IPad Pro 11-inch (2018) Vs. (2019): Which One To Grab?
Hey guys! So, you're eyeing an iPad Pro 11-inch, huh? Awesome choice! These tablets are total powerhouses, perfect for everything from drawing and designing to streaming your favorite shows. But with the 2018 and 2019 models floating around, you might be scratching your head, wondering which one is the better pick for you. Don't worry, I got you covered! This article dives deep into the iPad Pro 11-inch (2018) versus (2019) showdown, breaking down the key differences to help you make the right call. We'll be looking at everything from the performance and display to the cameras and, of course, the price. By the end, you'll know exactly which iPad Pro 11-inch model is the perfect fit for your needs and budget. Let's get started!
Design and Build Quality: A Familiar Look
Alright, let's kick things off with the design and build quality of these iPad Pro 11-inch models. Frankly, if you put the 2018 and 2019 models side-by-side, you'd be hard-pressed to tell them apart. Apple didn't make any major cosmetic changes between the two generations. Both rock that sleek, minimalist aesthetic we all know and love. They both boast a stunning, edge-to-edge Liquid Retina display, with slim bezels and rounded corners. This design gives you maximum screen real estate in a compact form factor. The build quality is top-notch, as you'd expect from Apple. Both iPads feature a durable aluminum unibody design that feels premium and robust in your hands. You'll find the same button and port layout on both models: a power button on the top, volume buttons on the right side, and a USB-C port for charging and accessories. The only noticeable difference, and it's a subtle one, is the camera bump on the back. The 2019 model has a slightly more pronounced camera bump due to the upgraded camera system, which we'll get into later. They both come in the same two color options: Space Gray and Silver. So, if design is your primary concern, you won't find a huge difference between the iPad Pro 11-inch 2018 and 2019 models. Both offer a modern and premium design that still holds up well against newer tablets. In short, both iPads are seriously well-built and look fantastic. You won't be disappointed in either case. It's all about what's inside and how they perform.
Size and Weight
Let's talk about the dimensions and weight because, let's be real, you want a tablet that's easy to carry around. The iPad Pro 11-inch models, the 2018 and 2019 versions, are almost identical in size and weight. Both are incredibly portable and easy to slip into your bag. They are designed to be thin and light so you can take them on the go. You'll barely notice the difference in weight between them, so no worries there. This means you can comfortably hold either tablet in one hand for extended periods without fatigue. The slim design contributes to a premium feel and makes them perfect for reading, sketching, or watching videos while traveling. The close similarities in size and weight ensure a consistent and comfortable user experience, no matter which model you choose. If portability and ease of use are priorities, you can rest assured that both the 2018 and 2019 models will deliver.
Display: The Gorgeous Liquid Retina
Okay, let's talk about the display. Both the iPad Pro 11-inch 2018 and 2019 models feature the stunning Liquid Retina display. This is a huge win for both tablets. This display technology is known for its vibrant colors, incredible brightness, and smooth ProMotion technology. ProMotion is Apple's adaptive refresh rate technology. It automatically adjusts the screen's refresh rate up to 120Hz. The high refresh rate makes everything from scrolling through web pages to playing games feel incredibly fluid and responsive. The display also boasts True Tone technology, which adjusts the screen's color temperature to match the ambient lighting in your environment. This helps to reduce eye strain and provides a more natural viewing experience. With its wide color gamut and excellent contrast ratio, the Liquid Retina display delivers a fantastic viewing experience, whether you're watching movies, editing photos, or simply browsing the web. The display is bright enough to use comfortably outdoors. The color accuracy is top-notch, making it ideal for creative work where color fidelity is important. It's the kind of display that makes everything look better. Whether you're comparing the 2018 vs 2019, the visual experience on the display is top-tier. Both models share the same high-quality display panel. You're getting a premium display experience either way. The display is one of the standout features of these iPad Pro models.
ProMotion Technology
As I mentioned before, the ProMotion technology is a game-changer. It makes the iPad Pro feel incredibly responsive and smooth. When you scroll, the screen updates at 120Hz, providing a buttery-smooth experience. This makes a noticeable difference, especially when you're using the Apple Pencil for drawing or taking notes. The adaptive refresh rate also helps to conserve battery life. By intelligently adjusting the refresh rate based on what you're doing, the iPad can save power when high refresh rates aren't needed. This is a win-win: a stunning display and excellent battery life. If you've never experienced a ProMotion display, you're in for a treat. It's one of those features that, once you try it, you won't want to go back. The responsiveness and fluidity of the display enhance the overall user experience.
Performance: Power Under the Hood
Alright, let's talk about performance. This is where we start to see some key differences between the iPad Pro 11-inch 2018 and 2019 models. The 2018 model is powered by the A12X Bionic chip, while the 2019 model is equipped with the A12Z Bionic chip. The A12X Bionic chip is still a powerhouse. It offers impressive performance for everyday tasks, gaming, and even demanding creative applications. It is faster than many laptops from that time period. The A12Z Bionic chip in the 2019 model is an updated version of the A12X. It offers a slight performance boost, particularly in the graphics department. The A12Z is also optimized for more efficient thermal management, which means it can sustain peak performance for longer periods. This is a benefit for tasks that require sustained high performance, such as video editing or running complex simulations. However, in real-world usage, the difference in performance between the A12X and A12Z isn't massive. You'll likely notice the difference only when running intensive applications or playing graphically demanding games. For everyday tasks, both iPads perform exceptionally well. They can handle multitasking, web browsing, and running apps without any lag or stuttering. If you're a heavy user who plans to push your iPad to its limits, the 2019 model might be the better choice, but you should not expect to see a huge difference. For most users, the performance of the 2018 model will be more than sufficient. Both iPads offer exceptional performance and can handle virtually anything you throw at them. Consider the 2019 model if you need that extra bit of power for demanding tasks.
