The base iPad covers browsing, note-taking and media consumption comfortably, and for many students and casual users it is the more sensible purchase.
iPad Pro earns its price through a faster chip, ProMotion display and better accessory support, which matters most for design work, video editing or heavy multitasking.
Buyers should weigh accessory costs too — a Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil can add substantially to the total price regardless of which iPad is chosen.