As an Amazon Associate, I Earn from Qualifying Purchases. Read Disclaimer
Are you torn between the power of the iPad Pro M1 and the cutting-edge performance of the iPad Pro M2? Choosing the right tablet can be a tough decision, especially when both devices boast impressive capabilities and sleek designs. This comparison dives deep into the key differences to help you determine which iPad Pro model best suits your needs.
The iPad Pro M1 was a game-changer, introducing Apple’s powerful silicon to the tablet world. It delivered desktop-class performance in a portable package, revolutionizing how people used tablets for creative tasks and productivity. Now, the iPad Pro M2 steps in, promising even more speed and efficiency.
We’ll explore the performance enhancements, display technologies, and other features that set these two iPad Pro models apart. From raw processing power to battery life and beyond, we’ll examine everything to help you make an informed decision. Get ready to discover which iPad Pro is the ultimate choice for you!
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | iPad Pro M1 | iPad Pro M2 |
|---|---|---|
| Chip | M1 | M2 |
| Display | Liquid Retina XDR (12.9-inch) or Liquid Retina (11-inch) | Liquid Retina XDR (12.9-inch) or Liquid Retina (11-inch) |
| RAM | 8GB or 16GB | 8GB or 16GB |
| Storage | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB |
| Front Camera | 12MP Ultra Wide | 12MP Ultra Wide (Landscape) |
| Rear Camera | 12MP Wide, 10MP Ultra Wide | 12MP Wide, 10MP Ultra Wide |
| Video Recording | 4K at 24/25/30/60 fps | 4K at 24/25/30/60 fps |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6E |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.3 |
| Apple Pencil Support | 2nd Generation | 2nd Generation |
| Thunderbolt / USB 4 | Yes | Yes |
| Audio | Four Speaker Audio | Four Speaker Audio |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Processor
- iPad Pro M1: Features the Apple M1 chip, offering impressive performance for everyday tasks and demanding applications. It’s a significant upgrade over previous iPad Pro models, but starting to show its age.
- M2: Equipped with the newer Apple M2 chip, providing enhanced CPU and GPU performance compared to the M1. It handles complex tasks with greater speed and efficiency.
- Winner: M2
Display
- iPad Pro M1: Available with either a Liquid Retina XDR display (12.9-inch model) or a Liquid Retina display (11-inch model). Both offer excellent color accuracy, brightness, and ProMotion technology for smooth scrolling.
- M2: Continues with the Liquid Retina XDR display (12.9-inch model) and Liquid Retina display (11-inch model). The M2 models may have slightly improved display technology for better contrast and brightness, but the difference is minimal.
- Winner: M2 (Slight Edge)
RAM
- iPad Pro M1: Starts with 8GB of RAM, with options for 16GB on higher-end configurations. Sufficient for most users.
- M2: Starts with 8GB of RAM, with options for 16GB on higher-end configurations. Performance is generally similar to the M1 depending on the task.
- Winner: Tie
Storage
- iPad Pro M1: Offers storage options ranging from 128GB to 2TB, catering to various user needs.
- M2: Offers storage options ranging from 128GB to 2TB, mirroring the storage options of the M1.
- Winner: Tie
Camera System
- iPad Pro M1: Features a dual-camera system with a 12MP wide and 10MP ultrawide lens, along with a LiDAR scanner for enhanced augmented reality experiences. The front-facing camera is 12MP ultrawide.
- M2: Maintains the same camera setup as the M1, including the dual-camera system, LiDAR scanner, and 12MP ultrawide front-facing camera.
- Winner: Tie
Connectivity
- iPad Pro M1: Supports Wi-Fi 6 and optional 5G cellular connectivity. Thunderbolt/USB 4 port for fast data transfer.
- M2: Supports Wi-Fi 6E (faster Wi-Fi) and optional 5G cellular connectivity. Thunderbolt/USB 4 port for fast data transfer.
- Winner: M2
Apple Pencil Support
- iPad Pro M1: Compatible with the 2nd generation Apple Pencil, offering seamless integration for drawing, note-taking, and other creative tasks.
