Hey everyone! Today, we're diving deep into a comparison that many iPad enthusiasts have pondered: the iPad Pro 10.5-inch 1st generation versus the 2nd generation. If you're trying to decide which of these tablets is the right choice for you, or if you're simply curious about the differences, you're in the right place. Let's break down what makes each of these iPads unique, so you can make an informed decision.

Overview of iPad Pro 10.5 1st Gen

The original iPad Pro 10.5-inch, released in 2017, marked a significant step forward in tablet technology. This device aimed to bridge the gap between tablets and laptops, offering a blend of power and portability that was impressive for its time. With its sleek design, the first-generation iPad Pro 10.5 quickly became a favorite among professionals and creatives alike.

Key Features of the 1st Gen

Let's highlight some of the standout features that made the first-generation iPad Pro 10.5 a game-changer:

• A10X Fusion Chip: The heart of this iPad is the A10X Fusion chip, which delivers incredible performance for demanding tasks like video editing, graphic design, and gaming. It ensures smooth multitasking and responsiveness, making it a reliable device for various applications.
• 10.5-inch Retina Display: The vibrant and sharp Retina display with ProMotion technology is a visual treat. ProMotion dynamically adjusts the display's refresh rate up to 120Hz, resulting in fluid scrolling, smoother animations, and reduced latency with the Apple Pencil. The display also features wide color gamut support, providing accurate and vivid colors for creative projects and immersive viewing experiences.
• Smart Keyboard and Apple Pencil Support: The first-generation iPad Pro 10.5 fully supports the Smart Keyboard and Apple Pencil, transforming it into a versatile productivity tool. The Smart Keyboard offers a comfortable typing experience, while the Apple Pencil enables precise drawing, sketching, and note-taking. These accessories greatly enhance the iPad's functionality and make it suitable for a wide range of tasks.
• Excellent Battery Life: Despite its powerful performance, the iPad Pro 10.5 boasts impressive battery life, allowing you to work or play for hours on end without needing to recharge. This makes it an ideal companion for on-the-go productivity and entertainment.

Why the 1st Gen Was a Big Deal

At the time of its release, the first-generation iPad Pro 10.5 stood out for several reasons. Its combination of power, portability, and versatility made it a compelling alternative to traditional laptops for many users. The ProMotion display technology was a standout feature, providing a smoother and more responsive user experience than other tablets on the market. Furthermore, its support for the Smart Keyboard and Apple Pencil opened up new possibilities for creative and professional workflows.

The impact of the first-generation iPad Pro 10.5 can still be felt today. It set a new standard for tablet performance and features, influencing the design and development of subsequent iPad models. Its legacy as a groundbreaking device in the tablet market is well-deserved.

Overview of iPad Pro 10.5 2nd Gen

The second-generation iPad Pro 10.5 builds upon the foundation laid by its predecessor, offering refinements and enhancements that further solidify its position as a top-tier tablet. While it may not represent a radical departure from the first generation, the second generation brings enough improvements to warrant consideration, especially for those looking for the best possible performance and features. This model focuses on improving processing power and overall user experience.

Key Features of the 2nd Gen

Let's dive into the key features that distinguish the second-generation iPad Pro 10.5:

• Enhanced A10X Fusion Chip: The second-generation iPad Pro 10.5 also features the A10X Fusion chip, but with optimizations that deliver even faster performance. This results in quicker app launch times, smoother multitasking, and improved responsiveness in demanding applications. While the chip is the same, Apple fine-tuned it to extract even more power, making the second generation slightly faster than the first. The optimized chip contributes to a more fluid and seamless user experience overall, which is particularly noticeable when working with large files or complex projects.
• Improved Display Technology: While the display size and resolution remain the same, the second-generation iPad Pro 10.5 features further refinements to its ProMotion technology, resulting in even smoother and more responsive performance. The display dynamically adjusts the refresh rate up to 120Hz, reducing latency and enhancing the overall visual experience. These improvements are particularly noticeable when using the Apple Pencil, making it feel even more natural and responsive. The enhanced display technology also contributes to improved color accuracy and brightness, resulting in a more vibrant and immersive viewing experience.
• Advanced Camera System: The second-generation iPad Pro 10.5 boasts an upgraded camera system with a 12MP rear camera and a 7MP front-facing camera. These cameras offer improved image quality, better low-light performance, and enhanced video recording capabilities. The rear camera can record 4K video at 30fps, while the front-facing camera supports FaceTime HD video calls with improved clarity. Whether you're capturing memories, scanning documents, or video conferencing, the advanced camera system ensures you'll always have crisp and clear visuals. The improved camera system also includes features like optical image stabilization, which helps reduce blur and shakiness in photos and videos.
• More Storage Options: The second-generation iPad Pro 10.5 offers increased storage options, allowing you to store more files, apps, and media without worrying about running out of space. With options up to 512GB, you can easily accommodate large libraries of photos, videos, and documents. This is particularly beneficial for professionals who work with large files or creatives who need ample storage for their projects. The increased storage options also contribute to improved performance, as the iPad can access data more quickly and efficiently.

