both devices are designed to offer up to 10 hours of web surfing or video playback on Wi-Fi. However, the more powerful components in the iPad Pro 2020 might lead to faster battery drain during intensive tasks compared to the iPad 2017.

The visual experience on these two iPads presents a clear distinction, primarily due to advancements in display technology and features introduced in the Pro line.

• Display Technology and Clarity: The iPad 2017 features a 9.7-inch IPS LCD Retina display with a resolution of 2048x1536 pixels, offering clear visuals for everyday content. The iPad Pro 2020, available in 11-inch and 12.9-inch models, boasts a Liquid Retina IPS display with a resolution of 2388x1668 pixels for the 11-inch model, providing a sharper and more vibrant viewing experience.
• Advanced Display Features: A key differentiator is the iPad Pro 2020's ProMotion technology, which enables an adaptive refresh rate up to 120Hz for smoother scrolling and more responsive interactions, a feature absent in the iPad 2017. The Pro model also includes Wide Color (P3) and True Tone technology for more accurate and adaptable color representation, along with an anti-reflective coating and a fully laminated display, which reduces glare and improves outdoor visibility compared to the iPad 2017's non-laminated screen.
• Brightness: The iPad Pro 2020 offers a higher peak brightness of 600 nits, making it more comfortable to use in brightly lit environments or outdoors. The iPad 2017's display is bright, but does not reach the same peak brightness levels.

The camera systems on the iPad 2017 and iPad Pro 2020 cater to different user expectations, with the Pro model offering a significantly more advanced setup for photography, video, and augmented reality applications.

• Rear Camera System: The iPad 2017 features a single 8-megapixel rear camera capable of capturing decent photos and 1080p video. The iPad Pro 2020 introduces a dual-camera system on the rear, comprising a 12-megapixel Wide camera and a 10-megapixel Ultra-Wide camera, providing greater versatility for different photographic scenarios.
• LiDAR Scanner and Video Capabilities: A notable addition to the iPad Pro 2020 is the LiDAR Scanner, which enhances augmented reality (AR) experiences by accurately measuring depth and distance. The Pro model also supports 4K video recording at up to 60 frames per second, a significant upgrade from the iPad 2017's 1080p video.
• Front Camera and Audio: For video calls and selfies, the iPad 2017 has a 1.2-megapixel FaceTime HD camera. The iPad Pro 2020 features a 7-megapixel TrueDepth front camera, which also enables Face ID for secure authentication. The Pro model also includes a four-speaker audio system for a more immersive media consumption experience, compared to the iPad 2017's stereo speakers.