- M2: Compatible with the 2nd generation Apple Pencil, just like the M1. The M2 introduces a new hover feature that allows users to preview where the Apple Pencil will touch the screen.
- Winner: M2
Battery Life
- iPad Pro M1: Offers up to 10 hours of battery life for web browsing or watching video, providing all-day use for most users.
- M2: Offers up to 10 hours of battery life for web browsing or watching video, similar to the M1.
- Winner: Tie
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Overall Performance | iPad Pro M2 |
| Value | iPad Pro M1 |
| Display Quality | Tie |
| Camera | Tie |
| Connectivity | iPad Pro M2 |
What They Have in Common
- Display Options: Both iPad Pro models are available in 11-inch and 12.9-inch sizes, offering users a choice based on their portability and viewing preferences. The display technology, including Liquid Retina and Liquid Retina XDR, remains consistent across the generations.
- Storage Configurations: Both the M1 and M2 iPad Pro offer identical storage options, ranging from 128GB to 2TB, catering to a wide range of user storage needs. This allows users to choose the storage capacity that best suits their files and apps.
- Apple Pencil Support: Both models are compatible with the second-generation Apple Pencil, providing the same level of support for drawing, note-taking, and other creative tasks. The Apple Pencil attaches magnetically and charges wirelessly on both devices.
- Camera Systems: Both iPad Pro generations feature the same rear camera setup with 12MP Wide and 10MP Ultra Wide lenses. This ensures consistent photo and video quality across both models for casual and professional use.
- Thunderbolt / USB 4: Both iPad Pro models incorporate a Thunderbolt / USB 4 port for fast data transfer, external display connectivity, and charging, maintaining a high level of versatility for accessories and external devices.
iPad Pro M1 vs M2 Buying Guide
Performance & Processing Power
The M2 chip brings a noticeable performance boost over the M1, particularly in graphics-intensive tasks. The M2 features an 8-core CPU, offering up to 15% faster performance than the M1. The M2’s GPU boasts a 10-core design, delivering up to 35% faster graphics performance. This translates to smoother gameplay, faster video editing, and improved overall responsiveness. Consider your usage: if you frequently work with demanding applications, the M2’s extra power may be beneficial. The M1 remains a powerful device, well-suited for everyday tasks and most professional workflows.
Display and Visuals
Both the M1 and M2 iPad Pro models offer stunning displays, utilizing Liquid Retina XDR technology. This delivers vibrant colors, deep blacks, and exceptional contrast ratios. The main difference lies in the M2’s enhanced media engine, which supports ProRes video encoding and decoding. This is a significant advantage for video professionals and content creators. The M2 also offers a slightly brighter display. For general use, the visual experience is very similar. The M2’s refinements cater to more specialized workflows. The M1’s display is still fantastic.
Storage and Memory Options
Both iPad Pro generations offer a range of storage options, from 128GB to 2TB. However, the M2 models have a slightly different configuration. The base model M2 now starts with 128GB, while some M1 models had a 128GB option as well. Memory (RAM) configurations are also similar, with both offering 8GB or 16GB options depending on the storage capacity. Consider your storage needs; if you plan to store large files or run demanding applications, opt for a higher storage capacity. The M2’s faster memory bandwidth can improve overall performance.
Camera Capabilities
The camera systems on both iPad Pro generations are excellent. They both feature a 12MP Wide camera and a 10MP Ultra Wide camera. The M2 model introduces some improvements, including Cinematic mode for video recording and ProRes video support. These enhancements cater to professional videographers and content creators who require advanced video features. The front-facing camera is also improved on the M2, offering a slightly wider field of view. For everyday use, the differences are subtle, but the M2 provides more advanced video recording capabilities.
Connectivity and Features
Both the M1 and M2 iPad Pro models support Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0. However, the M2 introduces Wi-Fi 6E, offering faster wireless speeds and improved performance in congested environments. The M2 also supports faster Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports. The M2 also supports the second-generation Apple Pencil, which attaches magnetically and charges wirelessly. These connectivity enhancements make the M2 ideal for professionals. For general use, the difference in connectivity may not be noticeable, but the M2 offers a future-proof advantage.
