The 2024 iPad Pro is being hailed as the “Peak iPad” by enthusiasts and critics alike, and for good reason. After six months of extensive testing, it’s clear this device is a culmination of Apple’s innovative prowess. Packed with groundbreaking features like tandem OLED display technology, the M4 chip, and an array of refined accessories, this iPad Pro sets a new standard in the tablet market. Here’s why this device is arguably the best iPad Pro to date—and why it might remain unmatched for years to come.
A Brief Look Back: From 2018 to Now
To understand the significance of the 2024 iPad Pro, we need to revisit the iPad Pro’s journey. Back in 2018, Apple introduced a modern, redesigned iPad Pro that became the gold standard for years. Subsequent iterations, including the 2020 and M1 models, offered incremental upgrades, but many users were content with the 2018 version. Even the M2 model in 2022 failed to make a compelling case for an upgrade.
Fast forward to 2024, and the narrative has changed. The latest iPad Pro not only matches the legacy of the 2018 version but surpasses it in every conceivable way.
Key Features That Define the 2024 iPad Pro
1. Tandem OLED Display
The standout feature of the 2024 iPad Pro is its tandem OLED display. This dual-panel technology delivers:
- Unmatched Brightness: A combined 1,600 nits of brightness.
- Perfect Contrast: Eliminates halo effects and blooming issues common in mini-LED displays.
- Longevity: Operating at lower power under regular conditions, it reduces the risk of burn-in.
This is arguably the pinnacle of display technology, and experts predict no significant advancements in this area for at least six years.
2. M4 Chip
The M4 chip offers exceptional performance, rivaling its MacBook Pro counterparts. It handles gaming, productivity tasks, and multitasking with ease, all while maintaining efficiency. The thin chassis (5.1mm) imposes a thermal limit, meaning the M4 chip is likely as powerful as iPads can get in this form factor.
3. Accessories That Complete the Experience
- Magic Keyboard: Redesigned with a function row, larger trackpad, and unparalleled build quality, this accessory is the perfect complement to the iPad Pro.
- Apple Pencil Pro: Featuring barrel roll functionality and other advanced features, it feels future-proof for years to come.
4. Design Excellence
With a 5.1mm thickness, this is the thinnest iPad ever made. It combines sleek aesthetics with robust functionality, making it hard to envision significant design improvements in future iterations.
Why It’s a Long-Term Investment
The 2024 iPad Pro is not just a device for today; it’s future-proof for the next decade. With hardware that will remain top-tier for years and free software updates enhancing functionality over time, this device ensures longevity. Apple’s challenge now lies in convincing users to upgrade in the future—a testament to how good this product already is.
Should You Buy It?
If you’ve been holding out for the perfect iPad, the 2024 iPad Pro is the one to get. With discounts available during the holiday season—$100 off the 11-inch model and $200 off the 13-inch—it’s an excellent time to invest. The rumored upgrades for other iPad models in the coming years don’t measure up to this device’s tandem OLED technology and overall performance.
The Verdict
Apple has created what might truly be the “Peak iPad.” It delivers on every front: display, performance, accessories, and design. While software limitations in iPadOS remain a consideration, these are continually addressed through updates. For those skeptical about waiting for foldable iPads or other future innovations, the 2024 iPad Pro is a solid choice that won’t leave you with buyer’s remorse.
So, if you’re in the market for an iPad, this is the time—and the device—to buy.