The iPad Pro 2021 has a Thunderbolt connection for the first time. Previous models had to make do with USB-C. But what are the differences? You can read it in our usb-c vs Thunderbolt comparison.
USB-C vs Thunderbolt: These are the differences
The iPad Pro 2021 has been improved in many areas compared to its predecessor. One of the less exposed innovations is the Thunderbolt port. At first glance, this connection seems identical to the old USB-C port, but nothing is less valuable. These are the differences.
1. Faster file transfers
The big advantage of a Thunderbolt connection compared to USB-C is the faster transfer of files. You can move files at up to 40 gigabits per second. You do need another device with Thunderbolt for that.
USB-C gets stuck at 10 Gigabit per tel. You can connect USB-C devices to the Thunderbolt port, but they will work at the lower speed.
2. Suitable for more accessories
Thanks to the USB-C port, you could connect accessories such as hard drives to the iPad Pro 2018 for the first time. With the new Thunderbolt port, many more peripherals will be available for Apple’s tablet. In addition to faster storage, you can think of Thunderbolt docks, which you can use to connect other devices to your iPad.
3. Can drive better monitors
From the iPad Pro 2018 it is possible to connect your tablet to a monitor via USB-C. Thanks to the new Thunderbolt connection, you can now use even better displays. In theory, you can even connect the iPad Pro 2021 to a very expensive Pro Display XDR with 6K resolution.
That seems like a waste of money to us at the moment, since the iPad only mirrors the image on an external monitor. So you are left with black bars and do not use the full resolution. IPadOS 15 may finally change that.
What you need to know about the iPad Pro 2021
As mentioned, the iPad Pro 2021 has been significantly improved compared to its predecessor. For example, the tablet runs on Apple’s M1 chip, which we also find in the MacBook Air 2020 and iMac 2021. This makes the tablet, which was not slow anyway, a huge leap in speed.
If you buy the 12.9-inch version, you also enjoy a mini LED screen. This offers a much higher contrast and a higher brightness. This makes the display easier to read in direct sunlight.
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