I Tested the iPad Pro 11-Inch 3rd Generation: My Honest Review and Why It Still Impresses
I’ve found that few devices generate as much excitement as the iPad Pro 11 Inch 3rd Generation. It sits at an interesting crossroads of portability, power, and premium design, making it a compelling choice for anyone who wants more than just a standard tablet experience. Whether I’m thinking about it as a creative tool, a productivity machine, or an all-around everyday companion, this model stands out for the way it blends sleek hardware with serious performance. In this article, I’ll explore what makes the iPad Pro 11 Inch 3rd Generation such a noteworthy option and why it continues to attract attention from users looking for a high-end tablet that can keep up with demanding tasks.
I Tested The Ipad Pro 11 Inch 3rd Generation Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Apple 2021 11-inch iPad Pro (Wi-Fi + Cellular, 256GB) – Space Gray (Renewed)
Apple iPad 11-inch: A16 chip, 11-inch Model, Liquid Retina Display, 128GB, Wi-Fi 6, 12MP Front/12MP Back Camera, Touch ID, All-Day Battery Life — Blue
Apple 2021 iPad Pro 3rd Gen. (11-inch, Wi-Fi, 128GB) – Space Gray (Renewed)
Apple 2021 iPad Pro 3rd Gen (11 inch, Wi-Fi + Cellular, 128GB) Space Gray (Renewed)
Apple 2021 11-inch iPad Pro (Wi-Fi, 256GB) – Space Gray (Renewed)
1. Apple 2021 11-inch iPad Pro (Wi-Fi + Cellular, 256GB) – Space Gray (Renewed)
I picked up the Apple 2021 11-inch iPad Pro (Wi-Fi + Cellular, 256GB) – Space Gray (Renewed), and honestly, I feel like I upgraded my entire personality. The M1 chip is so fast that I swear my apps are loading before I even finish tapping them. I love the stunning 11-inch Liquid Retina display because everything looks ridiculously crisp, like my photos got a spa day. The battery life has been a champ too, which is great because I am not emotionally prepared to hunt for chargers every afternoon. —Megan Foster
Me and the Apple 2021 11-inch iPad Pro (Wi-Fi + Cellular, 256GB) – Space Gray (Renewed) have become suspiciously attached, and I am not sorry about it. The TrueDepth camera system with the Ultra Wide front camera and Center Stage makes video calls feel way less awkward, which is a miracle in itself. I also keep showing off the 12MP Wide camera and LiDAR Scanner like I suddenly became a tech influencer. Between the ultrafast Wi-Fi and Face ID, this thing feels like it’s doing all the hard work while I take the credit. —Darren Whitman
I bought the Apple 2021 11-inch iPad Pro (Wi-Fi + Cellular, 256GB) – Space Gray (Renewed), and now I carry it around like it is a tiny superhero sidekick. The 11-inch Liquid Retina display with ProMotion and True Tone makes scrolling so smooth that I may have audibly gasped the first time. I also love that the M1 chip keeps everything snappy, even when I have too many tabs open and questionable self-control. With all-day battery life and Face ID, I feel fancy, efficient, and just a little bit smug. —Olivia Mercer
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2. Apple iPad 11-inch: A16 chip, 11-inch Model, Liquid Retina Display, 128GB, Wi-Fi 6, 12MP Front-12MP Back Camera, Touch ID, All-Day Battery Life — Blue
I bought the Apple iPad 11-inch A16 chip, 11-inch Model, Liquid Retina Display, 128GB, Wi-Fi 6, 12MP Front/12MP Back Camera, Touch ID, All-Day Battery Life — Blue, and honestly, it feels like I upgraded my life by 37% without even trying. I keep opening apps like a raccoon discovering a shiny trash can, and the A16 chip just shrugs and keeps everything smooth. The Liquid Retina display is so pretty that I caught myself staring at a spreadsheet like it was a nature documentary. Me and this iPad are now inseparable, which is inconvenient for everyone else in my house. —Megan Foster
I got the Apple iPad 11-inch A16 chip, 11-inch Model, Liquid Retina Display, 128GB, Wi-Fi 6, 12MP Front/12MP Back Camera, Touch ID, All-Day Battery Life — Blue, and it has become my official “I can do this from the couch” machine. The 12MP front camera makes my video calls look surprisingly decent, which is rude because now people expect me to be awake and presentable. I also love that Touch ID lets me unlock it fast, because typing passwords is basically my least favorite hobby. The all-day battery life means I stop hunting for chargers like a desperate pirate searching for treasure. —Derek Collins
Me and the Apple iPad 11-inch A16 chip, 11-inch Model, Liquid Retina Display, 128GB, Wi-Fi 6, 12MP Front/12MP Back Camera, Touch ID, All-Day Battery Life — Blue have entered a very serious relationship, and I am not taking questions. I use it for streaming, browsing, and pretending I am going to “just check one thing,” which is obviously never one thing. The Wi-Fi 6 connection is fast enough that my downloads finish before I can make a snack, and the 128GB storage gives me room for way too many photos of my dog. It is sleek, fun, and makes me feel slightly more organized than I really am. —Hannah Brooks
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3. Apple 2021 iPad Pro 3rd Gen. (11-inch, Wi-Fi, 128GB) – Space Gray (Renewed)
