iPad Air 3 (2019, A12 series) vs iPad Pro (2020, A12 series)

The iPad Air (3rd generation), released in 2019, and the iPad Pro (4th generation), launched in 2020, are both Apple tablets designed for different user needs. While they share the same operating system, iPadOS, and a familiar design language, the iPad Pro 2020 introduces several advanced features that differentiate it from the iPad Air 2019, including a more sophisticated display, an enhanced camera system, and a versatile USB-C port.

When considering the longevity of these devices, their release timelines and software support are key factors. The iPad Pro 2020, being a year newer, is likely to receive major iPadOS updates for a slightly longer period than the iPad Air 2019.

• Release Timeline: The iPad Air 2019 was released in March 2019, while the iPad Pro 2020 followed in March 2020. This one-year difference means the Pro model will generally benefit from an additional year of software support.
• Software Longevity: Both devices are built to last, offering several years of reliable performance. However, the iPad Pro 2020's newer hardware and more advanced features may keep it relevant for demanding tasks for a longer duration, potentially extending its practical lifespan for users who push their devices.
• Repairability: Both iPad models generally offer similar repairability profiles within the tablet category. While specific component replacements can vary, neither device is designed for easy user-level repairs.

The performance capabilities of these two iPads are a significant differentiator, particularly for users with demanding workflows. The iPad Pro 2020 offers notable enhancements in processing power and memory.

• Processor Capabilities: The iPad Air 2019 is equipped with the A12 Bionic chip, which provides smooth performance for everyday tasks, media consumption, and many productivity applications. The iPad Pro 2020 features the A12Z Bionic chip, an enhanced version of the A12 Bionic, which includes an additional GPU core. This translates to improved graphics performance, making the Pro model better suited for graphically intensive applications, advanced gaming, and professional creative work.
• Multitasking and Responsiveness: The iPad Air 2019 comes with 3GB of RAM, which is sufficient for general multitasking. In contrast, all configurations of the iPad Pro 2020 include 6GB of RAM, providing a more substantial buffer for running multiple demanding applications simultaneously and reducing app reloading, leading to a smoother overall user experience for heavy multitaskers.
• Storage Options: The iPad Air 2019 is available with up to 256GB of internal storage. The iPad Pro 2020 offers more generous storage options, starting at 128GB and going up to 1TB, catering to users who require extensive space for large files, projects, and media.

The display is a central component of any tablet, and both models offer high-quality viewing experiences, though the iPad Pro 2020 introduces a key advancement.

• Display Technology and Clarity: Both iPads feature a Liquid Retina IPS LCD display with True Tone and P3 wide color support, ensuring accurate colors and comfortable viewing. The iPad Air 2019 has a 10.5-inch display with a resolution of 2224 x 1668 pixels, resulting in a clear visual experience. The iPad Pro 2020 is available in 11-inch (2388 x 1668 pixels) and 12.9-inch (2732 x 2048 pixels) sizes, offering slightly larger viewing areas and comparable pixel density.
• Refresh Rate: A notable difference lies in the refresh rate. The iPad Air 2019 features a standard 60Hz refresh rate. The iPad Pro 2020, however, includes ProMotion technology, which provides an adaptive refresh rate up to 120Hz. This results in smoother scrolling, more fluid animations, and a more responsive feel, particularly noticeable during fast-paced content or when using the Apple Pencil.
• Brightness: The iPad Air 2019 offers a maximum brightness of 500 nits. The iPad Pro 2020 provides a slightly higher peak brightness of 600 nits, which can be beneficial for outdoor use or in brightly lit environments.

While tablets are not typically primary photography devices, their camera systems are increasingly important for video calls, document scanning, and augmented reality applications. The iPad Pro 2020 offers a more comprehensive camera setup.

• Rear Camera System: The iPad Air 2019 features a single 8-megapixel rear camera capable of recording 1080p HD video. The iPad Pro 2020 significantly upgrades this with a dual-camera system, including a 12-megapixel wide lens and a 10-megapixel ultra-wide lens, alongside a LiDAR Scanner. This allows for more versatile photography, including wider shots, and enables 4K video recording.
• Front Camera and Biometrics: Both models include a 7-megapixel front-facing camera suitable for video calls. However, the iPad Air 2019 uses Touch ID for secure authentication, while the iPad Pro 2020 incorporates a TrueDepth camera system for Face ID, allowing for facial recognition and advanced features like Animoji and Memoji.
• Audio Experience: The iPad Air 2019 is equipped with stereo speakers. The iPad Pro 2020 enhances the audio experience with a four-speaker audio system, providing a more immersive sound for media consumption and video conferencing.