iPad Pro M4 (2024) vs. M2 (2022): Ultimate Comparison Guide
Introduction
On May 7, 2024, Apple officially launched the iPad Pro M4 (2024), the successor to the nearly two-year-old iPad Pro M2 (2022). This article will compare the 13-inch iPad Pro M4 (2024) and the 12.9-inch iPad Pro M2 (2022) to illustrate the differences between these two products. For this comparison, the models used are the 13-inch iPad Pro M4 (2024) Wi-Fi only and the 12.9-inch iPad Pro M2 (2022) Wi-Fi + Cellular.
Design Comparison
Overall, the iPad Pro M4 (2024) features a slightly larger screen at 13 inches compared to 12.9 inches for the iPad Pro M2 (2022). The dimensions of the two iPads are not significantly different, except for thickness:
- iPad Pro M4 (2024) dimensions: 281.6 x 215.5 x 5.1 mm.
- iPad Pro M2 (2022) dimensions: 280.6 x 214.9 x 6.4 mm.
- Result: The iPad Pro M4 (2024) is 1 mm longer, 0.6 mm wider, and 1.3 mm thinner than the iPad Pro M2 (2022).
Apple emphasized the thinness of the iPad Pro M4 at its launch event, proclaiming it as the thinnest device they’ve ever made, even slimmer than the seventh-generation iPod Nano introduced in 2012.
Design Style
Both the iPad Pro M4 (2024) and iPad Pro M2 (2022) feature flat edges with slightly rounded corners. The physical button layouts are similar, but there are subtle differences:
- Top edge: iPad Pro M4 (2024) reduces one microphone and has a longer external speaker strip compared to the iPad Pro M2 (2022).
- Right edge: Both models include volume buttons and a mid-positioned 5G antenna strip.
- Bottom edge: iPad Pro M4 (2024) features a longer speaker strip and retains the USB-C charging port at the center, similar to the iPad Pro M2 (2022).
Additionally, the rear camera on the iPad Pro M4 (2024) protrudes less as it no longer includes the 10 MP ultra-wide camera found in the previous generation. The camera design is more integrated, matching the back’s color, giving a more unified appearance than the black lens frame on the iPad Pro M2 (2022).
Display and Front Design
The bezels around the screen appear similar between the two models. The iPad Pro M4 (2024) uses an OLED panel compared to the Mini-LED on the iPad Pro M2 (2022), though the difference might not be noticeable without extended use. The front camera and Face ID system have been relocated to the right bezel on the iPad Pro M4 (2024), optimizing it for FaceTime calls.
Hardware and Performance Specifications
- iPad Pro M4 (2024): Features the Apple M4 chip, which significantly enhances both CPU and GPU performance, promising up to double the CPU performance and four times the GPU performance compared to the Apple M2, with better energy efficiency.
Personal Observations
Handling the iPad Pro M4 (2024), I noticed it’s thinner and feels lighter than its predecessor, which might be a significant factor for users looking to upgrade. However, I am concerned that its slimmer design could affect its durability, potentially leading to bending issues seen in some previous iPad models. Additionally, the performance and cooling capabilities of the new Apple M4 chip are crucial areas I will explore in future detailed reviews.
Conclusion
The iPad Pro M4 (2024) offers a thinner, lighter design with significantly enhanced performance over the iPad Pro M2 (2022). Users will need to weigh these improvements against the potential durability concerns and decide if the upgrade is justified.
