The All-New Apple iPad Pro M4 Is a Powerful Gaming & EMU Machine!

Exploring the capabilities of the new iPad M4 has been quite the adventure, especially regarding its gaming and emulation performance.

Boasting a robust 9-core CPU and a 10-core GPU in the 256 gigabyte model I have here, it’s clear to see how it delivers a punch in power.

I couldn’t resist putting this tablet through its paces once I learnt about the impressive specs and Apple’s recent openness to emulator apps.

While testing, it became evident that this iPad isn’t just about raw power; it’s also about the experience.

Connecting to an external display and comparing it against my favourite Android tablet, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9, made for some interesting findings, especially when diving into benchmark scores.

I’m excited to share the nuances of these devices, from their display quality right through to their gaming prowess, and even how they fare with external controllers and displays.

Key Takeaways

• The new iPad M4 showcases significant gaming and emulation strength with its advanced CPU and GPU.
• Comparative benchmarks reveal the iPad M4’s superior performance against the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9.
• Despite high costs, the iPad M4’s new features and capabilities offer a compelling case for gamers and tech enthusiasts.

Insight into the iPad M4 Capabilities

As I’ve been exploring the gaming and emulation aspects of the new iPad M4, some interesting findings have emerged, particularly around its hardware offerings.

I have my hands on the 256 GB version that’s equipped with a robust 9-core CPU and a dynamic 10-core GPU. If you opt for the larger 1 TB version, you’ll be treated to a 10-core CPU and an enhanced RAM capacity.

The excitement around Apple’s decision to greenlight emulator availability cannot be overstated.

With the technological advancements the M4 chip boasts, emulation on this device is poised to reach new heights.

During my tests, not only was I engaged in gaming on the built-in screen, but I also expanded the visual real estate by hooking up to an external display.

This allowed me to assess the device’s versatility in various gaming scenarios.

Key Specifications:

• Chip Composition: The heart of this device is the new Apple M4 chip, a nine-core SoC with a configuration that includes three high-performance cores and six efficiency cores. Touting a potential peak performance of up to 4.3 GHz, the chip offers unprecedented processing speed in a mobile device format.
• Graphics: The embedded 10-core GPU is powerful enough to handle demanding graphics, and the 256 GB model comes with 8 GB of RAM. Those who choose to invest in the 1 TB version will gain from a more potent 10-core CPU and 16 GB of RAM.
• Benchmark Comparison: Putting this device through its paces with Geekbench 6, the results have been nothing short of impressive – surpassing even high-end CPUs like the Intel I9 in single-core performance. The 3D Mark Wildlife extreme benchmarks also illustrate a commanding lead in GPU performance, with an average of 54 FPS.
• Display Excellence: I’ve also examined displays, and while I hold Samsung’s AMOLED in high regard, the new OLED display on the iPad M4 seems to bring out richer details and colours, although this could come down to personal preference.
• Price Point Analysis: Addressing the 11-inch, 256 GB model I own, one must note its $999 price tag. Comparing it with Samsung’s Galaxy Tab S9, the pricing is competitive, especially considering both brands’ propositions in similar configurations.

In terms of software, I’m encouraged by the direction Apple is taking, allowing emulator apps on the App Store.

This, coupled with PC game ports like Warframe, heralds a new era of high-performance gaming on iOS. Running these games at high settings showcases the M4’s capabilities beautifully.

Gaming Experience:

• External Gameplay and Display: To assess the true potential, I’ve paired the device with an external display using a USB-C dock, leveraging Stage Manager for expanded gameplay. This setup enables me to toggle between apps and games seamlessly, enhancing multitasking abilities during gameplay.
• Controller Support and Mobility: The iPad and iPhone’s robust controller support enriches the gaming experience. I frequently use an Xbox controller via Bluetooth, but a budget-friendly telescopic controller also integrates well with the device.
• Performance with Popular Games: Immersive games like Minecraft, Hades, and GTA Vice City exhibit commendable performance. Even Minecraft’s recent hitching issues on mobile platforms don’t dampen the flawless gaming one can expect on the M4 iPad.

Comparing it with the Galaxy Tab S9

When pitting my gaming and emulation performance against the Galaxy Tab S9, I immediately notice differences in raw power.

I’m keenly aware that the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9, which I’ve been using since its release, is fuelled by a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip. In direct contrast, my iPad M4 sports a beefier 9-core CPU and a 10-core GPU, ramping up the gaming prowess, especially with the generous offering of 8 GB of RAM in the 256 GB model.

