IPad Pro M2 Vs. IPad Pro 3rd Gen: Which Is Right For You?

Oct 29, 2025 by Jhon Lennon 58 views

iPad Pro M2 vs. iPad Pro 3rd Gen: A Comprehensive Comparison

Hey everyone! Choosing the right iPad Pro can feel like navigating a tech jungle, especially with impressive models like the iPad Pro M2 and the iPad Pro 3rd generation in the mix. If you're scratching your head trying to figure out the differences, you're in the right place! We're diving deep to break down these two powerhouses, helping you decide which one perfectly fits your needs and budget. Let's get started, shall we?

Unveiling the iPad Pro M2: The Latest and Greatest

The iPad Pro M2 is Apple's current flagship tablet, and it's packed with the latest technology. It’s got the sleek design we all know and love, but what really sets it apart is the M2 chip. This chip is a beast, offering significant performance improvements over its predecessors. Think faster processing speeds, smoother multitasking, and enhanced graphics capabilities. Whether you're a creative professional, a gamer, or someone who just loves a super-responsive tablet, the M2 is designed to impress. The iPad Pro M2 typically boasts a stunning Liquid Retina display, ProMotion technology for incredibly smooth scrolling, and advanced features like Center Stage, which keeps you in frame during video calls. It also usually supports the second-generation Apple Pencil, which magnetically attaches and charges on the side. This integration makes it a breeze to sketch, take notes, or navigate the interface with precision. For storage options, you can find the iPad Pro M2 in a range of capacities, ensuring you have plenty of room for all your files, apps, and media. In terms of connectivity, the iPad Pro M2 typically comes with Wi-Fi 6E for super-fast wireless speeds and options for 5G cellular connectivity, allowing you to stay connected wherever you go. The camera system is often improved too, with upgrades to both the front-facing and rear cameras, offering enhanced image and video quality. One of the main benefits of the iPad Pro M2 is its future-proofing. With the latest processor and features, you can be confident that it will handle the latest apps and updates for years to come. Plus, if you're looking for the absolute best performance and the latest innovations, the iPad Pro M2 is the clear winner, making it a solid choice for anyone seeking the pinnacle of the iPad experience.

Key Features of the iPad Pro M2:

M2 Chip: Lightning-fast performance for demanding tasks.
Liquid Retina Display: Stunning visuals with ProMotion technology.
Apple Pencil (2nd Gen) Support: Seamless integration for creatives.
Wi-Fi 6E and 5G: Blazing-fast connectivity options.
Advanced Camera System: Improved photo and video quality.

Exploring the iPad Pro 3rd Generation: Still a Strong Contender

Now, let's turn our attention to the iPad Pro 3rd generation. Even though it's a generation behind the M2, it's still a seriously capable tablet. Released in 2018, the iPad Pro 3rd generation was a game-changer when it launched. It brought major design updates, including slimmer bezels, a larger display in the same footprint as the previous models, and the removal of the home button in favor of Face ID. The 3rd gen is powered by the A12X Bionic chip, which, while not as powerful as the M2, still delivers impressive performance. This chip ensures that the iPad Pro 3rd generation can handle most tasks with ease, from browsing the web and streaming videos to running creative apps like photo and video editors. The display is typically a Liquid Retina display, which is vibrant and sharp, and also supports ProMotion for smooth scrolling. This is another major asset of the iPad Pro 3rd generation. The iPad Pro 3rd generation offers support for the second-generation Apple Pencil, giving you all the benefits of that precise, responsive stylus. You'll find different storage options, though they may not be as expansive as the M2. Also, it usually comes with Wi-Fi and cellular models, providing flexibility in how you stay connected. It's often more affordable than the iPad Pro M2, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. The camera system is still good, offering decent photo and video quality for your everyday needs. Even as an older model, the iPad Pro 3rd generation holds its own against newer tablets, and it's a great value for its performance. Plus, you can find them for significantly less than the latest models. The iPad Pro 3rd generation is a solid option for anyone who wants a powerful tablet without breaking the bank, and is still very relevant, and remains a reliable choice, especially if you prioritize value for money and don't need the absolute cutting-edge performance of the M2.

Key Features of the iPad Pro 3rd Generation:

A12X Bionic Chip: Powerful performance for most tasks.
Liquid Retina Display: Beautiful visuals with ProMotion.
Face ID: Secure and convenient facial recognition.
Apple Pencil (2nd Gen) Support: Compatible with the latest stylus.
More Affordable: A great value for the features it offers.

