iPad 7 (2019, A10 series) vs iPad Pro (2018, A12 series)

The iPad 2019, released in September 2019, represents Apple's entry-level tablet offering, designed for general use and educational purposes. In contrast, the iPad Pro 2018, launched in October 2018, was positioned as a high-performance device for creative professionals and power users. While both run on Apple's iPadOS, the Pro model distinguishes itself with a more advanced processor, a superior display, and a modern design, catering to different user needs and workflows.

When considering the longevity of these tablets, several factors come into play, including their release dates, software support, and physical design.

• Release Timeline and Software Support: The iPad Pro 2018, being released slightly earlier in October 2018, will likely receive software updates for a comparable, though potentially slightly shorter, duration than the iPad 2019, which was released in September 2019. Both devices have received consistent iPadOS updates since their launch, with the iPad 2019 shipping with iPadOS 13.1 and the iPad Pro 2018 with iOS 12, both now supporting iPadOS 18.7.7 as of April 2026.
• Practical Lifespan: The iPad Pro 2018's more powerful internal components and advanced features suggest it may handle demanding applications and multitasking effectively for a longer period. The iPad 2019, while capable for everyday tasks, might show its age sooner when faced with future software updates or resource-intensive applications.
• Repairability: The iPad 2019 generally received a low repairability score, often due to the extensive use of adhesives, though its non-laminated display can make screen repairs potentially less costly. The iPad Pro 2018, particularly the 12.9-inch model, incorporated pull-tabs for battery replacement, which can simplify that specific repair, but overall, Pro models are also challenging to repair due to their intricate design.

The performance capabilities of these two iPads vary significantly, primarily due to their differing internal architectures, impacting how they handle various tasks from casual browsing to intensive creative work.

• Processing Power: The iPad Pro 2018 features a more advanced processor, offering a substantial boost in speed and graphical performance compared to the iPad 2019's processor. This translates to smoother operation for demanding applications, faster rendering times for creative projects, and a more fluid experience in graphically intensive games.
• Multitasking and Responsiveness: The iPad Pro 2018 typically comes with more RAM, with some configurations offering up to 6GB, compared to the iPad 2019's 3GB. This additional memory allows the Pro model to handle more applications simultaneously and switch between them with greater ease, reducing the likelihood of apps needing to reload. Users engaging in heavy multitasking or professional workflows will notice a more responsive system on the Pro.
• Storage Options: The iPad Pro 2018 offers a wider range of storage capacities, extending up to 1TB, providing ample space for large files, extensive media libraries, and numerous applications. The iPad 2019 is available with 32GB or 128GB of storage, which is suitable for lighter use but may require more frequent management for users with larger digital footprints.

The visual experience on these two tablets presents a clear distinction, with the iPad Pro 2018 offering several enhancements over the standard iPad 2019.

• Display Technology and Clarity: The iPad Pro 2018 features a Liquid Retina IPS LCD display, available in 11-inch and 12.9-inch sizes, known for its edge-to-edge design and vibrant color reproduction. The iPad 2019 has a 10.2-inch Retina IPS LCD display. Both offer a pixel density of 264 ppi, ensuring sharp text and images.
• Refresh Rate and Smoothness: A key differentiator is the iPad Pro 2018's ProMotion technology, which provides an adaptive refresh rate up to 120Hz. This results in noticeably smoother scrolling, more responsive touch input, and a more fluid visual experience, especially during fast-paced content or drawing with the Apple Pencil. The iPad 2019 maintains a standard 60Hz refresh rate.
• Display Construction and Brightness: The iPad Pro 2018 benefits from a laminated display, where the cover glass is fused directly to the LCD panel, reducing reflections and making content appear closer to the surface. It also offers higher peak brightness and supports a wider P3 color gamut for more accurate and vibrant colors. The iPad 2019 has a non-laminated display, which can result in a slight air gap between the glass and the screen, and a less bright display.

While tablets are not typically primary photography devices, both models offer camera systems suitable for various tasks, with the iPad Pro 2018 providing more advanced capabilities.

• Rear Camera System: The iPad Pro 2018 is equipped with a 12MP rear camera with a wider aperture, capable of recording 4K video at up to 60 frames per second. This allows for more detailed photos and higher quality video capture. The iPad 2019 features an 8MP rear camera, suitable for document scanning and casual photography, recording 1080p video at 30 frames per second.
• Front Camera and Biometrics: The iPad Pro 2018 includes a 7MP TrueDepth front camera, enabling Face ID for secure authentication, as well as Portrait mode and Animoji features. The iPad 2019 has a 1.2MP FaceTime HD front camera, primarily for video calls, and relies on Touch ID for biometric security.
• Audio Recording and Playback: The iPad Pro 2018 features a four-speaker audio system, delivering a more immersive stereo sound experience, particularly when held in landscape orientation. It lacks a 3.5mm headphone jack. The iPad 2019 has bottom-firing stereo speakers and retains a 3.5mm headphone jack. The Pro model also includes five microphones for improved audio capture compared to the iPad 2019's dual microphones.