I dove into benchmark showdowns, starting with Geekbench 6 results showcasing the iPad M4’s single-core performance that surpasses even the Intel i9-14900K–not an easy feat by any stretch. This comparison is pertinent given that even the i9’s multi-core results only narrowly defeat mine, a testament to the efficiency of the M4’s architecture.

Turning my attention to GPU capabilities using 3D Mark Wildlife Extreme, I glean that my iPad M4 notably outstrips the Tab S9 Ultra, achieving an average frame rate of 54 FPS, dwarfing the S9 Ultra’s score. Similarly, Antutu benchmark echoes this trend, my iPad M4 comfortably surpassing the Tab S9 Ultra’s numbers.

In terms of price, for the model I have—256 GB 11-inch M4 iPad—readies itself at $999, directly vying with the S9’s corresponding model priced slightly lower at $919. However, it’s worth noting that the Galaxy Tab S9 adds in an S Pen and a bit more RAM along with comparable storage and display size for its sub-$800 mark.

Furthermore, I feel compelled to comment on the visual display competition.

While Samsung pioneered the AMOLED display, which I’ve relished in their S9 Ultra, my iPad M4 adorns an OLED screen which, subjectively speaking, appears superior to my eyes. This aspect, though, hinges on personal taste.

On the software side, Apple’s recent open-door policy to emulators adds to the appeal, allowing us to enjoy a multitude of PC title ports and high-detail games like Warframe without breaking a sweat.

Gaming, on this iPad, transforms into an enthralling experience when settings are cranked up to high, and with newfound support for various controllers, versatility has never been higher.

Attempting to run titles like Minecraft reveals hiccups across platforms, yet with the powerful specs of the iPad M4, one might expect smoother gameplay—a sentiment likely tied to software updates rather than hardware limitations.

And when casting games to an external screen, the capacity to multitask on the iPad M4 through Stage Manager heralds a new frontier of productivity for gaming and emulation enthusiasts alike.

Analysing Processor and Graphics Capabilities

The newly launched iPad M4 has caught my attention with its impressive gaming and emulation capabilities. On board, my 256 GB model boasts a 9-core processor and a 10-core graphics processing unit.

Interestingly, the 1 TB variant ups the ante with a 10-core processor and increases the RAM to 16 GB.

During my thorough testing, it became evident that the M4 chip delivers remarkable performance.

When connected to an external display, the gaming experience remained immersive, and the tablet effortlessly handled all that I threw at it, including demanding titles and emulation tasks.

Benchmark comparisons with the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9, a formidable contender in the Android space, revealed some interesting figures.

On Geekbench, the single-core score was the most robust I’ve observed on an ARM-based processor. When it came to GPU prowess, the tablet showcased its superiority over the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 with an average frame rate of 54 FPS in 3D Mark Wildlife Extreme.

In terms of pricing, my 11-inch 256 GB M4 model stands at £999, which sits close to the Galaxy Tab S9 at £919 for similar specs, though the S9 tosses in an S Pen and extra storage at a slightly less expensive tier.

Excitingly, Apple now allows emulators on the App Store, enabling me to test PSP emulation.

Games like Warframe, which is a direct PC port, run exceptionally well, displaying the M4’s capability to handle PC caliber games.

My experience with the new iPad has been largely positive, notably with its support for various controllers.

While I prefer using an Xbox controller via Bluetooth, other affordable telescopic controllers also work well for a more handheld feel.

The recent addition of OLED displays enhances visual appeal, which I find more striking than that of the S9.

To sum it up, I eagerly anticipate the arrival of higher-end emulators and PC game ports to leverage the full potential of the M4.

In the meantime, I am thoroughly enjoying what this powerful device can do, from gaming on its built-in display to connecting to an external monitor for an expanded view.

Assessment of Gaming and Emulation Capabilities

Today I’m eager to share my findings on the gaming and emulation prowess of the new iPad M4, particularly the 256 GB variant.

It sports a 9-core CPU alongside a 10-core GPU which certainly raises the bar for performance. But, if you opt for the 1 TB model, you’re greeted with a 10-core CPU and double the RAM at 16 GB, albeit at a steep price.

