iPad 7 (2019, A10 series) vs iPad Pro (2020, A12 series)

The iPad 2019 (7th generation) and the iPad Pro 2020 represent distinct tiers within Apple's tablet lineup, released in September 2019 and March 2020, respectively. While both devices operate on iPadOS, offering a consistent software experience, they cater to different user needs through their hardware capabilities. The iPad 2019 serves as a versatile entry-level tablet, whereas the iPad Pro 2020 is designed for more demanding tasks, featuring a more advanced display, a significantly more powerful internal processor, and a sophisticated camera system. These core differences influence their suitability for various applications, from casual browsing to professional creative work.

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

• Release Timeline: The iPad 2019 was released in September 2019, while the iPad Pro 2020 followed in March 2020. This approximately six-month difference means the iPad Pro 2020 will likely receive software updates for a slightly longer period.
• Software Longevity: Apple typically provides 5-6 years of major iPadOS updates for its devices. Given its later release, the iPad Pro 2020 is expected to maintain software compatibility and receive security updates for about one year longer than the iPad 2019. The iPad 2019, with its A10 Fusion chip, might see its software support end sooner than devices with more recent processors.
• Repairability: Both models present challenges for repair due to Apple's construction methods, which often involve strong adhesives. The iPad 2019 received a low repairability score, partly because battery replacement can damage the LCD panel. The iPad Pro 2020 also scored low in repairability, with iFixit giving it a 3 out of 10, noting the complicated disassembly process and extensive use of adhesive. This suggests that repairs for both devices can be difficult and potentially costly.

The performance of these two iPads varies significantly, primarily due to their internal components, impacting how they handle demanding applications and multitasking.

• Processing Power: The iPad 2019 is equipped with a processor that handles everyday tasks, web browsing, and light gaming smoothly. It is capable of running rigorous apps and light video editing. The iPad Pro 2020, however, features a substantially more powerful processor designed for intensive tasks like 4K video editing, high-end mobile gaming, and professional applications. Users will experience faster app loading and smoother performance in demanding scenarios.
• Multitasking and Responsiveness: The iPad 2019 comes with 3GB of RAM, which allows for decent multitasking, enabling users to keep several apps open and utilize split-screen mode effectively. The iPad Pro 2020, with 6GB of RAM across all storage configurations, offers a more fluid multitasking experience, allowing for more applications to run simultaneously without slowdowns. This increased RAM, combined with its powerful processor, contributes to a more responsive overall system, especially when switching between heavy applications.
• Battery Behavior: Both devices are rated for approximately 10 hours of web surfing or video playback on a single charge. However, real-world usage can vary. The iPad 2019 generally provides a full day of use for typical activities, with standby time being particularly efficient. The iPad Pro 2020 also offers strong endurance, though demanding tasks like gaming or using power-intensive accessories can drain the battery faster.

The display is a key area of differentiation, with the iPad Pro 2020 offering a more advanced visual experience compared to the iPad 2019.

• Display Technology and Clarity: The iPad 2019 features a 10.2-inch Retina IPS LCD display with a resolution of 2160 x 1620 pixels, providing clear and vibrant visuals for general use. The iPad Pro 2020 comes in 11-inch and 12.9-inch Liquid Retina IPS LCD options, both offering higher resolutions (2388 x 1668 for 11-inch, 2732 x 2048 for 12.9-inch) and enhanced clarity. The Liquid Retina display on the Pro models also features a fully laminated design, reducing the gap between the glass and the display panel, which can improve the visual experience and reduce reflections.
• Brightness and Color: The iPad 2019 offers a maximum brightness of 500 nits. The iPad Pro 2020 models provide a higher peak brightness of 600 nits, which can be beneficial for outdoor use and viewing HDR content. The Pro models also support Wide Color (P3) and True Tone technology, which automatically adjusts the display's color temperature to match ambient light, offering more accurate and comfortable viewing.
• Refresh Rate: A significant difference is the refresh rate. The iPad 2019 has a standard 60Hz refresh rate. The iPad Pro 2020 features ProMotion technology, allowing for an adaptive refresh rate up to 120Hz. This results in noticeably smoother scrolling, more fluid animations, and reduced latency when using the Apple Pencil, enhancing the overall interactive experience.

The camera systems on these two iPads are designed for different purposes, with the iPad Pro 2020 offering a more comprehensive and advanced setup.

• Rear Camera System: The iPad 2019 has a single 8MP rear camera, suitable for document scanning, augmented reality (AR) applications, and casual photography. It records 1080p video at 30fps. The iPad Pro 2020 features a dual-camera system on the rear, including a 12MP wide lens and a 10MP ultra-wide lens, along with a LiDAR scanner. This setup allows for more versatile photography, including wider shots and improved AR experiences due to the LiDAR scanner's depth-sensing capabilities. It can record 4K video at up to 60fps.
• Front Camera Performance: For video calls and selfies, the iPad 2019 includes a 1.2MP front-facing camera that records 720p video. While functional for basic video conferencing, it may show noise in low-light conditions. The iPad Pro 2020 has a 7MP TrueDepth front camera, which supports Portrait mode (software-created) and records 1080p video at 30/60fps, providing clearer images and better video call quality.
• Audio Experience: The iPad 2019 features stereo speakers, which provide adequate sound for media consumption. The iPad Pro 2020 enhances the audio experience with a quad-speaker setup that adjusts sound based on device orientation, delivering richer and more immersive sound, particularly beneficial for watching movies and playing games.