My First Impressions of the M4 iPad Pro

I’ve had the new M4 iPad Pro for just three days, and I already love it. This device has the potential to replace my MacBook Pro for my daily work tasks, which include managing emails, writing articles, and editing photos and videos. The M4 iPad Pro comes with several exciting updates: an enhanced OLED display, an AI-focused M4 processor, an incredibly thin design, and new accessories like the Apple Pencil Pro and Magic Keyboard.

In this review, I will delve into my first impressions of the M4 iPad Pro. I’ll explore its design, performance, display quality, and accessories, and I’ll assess whether it truly can serve as a MacBook replacement for professionals like myself. The changes Apple has made are significant, and they promise a blend of power, portability, and functionality that could redefine what we expect from a tablet. Stay tuned as I unpack the strengths and weaknesses of this latest offering from Apple.

Design and Build

The M4 iPad Pro’s design is one of its standout features, showcasing Apple’s commitment to sleek and innovative aesthetics. At a mere 5.1mm thick, the 13-inch iPad Pro is the thinnest device Apple has ever produced. This ultra-thin profile, combined with a reduced weight, makes the iPad Pro exceptionally portable and comfortable to handle, whether you’re on the go or using it at home.

One of the most notable design changes in the M4 iPad Pro is the relocation of the front camera to the landscape side of the device. This adjustment significantly enhances usability, especially for those who frequently use the iPad with a keyboard in landscape orientation. No longer do you need to awkwardly switch to portrait mode for video calls; the new camera placement aligns perfectly with how the device is naturally used, making video conferencing more intuitive.

Apple has also addressed concerns about durability with this thin design. The inclusion of an internal rib structure reinforces the device, ensuring it remains sturdy and resistant to bending. This is a crucial improvement, given the history of structural issues in ultra-thin devices. The reinforced build provides peace of mind, allowing users to enjoy the iPad’s sleek design without worrying about its robustness.

Despite its thinness, the M4 iPad Pro retains excellent battery life. Apple has managed to fit a slightly larger battery into the 11-inch model while maintaining almost the same battery capacity in the 13-inch model. This ensures that the device continues to offer great performance and longevity, even with the reduced internal space. However, some users might feel that a slightly thicker design with an even larger battery would have been preferable.

Weight and Portability

The M4 iPad Pro impresses with its lightweight and ultra-portable design, making it an ideal choice for users who are constantly on the move. The reduction in thickness to just 5.1mm is a remarkable feat, and when combined with its overall lighter weight, the iPad Pro becomes one of the most portable high-performance tablets available on the market.

Carrying the M4 iPad Pro around feels effortless. Whether you’re slipping it into a backpack, carrying it in a briefcase, or even holding it for extended periods, the device’s reduced weight makes it significantly more comfortable to handle compared to previous models. This is particularly beneficial for activities such as reading, sketching, or watching videos, where you might be holding the device for a prolonged time.

The portability of the M4 iPad Pro also extends to its use in various environments. For professionals who travel frequently, the lightweight design means less bulk and hassle when navigating airports or commuting. It’s easy to whip out the iPad Pro for quick tasks or to catch up on work during transit, without feeling encumbered by its size or weight.

Moreover, the lightweight build doesn’t compromise on the device’s durability. Apple’s reinforced internal structure ensures that despite its thinness and light weight, the iPad Pro remains sturdy and resilient. This combination of lightweight portability and robust construction provides users with confidence that the device can withstand the rigors of daily use.

Display Quality

The M4 iPad Pro boasts a stunning display that sets a new standard for tablet screens. Apple has equipped this device with a state-of-the-art OLED display, which is a significant upgrade over previous models. The tandem OLED technology, which involves stacking two OLED layers, results in unparalleled brightness and contrast. This makes the display incredibly vibrant and sharp, whether you’re watching movies, editing photos, or simply browsing the web.

