Apple and Androids often go head-to-head in the smartphone category, but today we’re comparing the Pixel tablet vs iPad Pro. In the ever-evolving world of technology, the battle for supremacy in the tablet market is fierce. Google, with its latest entry, the Pixel Tablet, is ready to take on Apple’s renowned iPad Pro. If you’re in the market for a new tablet, you might be wondering how these two devices compare and which one is worth your hard-earned money. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the specs, features, and price of the Pixel Tablet and the iPad Pro to help you choose between Apple or Google.
Pixel Tablet vs iPad Pro Specs
| Specifications | Google Pixel Tablet | Apple iPad Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Screen | 10.9 inches IPS LCD | 11.0 and 12.9 inches IPS LCD |
| Resolution | 2560 x 1600 pixels, 16:10 ratio, 276 PPI | 2388 x 1688 pixels, 266 PPI |
| Refresh rate | 60Hz | 120Hz |
| System chip | Google Tensor G2 (5 nm) | Apple M2 |
| Software | Android 13 / Android 14 | iPadOS |
| Camera | Rear – Single; Main camera – 8 MP; Front – 8 MP | Rear – Dual; Main camera – 12 MP (PDAF); Second camera – 10 MP (Ultra-wide); Third camera – ToF 3D depth sensing; Front – 12 MP (Wide Angle, HDR) |
| RAM | 8GB LPDDR5 | 8GB, 16GB |
| Internal storage | 128GB, 256GB | 128GB, up to 2TB |
Pixel Tablet vs iPad Pro Features
Now, let’s compare the features of both devices.
Display and Design
The Google Pixel Tablet features a 10.95-inch LCD, while the Apple iPad Pro comes in two size options: 11-inch and 12.9-inch. Both devices offer stunning visuals, but the iPad Pro’s ProMotion technology provides a smoother scrolling experience with its 120Hz refresh rate.
In terms of design, the Google Pixel Tablet measures 10.2 x 6.7 x 0.3 inches, while the iPad Pro is slightly slimmer at 9.74 x 7.02 x 0.23 inches. Both devices feature premium build quality, with the Pixel Tablet offering a range of colors, including Porcelain, Rose, and Hazel, and the iPad Pro available in Silver and Space Gray. While the Pixel tablet uses a nano-ceramic coating that gives it a smart matte finish, whereas the iPad retains its classic glossy metallic casing.
However, purpose is where the two products could be seen to diverge. More than just an Android tablet, the Pixel is a hybrid device that doubles as a smart home hub. When attached to its charging speaker dock and with ‘hub mode’ on, the hybrid smart home tablet makes an excellent home assistant similar to the Nest Hub. On the other hand, Apple has spent years honing the iPad into an unrivaled productivity device, with a range of accessories including the Apple Pencil and the Magic Keyboard Folio that turn your tablet into a laptop-like portable powerhouse.
Performance and Storage
When it comes to performance, the Google Pixel Tablet is powered by the Google Tensor G2 processor, while the iPad Pro houses the impressive Apple M2 chip. Both processors offer exceptional speed and efficiency, ensuring smooth multitasking and seamless performance, and it could be said that there’s a perfect marriage of each device’s chip and operating system.
The Google Pixel Tablet comes with 8GB of RAM and options for 128GB or 256GB of storage. On the other hand, the iPad Pro offers a range of storage capacities, starting from 128GB and going up to a staggering 2TB. The iPad Pro also offers different RAM configurations depending on the storage capacity, with the higher-end models featuring 16GB of RAM.
Camera and Multimedia Capabilities
In terms of camera capabilities, the Google Pixel Tablet features an 8MP wide-angle rear camera and an 8MP wide-angle front camera. The iPad Pro, on the other hand, sports a 12MP main camera with advanced features like Phase Detection Autofocus (PDAF) and a 10MP ultra-wide camera, as well as a 12MP front camera. While not as high mega pixel wise, the front-facing camera of the Pixel tablet also supports portrait mode, and the Tensor G2 chip opens the door to a range of AI-based photo processing such as Magic Eraser, Photo-unblurring, and video stabilization.
Both devices excel in multimedia capabilities, with multiple speakers delivering immersive audio experiences. The iPad Pro supports Dolby Atmos, providing a rich and cinematic sound experience. In terms of multimedia accessories, Apple just may have the upper hand here too, with the dedicated Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard making the iPad Pro a popular choice for work and productivity. The Google Pixel doesn’t have a dedicated first-party keyboard case or stylus, although it does support USI 2.0 digital pens, meaning you might be able to invest in a cheaper digital pen.
Battery Life and Connectivity
Battery life is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a tablet. The Google Pixel Tablet boasts up to 12 hours of video streaming, while the iPad Pro offers up to 10 hours of video streaming. Both devices provide ample battery life for everyday use, but the Pixel Tablet edges ahead with its slightly longer-lasting battery.
In terms of connectivity, both devices offer USB-C ports, allowing for fast charging and data transfer. However, the iPad Pro also features a 4-pin accessory connector, expanding its compatibility with a range of accessories. If you’re still loyal to your lightning cable, you can see how the Pixel tablet vs iPad (10th Gen) went here.
Pixel Tablet vs iPad Pro Price
The Google Pixel Tablet starts at $499, making it a more affordable option compared to the iPad Pro, which starts at $799, meaning there is a significant price difference between the two. However, it’s worth noting that the Pixel Tablet also includes a speaker and dock combination, while accessories for the iPad Pro need to be purchased separately. If you don’t want to spend over $800 on your tablet, it could be worth giving the Pixel Tablet a go, but the extra money will get you the premium Apple experience.
Is the Pixel Tablet better than the iPad Pro?
The question of “which is better?” ultimately comes down to your specific needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a tablet that seamlessly integrates with your smart home ecosystem and offers additional functionality as a smart home hub, the Google Pixel Tablet is an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prioritize uncompromising performance, a sleek design, and a range of professional features, the iPad Pro is the way to go.
