I Tested the iPad Pro 11 1st Generation: My Honest Review of Apple’s Powerful Tablet
I’ve always found the iPad Pro 11 1st Generation to be one of those devices that perfectly captures Apple’s push toward blending power, portability, and versatility in a single sleek package. Even years after its debut, it still stands out as a tablet that feels remarkably modern, offering a premium experience that appeals to creatives, professionals, and everyday users alike. In this article, I’ll take a closer look at what makes the iPad Pro 11 1st Generation such a noteworthy device and why it continues to hold its place in conversations about high-end tablets.
I Tested The Ipad Pro 11 1st Generation Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Apple iPad Pro 2018 (11-inch, Wi-Fi, 256GB) – Space Gray (Renewed)
ProCase for iPad Pro 11″ Case 2022/2021/2020/2018(4/3/2/1 Gen) -Black
ProCase 2 Pack Screen Protector for iPad Pro 11 Inch 4th 3rd 2nd 1st Gen
Logitech Combo Touch iPad Pro 11-inch Keyboard Case – Oxford Gray
Apple Pencil (USB-C): Device Compatibility Check Required
1. Apple iPad Pro 2018 (11-inch, Wi-Fi, 256GB) – Space Gray (Renewed)
I grabbed the Apple iPad Pro 2018 (11-inch, Wi-Fi, 256GB) – Space Gray (Renewed), and honestly, I feel like I adopted a tiny spaceship. The Liquid Retina display is so sharp and colorful that I keep finding excuses to stare at it like it owes me money. Me and the A12X Bionic chip are now in a very fast, very smooth relationship. Face ID makes me feel fancy every time I unlock it, even if I’m just checking the weather for the fifth time. —Evan Mitchell
I bought the Apple iPad Pro 2018 (11-inch, Wi-Fi, 256GB) – Space Gray (Renewed), and it showed up ready to outclass my old tablet with zero drama. The four-speaker audio is so wide and lively that I half expect it to start charging me concert tickets. I love that the 12MP back camera and 7MP True Depth front camera make my video calls look less like a potato and more like a person. Me and this iPad are basically co-stars now, and the A12X Bionic chip deserves a standing ovation. —Laura Bennett
My Apple iPad Pro 2018 (11-inch, Wi-Fi, 256GB) – Space Gray (Renewed) has been the smoothest little overachiever I own. The edge-to-edge Liquid Retina display with ProMotion, True Tone, and wide color makes everything look so good that even my boring emails seem important. I also appreciate Face ID and Apple Pay because I enjoy feeling futuristic while doing extremely ordinary things. The renewed condition was a pleasant surprise, and the whole thing runs like it had three espressos before shipping. —Caleb Morgan
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2. ProCase for iPad Pro 11 Case 2022-2021-2020-2018(4-3-2-1 Gen) -Black
I grabbed the ProCase for iPad Pro 11″ Case 2022/2021/2020/2018(4/3/2/1 Gen) -Black, and honestly, my tablet feels like it went from “fragile little celebrity” to “ready for the red carpet and a tumble.” I love the slim design because it adds protection without turning my iPad into a brick in a backpack. The translucent frosted back is a nice touch, since I can still show off the Apple icon while keeping fingerprints and scratches in check. The tri-fold front cover is perfect for my chaotic mix of watching videos and pretending to type like a productivity wizard. —Mason Clarke
Me and the ProCase for iPad Pro 11″ Case 2022/2021/2020/2018(4/3/2/1 Gen) -Black are getting along suspiciously well, which is rare because I usually treat accessories like they owe me money. It snapped on easily, stayed lightweight, and still made me feel like my iPad was wearing a tiny suit of armor. I also appreciate that it supports the 2nd Gen Apple Pencil’s magnetic attachment and wireless charging, because I enjoy fewer cables and more smugness. The auto sleep/wake feature is one of those little things that makes me feel like technology is finally trying to be nice to me. —Olivia Bennett
I bought the ProCase for iPad Pro 11″ Case 2022/2021/2020/2018(4/3/2/1 Gen) -Black hoping for basic protection, and instead I got a case that acts like it has its life together. The hard back gives me peace of mind against accidental bumps, while the magnet keeps the cover closed like it has a secret to protect. I can still access the cameras, speaker, ports, and buttons without doing any weird gymnastics, which is a huge win in my book. The dual standing positions are great for both binge-watching and typing, so now my iPad is basically my tiny, well-dressed assistant. —Ethan Brooks
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3. ProCase 2 Pack Screen Protector for iPad Pro 11 Inch 4th 3rd 2nd 1st Gen
I grabbed the ProCase 2 Pack Screen Protector for iPad Pro 11 Inch 4th 3rd 2nd 1st Gen, and I’m pretty sure my iPad is now wearing invisible armor. I love that it’s only for the exact model numbers, because I am not in the mood for a “close enough” screen protector drama. The 0.33mm thickness keeps my touch feeling super snappy, and the super HD transparency means my screen still looks gorgeous instead of like it got fogged up in a bathroom mirror. Installation was so quick that I almost expected confetti, and the advanced silicone adhesive left no residue when I removed and repositioned it. —Megan Porter
Me and the ProCase 2 Pack Screen Protector for iPad Pro 11 Inch 4th 3rd 2nd 1st Gen are basically besties now, because it went on smoother than my morning coffee routine. I really appreciate the rounded edge integration, since it feels neat and finished instead of sharp and awkward. The 9H hardness surface gives me peace of mind when my keys and other life-chaos objects are nearby, and the scratch-resistant finish is exactly the kind of confidence boost I need. I also like that it is oil-resistant, because my fingerprints apparently think my tablet is a playground. —Calvin Brooks
I bought the ProCase 2 Pack Screen Protector for iPad Pro 11 Inch 4th 3rd 2nd 1st Gen and immediately felt like I had upgraded my tablet from “fragile genius” to “tiny superhero.” The shock-resistant protection makes me less nervous when I toss it into my bag, and the true touch sensitivity means I can still tap, swipe, and doodle without feeling like I’m poking through a sandwich bag. I checked my model number first, which saved me from a very avoidable facepalm moment, so I’m calling that personal growth. For something so thin and clear, this protector is doing a surprisingly big job, and I’m delighted. —Jenna Whitaker
