Is Paying a Premium for an iPad Worth It? [August 2020]

In March 2020, Apple launched two new models of the iPad Pro. With an additional ultra-wide camera and other upgrades, Apple states that these are the highest-performing iPads ever. They’re now suitable even for those who would usually need more than a tablet, like for video editing or 3D modeling.

No doubt the new iPads are significantly better, but that’s reflected in the prices as well. Is it worth it to pay premium pricing for the new iPad?

The Upgrades

Outwardly, you won’t notice too many differences, except maybe the dual rear camera. However, there’s a big difference in the processor, augmented reality features, and audio quality.

The new iPads support the Magic Keyboard. For the first time you can add a trackpad to an iPad, which is a small revolution. Let’s take a closer look at all the changes.

A12Z Bionic Chip

An upgrade over the A12X chip used in the 2018 iPad Pro, the powerful new chip is faster than those in most commercial PCs. Apple developed it just for the needs of 3D designers and video editors, who can now have a truly portable device that doesn’t take a backseat to any.

For other users, the A12Z bionic chip means that your iPad Pro has an enhanced thermal architecture and can work up to 10 hours on a single charge! Moreover, it can now support even the most sophisticated augmented reality apps.

LiDAR Scanner

LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) hints at where Apple is going in the future. The scanner allows the iPad to do certain things previously unimaginable, mostly having to do with augmented reality. The LiDAR scanner allows you to use the most popular augmented reality apps for educational and fun purposes.

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For example, the new app Anatomy may help you avoid going to the hospital. Its purpose is measuring the range of motion in people who are recovering from various injuries. It’s as accurate or even more accurate than hospital equipment!

Another advantage of the LiDAR scanner is that you can now measure things with high precision – whether we’re talking about the dimensions of the new wardrobe at Ikea or your kid’s height.

Dual Camera

Apart from a 12-megapixel rear camera, there’s an additional ultra-wide-angle camera. Rated at 10 megapixels, the new camera has a 125-degree field of view. This is a significant improvement to double the photo and video capabilities of your iPad Pro. For example, you can now zoom in at twice the wider field of view and with improved precision.

As said, the new iPad is suitable for the most demanding professions, of which the dual camera is perfect for everyone who works with images and videos.

Magic Keyboard and Trackpad

The new Magic Keyboard has a scissor mechanism similar to the one in MacBook Pro. It sounds very promising from the off, and many have exclaimed that typing on the iPad has never felt better!

For the first time, there’s a trackpad for use with an iPad, a feature that could change everything. Rather than an oversized smartphone, the new iPad is much closer to a computer and a very powerful one at that. It’s perfect for those who want to use their iPad for work. You can now navigate quickly through your files on a tablet that’s also compatible with all apps.

What About the Price?

The prices go up with the size. As usual, there are two similar models: the 11-inch iPad starts at $799 and the 12.9-inch $999 (similar to entry-level MacBooks).

While the new iPad Pro is better than ever, it’s worth mentioning that the accessories will add to it, and not very cheaply. Both the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pen can be had for a few hundred more.

Is It Worth It?

If you need more than a simple iPad for work, this could be one of the best investments. The new iPad Pro is as capable as some high-end PCs and an excellent choice for those who need the most powerful table.

On the other hand, if you want to buy it just because it’s trendy and you can afford it, who’s going to judge you, right? Who cares if you’re not going to use the LiDAR scanner? (That’s assuming that you don’t have to go hungry or into debt to buy one.)

We’d like to hear your opinion in the comments below. Let us know what do you think, and would you consider buying a new iPad Pro.