Should you buy the new iPad Pro 4th generation?

Due to the coronavirus, you're probably spending a lot more time at home. And by a lot, we mean you're stuck there. If you're like us, spending so much time indoors makes you want to have a window on the outside world. And a great window to have on the outside world is the new, 4th-generation iPad Pro.

Apple iPad Pro 2020 Edition Tablet in Use

Although Apple has closed all of its physical stores in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the company announced its new iPad Pro models on March 18. You can buy them starting today from Apple’s online store. According to Tech Radar, the actual iPad Pro 2020 release date is March 24, although the online store says the first delivery date is March 25 in the US. So you might have to wait an extra day to get your new iPad. With that in mind, should you buy the new iPad Pro 4th generation? Let’s take a look at the specs.

What is the iPad Pro 2020’s design?

Like the 2018 editions, the 4th generation iPad Pro comes in an 11-inch and 12.9-inch display. Tech Radar tells us that the 2020 iPad Pros will come with a 120Hz refresh rate, perfect for gaming and scrolling through your social media feeds. The smaller display will give you a resolution of 2388 x 1668, while the larger display’s resolution is 2732 x 2048. You can get both models in silver or space gray. Also, you’ll find a USB-C port on the bottom edge of the tablet but, of course, no headphone jack.

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The new Apple software and cameras improve Apple’s tablets

The 2020 iPad Pros will include iPadOS 13.4. Apple will include software updates over the next couple of years too. Tech Radar says that, previously,  iPad products have used iOS software. However, last year the company introduced tablet software in its own name. The new software is similar, but it does have improvements that should increase productivity.

Notably, the iPadOS 13.4  brings trackpad support for the first time. Apple says, “The cursor appears as a circle that highlights user interface elements, text fields and apps on the Home screen and Dock, giving a clear indication of what users can click on. Fluid gestures on the trackpad make it easy to switch between apps, access the app switcher, and activate the Dock, Control Center, and apps in Slide Over.”

Apple iPad Pro 4th Gen View

The area where the 2020 iPad Pro has most improved is its camera, a feature aimed at people who want to experience augmented reality on their iPad. So, Apple has included two rear cameras on the iPad Pro. One has a 12MP f/1.8 wide camera, and the other has a 10MP f/2.4 aperture.

The processor and storage will enhance productivity

Macworld says that the new iPad Pros will contain A12Z Bionic processor chips. For the moment, Apple hasn’t released many details but claims the new processors will make the new iPad Pros “faster and more powerful than most Windows PC laptops.” This would be interesting. In terms of storage, the new iPad Pros have options for 128GB/256GB/512GB/1TB of storage at increasing price points. Macworld says that the previous 64GB baseline storage option has been removed and replaced by twice as much space for the same price. This is good to keep in mind.

Apple iPad Pro 4th Gen Gaming View

There are improved accessories

Apple has designed a new keyboard for the 2020 iPad Pros called the Magic Keyboard. MacRumors says that it’s a new version of the Smart Keyboard and that it comes with a trackpad, backlit keys, and a scissor-switch mechanism with 1mm of key travel. The Magic Keyboard is a full-sized keyboard that can attach magnetically to the tablets and has cantilevered hinges for smooth viewing angles. It has USB-C charging and folds to protect the iPad when you’re not using it.

New Magic Keyboard for the iPad Pro 4th Gen

Another neat accessory to the 2020 iPad Pro is the second-generation Apple Pencil. It attaches to the iPad through magnets and charges from the direct physical connection.

What is the LiDAR Scanner?

Another new feature on the 2020 iPad Pros is the LiDAR Scanner which, MacWorld says, Apple seems to be pushing as the flagship feature on the 4th generation. Tech Radar reports that it is designed for depth-sensing capabilities and that it should improve your Portrait photography. However, its goal is mostly to enhance augmented reality apps. Additionally, the scanner can measure the distance of items that are up to 5 meters away.

iPad Pro 4th Gen in Use

How much do the new tablets cost?

The 11-inch 128GB WiFi-only model starts at $799, or $949 for the 128GB cellular model.  You can buy the 12.9-inch model for $999 with 128GB WiFi, or pay $1,149 for the 128GB cellular model. Additional storage is available for higher-priced models.  The Apple Pencil costs $129, and the new Magic Keyboard will arrive in May. The 11-inch model will cost $299, and the 12.9-inch model will cost $349.

So, are the 4th generation iPad Pros worth buying?

The short answer is yes.  If you are looking to buy a new tablet in 2020, the new iPad Pro 4th generation is a great buy. It features a fast display, powerful processor, and plenty of storage. New features like a better keyboard, Apple Pen, and cameras will make this iPad an excellent buy for people who plan on using their tablet for a variety of uses. The LiDAR scanner is an exciting feature, but we will have to see how that one plays out. Overall, the 4th generation iPad Pros are a solid purchase.