iPad Pro (2021, M1 series) vs iPad Pro (2024, M4 series)

The iPad Pro 2021 M1 Series and the iPad Pro 2024 M4 Series represent significant advancements in Apple's tablet lineup, each bringing powerful capabilities to users. Released in May 2021, the M1 models introduced a desktop-class processor to the iPad, while the M4 series, launched in May 2024, further refines performance and display technology. Both devices operate on iPadOS, offering a consistent software experience, but the M4 generation features notable upgrades in processing power and screen quality.

When considering the longevity of these devices, several factors come into play, including software support and physical durability.

• Release Timeline and OS Support: The iPad Pro M1 series was released in May 2021, while the iPad Pro M4 series followed in May 2024. This three-year difference means the M4 models are expected to receive software updates for a longer period, potentially extending their functional lifespan by several years compared to the M1 series. The M4 launched with iPadOS 17.4 and has since received iPadOS 26.4.1, indicating ongoing support. [1, 2, 3, 10, 21, 28, 39]
• Repairability: Both generations of iPad Pro present challenges for repair due to their construction. The M4 iPad Pro, despite its thinner design, has shown some improvements in battery accessibility, which can save time during repairs. However, the delicate nature of the display and the use of adhesives in both models contribute to a generally low repairability score, making professional repair often necessary. [8, 26, 36, 41, 42]
• Practical Lifespan: Users can expect both devices to perform well for several years. The M4's newer processor and extended software support suggest it will remain capable of handling demanding tasks and the latest applications for a longer duration. The M1 models, while still powerful, will gradually see their software support diminish sooner.

The core performance of these iPad Pro models is driven by their respective processors, influencing everything from app responsiveness to handling intensive tasks.

• Processor Capabilities: The iPad Pro M1 series brought a significant leap in performance, enabling smooth multitasking and efficient handling of professional applications. The M4 iPad Pro, however, introduces a next-generation processor that offers further enhancements in speed and efficiency. This translates to even faster app loading, more fluid multitasking, and improved performance in graphically demanding applications and complex workflows. [1, 2, 16, 17, 19, 25, 29, 35]
• Storage and RAM: Both generations offer a range of storage options up to 2TB. The M1 iPad Pro comes with either 8GB or 16GB of RAM, depending on the storage configuration. The M4 iPad Pro also offers 8GB of RAM for lower storage tiers (256GB, 512GB) and 16GB for higher tiers (1TB, 2TB), providing ample memory for intensive professional use. [1, 4, 10, 14, 16, 17, 19, 20, 25, 28, 29, 33]
• Battery Behavior: Both the M1 and M4 iPad Pro models are designed to deliver approximately 10 hours of battery life during typical use, such as web browsing or video consumption. The M4's processor is engineered for greater power efficiency, which helps maintain this battery life despite its enhanced performance. [37, 41]

The visual experience is a key differentiator, with both models offering high-quality displays, but with distinct underlying technologies.

• Display Technology: The 12.9-inch iPad Pro M1 features a Liquid Retina XDR display with Mini-LED technology, providing excellent contrast and brightness. The 11-inch M1 model uses a Liquid Retina LCD display. In contrast, both the 11-inch and 13-inch iPad Pro M4 models feature a new Ultra Retina XDR display with Tandem OLED technology. This advanced OLED display offers individual pixel control for deeper blacks and more precise color representation. [1, 4, 5, 6, 11, 12, 14, 18, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 33, 34, 35, 37]
• Brightness and Clarity: The 12.9-inch M1 iPad Pro achieves a peak HDR brightness of 1600 nits and 600 nits for SDR content. The M4 iPad Pro, with its Tandem OLED, matches the 1600 nits peak HDR brightness and significantly boosts SDR brightness to 1000 nits across the entire screen, offering a brighter viewing experience in various lighting conditions. Both displays maintain a high pixel density for sharp visuals. [4, 5, 6, 11, 14, 27, 30, 33, 34, 35, 37]
• Refresh Rate and Viewing Experience: Both generations incorporate ProMotion technology, offering adaptive refresh rates up to 120Hz for smooth scrolling and responsive interactions. The M4's OLED display also boasts an ultra-low reflectivity option on higher storage models, further enhancing the viewing experience in bright environments. [4, 11, 29, 33, 35]

The camera systems on both iPad Pro models are designed for versatility, catering to video calls, document scanning, and augmented reality applications.

• Rear Camera System: The iPad Pro M1 series features a dual-camera setup on the rear, including a 12MP Wide camera and a 10MP Ultra-Wide camera, alongside a LiDAR scanner for enhanced depth sensing. The M4 iPad Pro simplifies this to a single 12MP Wide camera, retaining the LiDAR scanner and adding an Adaptive True Tone flash. While the M4 removes the ultra-wide rear lens, its improved image processing capabilities contribute to overall photo quality. [1, 2, 4, 7, 9, 14, 15, 22, 28, 29, 33, 38]
• Front Camera and Video Calls: Both models feature a 12MP Ultra-Wide front-facing camera with Center Stage, which automatically adjusts the camera view to keep subjects centered during video calls. The M4 iPad Pro repositions this camera to the landscape edge, optimizing it for video conferencing when the tablet is used with a keyboard. [1, 4, 7, 15, 22, 24, 28, 33, 38, 40]
• Video Recording Quality: Both generations are capable of recording high-quality video, with the M4 benefiting from its more advanced processor for potentially improved video processing and features.