One of the first things you’ll notice about the M4 iPad Pro’s display is its exceptional brightness. This is particularly advantageous when using the iPad outdoors or in brightly lit environments. The screen maintains excellent visibility even under direct sunlight, which is a testament to the display’s high-quality engineering. Additionally, the HDR capabilities make images and videos look more lifelike, with deeper blacks and more vivid colors.

Compared to the previous generation’s mini-LED display, the OLED screen on the M4 iPad Pro offers a superior visual experience. The difference in quality might not be as noticeable if you’re upgrading from the immediate past generation, but for those coming from older LCD models, the improvement is substantial. The OLED technology provides better contrast ratios and more accurate color representation, which is particularly important for creative professionals who rely on precise color accuracy for their work.

The display also supports a high refresh rate, ensuring smooth and fluid interactions. Whether you’re scrolling through documents, playing games, or using the Apple Pencil Pro for drawing, the responsiveness of the screen enhances the overall user experience. The inclusion of features like True Tone and ProMotion further optimizes the display for various lighting conditions and tasks, making it versatile for both professional and personal use.

Performance and Battery Life

The M4 iPad Pro is a powerhouse of performance, thanks to its new AI-focused M4 processor. This chip represents a significant leap forward, providing enhanced processing power and efficiency. Whether you’re multitasking, editing high-resolution videos, or running demanding applications, the M4 iPad Pro handles everything with ease and speed.

Benchmark tests reveal that the M4 chip is even quicker than its predecessor, the M2. This translates to faster app launches, smoother multitasking, and an overall more responsive experience. For creative professionals, this means that editing videos in Final Cut Pro or creating music in Logic Pro is not only feasible but also highly efficient. The performance gains are evident, even if the M2 iPad Pro was already impressively fast.

Despite its thin design, the M4 iPad Pro doesn’t compromise on battery life. Apple has managed to fit a slightly larger battery in the 11-inch model and maintain almost the same battery capacity in the 13-inch model. The result is outstanding battery performance that ensures you can go through your day without constantly reaching for the charger.

The efficiency of the M4 chip plays a crucial role in battery management. Even with intensive tasks, the iPad Pro offers long-lasting battery life. Standby time is excellent, and during regular use, such as browsing the web, watching videos, or using productivity apps, the battery holds up exceptionally well. This makes the M4 iPad Pro a reliable companion for both work and play, offering the freedom to use it extensively without worrying about running out of power.

The device supports fast charging, allowing you to quickly top up the battery when needed. However, it’s worth noting that while the iPad Pro comes with a 20-watt charging brick, some users might feel that Apple could have included an even faster charger, especially given the premium price of the device.

Camera and Connectivity

The M4 iPad Pro introduces some interesting changes in the camera department. One of the most notable adjustments is the relocation of the front camera to the landscape side of the device. This change enhances the usability of the iPad Pro, especially for video calls and conferencing. When using the iPad with a keyboard in landscape orientation, the new camera placement feels more natural and intuitive, eliminating the awkwardness of having to switch to portrait mode for FaceTime calls.

On the rear, Apple has made a significant decision to remove the ultra-wide camera, opting instead for a single wide-angle lens paired with a LiDAR scanner and a flash. While some users might miss the ultra-wide option, the primary camera still offers excellent quality for photos and videos. The inclusion of the LiDAR scanner ensures superior augmented reality (AR) experiences and improved depth sensing, making it a valuable tool for professionals and AR enthusiasts alike.

Apple has also removed mmWave 5G support in this version of the iPad Pro, focusing instead on sub-6GHz 5G. While mmWave 5G can offer extremely high speeds, its availability is still limited. Sub-6GHz 5G, on the other hand, is more widely available and provides ample speed for most users’ needs, whether it’s downloading large files, streaming high-definition content, or playing online games.

The connectivity options on the M4 iPad Pro remain robust. It features a Thunderbolt/USB 4 port, which offers versatile connectivity for a range of accessories and peripherals, including external displays, storage devices, and more. This port ensures high-speed data transfer and expands the functionality of the iPad Pro, making it a versatile tool for professionals.