When comparing the M4 to its closest rival, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9, I found that the M4’s single-core performance on Geekbench 6 trumped any ARM-based chip I’ve come across, with scores even surpassing those of the Intel i9-14900K – a formidable gaming CPU.

Despite its impressive performance, the i9 does draw significantly more power.

On the graphics front, utilising 3DMark Wildlife Extreme, the M4 achieved a groundbreaking score, averaging 54 FPS, which comprehensively outpaced the Tab S9 Ultra.

In terms of pricing, the 256 GB M4 I have is priced at £999, which is comparable to the Tab S9 at £919. However, the S9 includes an S Pen and additional storage and RAM for a lower entry price of £799 for its 128 GB model.

I’ve also noticed a real leap forward with Apple allowing emulators on the App Store, paving the way for the iPad to become an elite emulation device.

High-performance games like Warframe run exceptionally well on the M4, allowing for high settings without a hitch.

It’s a bonus that tablets like the M4 have solid controller compatibility; I often use an Xbox controller via Bluetooth.

Even more conventional games, like Minecraft, perform admirably on the M4, though I did observe occasional stuttering following a recent update.

Streaming games also look remarkable on the M4, evidenced by my Hades gameplay, and games like GTA Vice City: Definitive Edition showcase significant visual enhancements over previous iterations.

Additionally, the M4’s compatibility with external displays, despite some limitations with Stage Manager, offers an enriched gaming experience with the added benefit of multitasking capabilities.

Here are some benchmark results for a quick comparison:

• Geekbench 6 Results:

  • Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra: Single Core – 268, Multi-Core – 5,644
  • iPad M4: Single Core – Remarkably high scores topping ARM chips single-core results

• 3D Mark Wildlife Extreme:

  • Tab S9 Ultra: Total Score – 3,889
  • iPad M4: Average FPS – 54, outperforming the Tab S9 Ultra

• Antutu Benchmark:

  • Tab S9 Ultra: Score – 1, 66,9
  • iPad M4: Score – 2,589 37, outscoring the Tab S9 Ultra

While both the iPad M4 and Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 sit at the higher end of the price spectrum, they demonstrate premium performance that warrants consideration, especially for users vested in gaming and emulation.

Display Evaluation

In exploring the visual capabilities of my new 256 GB iPad M4 and the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9, my experience is shaped considerably by the display technology of each device.

My iPad, sporting a 9 core CPU and an OLED screen, presents vibrant images that appeal to my preferences.

On the other hand, the Tab S9 holds its own with an AMOLED display, showcasing Samsung’s prowess in screen technology.

While I find immense value in both tablets, I must admit that the iPad’s display slightly edges out the Galaxy Tab S9 in my eyes, although this is subjective and others may disagree.

The price points for these devices hover around a similar range, with my iPad M4 model priced at $999 and the Tab S9’s equivalent configuration listing for $919.

The gaming experience on my iPad M4’s built-in screen is delightful, further enhanced when connected to a larger external display.

Utilising a steam deck dock for connection, while the Stage Manager doesn’t allow full-screen expansion of games, the versatility in managing apps and gaming windows is quite practical.

As for gaming on the move, I’ve been thoroughly enjoying Warframe’s PC port on iOS, taking full advantage of the iPad’s performance to run the game with high settings seamlessly.

In contrast, the Android version has experienced some jitters following recent updates.

Lastly, contemplating the evolution of emulators and game ports on portable devices like my iPad excites me.

Especially with iOS now permitting emulator downloads and the influx of PC game ports, I foresee a bright future for gaming on these powerful, portable screens.

Cost Information

I’ve recently had the opportunity to explore the new iPad M4’s gaming and emulation capabilities.

For those interested in storage and performance configurations, the 256 GB version I’m using features a 9-core CPU and a 10-core GPU.

However, for those seeking even more power, the 1 TB version ups the ante with a 10-core CPU and doubles the RAM to 16 GB, though it does require a significant financial commitment.

The pricing of this iPad model starts at $999, which secures you the 11-inch, 256 GB variant.

Comparing it to its Android counterpart, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 with the same storage capacity is priced marginally less at $919.

The Tab S9 includes an S Pen and an additional 2 GB of RAM.

If budget is a concern, the Galaxy Tab S9 also offers a configuration with 128 GB of storage and 8 GB of RAM, priced at $799, still featuring the 11-inch display.

Apple’s decision to allow emulator apps on the App Store enhances the value of iPads for gaming enthusiasts like me.

