Pandemics come and go, the world moves on, but one thing remains the same - iPads are a global phenomenon. Despite the high price tags associated with this device, the sales of iPads haven’t seen a day of decline, even in 2025.
Ironically and iconically, since the launch of the iPad with the M4 chip, sales have skyrocketed to extreme levels. Be it due to a genius marketing move or genuine curiosity, crowds are after this device as if it’s a limited edition being sold at scrap. The credit for this hype goes to the Apple M4 chip, which further leads us to question - is the iPad M4 better than its predecessors?
This can be a trick question considering iPad Pros are adored compared to models of iPad Air and iPad Mini. Hence, in this blog, we have compiled facts to determine if the iPad Pro M4 is as big a deal as it claims to be.
iPad Pro M4 - Overview
Formally known as the iPad Pro 7th Generation, this tablet is full of surprises. For starters, it is equipped with the powerful M4 chip, which has increased the potential of the latest iMacs and MacBook Pros.
This microprocessor has a 10-core CPU, 10-core GPU, and a 32GB unified memory (chip combining CPU, GPU, RAM, SSD). The processing power that comes from this transputer is twice as fast as that of the original M1 processor and around twenty times faster than non-Apple-manufactured processors. This contributes to the Gen 7 crunching data at a thunderously fast pace.
Moving onto the 13-inch display, this tablet crushes its competitors with its Tandem OLED Ultra-Retina XDR technology, 2420x1668 pixel resolution, and nano-texture display glass options. Not to forget, the 1000 nits screen is brighter than ever and lasts longer. The TrueDepth camera system is an advanced take on the Face ID technology and also supports the 12MP centre Stage Landscape camera.
Plus, the AI supports a brand new Apple Pencil Pro along with the innovative Magic Keyboard, providing a futuristic experience. As for the design, it’s as slim as it could get with dimensions measuring 9.83”x6.99”x0.21” and a light weight of 0.98 pounds.
Timeline of iPad Pro Models
| Generation | Announced | Released | Discontinued |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st Gen (12.9”) | Sep 2015 | Nov 2015 | Jun 2017 |
| 1st Gen (9.7”) | Mar 2016 | Mar 2016 | Jun 2017 |
| 2nd Gen | Jun 2017 | Jun 2017 | Mar 2019 |
| 3rd Gen | Oct 2018 | Nov 2018 | Mar 2020 |
| 4th Gen | Mar 2020 | Mar 2020 | Apr 2021 |
| 5th Gen | Apr 2021 | May 2021 | Oct 2022 |
| 6th Gen | Oct 2022 | Oct 2022 | May 2024 |
| 7th Gen (M4) | May 2024 | May 2024 | – |
iPad Pro 1st Generation
The iPad Pro Gen 1 comes in two variations - 12.9-inch and 9.7-inch. These two models differ only by size, and the rest of the features are the same in both. The 11-inch Liquid retina screen with 600 nits brightness and 2388x1668 pixel resolution supports the Pencil - Gen 2.
This baby is powered by an A12X Bionic chip featuring 8 cores and a 64-bit architecture. The M12 coprocessor partners with the main microprocessor to collect and process sensor data. Moreover, the 7MP TrueDepth camera is also decent, though not as good as the 12MP.
Mini Verdict:
Considering that the Gen-7 facilitates faster performance with its 10-core structured processor, it is a better option than the Gen-1. The FaceID also seems more accurate and less fussy in the latest release as compared to the older variants.
iPad Pro 2nd Generation
Featuring an A12Z bionic transputer with 64-bit architecture and a Neural Engine, this tab works at a better speed than the previous model. Not only does it smoothly render 60 FPS on medium settings, but it also handles graphic-intensive programs professionally.
Despite the 600 nits brightness of the 11-inch screen, the lens noise reduction and wide colour capture are commendable.
The 28.65-watt lithium-polymer battery can stay up to 9-10 hours. This tab measures 7.02” in width, 9.74” in height, and 0.23” in depth. Overall, this device weighs around 1.04 pounds.
Mini Verdict:
The greatest argument we have is over the build of the Gen-2; compared to Gen-7, it weighs more. The display size is also mediocre and does not compete on the basic level, which is the first thing that gets noticed - the appearance.
iPad Pro 3rd Generation
The resemblance between the Gen-3 and the Gen-2 is uncanny, awarding it the appearance-associated cons of the latter. However, the M1 chip draws a line between the two in terms of performance. With the M1 chip 8-core CPU, GPU, and RAM options, there is a lot more variety here.
There are also wide and ultra-wide camera options with a 12MP TrueDepth wide camera alongside a 122° field of view. This model also introduces AI, though it is mainly restricted to security and privacy. Also, the WiFi 6 connectivity expands network channels for data transfer efficiently.
Mini Verdict:
The features of the Gen-3, like the 10MP ultra-wide camera setting, make it almost impossible to choose the Gen-7 over it. However, it lacks the connectivity of WiFi 6E and also doesn’t have the Landscape Center Stage Lens, reversing our opinion.
iPad Pro 4th Generation
This tab right here is the jackpot for artists and illustrators. Forever going in history for its fully laminated multi-touch display featuring IPS technology, the screen deserves applause. Despite the brightness maxing out at 600 nits, this device has the public vote compared to its predecessors.
This is because it equips the M2 microprocessor with an 8-core CPU, 10-core GPU, and a 16-core Neural Engine that sorts the operations out. The connectivity features of this tab replicate Gen-7 with the same WiFi 6E and 5G Cellular4.
Mini Verdict:
This iPad utilizes iPadOS 13.4, which might seem an advancement from iOS 12.1, but in reality, it comes with unreliable connectivity issues. Unlike the Gen-7, this version has faced complaints regarding a bug that shatters the Pencil connectivity for good.
iPad Pro 5th Generation
This model of the iPad seems like a downgrade from the previous one, considering it uses the M1 processor instead of the M2. Along with supporting the Pencil and Magic Keyboard, it also supports the Smart Keyboard Folio for an enhanced typing experience.
The screen resolution has also improved to 2732x2048 pixels; you have to give it that. And the advanced lens options are also there. The 1000 nits brightness level is a huge upgrade from 600 nits, making this tablet worth the price.
Mini Verdict:
The performance downgrade is there, regardless of the same number of cores and identical technical specs, compared to Gen-7. Also, there are no nano-textured display options.
iPad Pro 6th Generation
The Gen-6 is all about looks, as it excels in that department. Its screen has a premium feel to it with the silky anti-reflective coating. This device has an M2 transputer that makes it energy-efficient, smooth and fast.
The thin and slim hardware is also a pro despite not supporting the weight. Our favorite feature is the landscape orientation of this device due to its 12.9” wide diagonal display. The camera quality and HDR processing from Smart HDR3 to HDR4 is another sight for sore eyes.
Mini Verdict:
From a price point of view, the Gen-6 costs the same as the Gen-7, which makes it appear costly, given its limited features. Especially considering the performance upgrade you get in the latest iPad, the Gen-6 seems like a sour deal.
Final Verdict
Comparing all previous generations with the iPad Pro M4, we have concluded that the Gen-7 is superior to all. While it lacks a couple of features that were originally there in older versions, the weightage is not considerable.
We are also of the opinion that all the other models don’t stand a chance against the M4 chip, because it takes the performance of the iPad to a whole new level. Not to forget the AI integration that makes life easier with every upgrade till you reach the latest version. And that right there was our take on why the iPad Pro M4 is the best.