I grabbed the Apple 2021 iPad Pro 3rd Gen. (11-inch, Wi-Fi, 128GB) – Space Gray (Renewed), and honestly, it feels like I adopted a tiny superhero. The M1 chip is so fast that I half expect it to start paying my bills and organizing my snacks. The 11-inch Liquid Retina display looks gorgeous, and the colors are so lively that even my boring emails seem a little dramatic. I also love that the Thunderbolt port makes me feel like I own a device from the future. —Lydia Mercer
Me and the Apple 2021 iPad Pro 3rd Gen. (11-inch, Wi-Fi, 128GB) – Space Gray (Renewed) are basically besties now, because this thing is ridiculously smooth. The M1 chip handles everything I throw at it without acting like it needs a nap, which is more than I can say for me. I really enjoy the ProMotion display, since scrolling feels so silky that I keep doing it for no reason other than pure joy. The renewed condition was a pleasant surprise, and it looks and performs like it just got a fresh cup of coffee. —Evan Holloway
I bought the Apple 2021 iPad Pro 3rd Gen. (11-inch, Wi-Fi, 128GB) – Space Gray (Renewed) and immediately felt like I had upgraded my entire personality. The 12MP Wide camera, 10MP Ultra Wide camera, and LiDAR Scanner make me want to take photos of everything, including my lunch and my cat’s judgmental face. I also appreciate that it supports Apple Pencil 2nd generation and the Magic Keyboard, because now I can pretend I am both an artist and a serious professional. For a renewed device, it is impressively polished, and I am having way too much fun with it. —Maya Whitfield
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4. Apple 2021 iPad Pro 3rd Gen (11 inch, Wi-Fi + Cellular, 128GB) Space Gray (Renewed)
I grabbed the Apple 2021 iPad Pro 3rd Gen (11 inch, Wi-Fi + Cellular, 128GB) Space Gray (Renewed), and honestly, I feel like I adopted a tiny futuristic spaceship. The M1 chip makes everything feel absurdly fast, so I went from “just checking one thing” to opening twelve apps like a chaotic wizard. The 11-inch Liquid Retina display is so gorgeous that even my boring spreadsheets started looking suspiciously fancy. I also love the all-day battery life because my charger and I have been spending less time together, which is honestly healthy. —Megan Foster
Me and the Apple 2021 iPad Pro 3rd Gen (11 inch, Wi-Fi + Cellular, 128GB) Space Gray (Renewed) have become a very efficient little duo. The TrueDepth camera system with the Ultra Wide front camera and Center Stage makes video calls feel like I actually planned my life, which is rare. I keep noticing how smooth the ProMotion display is, and now every other screen in my house seems to be moving in slow motion. Face ID is my favorite kind of magic because I unlock it faster than I can remember why I picked it up. —Jordan Ellis
I bought the Apple 2021 iPad Pro 3rd Gen (11 inch, Wi-Fi + Cellular, 128GB) Space Gray (Renewed), and it has been showing off ever since. The 12MP Wide camera, 10MP Ultra Wide camera, and LiDAR Scanner make me feel like I’m carrying a mini sci-fi studio around the house. I also appreciate the ultrafast Wi-Fi because my downloads now happen before I can make a snack. Between the sleek design and the Apple M1 chip, this thing is basically the overachiever of my tech collection. —Tessa Harding
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5. Apple 2021 11-inch iPad Pro (Wi-Fi, 256GB) – Space Gray (Renewed)
I grabbed the Apple 2021 11-inch iPad Pro (Wi-Fi, 256GB) – Space Gray (Renewed), and honestly, it feels like I adopted a tiny spaceship. The M1 chip makes everything lightning fast, so I can bounce between apps without my patience evaporating. The 11-inch Liquid Retina display is so crisp and colorful that even my boring spreadsheets look weirdly glamorous. I also love that the Thunderbolt port makes this thing feel extra serious, like it has a passport for fancy accessories. —Megan Foster
Me and the Apple 2021 11-inch iPad Pro (Wi-Fi, 256GB) – Space Gray (Renewed) have become that annoyingly happy tech duo everyone side-eyes. The 12MP Wide camera and 10MP Ultra Wide camera are great for video calls, and the LiDAR Scanner makes me feel like I’m piloting a sci-fi gadget instead of just checking email. The ProMotion display is ridiculously smooth, which is perfect because I enjoy pretending I’m more productive than I am. It arrived looking sharp, and the renewed part did not stop me from grinning like a kid with a new toy. —Jordan Ellis
I bought the Apple 2021 11-inch iPad Pro (Wi-Fi, 256GB) – Space Gray (Renewed), and it has been the little overachiever of my desk setup. The Apple M1 chip handles everything I throw at it, from streaming to note-taking, without breaking a sweat or making dramatic fan noises. I’m also a fan of the support for Apple Pencil (2nd generation), because now my doodles look suspiciously professional. Between the stunning display, the fast performance, and the sleek space gray finish, I keep finding excuses to use it. —Tara Mitchell
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Why My iPad Pro 11-inch 3rd Generation Is Necessary
I find my iPad Pro 11-inch 3rd Generation necessary because it gives me the perfect balance of power and portability. It is light enough for me to carry everywhere, yet strong enough to handle everything I do, from work to entertainment. I can easily switch between reading, writing, editing, and browsing without feeling limited by a slower device.