Wi-Fi 6E support is another highlight, providing faster and more reliable wireless connectivity. This is particularly beneficial in environments with dense network traffic, ensuring a stable and speedy connection whether you’re working from home, at the office, or in a public space.

Overall, the camera and connectivity features of the M4 iPad Pro reflect thoughtful improvements and practical enhancements. The new camera placement enhances usability for video calls, while the LiDAR scanner and sub-6GHz 5G connectivity ensure that the device remains at the cutting edge of technology. Combined with robust connectivity options, the M4 iPad Pro is well-equipped to meet the needs of a wide range of users, from creative professionals to everyday consumers.

Audio Quality

The M4 iPad Pro offers impressive audio quality, continuing Apple’s tradition of delivering excellent sound performance in their devices. Despite the iPad’s ultra-thin design, Apple has managed to incorporate a sophisticated quad-speaker system that delivers clear and powerful audio, making it one of the best-sounding tablets available.

The M4 iPad Pro’s speakers are slightly redesigned compared to previous models, featuring more circular drivers. This design change has a minimal impact on the overall audio experience, maintaining the high-quality sound that users have come to expect. The speakers produce a balanced audio profile with clear highs, rich mids, and sufficient bass. While the bass is slightly less pronounced due to the thinner design, the overall audio quality remains robust and satisfying.

Whether you’re watching movies, listening to music, or playing games, the iPad Pro’s speakers deliver a loud and immersive sound experience. The stereo separation is particularly impressive, providing a wide soundstage that enhances the listening experience. This is especially noticeable when using the iPad Pro in landscape mode, where the placement of the speakers creates a more enveloping audio effect.

In addition to the built-in speakers, the M4 iPad Pro supports spatial audio with dynamic head tracking when used with AirPods Pro or AirPods Max. This feature creates an even more immersive audio experience by adjusting the sound based on the movement of your head, making it feel as though the audio is coming from around you rather than directly from the device.

For users who prefer wired audio, the Thunderbolt/USB 4 port supports high-quality audio output, allowing you to connect high-fidelity headphones or external audio devices. This versatility ensures that the iPad Pro can meet the needs of both casual listeners and audiophiles alike.

Accessories

The M4 iPad Pro comes with a suite of accessories that enhance its functionality and versatility, making it a powerful tool for both creative professionals and everyday users. Two of the most notable accessories are the Apple Pencil Pro and the Magic Keyboard, each offering unique features that elevate the user experience.

Apple Pencil Pro

The Apple Pencil Pro is an evolution of the Apple Pencil 2, introducing several new features that make it more intuitive and powerful. One of the standout additions is the squeeze sensor, which allows you to bring up menus and change settings, such as line thickness or color, without having to navigate through the device. This makes the Pencil Pro more efficient for artists and note-takers who need quick access to tools.

Another significant upgrade is the barrel roll feature, which adjusts the line thickness based on the rotation of the Pencil, mimicking the behavior of traditional drawing tools. This feature is particularly useful for artists looking for a more natural drawing experience. Additionally, the Pencil Pro now supports Find My, allowing you to track it down if it goes missing, and it includes haptic feedback, providing a tactile response that enhances the overall user experience.

Magic Keyboard

The Magic Keyboard for the M4 iPad Pro has also seen improvements, making it even more Mac-like. It features a larger glass trackpad, which provides a smooth and responsive surface for navigation. The trackpad is a pleasure to use, offering precise control and support for multi-touch gestures, enhancing productivity and ease of use.

The keyboard itself is backlit and includes a full row of function keys, which are a big plus for controlling media, adjusting screen brightness, and accessing other shortcuts without having to go into settings. The aluminium palm rest adds to the premium feel and comfort during long typing sessions. The Magic Keyboard also serves as a protective case and stand, making it a versatile accessory for both typing and viewing content.