The M4 iPad’s hardware is more than capable of handling even the most demanding games and emulators currently available.

High-end titles and ports from PC games run exceptionally smoothly, and the new display technology makes visual experiences truly immersive, though personal preferences on screens come into play here.

In the realm of peripherals, a variety of controllers offer great gameplay experiences.

I’m fond of the practicality of telescopic controllers, which are surprisingly affordable. The D8 model, despite its modesty, accommodates the new iPad well.

In terms of performance, this iPad effortlessly handles demanding games with the option to maximise settings for optimum graphics.

It’s disappointing to encounter occasional stutter in games like Minecraft following recent updates, but this seems to be a wider issue affecting many devices, not just a reflection of the iPad’s capabilities.

My preference leans towards larger displays when gaming, and connecting the iPad to an external screen is a seamless experience.

While Stage Manager does not allow full-screen gaming, it’s still possible to enjoy a larger gaming environment and multitask efficiently between apps and games.

The comparative capabilities of the iPad M4 and its competitors suggest that, despite costs being high for such technology, the investment reflects the rewarding performance and versatility offered.

Simulating Gaming Performance

With the introduction of the new iPad equipped with an M4 chipset, we’re exploring its capabilities in handling gaming and emulation tasks.

The model I’m examining comes with a robust 256 GB storage, complemented by a 9-core CPU and a 10-core GPU.

For those seeking even more power, the 1 TB variant not only boosts CPU cores to 10 but also doubles the memory, offering a substantial performance hike.

I’ve been particularly impressed by the M4 chip’s prowess, which justifies my decision to acquire the tablet.

Apple’s recent policy change to permit emulators on their devices further increases the potential of the iPad as an exceptional emulation device.

I’ve subjected this unit to rigorous testing, confirming its capability to flawlessly connect to larger displays and evaluating its performance alongside my preferred Android tablet, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9.

Benchmark assessments have revealed intriguing outcomes.

For instance, using Geekbench 6, the tablet’s ARM-based M4 outstrips even the Intel I9-14900K in single-core response, which is an extraordinary feat for a tablet.

Meanwhile, GPU tests with 3D Mark Wildlife extreme indicate the device can handle an average of 54 FPS throughout the benchmark.

Comparison-wise, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9, sporting a similar Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip, offers remarkable performance as well, yet the M4 iPad seems to edge ahead.

In terms of pricing, this iPad model is priced quite close to the Galaxy Tab S9, albeit slightly more expensive, considering the specifications. Nonetheless, both are arguably on the heftier side price-wise.

Shifting focus to real-world applications, the increasing availability of emulators on the App Store is a game-changer.

Coupled with PC game ports now becoming available for iOS, this M4-powered tablet navigates through demanding games like Warframe with finesse, allowing high settings for an enriched gaming experience.

My history with emulation typically leans towards Android tablets, but this perspective is swiftly changing with the performance and integration iOS now offers.

Utilising varied controllers, from Xbox to telescopic ones, enhances the versatility in gaming styles, whether it’s a casual run in Minecraft or enjoying classics like GTA Vice City.

For larger screen enthusiasts, the tablet interfaces seamlessly with external displays, though full-screen gaming in Stage Manager remains elusive due to layout constraints.

Despite this, the multitasking capabilities and app transitioning are seamless, enriching the overall gaming and emulation experience on the iPad M4.

Video Gaming Capabilities

Recently, I put the new iPad M4 through its paces to evaluate its potential in gaming and emulation. This model sports 256 GB of storage, a 9-core processor and a 10-core graphics processing unit (GPU).

For those considering an upgrade, the 1 TB edition boasts a 10-core CPU and double the RAM at 16 GB, promising even better performance.

The inclusion of emulators on the App Store marks a significant change, one I’m keen to explore especially with the promise of improved high-end emulation.

In my hands-on experience, gaming directly on the tablet’s integrated screen displayed the impressive capabilities of the M4 chip.

Furthermore, pairing the iPad with a larger monitor offered an even more expansive gameplay experience.

In benchmarking terms, the M4 iPad delivered remarkable results that exceed what I’ve observed from ARM chips, even rivalling top-tier CPUs in certain instances.

The prowess of the M4’s single-core performance surprised me, as it surpassed the Intel I9-14900K, a substantial feat given that it’s a chip designed for intensive gaming sessions.

