When Apple pulled back the curtain on the 5th generation iPad Pro, it wasn't just another iterative update. For anyone eyeing a top-tier tablet, the new model introduced a compelling dilemma, particularly if you were weighing it against the still-formidable 4th generation. Our focus today is a clear-eyed iPad Pro 5th Gen vs. 4th Gen Comparison (Launch Perspective), helping you understand the real-world impact of Apple's ambitious hardware refresh, especially if you're deciding between a free 4th gen and a £200 5th gen.
You're at a crossroads, pondering if the latest and greatest justifies a bit of extra cash, perhaps even dreaming of future Logic Pro support on iPad. Let's cut through the noise and figure out exactly what those extra pounds buy you.
At a Glance: 5th Gen vs. 4th Gen iPad Pro 12.9-inch
Before we dive deep, here’s a quick rundown of the key differences at their debut, especially relevant for the 12.9-inch models:
- Processor: The 5th Gen heralded the M1 chip, a monumental leap from the 4th Gen's A12Z Bionic, offering desktop-class performance.
- Display: The 5th Gen introduced the stunning Liquid Retina XDR display with Mini-LED technology, a significant visual upgrade over the 4th Gen's already excellent Liquid Retina LED panel.
- Front Camera: The 5th Gen brought "Center Stage" to its 12MP Ultra Wide camera, intelligently keeping you in frame during video calls, a feature absent on the 4th Gen's 7MP camera.
- Connectivity: Thunderbolt / USB 4 support and 5G cellular arrived with the 5th Gen, offering faster data transfer and next-gen wireless speeds compared to the 4th Gen's standard USB-C and 4G LTE.
- Software Potential: While Apple Intelligence came later, the M1 chip in the 5th Gen laid the foundation for such advanced AI features, which the 4th Gen does not support.
- Subtle Changes: The 5th Gen is negligibly thicker and heavier due to the Mini-LED tech, and features Smart HDR 3 for improved photo processing over the 4th Gen's Smart HDR.
In essence, the 5th Gen wasn't just a tweak; it was Apple pushing the envelope on performance and visual fidelity for a portable device.
The Display Debate: XDR vs. Retina's Brilliance
Let's be frank: the display is often the first thing your eyes notice, and for many, it's a make-or-break feature. With the 5th Gen 12.9-inch iPad Pro, Apple introduced the Liquid Retina XDR display, powered by Mini-LED technology.
What does that mean for you? It's a game-changer for visual quality. Imagine 10,000 tiny LEDs packed into the display, creating over 2,500 local dimming zones. This allows for incredible contrast, true blacks, and dazzling peak brightness (up to 1600 nits for HDR content, 1000 nits full screen). When you're consuming media, especially HDR movies or editing photos in Photoshop, the colors pop, the shadows are deep, and highlights sparkle with an intensity the 4th Gen simply can't match. This level of visual fidelity is on par with Apple's Pro Display XDR, hence the name.
The 4th Gen's Liquid Retina display, while still excellent with ProMotion, P3 wide color, and True Tone, maxes out at 600 nits. It’s a superb screen for most tasks, offering vibrant colors and smooth scrolling. But put it side-by-side with the 5th Gen, and the difference, particularly with high-contrast content, is unmistakable. For your college productivity and general media consumption, the 4th Gen's display is more than adequate. For color-critical Photoshop work or simply enjoying stunning HDR video, the 5th Gen's XDR display offers a genuinely premium experience that might justify that extra £200.
Power Unleashed: M1 Chip's Desktop-Class Performance
Perhaps the most significant differentiator, and one with long-term implications, is the processor. The 5th Gen iPad Pro took an unprecedented leap by incorporating Apple's M1 chip – the very same silicon found in their MacBooks and Mac mini. This wasn't just an upgrade; it was a paradigm shift for what an iPad could achieve.
The M1 boasts an 8-core CPU, an 8-core GPU, and a 16-core Neural Engine, coupled with unified memory (8GB or 16GB RAM depending on storage). It also includes a dedicated Media Engine for hardware-accelerated video encode and decode. This translates to blistering speed for virtually any task. Whether you're juggling multiple apps, rendering complex graphics in Photoshop, or handling intensive video editing, the M1 makes everything feel instant and effortless. For a closer look at the initial reveal, you might want to check out iPad Pro 5th generation release details.
In contrast, the 4th Gen iPad Pro features the A12Z Bionic chip. Make no mistake, the A12Z was no slouch at launch. With its 8-core CPU and 8-core GPU, it was (and remains) a powerful mobile processor, easily handling demanding apps and multitasking. However, it's inherently a mobile-first chip. The M1, on the other hand, was designed for desktop-level performance and power efficiency.
For your current college work and media consumption, the A12Z in the 4th Gen will perform admirably. Where the M1 truly shines for your specific scenario is Photoshop and your hope for Logic Pro support. Complex Photoshop files with many layers, large brush strokes, or intricate filters will likely run noticeably smoother and faster on the M1.