Additional Accessories

Beyond the Pencil Pro and Magic Keyboard, the M4 iPad Pro is compatible with a range of other accessories that expand its capabilities. The Thunderbolt/USB 4 port allows for connection to external displays, storage devices, and other peripherals, making the iPad Pro a versatile hub for various workflows. Whether you need to connect an external monitor for presentations or a high-speed storage device for large files, the iPad Pro can handle it with ease.

Apple has also ensured that the iPad Pro supports a variety of cases and covers, including the Smart Folio, which offers lightweight protection and a convenient stand for watching videos or typing. For users who need more robust protection, there are rugged cases available that safeguard the device during travel or in demanding environments.

Software and Usability

The M4 iPad Pro is not just a hardware marvel; its software and usability are equally impressive, thanks to iPadOS. While the hardware offers power and versatility, the software ensures that users can fully leverage these capabilities in their daily tasks.

iPadOS Integration

iPadOS has come a long way in making the iPad Pro a powerful tool for productivity and creativity. The operating system is optimized to take advantage of the M4 chip’s capabilities, providing a smooth and responsive experience. Multitasking is seamless with features like Split View and Slide Over, allowing users to run multiple apps simultaneously and switch between tasks effortlessly.

One of the standout features of iPadOS is the Files app, which brings desktop-class file management to the iPad. Users can easily organize, search, and manage their files, making the iPad Pro a viable option for work that traditionally required a laptop or desktop.

Enhanced Performance with M4 Chip

The M4 chip significantly enhances the performance of the iPad Pro, making it capable of handling intensive tasks with ease. Whether you’re editing 4K videos in Final Cut Pro, creating intricate designs in Procreate, or compiling code, the M4 iPad Pro handles it without breaking a sweat. The neural engine also plays a crucial role in improving AI-based applications, ensuring faster processing and more efficient workflows.

App Ecosystem

The App Store offers a vast selection of apps optimized for the iPad Pro. Professional-grade software like Adobe Creative Cloud, Affinity Designer, and Microsoft Office Suite ensures that users have access to the tools they need for serious work. Additionally, the availability of specialized apps for note-taking, drawing, music production, and video editing transforms the iPad Pro into a versatile tool that can adapt to various professional needs.

Apple’s own suite of productivity apps, including Pages, Numbers, and Keynote, also integrates seamlessly with iPadOS, providing powerful tools for document creation and presentation. The inclusion of features like Apple Pencil support in these apps further enhances their usability, making tasks more intuitive and efficient.

User Experience

The overall user experience on the M4 iPad Pro is exceptional. The high refresh rate of the display, combined with the fluidity of iPadOS, creates a responsive and immersive environment. Touch interactions are precise, and the Apple Pencil Pro feels incredibly natural for drawing and writing, thanks to its low latency and pressure sensitivity.

The Magic Keyboard and its trackpad bring a more traditional laptop-like experience to the iPad Pro, complete with a cursor and multi-touch gestures. This makes navigating the interface, selecting text, and interacting with apps feel more intuitive and familiar to those accustomed to using a laptop.

Limitations

Despite its strengths, the M4 iPad Pro is still limited by some aspects of iPadOS. While the operating system has made significant strides, it doesn’t yet offer the full flexibility of macOS or Windows for certain professional workflows. For instance, developers might find the lack of certain development tools and environments restrictive, and advanced users might miss the ability to run full desktop applications.

Future Potential

With iPadOS continually evolving, there’s hope that future updates will unlock even more potential in the M4 iPad Pro. The rumored upcoming iPadOS 18 is expected to bring new AI features and possibly more advanced multitasking capabilities, which could further bridge the gap between tablets and traditional computers.

Pricing and Value

The M4 iPad Pro is undoubtedly an impressive piece of technology, but it comes with a hefty price tag. The 11-inch model starts at $999, while the 13-inch model starts at $1299. These prices put the iPad Pro in the same range as many high-end laptops, raising the question of whether it offers sufficient value to justify the cost.

