There’s been a big debate the last couple of weeks because of the term Pro and what it means to be a pro.  So what is a pro?

Apple uses the term Pro to differentiate its machines, but what does that actually mean?  Can someone that uses a non-pro machine be a pro? 

Of course it does.

The term Pro

For Apple, the term Pro means someone that needs better specs on their computer.  If you look at the iMac Pro, MacBook Pro, and the iPad Pro, all of those machines have much more power than the non-pro machines in the same category.  

The MacBook Pro seems to be one of the best examples. Even though Apple’s laptop line is a jumbled mess right now, there are 4 laptops.  Two of those are lines are Pro models.  The ”pro machines” have much faster processors in them than the 12-inch MacBook and the new MacBook Air.  If you look at benchmark results you can see the speed difference between the pro models and the none pro. 

The same is true of the new iPad Pro.  The new machine is not only faster than the 6th generation iPad, but also faster than many of the other laptops out there.  

What is a Pro

We need to talk about what a pro is, because it is more than just speed. 

Most people seem to define a Pro user as someone that codes or that edits video or audio.  But is that the limit of a pro machine?  

Can someone that doesn’t encode audio use a pro machine, like the iPad Pro?  

Of course.  The Pro monikor is just a qualifier for more speed.  

As a writer, I don’t use all the abilities of my MacBook Pro or my iPad Pro.  I don’t do heavy audio of video editing (yet).  I could have saved money and bought the slower versions of these machines, but I wanted something that was top of the line because I want to be able to use those elements if I need too. That doesn’t mean I’m not a professional user.  

The MacBook Pro was the first Retina computer that I could afford, that was what drew me in.  I wanted a better screen to use when I was working than anything else.  I don’t need the power, but it’s nice that it’s there.

iPad Pro

The iPad Pro is a little different though, and I think it’s an interesting dividing line.  

Yes, the iPad Pro has more power, but it also has much more for the Professional user as well.  An artist can be a pro user.  They are using technology for a professional use, and the inclusion of the Apple Pencil provides something that the MacBook Pro or iMac Pro can’t provide.

In the same vein, the iPad Pro allows you to attach a keyboard with the Smart Connector.  True you could use a Bluetooth keyboard with every iPad ever, the fact that you have the ability to attach and carry around a keyboard without much added weight or battery provides a boon to the writer living on the iPad.

I’m sitting outside writing this looking down on a park.  I’m not pushing the iPad to its full potential right now, but I’m very pleased with this device nonetheless.

So everyone can debate on about Pro use and the iPad replacing a laptop as much as they want.  I’ve become more excited about the tool in front of me.

So is a writer a Pro user?  Yes.  Do they need a pro machine?  Not at all, but they can.

The iPhone

I think it’s interesting and telling that Apple hasn’t dubbed any of the iPhones as an iPhone Pro.  

The chips inside the latest iPhones are nearly the same as the ones inside the iPad Pro.  They are speedy chips and nearing the upper limit of laptop speed, but Apple has never called any of their phones iPhone Pro.

I don’t think that Apple wants to segment the market.  They don’t want to drive a wedge between what a pro phone user would be and a mass market phone would be.  Drawing that line between users could be dangerous.

Wrap up

I’ve used the term Pro user before, and I will probably do it again, but from here on out, I want to make my own line.  Anyone that does work on their device can be a pro.  In Apple marketing terms, Pro just means faster from here on out for me.

I think anyone can use any device they want for the job they are doing, so long as they are happy with what they are doing.

Should you want to edit video on your new MacBook Air, please have at it.  Don’t let anyone judge you, or tell you that you’re wrong.  Do what works for you.

What do you think about the term Pro?  Am I way off, or do you agree?  

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