Tech Blog #190 | iQOO Pad2 & Pad2 Pro : A Dual Offering with Distinctive Highlights

The Android tablet market was boring until the Chinese brands stepped into the action. Until then, it was Samsung supremacy. But now, it has changed. Chinese brands are taking on a huge chunk of the tablet share which is fair compared to what they are bringing to the table. The iQOO Pad 2 and the Pad 2 Pro are no exception.

The iQOO Pad 2 and its sibling, the Pad 2 Pro, make a strong entrance into the market with their sleek designs and robust feature sets. Both devices sport a glass front and aluminum back, lending a premium feel that's further complemented by their slim 6.6mm profiles. Despite their similar thickness, the Pad 2 Pro feels heftier at 679g compared to the Pad 2's 589g, likely due to its larger size and enhanced features. The Pro model's slight bulkiness might be a drawback for some, but the devices' overall design, including their comfortable fingerprint sensor placements, will attract users looking for a high-end feel and stylish aesthetic.

The display quality on these devices is one of their standout features. The Pad 2 Pro boasts a larger 13.0-inch IPS LCD with a crisp 2.5K resolution, 144Hz refresh rate, and HDR10 support, ensuring vibrant colors and smooth visuals. The Pad 2, with its 12.1-inch IPS LCD and a resolution of 2K, also delivers a commendable visual experience, although it peaks at 600 nits compared to the Pro's 900 nits. While both displays are impressive, the Pad 2 Pro's superior brightness and slightly higher pixel density make it a better choice for those seeking top-notch display performance.

Under the hood, the two tablets differentiate themselves significantly. The iQOO Pad 2 is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 chipset, paired with up to 12GB of RAM and 512GB of UFS 4.0 storage (with the base model featuring UFS 3.1). This setup provides ample performance for most users. However, the Pad 2 Pro takes things up a notch with the Mediatek Dimensity 9300+ chipset, offering up to 16GB of RAM and 512GB of UFS 4.0 storage. The Pro model's enhanced processing power and additional RAM make it more suitable for heavy multitasking and demanding applications.

Camera performance is another area where the iQOO Pad 2 Pro shines over the Pad 2. The Pro model features a 13MP main camera capable of 4K video recording, and an 8MP front-facing camera, both of which deliver better photo and video quality compared to the Pad 2's 8MP main and 5MP selfie cameras. While neither tablet is designed primarily for photography, the Pro's superior sensors and higher resolution make it a better choice for users who need to capture more detailed images and videos.

Battery life and charging capabilities are crucial for tablets, and here the Pad 2 Pro also has an edge. It packs a substantial 11,500 mAh battery with 66W fast charging, providing extended usage time and quick top-ups. The Pad 2's 10,000 mAh battery, while still robust, supports 44W charging, which is slightly slower. Both devices also offer 5W reverse wired charging, a useful feature for topping up other gadgets in a pinch.

On the software front, both the iQOO Pad 2 and Pad 2 Pro run Android 14 with OriginOS 4. The interface is smooth and intuitive, and iQOO has included several AI features to enhance user experience. However, the update policy and long-term software support remain uncertain, which might be a concern for potential buyers who prioritize ongoing updates and security patches.

In terms of pricing, the iQOO Pad 2 starts at around 320 EUR, while the Pad 2 Pro begins at approximately 440 EUR. The price difference reflects the superior specifications and additional features of the Pro model. In conclusion, both tablets offer excellent value, but the iQOO Pad 2 Pro stands out for its better display, superior performance, and enhanced camera capabilities. The iQOO Pad 2 is still a strong contender, offering a great balance of features at a lower price point. Potential buyers should weigh these factors against their specific needs to make the best choice.