IPad Pro 11-inch M1 Vs. 2020: Which One Reigns Supreme?

Oct 29, 2025 by Jhon Lennon 56 views

iPad Pro 11-inch M1 vs. 2020: A Detailed Comparison

Hey guys! So, you're looking to dive into the world of iPads, specifically the 11-inch Pro models, and you're probably wondering which one's the better buy – the iPad Pro 11-inch M1 or the 2020 iPad Pro 11-inch? Don't worry, I've got you covered. This guide will break down everything you need to know, from the specs to the real-world performance, helping you make the most informed decision. We'll be looking at the differences in performance, display, design, and even the camera system, so you know exactly what you're getting. Whether you're a student, a creative professional, or just someone who loves a great tablet, this comparison is for you. Let's get started!

Unveiling the Powerhouses: iPad Pro 11-inch M1 vs. 2020 Model

Alright, let's kick things off by taking a closer look at what each of these tablets brings to the table. The iPad Pro 11-inch M1 is the newer model, released in 2021, and it's packing some serious power thanks to Apple's M1 chip. This chip is a game-changer, previously seen in Mac computers, and it offers a massive leap in performance. On the other hand, the 2020 iPad Pro 11-inch, released in early 2020, still holds its own with its A12Z Bionic chip, which was pretty impressive back in the day. The M1 chip offers better processing power, and graphic capabilities compared to the A12Z Bionic chip. The M1 chip delivers faster processing for multitasking and running demanding applications. You will find that the M1 handles all tasks very quickly. The 2020 model however will handle daily tasks with no lag or delays. The 2020 model is still a very capable machine.

One of the biggest differences is the processing power. The M1 chip is a beast, offering significantly faster performance. It means faster app loading times, smoother multitasking, and better performance in graphically intensive games and creative apps. The 2020 model, with its A12Z Bionic chip, is no slouch either. It can handle most tasks with ease, but you'll notice the difference when you start pushing the tablet with demanding workloads. This iPad Pro 11-inch M1 is a powerhouse, built for creators, gamers, and anyone who wants the absolute best performance. The 2020 model is still a great choice. You may be fine with what it offers in its ability to handle your tasks. The choice really depends on your budget and how demanding your needs are. If you're a power user or planning to use the iPad for professional creative work, the M1 is the clear winner. Otherwise, the 2020 model offers a fantastic experience at a potentially lower price.

The Display Showdown: ProMotion and Beyond

Let's talk about the display. Both iPads feature a gorgeous 11-inch Liquid Retina display with a resolution of 2388 x 1668 pixels. That means sharp images, vibrant colors, and incredible detail. However, there's a key difference: the iPad Pro 11-inch M1 comes with ProMotion technology. ProMotion allows the display to dynamically adjust its refresh rate up to 120Hz. The 2020 model also has a great display, but it lacks ProMotion. That higher refresh rate makes everything feel incredibly smooth, from scrolling through web pages to playing games. It's a subtle but significant upgrade that enhances the overall user experience. This means the screen refreshes twice as fast, resulting in a noticeably smoother and more responsive feel. This is one of those things that you have to experience to fully appreciate, but trust me, it's a game-changer, especially for anyone who uses their iPad for drawing, gaming, or content creation. The 2020 iPad Pro still has a great display, but it lacks the ProMotion feature. The display is bright and clear, with accurate colors. You’ll be happy with the display quality. So, if you value a smoother experience, the M1 is the way to go. Otherwise, the 2020 model's display is still excellent.

Design and Build Quality

In terms of design, both iPads share a very similar aesthetic. They both have a sleek, modern design with thin bezels and flat edges. The build quality is top-notch, with both devices feeling premium in hand. The iPad Pro 11-inch M1 is slightly thicker and heavier, mainly because of the more powerful internals. The differences are minimal. You probably won't even notice the difference in weight or thickness. The 2020 model feels just as premium. The iPad Pro 11-inch M1 uses recycled aluminum. This makes it more sustainable.

Both devices are available in the same colors: Silver and Space Gray. They both have the same port: USB-C, which you can use for charging, connecting accessories, and transferring data. So, no major changes here. You can expect the same high-quality build and design from both. They're both beautiful tablets. The real difference here is in the internals. There are no major design changes between the two. However, the M1 does use recycled aluminum.