Price and Value
The price difference between the M1 and M2 iPad Pro models can be significant, especially considering the refurbished market. The M1 models are often available at a lower price point, making them an excellent value proposition, especially for users who don’t need the latest features. The M2 offers a performance boost and new features, but the price reflects those additions. Consider your budget and the features you need. If you’re looking for the best performance and future-proofing, the M2 is the better choice. If you’re on a budget, the M1 still offers exceptional value.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy iPad Pro M1 If…
- You want to save money and find a deal.
- Your current workflow doesn’t require the performance boost of the M2 chip.
- You prioritize value and the core iPad Pro features are sufficient for your needs.
- You find a heavily discounted used or refurbished model.
Buy iPad Pro M2 If…
- You need the absolute best performance for demanding tasks like video editing, 3D rendering, or complex gaming.
- You want the latest features, including the ProRes video encode/decode engine.
- You want the slightly improved performance in applications.
- You want the faster Wi-Fi 6E connectivity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences between the M1 and M2 iPad Pro?
The M2 iPad Pro boasts a faster CPU and GPU, delivering improved performance in demanding tasks like video editing and gaming. The M2 also features Wi-Fi 6E, ProRes video support, a slightly brighter display, and enhanced camera capabilities. The M1, however, offers excellent value and still delivers impressive performance for most users. The M2 focuses on improved performance and more professional-grade features.
Is the M2 iPad Pro worth the upgrade from the M1?
The upgrade is worthwhile if you frequently work with demanding applications, edit videos, or require the latest features like ProRes video support. For general users, the M1 iPad Pro still offers excellent performance and value. Consider your workflow and budget to determine if the performance gains and new features of the M2 justify the added cost. The M2 is a more powerful device overall.
Does the M2 iPad Pro have a better display than the M1?
While both models feature stunning Liquid Retina XDR displays, the M2 offers a slightly brighter screen and supports ProRes video encoding/decoding. The visual experience is very similar for everyday use. The M2’s enhanced media engine is a significant advantage for video professionals. Both offer exceptional color accuracy and contrast, making them excellent for content consumption and creation.
Which iPad Pro has better battery life?
Battery life is similar across both generations. Apple estimates up to 10 hours of web browsing or video playback for both models. Real-world battery life may vary depending on usage. While the M2 is more power-efficient, the performance increase does not significantly impact battery life. Both the M1 and M2 iPad Pro offer excellent battery performance.
What accessories are compatible with both iPad Pro models?
Both models are compatible with the second-generation Apple Pencil, Magic Keyboard, and other iPad Pro accessories. The physical design of both generations is nearly identical, ensuring compatibility. You can seamlessly transition between models with your existing accessories. There are no major compatibility differences between the M1 and M2 iPad Pro models.
Is the M1 iPad Pro still a good buy in 2024?
Yes, the M1 iPad Pro remains a great value, especially if you can find it at a discounted price. It offers excellent performance for most tasks. The M1 is a powerful device capable of handling everyday tasks, creative workflows, and gaming. The M1 iPad Pro is a fantastic option for those seeking a high-performance tablet without the need for the latest features.
What is ProRes video support, and why is it important?
ProRes is a high-quality video codec used by professionals for editing and post-production. It offers excellent color accuracy and image quality. ProRes support allows the M2 iPad Pro to record, edit, and export ProRes videos directly, streamlining workflows for video creators. This feature is a significant advantage for professionals working with video content and offers superior quality.
Final Verdict
The M2 iPad Pro offers a performance boost, enhanced features like ProRes video support, and improved connectivity. However, the M1 iPad Pro remains a powerful and capable tablet, offering excellent value. The choice depends on your specific needs and budget. If you prioritize raw power and professional-grade features, the M2 is the better choice. If you’re looking for a great tablet at a more affordable price, the M1 iPad Pro is an excellent option.
Winner: iPad Pro M2