Technical difference between iPad retina and liquid retina

What are the differences between the Retina display in the 2017 iPad Pro 10.5 and liquid retina on the 2021 iPad Pro 11 ? I can’t look at the Liquid Retina iPads for more than a few minutes and would desperately like to know what the technical differences are so that I understand what is making me react to it.


  • Are they backlit differently?
  • More dimming zones?
  • Are there any motion interpolation differences?
  • PWM?


Please help me with this. I don’t know where else to find this info.

iPad Pro, iPadOS 14

Posted on Jun 2, 2021 6:46 PM

Reply
1 reply

Jun 3, 2021 1:08 PM in response to Orenjellow

Hi Orenjellow,

Thanks for reaching out using Apple Support Communities.

We understand you're seeking to understand differences in the display between two iPad models due to some discomfort you're having with the newer screen. Happy to help with this.


Looking at the Compare iPad Models website, the display specifications for the two models mentioned are very similar, with the Liquid Retina display on the 11-inch being just slightly higher resolution. Both have the same max brightness level as well as similar backlighting technology.


We have some considerations and suggestions. While both models do have True Tone displays that will adapt to the lighting conditions, this is a feature that can be disabled. You may want to check if you were using this on your prior iPad, and if this setting is enabled on the newer iPad. This setting can be found in Settings > Display and Brightness. You can read more about True Tone at the link below.


Adjust the brightness and color temperature on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch


Hope this helps! If adjusting brightness and display settings is not impactful for you, we would recommend contacting Apple Support directly, as they may have additional suggestions or paths forward.


Get Support - Apple


Take care for now!


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Technical difference between iPad retina and liquid retina

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