Head-to-Head Comparison: iPad Pro M2 vs. iPad Pro 3rd Gen

Alright, let's get into the nitty-gritty and see how these two iPads stack up against each other. We'll look at the key aspects like performance, display, features, and price to help you make a clear decision. It's time to pit these iPad Pros against each other!

Performance: The Heart of the Matter

The most significant difference between the iPad Pro M2 and the iPad Pro 3rd generation is the performance. The M2 chip is a powerhouse, offering a substantial boost over the A12X Bionic chip. This means faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and better performance in demanding applications like video editing, gaming, and graphic design. If you're a power user or a creative professional who relies on intensive applications, the iPad Pro M2 is the clear winner. The A12X Bionic chip in the iPad Pro 3rd generation still holds its own, easily handling everyday tasks, but it may show its age when dealing with the latest and most demanding apps. The M2 chip offers a more future-proof experience. The advantage here is the iPad Pro M2, which allows it to handle the most demanding tasks with ease. It's better suited for pro users who work with resource-intensive applications.

Display: Visual Brilliance

Both the iPad Pro M2 and the iPad Pro 3rd generation feature stunning Liquid Retina displays with ProMotion technology. This means you'll enjoy vibrant colors, excellent contrast, and smooth scrolling. The experience is pretty similar across both models, but subtle improvements in the M2 might lead to slightly better brightness or color accuracy. You likely won't notice a huge difference unless you're a pixel-peeper or working in a professional color-critical field. The display is a clear win-win, as both have great displays. The ProMotion technology is amazing in both models.

Features and Connectivity: Staying Connected

When it comes to features, both iPads offer a lot, including support for the second-generation Apple Pencil and Face ID for secure authentication. However, the iPad Pro M2 typically comes with the latest connectivity options, such as Wi-Fi 6E, which offers faster wireless speeds than the Wi-Fi in the iPad Pro 3rd generation. It may also include 5G cellular connectivity, which ensures you can stay connected at faster speeds on the go. The M2 typically has better options for connecting to the world. Both support the latest Apple Pencil for drawing and note-taking. If you prioritize the fastest speeds, the iPad Pro M2 is a better pick.

Price: The Budget Factor

Here's where things get interesting. The iPad Pro 3rd generation is generally available at a lower price point than the iPad Pro M2. This makes it an excellent value for those looking for a high-performance tablet without spending a fortune. The iPad Pro M2 is more expensive, but the added performance and features might justify the cost if you're a heavy user. The iPad Pro 3rd generation is a fantastic deal, especially if you can get a refurbished model. If budget is a key concern, the iPad Pro 3rd generation is the more sensible option. The value of the iPad Pro 3rd generation is a major factor.

Which iPad Pro is Right for You?

So, which iPad Pro should you choose? Let's break it down to help you make a decision.

Choose the iPad Pro M2 if:

You need the best performance: For demanding tasks like video editing, gaming, or graphic design, the M2 chip will significantly improve your workflow.
You want the latest features: You want the fastest Wi-Fi, the latest camera improvements, and the peace of mind of having the most up-to-date technology.
Budget is less of a concern: If you're willing to invest in the best, the iPad Pro M2 is the top-of-the-line experience.

Choose the iPad Pro 3rd Generation if:

You're on a budget: It's a great value for the performance and features you get.
Everyday tasks are your primary use: If you mostly browse the web, stream videos, and use basic apps, the A12X Bionic chip is perfectly sufficient.
You want a capable tablet without spending a fortune: You still get a high-quality display, Apple Pencil support, and a premium experience at a lower price.

Final Thoughts: Making the Right Choice

Ultimately, the best iPad Pro for you depends on your individual needs and budget. The iPad Pro M2 offers the latest technology and the best performance, making it ideal for power users and those who want the absolute best. The iPad Pro 3rd generation provides excellent value, offering a high-quality experience at a more affordable price. It's a solid choice for everyday users who don't need the cutting edge of performance. Think about what you will use it for and choose the best one. Both the iPad Pro M2 and iPad Pro 3rd generation are fantastic tablets, so you can't really go wrong. The choice between the iPad Pro M2 and iPad Pro 3rd generation boils down to whether you prioritize raw power and cutting-edge features or value and affordability. Consider your budget and your daily usage habits to pick the perfect iPad Pro for you. Happy shopping, everyone!