The new iPad Pro 2021 will likely be the most straightforward tablet ever — again. And there are tons to recommend this slate, including the fact that it packs an equivalent M1 chip because of the latest MacBook Pro M1.
The iPad Pro’s mini-LED display also seems like it’ll put my MacBook Pro’s panel to shame. The Liquid Retina XDR packs 10,000 LEDs into its 12.9-inch screen, boasting 1600 nits of peak brightness and a one million-to-1 contrast ratio.
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Add in optional 5G connectivity, Thunderbolt support, and a replacement 12-MP ultra-wide front camera that keeps you within the frame during video chats, and you’ve got many reasons to think about making the switch from a MacBook Pro to an iPad Pro.
However, even with all of those advantages, I’m sticking with my MacBook Pro and am expecting the new MacBook Pro 2021. Here’s why.
The iPad Pro’s very high price
The 12.9-inch iPad Pro just jumped up in price from $999 to $1,099 — and that’s only for the tablet. If you would like a Magic Keyboard to travel thereupon (which would be essential for me), the entire suddenly soars to $1,448. Meanwhile, the 13-inch MacBook Pro starts at $1,299.
Note that the iPad Pro starts with just 128GB of storage, while the MacBook Pro has 256GB. it’ll cost you another $100 to urge 256GB on the iPad Pro. Apple Pencil? Which will be an additional $129, please.
I’d probably skip the Pencil, but if I got an equivalent amount of storage because of the M1 MacBook Pro and, therefore, the Magic Keyboard, the price difference would be $249.
macOS still beats iOS on multitasking
The Magic Keyboard for the iPad Pro offers perfect travel for a tablet accessory. Still, its touchpad is small compared to the trackpad on the MacBook Pro. a much bigger trackpad gives you more room for scrolling, selecting the text, and anything you want to try.
Granted, the iPad Pro 2021 features a small screen, while the MacBook Pro makes do with a lame Touch Bar that doesn’t do much. But when I’m in productivity mode, I’d rather have the larger touchpad.
I’m glad that the new iPad Pro 2021 supports Thunderbolt, suggesting you’ll now connect auxiliary storage, displays, and docks. you’ll even connect Apple’s 6K Pro Display XDR display — if you happen to possess the budget.
However, one port won’t cut if on behalf of me. When I’m reception, I’m usually okay with one port for connecting my CalDigit dock, which combines everything from my microphone and webcam to a hoop light. But when I’m on the move, I might not want to be limited to the iPad Pro’s single port.
The MacBook Pro has two Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports, plus a headphone jack.
iPad Pro battery life vs. Mac laptops
There are some things I find very tempting about the new iPad Pro, including its mini-LED display and optional 5G connectivity. Plus, the iPad Pro supports Face ID, while the MacBook Pro still relies on Touch ID.
Speaking of cameras, the MacBook Pro needs an upgrade to 1080p; the 12MP sensor and 122-degree field of view on the iPad Pro seem far better fitted to video calls.
But for now, I’m sticking with the MacBook Pro, especially with a replacement rumored 14-inch MacBook Pro on the way with its mini-LED display.
