IPad Pro 11-inch: 2018 Vs. 2019 - Which One Should You Buy?

Hey there, tech enthusiasts! Ever found yourself staring at two shiny tablets, wondering which one deserves your hard-earned cash? If you're currently wrestling with the decision between the iPad Pro 11-inch (2018) and the iPad Pro 11-inch (2019), then you're in the right place. We're diving deep into a comparison of these two powerhouses, helping you navigate the specs, features, and overall value to make the best choice for your needs. Let's get started, shall we?

Design and Build Quality: A Familiar Face with Subtle Changes

When we talk about design, both the 2018 and 2019 iPad Pro 11-inch models share a remarkably similar aesthetic. They both rock the sleek, modern look that Apple is known for, with slim bezels, rounded corners, and a flat-edged design that feels premium in your hands. You'll find the same high-quality materials, with both tablets crafted from aluminum. The build quality is top-notch, as you'd expect from an iPad Pro. They are both designed to withstand the rigors of daily use. They both feature the same dimensions and weight, meaning that cases and accessories designed for one will seamlessly fit the other. So, if you're upgrading from a 2018 model, your existing accessories should work just fine!

However, there are subtle differences. The most noticeable change in design is the camera bump on the 2019 model, which houses an additional camera lens. The 2018 model features a single-lens camera, while the 2019 version introduces a dual-lens system. You'll also notice some minor variations in the placement of the microphone and speaker grilles. Although these aren't deal-breakers, they do represent a shift in the overall design philosophy. In terms of overall appearance and build, you're getting very similar experiences. The differences are minimal and won't significantly impact your daily use.

In essence, both iPads offer a premium, modern design, but the 2019 model has a slightly more refined and updated look.

Display: The Canvas for Your Creativity

The display is the heart and soul of any tablet experience, and both the 2018 and 2019 iPad Pro 11-inch models deliver stunning visuals. They both sport a gorgeous 11-inch Liquid Retina display with ProMotion technology. ProMotion is Apple's adaptive refresh rate technology that dynamically adjusts the display's refresh rate up to 120Hz. The technology provides a smoother experience when you're scrolling, gaming, or using the Apple Pencil. The ProMotion technology is fantastic, offering buttery-smooth animations and responsiveness. It's a key feature that elevates the overall user experience.

Color accuracy is also a strength of both displays. They cover a wide color gamut, making your photos, videos, and creative work look vibrant and true to life. Brightness levels are excellent, ensuring that the screen remains easily readable in various lighting conditions. Both models support True Tone technology, which automatically adjusts the display's color temperature to match the ambient lighting of your environment. This is a subtle but impactful feature that reduces eye strain and makes the screen more comfortable to view over extended periods.

In short, when it comes to the display, you're getting a premium experience with both the 2018 and 2019 models. The 120Hz ProMotion display is a key differentiator in the tablet world, and both iPads deliver the goods.

Performance: Power Under the Hood

Here’s where we get into the nitty-gritty of what makes these iPads tick! Performance is a crucial aspect of the iPad experience. The 2018 model is powered by the A12X Bionic chip, while the 2019 model features the A12Z Bionic chip. The A12X was already a powerhouse, delivering incredible speeds and efficiency. It could handle demanding tasks like video editing, gaming, and multitasking with ease. The A12Z, though, is considered an incremental upgrade. It builds upon the capabilities of the A12X and introduces a few tweaks to further optimize performance. The A12Z is also optimized for more complex and sustained workloads. The performance difference between the two chips is not massive. In real-world use, you may not notice a dramatic difference unless you are pushing the limits of your device with very demanding applications.

Both iPads offer plenty of raw power for everyday use, and you'll find that they can handle practically anything you throw at them. The main difference lies in how they handle very demanding tasks over extended periods. The 2019 model's A12Z chip offers a slight edge in this regard. If you're a heavy user who often edits large video files, works with complex creative software, or plays graphics-intensive games for extended periods, the 2019 model may offer a slightly smoother experience.