Why the 2nd Gen is a Solid Upgrade

The second-generation iPad Pro 10.5 offers several compelling reasons to upgrade from the first generation. The optimized A10X Fusion chip delivers even faster performance, while the refined ProMotion display technology provides an even smoother and more responsive user experience. The upgraded camera system offers improved image quality and enhanced video recording capabilities. The increased storage options allow you to store more files and media without worrying about running out of space. Overall, the second-generation iPad Pro 10.5 represents a solid upgrade for those seeking the best possible performance and features in a tablet.

Detailed Comparison

To make things crystal clear, let's break down the specifics in a head-to-head comparison.

Performance and Speed

When it comes to performance and speed, both the 1st and 2nd generation iPad Pro 10.5 are powered by the A10X Fusion chip, but there's a slight edge for the 2nd gen due to optimization. In real-world use, this translates to slightly faster app loading times and a smoother overall experience, especially when multitasking or running graphically intensive applications. The 2nd generation benefits from tweaks that Apple implemented to squeeze out more performance from the same chip. While the difference might not be huge, users who demand the utmost speed and responsiveness will appreciate the enhancements in the 2nd generation model. The A10X Fusion chip in both models is still quite capable by today's standards, making them suitable for a wide range of tasks, from basic productivity to more demanding creative work. So, while both iPads are fast, the 2nd gen has a slight advantage that could be noticeable in certain scenarios.

Display Quality

The display quality on both iPad Pro 10.5 models is excellent, featuring a 10.5-inch Retina display with ProMotion technology and True Tone. ProMotion dynamically adjusts the display's refresh rate up to 120Hz, resulting in smoother animations and reduced latency when using the Apple Pencil. True Tone automatically adjusts the display's color temperature to match the ambient lighting conditions, providing a more comfortable viewing experience. However, the 2nd generation iPad Pro 10.5 boasts further refinements to its ProMotion technology, resulting in even smoother and more responsive performance. These enhancements are subtle but noticeable, particularly when using the Apple Pencil for drawing or writing. Both displays offer wide color gamut support, ensuring accurate and vibrant colors for creative tasks and immersive viewing experiences. The high resolution and pixel density contribute to sharp and detailed visuals, making both models ideal for watching videos, browsing photos, and working on design projects. Overall, while both displays are top-notch, the 2nd generation has a slight edge in terms of smoothness and responsiveness.

Camera Capabilities

Regarding camera capabilities, the 2nd generation iPad Pro 10.5 brings notable improvements. While both models feature a 12MP rear camera and a 7MP front-facing camera, the 2nd generation boasts an upgraded camera system with improved image quality, better low-light performance, and enhanced video recording capabilities. The rear camera on the 2nd generation can record 4K video at 30fps, while the front-facing camera supports FaceTime HD video calls with improved clarity. The upgraded camera system also includes features like optical image stabilization, which helps reduce blur and shakiness in photos and videos. These improvements make the 2nd generation a better choice for users who frequently use their iPad for photography, video recording, or video conferencing. The enhanced camera capabilities also come in handy for scanning documents and using augmented reality applications. While the camera on the 1st generation is still decent, the 2nd generation offers a significant step up in terms of image quality and features.

Storage and Variants

When looking at storage and variants, both the 1st and 2nd generation iPad Pro 10.5 were offered in various storage options, but the 2nd generation typically included larger maximum storage capacities at the time of release. This is crucial if you plan to store a lot of photos, videos, or large files directly on your device. More storage means less reliance on cloud services or external drives, which can be a significant convenience. The availability of different storage variants also allows you to choose a model that best fits your budget and usage needs. Keep in mind that the storage is not expandable, so it's important to select the right capacity from the start. Over time, the prices of different storage variants may vary on the used market, so it's worth comparing prices to find the best deal. Ultimately, the 2nd generation's larger storage options provide more flexibility and convenience for users with extensive media libraries or demanding storage requirements.

Price and Value

Considering price and value, the original iPad Pro 10.5 (1st Gen) is generally more affordable now, especially on the used market. If you're on a tight budget and don't need the absolute latest features, the 1st Gen offers excellent value for its performance. However, the 2nd Gen, while potentially costing a bit more, provides a smoother overall experience and slightly better performance, making it a worthwhile investment if you can stretch your budget. When evaluating the value proposition, consider how you plan to use the iPad. If you primarily use it for basic tasks like browsing the web, checking email, and watching videos, the 1st Gen is more than sufficient. However, if you plan to use it for more demanding tasks like video editing, graphic design, or gaming, the 2nd Gen's enhanced performance may justify the higher cost. Also, consider the long-term value. The 2nd Gen may receive software updates for a longer period, extending its lifespan and overall value.

Which Should You Buy?

So, which should you buy? If budget is a primary concern and you're looking for a capable device for everyday tasks, the first-generation iPad Pro 10.5 is still a fantastic choice. However, if you want the best possible performance, an improved camera, and potentially longer software support, the second-generation iPad Pro 10.5 is the way to go. Consider what features are most important to you and choose accordingly. Either way, you're getting a powerful and versatile tablet that can handle a wide range of tasks. It really boils down to balancing your needs with your budget.

I hope this helps you make a decision! Let me know if you have any more questions!