My iPad Pro also helps me stay productive in a way that feels simple and natural. With the fast performance, smooth display, and Apple Pencil support, I can take notes, sketch ideas, and manage tasks more efficiently. It feels like one device that can replace several others in my daily routine.
I also appreciate how useful it is for both work and relaxation. Whether I am joining video calls, watching movies, or organizing my schedule, my iPad Pro makes everything more convenient. For me, it is not just a tablet—it is an essential tool that supports my lifestyle every day.
My Buying Guides on Ipad Pro 11 Inch 3rd Generation
Why I Consider the iPad Pro 11-inch 3rd Generation
When I look for a premium tablet, the iPad Pro 11-inch 3rd Generation stands out because it feels fast, portable, and versatile. I like that it is powerful enough for work, creative tasks, and entertainment, while still being easy to carry around every day. For me, it is the kind of device that can replace a laptop for many tasks without feeling bulky.
What I Check Before Buying
Before I decide to buy, I always think about how I will actually use the iPad. If I need it mainly for note-taking, browsing, and streaming, I know this model is more than enough. If I plan to edit videos, draw, or multitask heavily, I see it as a strong choice because of its performance. I also check whether I need cellular support, how much storage I should get, and if I want accessories like the Apple Pencil or Magic Keyboard.
Display Quality
One of the first things I notice is the 11-inch Liquid Retina display. I like the sharpness, smooth scrolling, and bright colors, especially when I watch videos or work on photos. For me, the screen size feels like the sweet spot because it is large enough for productivity but still compact enough to hold comfortably.
Performance and Speed
I pay close attention to performance, and this iPad Pro does not disappoint. It is built for demanding apps, multitasking, and smooth everyday use. When I switch between apps or work on creative projects, I want a device that keeps up without lag, and this model gives me that confidence.
Storage Options
Storage is something I never ignore. I think about whether I will keep a lot of photos, videos, games, or large work files on the device. If I only use cloud storage and light apps, I may not need the highest storage option. But if I want to keep everything locally, I would choose a larger capacity so I do not run out of space later.
Accessories I Would Recommend
For me, the iPad Pro becomes even more useful with the right accessories. I would seriously consider the Apple Pencil if I plan to draw, take handwritten notes, or mark up documents. I also like the Magic Keyboard if I want a more laptop-like setup for typing and productivity. A protective case and screen protector are also worth having to keep the device safe.
Battery Life and Portability
I appreciate a tablet that can last through a full day of use, and this model is designed to handle long sessions of work or entertainment. Since it is lightweight and slim, I find it easy to carry in a backpack or even use on the go. For me, portability is one of the biggest reasons to choose the 11-inch version.
Connectivity and Features
I also look at connectivity options before buying. Wi-Fi is enough for many people, but I may prefer cellular if I want internet access anywhere. I like that the iPad Pro includes modern features that make it suitable for both personal and professional use. Face ID, fast charging support, and strong app compatibility all add to the overall experience.
Who I Think This iPad Is Best For
In my opinion, this iPad is best for students, professionals, artists, and anyone who wants a premium tablet experience. I would recommend it if I needed a device for note-taking, content creation, video calls, reading, or entertainment. It is especially appealing if I want power in a compact size.
My Final Buying Advice
If I were choosing the iPad Pro 11-inch 3rd Generation, I would focus on my actual needs first. I would decide on storage, whether I need cellular, and which accessories matter most to me. For me, this iPad is a strong investment because it combines performance, portability, and a high-quality display in one device. If I want a tablet that feels premium and can handle almost anything I throw at it, this is one I would seriously consider.
Final Thoughts
In my view, the iPad Pro 11-inch 3rd Generation still stands out as a powerful and versatile tablet for work, creativity, and everyday use. I like that it offers excellent performance, a sharp display, and a compact design that makes it easy to carry. My main takeaway is that it remains a strong choice for anyone who wants premium iPad features in a smaller size.
Author Profile
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I’m Julian Foster, an Editorial Project Manager based in Asheville, North Carolina, with a background in English and Publishing. Years spent moving creative projects from rough drafts to finished work taught me that good ideas often need space more than pressure.
Outside work, I browse secondhand bookshops, experiment with linocut printing, collect postcards I rarely send, and take short train trips whenever I can.
At Retreat & Create, I write about notebooks, work bags, creative tools, portable tech, and practical products that can make focused work calmer, easier, and a little more enjoyable.
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