Real-World Usage
In practical terms, what does this performance mean for you? Both iPads can handle multitasking effortlessly. You can easily switch between apps, have multiple windows open, and work on demanding projects without slowdowns. When it comes to gaming, both iPads can run the latest games at high settings. The graphics are smooth, and the gameplay is responsive. The difference in performance between the 2018 and 2019 models is more noticeable when running intensive creative apps like video editing software or 3D modeling programs. The 2019 model will render videos and complex models slightly faster. However, the A12X in the 2018 model is still incredibly capable. You won't be disappointed by its performance. If you are a casual user, you will likely not notice the difference between the chips. The overall performance difference is more about sustained performance and thermal efficiency. Both offer an excellent experience.
Camera: Capturing Your Moments
Let's move on to the camera. The iPad Pro 11-inch 2018 model features a single 12MP wide-angle rear camera. This camera is capable of capturing excellent photos and videos. It excels in well-lit conditions. The camera also supports 4K video recording, which is great for capturing high-quality footage. The 2019 model takes things up a notch with a dual-camera system. It features a 12MP wide-angle camera and a 10MP ultra-wide-angle camera. This addition provides more versatility in your photography. The ultra-wide lens allows you to capture wider shots. This is perfect for landscapes, group photos, and capturing more of your surroundings. The 2019 model also benefits from improved Smart HDR and better low-light performance. This means your photos will look better in a wider range of conditions. The front-facing cameras on both models are the same, with a 7MP TrueDepth camera that supports Face ID for secure authentication. Both cameras can capture high-quality photos and videos, but the 2019 model's dual-camera system offers more flexibility and better overall performance. If photography is important to you, the 2019 model is the better choice. If you don't use the camera often, the 2018 model will be fine.
Video Recording
When it comes to video recording, both iPads are excellent. The 2018 model can record 4K video at up to 60 frames per second, which results in smooth and detailed footage. The 2019 model offers the same 4K video recording capabilities, with added improvements in video stabilization and dynamic range. Both iPads support features like cinematic video stabilization. The front-facing cameras on both models are identical, with the same 7MP TrueDepth camera. Both models deliver impressive video recording capabilities, which makes them perfect for creating content or capturing memories. The dual-camera setup of the 2019 model provides more options. You can use ultra-wide lenses to record more of the scene.
Battery Life: Keeping You Going
Battery life is a crucial factor for any tablet. The iPad Pro 11-inch 2018 and 2019 models offer similar battery life. You can expect to get around 10 hours of web browsing or video playback on a single charge. This can vary depending on your usage, but both iPads will easily last you a full day of use. Apple always optimizes its devices for good battery performance. This means you can rely on your iPad to get you through your day. The battery life is a strong point for both models. Both models support fast charging, so you can quickly top up the battery when needed. Overall, you can expect excellent battery life from both iPads. You won't have to worry about constantly searching for a power outlet. The iPad Pro models are great for on-the-go usage.
Accessories: Enhance Your Experience
Both the iPad Pro 11-inch 2018 and 2019 models support the same accessories. This includes the Apple Pencil (2nd generation) and the Smart Keyboard Folio. The Apple Pencil (2nd generation) is a must-have accessory for anyone who wants to draw, take notes, or simply navigate the iPad with precision. It attaches magnetically to the side of the iPad. It charges wirelessly. The Smart Keyboard Folio is a great addition for anyone who wants to use their iPad for work or productivity. It provides a comfortable typing experience and also protects the screen of your iPad. You can also connect to external accessories. The USB-C port on both iPads allows you to connect to a wide range of accessories. These accessories enhance the functionality and usability of your iPad. You can connect external storage, displays, and other devices to boost your productivity. The seamless accessory support is a huge advantage of the iPad Pro lineup.
Price and Value: Making the Right Choice
Okay, let's talk about the important stuff: the price and value. The iPad Pro 11-inch (2018) is generally available at a lower price than the (2019) model, especially if you buy it used or refurbished. This makes it an excellent value proposition, especially if you're on a budget. The 2019 model comes with a higher price tag. It reflects the upgraded features, such as the dual-camera system and the slightly improved performance. When considering which model to buy, it's essential to weigh the price against the features. Ask yourself what you will use the iPad for. If you don't need the latest and greatest features, the 2018 model is still a fantastic tablet. It offers excellent performance and display quality for a more affordable price. If you want the best possible performance and features and are willing to spend a bit more, the 2019 model is the way to go. Consider what your budget is and the features you need. Both models are premium products and represent excellent value for their price. The 2018 model offers great value. The 2019 model is a worthwhile upgrade. The choice is yours!
Conclusion: Making Your Decision
So, which iPad Pro 11-inch is right for you? If you're looking for the best possible value and don't need the absolute latest features, the 2018 model is a fantastic choice. It offers excellent performance, a stunning display, and access to all the accessories you need at a lower price point. If you want the latest technology, a dual-camera system, and slightly improved performance, the 2019 model is the better option. It's a premium tablet that will deliver the best possible experience. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and budget. Both the iPad Pro 11-inch 2018 and 2019 models are exceptional tablets. You can't go wrong with either one. Take some time to consider what you'll be using your iPad for. Compare the features that are most important to you. Then, make a decision that fits your needs and budget. Good luck with your purchase, and enjoy your new iPad Pro! I hope this comparison helped you make an informed decision. Peace out!