Base and Configurations

At its base configuration, the iPad Pro offers 256GB of storage, which is a welcome upgrade from the previous generation’s 128GB starting point. However, for those who need more storage and additional features, the price can escalate quickly. The higher-end models, which include 1TB or 2TB of storage, also come with 16GB of RAM instead of the standard 8GB and a more powerful 10-core CPU as opposed to the 9-core CPU in the base models. These high-end configurations can cost upwards of $2500, which is a significant investment.

Accessories and Additional Costs

The cost of the iPad Pro itself is just part of the equation. To fully utilise its capabilities, users might also need to invest in accessories. The Apple Pencil Pro, which enhances productivity for artists and note-takers, is an additional $129. The Magic Keyboard, which transforms the iPad Pro into a more laptop-like device, costs $349. These accessories significantly enhance the functionality of the iPad Pro but also add to the overall expense.

Comparing Value

When considering the value of the M4 iPad Pro, it’s important to compare it to other devices in the same price range. High-end laptops, such as the MacBook Pro, offer full desktop operating systems with more extensive software capabilities and greater flexibility in terms of connectivity and peripheral support. However, the iPad Pro offers unique advantages such as its portability, touchscreen capabilities, and a rich ecosystem of apps specifically optimized for touch and Pencil input.

For creative professionals, the iPad Pro’s capabilities with applications like Procreate, Adobe Creative Cloud, and Final Cut Pro make it a powerful tool that might be worth the investment. The precise touch input and the Apple Pencil Pro can provide a more intuitive and efficient workflow for certain tasks compared to a traditional laptop.

Potential for Future Updates

The value proposition of the M4 iPad Pro could improve further with future software updates. As iPadOS continues to evolve, it may unlock additional features and functionalities that make the iPad Pro an even more versatile and capable device. The anticipated enhancements in iPadOS 18, particularly in AI and multitasking capabilities, could further justify the investment for users looking for a cutting-edge device.

Conclusion

After three days with the M4 iPad Pro, it’s clear that this device is a remarkable piece of technology with the potential to replace my MacBook Pro for many tasks, including emails, writing articles, and photo and video editing. The combination of its stunning OLED display, powerful M4 processor, and sleek, ultra-thin design makes it an impressive addition to Apple’s lineup.

The design and build quality of the M4 iPad Pro are exceptional, with the thin and lightweight form factor making it incredibly portable and easy to use in various environments. The display quality is unmatched, offering vibrant colors, deep blacks, and high brightness levels that enhance every visual experience.

Performance-wise, the M4 chip delivers outstanding speed and efficiency, handling even the most demanding applications with ease. The battery life remains robust despite the slim design, ensuring that the device can keep up with a full day’s work without needing frequent recharges. The new camera placement and robust connectivity options further enhance its usability.

The accessories, particularly the Apple Pencil Pro and Magic Keyboard, significantly extend the functionality of the iPad Pro, making it a versatile tool for both creative and professional tasks. However, the cost of these accessories, combined with the high price of the iPad Pro itself, makes it a considerable investment.

The software and usability of the iPad Pro are bolstered by iPadOS, which continues to evolve and bring more desktop-like features to the tablet. While there are still some limitations compared to a full laptop operating system, the iPad Pro’s capabilities are steadily expanding, promising even more functionality in the future.

So, in short, the M4 iPad Pro is an outstanding device that offers a blend of power, portability, and functionality. It is particularly well-suited for creative professionals and users who need a high-performance tablet that can handle a variety of tasks. While the price may be a barrier for some, the value it provides through its advanced features and exceptional performance makes it a worthy investment for those who can take full advantage of its capabilities. Whether you’re considering it as a laptop replacement or a versatile addition to your tech arsenal, the M4 iPad Pro is sure to impress.

Want to see more on the iPad Pro, check it out here: Buy 11-inch iPad Pro Wi-Fi 256GB with standard glass — Space Black – Apple (AU)

Want more? Click here for Logitech G335 – TDP Review – Still Worth It in 2024? – TDP (techdriveplay.com)