Comparatively, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9, which utilises the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip paired with 8 GB of RAM, falls short against the iPad M4.

Not to diminish its quality – the Tab S9 has been a personal favourite, particularly for its vibrant AMOLED display. However, side-by-side, I find the M4 iPad’s new OLED screen to be superior, though display preferences can be quite subjective.

Pricing is a critical aspect of any investment in technology, and both these tablets come with a hefty tag – the M4 iPad (11-inch, 256 GB) is priced at $999, and a similar Tab S9 configuration is slightly less.

Despite their costs, I believe it’s essential to understand the value they provide, particularly when it comes to gaming capabilities.

The M4’s thriving power opens the door to enjoying PC game ports, and titles like Warframe illustrate just how smoothly high-setting gameplay runs on this device.

Until now, my preference had leaned towards Android tablets for emulation purposes. However, with recent iOS updates, emulation is now a feasible and exciting option without the need for jailbreaking or sideloading, extending as far as PSP emulation using PPSSPP from the App Store.

I’m eager for the range of available emulators to expand to fully leverage the iPad’s performance.

When it comes to playing interactive games such as Minecraft, I’ve noticed signs of stuttering, but I’m convinced that’s not a reflection of the iPad’s performance abilities, perhaps more an issue with recent game updates affecting all mobile platforms.

Conversely, games like Hades and Grand Theft Auto: Vice City run seamlessly, looking especially sharp on this tablet’s display.

I must note, gaming with an external display using the iPad presents a few limitations with interface scaling, yet the increased screen real estate is a definite benefit.

While the built-in display remains active for multitasking, resizing and switching applications between screens is fairly straight forward with Stage Manager.

The heightened gaming experience offered by the latest generation of iPads, combined with their enhanced controller support, signals a bright future for avid gamers seeking versatility and power from their mobile device.

Handling of Game Controllers

In recent years, we’ve seen significantly improved compatibility for game controllers on iOS devices.

Personally, I tend to connect my Xbox controller via Bluetooth to enhance my gaming experience.

There are also affordable telescopic controllers available, like the d8 model I’ve come across.

Despite not being the highest quality, it features Hall effect analogue sticks and comfortably accommodates the new iPad, turning it into a hand-held gaming device.

When playing graphically demanding titles or enjoying games such as Minecraft, the controller support really shines.

Although I’ve noticed some sporadic stuttering due to recent updates, the responsiveness and gameplay still remain largely unaffected, thanks to the potent hardware the iPad boasts. This includes high refresh rates up to 120 Hz.

If portable gaming is your preference, these controllers transform the iPad into a potent gaming console.

Additionally, when connecting the iPad to an external display via a USB-C to HDMI dock, controller support still proves invaluable.

Even though Stage Manager does not permit games to occupy the full screen on an external monitor, the option to navigate apps and games with a controller offers a familiar console-like interface.

Testing Performance with an External Display

Upon connecting my new iPad M4 to an external display, my findings were quite interesting. The iPad exhibits robust compatibility with various peripherals via a simple USB-C to HDMI connection through a dock, which additionally offers USB ports. This setup instantaneously extends the screen to the monitor.

Here’s what transpired during the testing:

• With the introduction of Stage Manager, I noticed an immediate change. While this feature doesn’t allow games to occupy the full display, resizing is feasible, providing more space than the built-in tablet screen.
• It’s possible to operate a separate app or game on the iPad while another runs on the larger screen. Seamlessly transferring applications from one screen to another was a breeze.
• I discovered that there are limitations with Stage Manager as regards gaming. Although the iPad’s screen can be resized on the external monitor, it doesn’t fill up entirely.

In terms of screen resolution and quality:

• The OLED display on my iPad M4 is impressively vivid and, subjectively speaking, surpasses the AMOLED of my Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra when compared side by side.

Furthermore, my exploration into controller connectivity demonstrated excellent support.

• The Xbox controller connected effortlessly over Bluetooth, enhancing the gaming experience.
• For a more integrated feel, a telescopic controller can pair with the iPad, transforming it into a sort of handheld gaming console.

Testing games was a critical part of this external display evaluation:

• Warframe, available on iOS, delivered exceptional performance with high settings without any issues.
• However, Minecraft did present sporadic stuttering, an issue that seems to be device-independent and linked to recent updates to the game.
• Hades and Grand Theft Auto: Vice City showcased impressive visuals and fluid gameplay on the larger screen.