And then there's the elephant in the room: Logic Pro. At the time of the 5th Gen's launch, Logic Pro for iPad was merely a dream for many. However, the M1 chip fundamentally changed the conversation. By bringing desktop-class architecture to the iPad, it made the potential for professional-grade software like Logic Pro (which later arrived) a very real possibility. If your long-term vision includes using your iPad Pro for serious music production, the M1 chip was the key enabler, and the 4th Gen simply doesn't offer that same foundation.
Step Up Your Video Calls with Center Stage
In an era of ubiquitous video conferencing, the front-facing camera has become more important than ever. The 5th Gen iPad Pro introduced a significant improvement here with its 12MP Ultra Wide front camera featuring "Center Stage."
Center Stage intelligently uses machine learning to pan and zoom, keeping you perfectly framed even as you move around during a video call. If someone else joins you in the frame, it expands to include them. It's a subtle but genuinely useful feature for FaceTime, Zoom, or any other video conferencing app, especially for college presentations or family chats. It also includes Smart HDR 3 for better photo quality and extended dynamic range for video up to 30 fps.
The 4th Gen, by comparison, has a competent 7MP front camera with Smart HDR. It gets the job done for standard video calls and selfies, but it lacks the wider field of view, the higher resolution, and the intelligent tracking capabilities of Center Stage. If you spend a lot of time on video calls, Center Stage is a tangible quality-of-life upgrade.
Connectivity Beyond Compare: Thunderbolt and 5G
When it comes to staying connected and expanding your workflow, the 5th Gen iPad Pro also brings some notable improvements.
The USB-C port on the 5th Gen is no ordinary USB-C. It supports Thunderbolt / USB 4, which means dramatically faster data transfer speeds – up to 40Gbps. This is crucial if you regularly connect high-speed external SSDs for editing large photo libraries or video projects, or if you want to drive a high-resolution external display. Thunderbolt connectivity essentially transforms the iPad Pro into an even more versatile workstation, bridging the gap between tablet and desktop. The 4th Gen, while also featuring a USB-C port, offers standard USB 3.1 Gen 2 speeds (up to 10Gbps), which is still fast but not in the same league as Thunderbolt.
For those who opt for a cellular model, the 5th Gen introduces 5G connectivity. While 4G LTE on the 4th Gen is still perfectly capable for most mobile internet needs, 5G offers potentially faster download and upload speeds, lower latency, and better performance in congested areas, making it more future-proof as 5G networks expand.
The Foundation for Future AI: Apple Intelligence
While Apple Intelligence was announced much later, the hardware foundation for these advanced AI capabilities was laid with the M1 chip in the 5th Gen iPad Pro. The M1's powerful Neural Engine and overall processing prowess are essential for running on-device AI models, enabling features like advanced writing tools, image generation, and contextually aware Siri.
The 4th Gen, with its A12Z Bionic chip, lacks the computational muscle and architectural design necessary to fully support Apple Intelligence. If staying on the cutting edge of Apple's software innovations, especially those leveraging AI, is important to you, the 5th Gen provides that necessary hardware platform.
Shared Excellence: What Both iPad Pros Get Right
It's important to remember that both the 4th and 5th Gen iPad Pro 12.9-inch models are exceptional devices, sharing a core set of premium features that define the "Pro" experience:
- Design: Both sport the sleek, all-screen design with flat edges, giving them a modern and professional aesthetic.
- ProMotion Technology: Enjoy incredibly smooth scrolling, fluid animations, and responsive Apple Pencil input thanks to adaptive refresh rates up to 120Hz.
- Accessory Support: Both seamlessly integrate with the Apple Pencil (2nd generation) and the Magic Keyboard, transforming the tablet into a versatile laptop-like device. (Note: Your first-gen Apple Pencil won't work with either of these iPad Pro models; you'd need a 2nd Gen Apple Pencil or the Apple Pencil with USB-C).
- Cameras (Rear): Both feature a sophisticated dual-camera system with 12MP Wide and 10MP Ultra Wide lenses, a LiDAR Scanner for advanced AR and improved autofocus in low light, and 4K video recording.
- Face ID: Secure and convenient facial authentication.
- Audio: Four-speaker audio and five studio-quality microphones for immersive sound and clear recordings.
- Battery Life: Both promise up to 10 hours of web browsing or video playback on Wi-Fi, or 9 hours on cellular.
- Smart Connector: On the back for connecting accessories like the Magic Keyboard or Smart Keyboard Folio.
These shared attributes mean that even with the 4th Gen, you're getting a premium, highly capable device that excels at productivity, creativity, and entertainment.
Navigating Your Decision: £0 for 4th Gen vs. £200 for 5th Gen
This is where the rubber meets the road. You're presented with a compelling choice: a free 4th Gen or a £200 outlay for the 5th Gen. Let's break down if that extra cost is truly justified for your specific usage.