For most users, the performance of the 2018 model will be more than adequate. However, if you are a power user who needs every ounce of performance, the 2019 model will provide that extra boost.

Camera: Capturing Your Moments

The camera on an iPad is not the primary focus for most users, but it's still a valuable feature. The 2018 iPad Pro 11-inch features a single 12MP rear camera. It captures excellent photos and videos in good lighting conditions. The camera is capable of recording 4K video at up to 60 frames per second. The front-facing camera features the same great quality.

The 2019 model takes things up a notch by introducing a dual-lens camera system. It includes a 12MP wide-angle lens and a 10MP ultra-wide lens. This additional lens offers more versatility, allowing you to capture wider shots and expand your creative options. The ultra-wide lens is great for landscape photography, group shots, or capturing more of your surroundings in a single frame. The 2019 model also features improved image processing, which can result in slightly better image quality, especially in challenging lighting conditions.

Both iPads offer excellent front-facing cameras for video calls and selfies. They both support features like Portrait Mode, which allows you to create images with a blurred background. The 2019 model's dual-lens system provides more creative freedom and slightly better image quality.

If photography is essential, the 2019 model's dual-lens camera system provides a more versatile and feature-rich experience. If you are a casual photographer, the 2018 model will still capture excellent images and videos.

Battery Life: Powering Your Productivity

Battery life is a critical factor for any tablet, as you want your device to last through a full day of use. Both the 2018 and 2019 iPad Pro 11-inch models deliver excellent battery life. You can expect to get around 10 hours of web browsing, video playback, or general use on a single charge. The exact battery life will vary based on your usage patterns, screen brightness, and the type of tasks you're performing. The battery life is very similar between the two models. They both provide all-day battery life for most users. Apple has always prioritized battery optimization, and both models benefit from that.

You can confidently expect to get a full day's use from either iPad, making them ideal for work, entertainment, and everything in between.

Storage Options and Price: Finding the Right Fit

Both models offer various storage configurations, so you can choose the amount of space that best fits your needs. The 2018 model was available with storage options of 64GB, 256GB, and 512GB. The 2019 model also offers the same options but also includes a 1TB option. This is a significant consideration for users who plan to store a large amount of content on their tablet. The larger the storage, the more expensive the device will be.

Another important consideration is the price. The 2019 model was initially more expensive than the 2018 model. However, with the passage of time, the 2018 model is available at a lower price point. This makes it an even better value proposition. When making your decision, consider your budget and your storage needs. If you do not need the latest features or a lot of storage, the 2018 model is a fantastic option.

It is essential to consider the storage and price point to make the most of the choice.

The Verdict: Which iPad Pro 11-inch is Right for You?

So, which iPad Pro 11-inch model should you choose? The answer depends on your individual needs and priorities.

Choose the 2018 model if:

• You're on a budget and want to save some money. The 2018 model offers excellent value. It provides a premium iPad experience at a lower price.
• You don't need the latest camera features. If you are not a heavy photographer, the single-lens camera will be sufficient.
• The A12X Bionic chip offers plenty of power for your everyday tasks.

Choose the 2019 model if:

• You want the latest features and the best performance. The A12Z Bionic chip is a slight improvement over the A12X.
• You're a photographer or videographer. The dual-lens camera system offers more creative options and better image quality.
• You need the most storage space. The 2019 model offers a 1TB storage option.

Ultimately, both iPads offer a fantastic user experience. Choose the model that best fits your budget, storage needs, and preferred features.

In conclusion, the iPad Pro 11-inch (2018) and the iPad Pro 11-inch (2019) are both excellent tablets. Both models offer a premium design, stunning display, and all-day battery life. The 2019 model offers incremental upgrades in performance, camera capabilities, and storage options. The 2018 model offers excellent value and is still a powerful and capable device. Consider your needs and prioritize the features that are most important to you. You can't go wrong with either one! Happy shopping, and may the best iPad win!