Camera Capabilities: Snapping the Perfect Shot

When it comes to the camera, both iPads offer a capable setup. They both have a 12MP wide-angle camera and a 10MP ultra-wide camera on the back. You can use these for taking photos, recording videos, and scanning documents. The iPad Pro 11-inch M1 has some upgrades in the camera department. The most notable is the Center Stage feature on the front-facing camera. Center Stage automatically keeps you in the frame during video calls, which is super handy for staying centered, even if you move around. The 2020 model does not have Center Stage. It's a nice feature to have, but not a deal-breaker. The video quality is very similar between the two. The M1’s camera will be a slightly better quality. The M1 has some advantages but not anything drastically different. They're both great for video calls and capturing memories. The M1's center stage feature is nice to have. Both have the same 12MP wide-angle camera and 10MP ultra-wide camera. The M1's front camera is 12MP. The 2020 model's front camera is 7MP.

Diving Deeper: Specific Features and Considerations

Alright, let's go a bit deeper and look at some specific features that might influence your decision. Here are some of the key things to keep in mind:

Performance: Chip Showdown

As we've mentioned before, the biggest difference lies in the chip. The M1 chip in the newer model is a significant step up in terms of performance. It handles everything faster and more smoothly. If you're planning to use your iPad for demanding tasks like video editing, graphic design, or gaming, the M1 is the clear winner. The A12Z Bionic chip in the 2020 model is still fast. However, it may start to show its age if you're pushing the tablet to its limits. The M1 is designed for power users, while the A12Z is still great for most users. The M1 is very fast. The A12Z is fast but is not up to par with the M1 chip. If you're a power user or a creative professional, you need the M1. If you just need a tablet for everyday use, the 2020 model will still work great.

Storage Options and Price

Both iPads come in different storage options. The more storage you choose, the more it will cost. This is true for both models. The prices vary depending on the storage and whether you choose Wi-Fi only or Wi-Fi + Cellular models. There's a price difference between the two models. Generally, the iPad Pro 11-inch M1 is more expensive, especially when you factor in the additional storage or cellular connectivity. You'll want to carefully consider your budget and storage needs. Do you need a lot of space for apps, photos, and videos? If so, you'll need to pay more for a larger storage capacity. Consider your storage needs and budget before making a decision. The 2020 model will save you money.

Battery Life: Keeping the Power On

Both the iPad Pro 11-inch M1 and the 2020 model offer excellent battery life. You can expect to get a full day of use out of either tablet. This is based on typical usage patterns. This includes web browsing, streaming video, and light gaming. The actual battery life may vary depending on your usage. If you're constantly running demanding apps or playing graphics-intensive games, your battery may drain faster. Both models will easily get you through a day of work or play. You won't have to worry about constantly searching for an outlet.

Accessories: The Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil

Both iPads support the Apple Pencil (2nd generation) and the Magic Keyboard. These accessories can greatly enhance your productivity and creativity. The Apple Pencil is perfect for drawing, taking notes, and marking up documents. The Magic Keyboard turns your iPad into a mini-laptop. These accessories work seamlessly with both models, so you won't have to worry about compatibility issues. So, the accessories are the same. These will enhance your user experience. These accessories will work perfectly with either model. If you plan to use these accessories, make sure to factor them into your overall budget.

Making the Call: Which iPad Pro 11-inch is Right for You?

So, which iPad Pro 11-inch should you buy? The answer depends on your needs and budget. Here's a quick summary to help you decide:

Choose the iPad Pro 11-inch M1 if:

You want the absolute best performance for demanding tasks. The M1 chip offers a huge performance boost, making it ideal for creative professionals, gamers, and power users.
You value a smoother display experience. The ProMotion technology with its 120Hz refresh rate makes everything feel incredibly responsive.
You want the latest features like Center Stage on the front-facing camera.
You're willing to spend a bit more for the best of the best.

Choose the 2020 iPad Pro 11-inch if:

You want a great tablet at a more affordable price. The 2020 model still offers excellent performance and features.
You don't need the absolute fastest performance. If your usage is mostly for everyday tasks like browsing, streaming, and light productivity, the 2020 model is more than sufficient.
You're okay with a slightly older model to save some money.

Conclusion: Making the Right Choice

There you have it, guys! The iPad Pro 11-inch M1 is the clear winner in terms of performance and features. However, the 2020 model is still a fantastic tablet, and it's a great value for the price. Consider your needs, budget, and how you plan to use the iPad. If you need the best, the M1 is the way to go. If you are looking to save money, the 2020 model will be perfect. The iPad Pro 11-inch models are both amazing tablets. The best choice really depends on your needs and budget. I hope this comparison has helped you make the right choice! Happy shopping! If you have any questions, feel free to ask!