For College Productivity and Media Consumption
The 4th Gen iPad Pro is an absolute powerhouse for these tasks. Its A12Z Bionic chip handles note-taking, research, essay writing, and presentation creation with ease. The Liquid Retina display is fantastic for watching lectures, streaming movies, or browsing the web. The audio system is excellent, and the compatibility with the Magic Keyboard makes typing a breeze. For these core uses, the 4th Gen is arguably all you need, and getting it for free is an incredible deal.
The 5th Gen's M1 chip and XDR display are overkill for standard college work and media consumption. While they offer a superior experience, they won't necessarily make you more productive or enjoy your content that much more for casual viewing.
For Photoshop Work
This is where the balance begins to shift. Photoshop on iPad can be demanding, especially with larger files, multiple layers, and complex filters.
- Performance: The M1 chip in the 5th Gen will provide a noticeable performance boost. Tasks like applying filters, rendering previews, or working with high-resolution images will be smoother and faster. If you're constantly pushing Photoshop to its limits, that saved time and reduced frustration could easily be worth £200 over the lifespan of the device.
- Display: The Liquid Retina XDR display is a significant advantage for graphic designers and photographers. The wider dynamic range, true blacks, and incredible brightness mean you'll see your work with far greater accuracy and vibrancy. For color-critical work, this display is a professional tool. The 4th Gen's display is good, but it simply can't reproduce the same level of detail in highlights and shadows, nor the same contrast.
If Photoshop is a significant part of your workflow and you value speed and color accuracy, the £200 for the 5th Gen becomes a much more justifiable expense.
The Logic Pro Dream
Your hope for Logic Pro support on iPad is the single strongest argument for choosing the 5th Gen. When it launched, the M1 chip signaled Apple's intent to bring more desktop-class software to the iPad. While Logic Pro for iPad wasn't available immediately, the M1 provided the architectural foundation and raw power necessary to run such a demanding professional audio workstation.
Indeed, Logic Pro for iPad was released later, exclusively for M-series iPads. If serious music production is in your future and you envision using your iPad Pro as a mobile studio, the 5th Gen is the only choice that supports Logic Pro. The 4th Gen, with its A12Z chip, cannot run it. This alone could be the deciding factor for your £200.
Future-Proofing
- M1 Chip: This is the same chip family that powers current Macs, ensuring longer software support and compatibility with future demanding apps.
- Thunderbolt / USB 4: Offers significantly faster data transfer and greater versatility for external accessories, extending the life and utility of your device.
- 5G: If you opt for a cellular model, 5G provides faster and more reliable mobile internet where available.
- Apple Intelligence: The 5th Gen has the hardware to support these advanced AI features; the 4th Gen does not.
All these factors mean the 5th Gen is significantly more future-proof. It will likely receive major iPadOS updates for a longer period and be able to handle next-generation applications with ease.
Quick Answers to Common Questions
Q: Is the M1 chip overkill for an iPad?
A: For basic tasks like web browsing, email, or light productivity, yes, the M1 is absolute overkill. However, for demanding creative professionals (like you with Photoshop and Logic Pro aspirations) or those who simply want the absolute best performance and longest device lifespan, it’s a game-changer. It transforms the iPad into a true pro-level machine.
Q: Is the XDR display really worth the extra cost?
A: If you primarily consume media, edit photos, or do any color-sensitive work, then absolutely. The difference in contrast, brightness, and HDR performance is striking. For casual users, it's a luxury; for professionals, it's a tool that enhances accuracy and immersion.
Q: Will my first-gen Apple Pencil work with these iPad Pros?
A: Unfortunately, no. Both the 4th and 5th Gen iPad Pro 12.9-inch models support the 2nd generation Apple Pencil or the Apple Pencil (USB-C), which magnetically attaches and charges on the side. Your first-gen Apple Pencil is designed for older iPad models. Factor in the cost of a new Apple Pencil if you need one.
Q: What about the slight difference in weight and thickness? Is the 5th Gen noticeably bulkier?
A: The 5th Gen is marginally thicker and heavier due to the Mini-LED display technology. While it is perceptible if you hold both side-by-side, it's not a deal-breaker for most. It's still an incredibly thin and light device for its capabilities.
Making Your Choice: Investing in the Future or Saving Now?
Considering your specific use case – college productivity, media consumption, Photoshop work, and the strong desire for future Logic Pro support – the £200 premium for the 5th Gen iPad Pro 12.9-inch seems remarkably well-justified.
The M1 chip is not just about raw speed; it's about enabling a new class of applications and ensuring long-term relevance, especially for your Logic Pro dream. The Liquid Retina XDR display will elevate your Photoshop work and media enjoyment to a professional standard. Features like Thunderbolt and Center Stage are quality-of-life improvements that enhance the "pro" experience and future-proof your investment.
If your budget were extremely tight, or your usage strictly limited to basic college tasks, the free 4th Gen would be an excellent choice. It's still a fantastic tablet. However, for £200, the 5th Gen offers a monumental leap in performance, display technology, and future potential that aligns perfectly with your more demanding creative aspirations. It’s an investment that will likely pay dividends in terms of workflow efficiency, creative enjoyment, and extended longevity.