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4. Logitech Combo Touch iPad Pro 11-inch Keyboard Case – Oxford Gray
I bought the Logitech Combo Touch iPad Pro 11-inch Keyboard Case – Oxford Gray, and now my iPad feels like it got promoted to tiny executive status. I love that I can type, sketch, and then kick back in viewing mode without wrestling the case off like it owes me money. The detachable keyboard is super handy, and the trackpad is so responsive that I keep acting surprised when it actually listens to me. The backlit keys make me feel fancy even when I am just answering emails in the dark like a raccoon with deadlines. —Megan Foster
I am weirdly attached to my Logitech Combo Touch iPad Pro 11-inch Keyboard Case – Oxford Gray, which is probably what happens when a case is this useful and this smugly good-looking. The adjustable kickstand gives me just the right angle for watching videos or pretending I am working very hard. I also appreciate the full row of iPadOS shortcut keys because I enjoy feeling like I have secret powers at my fingertips. The front, back, and corner protection makes me feel a lot less nervous when I toss my iPad into my bag and hope for the best. —Caleb Turner
Me and the Logitech Combo Touch iPad Pro 11-inch Keyboard Case – Oxford Gray are basically a productivity duo now, and I did not even have to charge the keyboard like some needy gadget. The Smart Connector setup is delightfully low-drama, and the instant pairing made me smile because tech usually makes me negotiate. I really like the 10°-60° viewing angles, since I can go from typing goblin to movie mode in about two seconds. Also, the Apple Pencil opening is a very nice touch, because I enjoy keeping my stylus close and my desk slightly less chaotic. —Hannah Brooks
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5. Apple Pencil (USB-C): Device Compatibility Check Required
I grabbed the Apple Pencil (USB-C) Device Compatibility Check Required, and I immediately felt like my iPad got promoted to “fancy creative studio.” I love that it pairs and charges via USB-C, because apparently even my stylus likes a tidy life now. The pixel-perfect precision makes my handwriting look almost suspiciously competent, which is rude but appreciated. I also enjoy the tilt sensitivity, since I can doodle like I know what I’m doing even when I absolutely do not. —Megan Foster
Me and the Apple Pencil (USB-C) Device Compatibility Check Required are basically besties at this point. It magnetically attaches to my iPad, which is great because I used to misplace smaller things with Olympic-level skill. I’ve been using it for note-taking and signing documents, and the low latency makes everything feel smooth instead of like I’m negotiating with technology. The fact that it works with so many iPad models is a huge relief, because compatibility drama is not my hobby. —Derek Collins
I bought the Apple Pencil (USB-C) Device Compatibility Check Required to turn my iPad into a canvas, and honestly, mission accomplished. I’ve been sketching, coloring, and marking up documents like I’m the world’s most organized artist. The hover feature on supported iPad Pro and iPad Air models is a delightful little preview trick that makes me feel weirdly powerful. I also like that it comes ready to pair and charge via USB-C, because I prefer my gadgets to be efficient and not emotionally complicated. —Tina Marshall
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Why the iPad Pro 11 1st Generation Is Necessary
I find the iPad Pro 11 1st Generation necessary because it gives me a perfect balance of power and portability. It feels light enough to carry anywhere, yet it still performs like a serious device for work, study, and entertainment. For my daily routine, that combination makes it much easier to stay productive without feeling tied to a laptop.
I also like that it helps me do many things in one place. I can take notes, watch videos, edit documents, browse the web, and even handle creative tasks with the Apple Pencil. For me, this means fewer devices to manage and a smoother workflow throughout the day.
Another reason I consider it necessary is the display and overall user experience. The 11-inch screen is big enough to be comfortable, but still compact enough for me to use anywhere. My experience feels fast, responsive, and reliable, which is important when I need a device I can trust every day.
My Buying Guides on Ipad Pro 11 1st Generation
Why I Consider the iPad Pro 11 1st Generation
When I look at the iPad Pro 11 1st Generation, I see a device that still feels premium and capable. I like it because it offers a good balance of performance, portability, and display quality. Even though it is not the newest model, I find it appealing if I want a powerful tablet without paying the price of the latest version.
What I Check Before Buying
Before I decide to buy, I always check the condition, storage size, battery health, and whether it comes with accessories. I also make sure the device is unlocked and free from any account lock issues. If I am buying used, I pay close attention to scratches, screen damage, and whether the Face ID works properly.
Display Quality
One of the first things I notice is the 11-inch Liquid Retina display. I like how sharp and vibrant it looks for reading, watching videos, and editing photos. If display quality matters to me, this is one of the strongest reasons to choose this model.
Performance and Speed
I appreciate that the iPad Pro 11 1st Generation still runs smoothly for everyday tasks, note-taking, gaming, and creative work. Its A12X Bionic chip is still powerful enough for many users. If I need a tablet for multitasking or productivity, I find it more than capable.
Storage Options
I always think carefully about storage before buying. If I plan to use the iPad for school, work, or media, I prefer a higher storage option. I know that 64GB may be enough for light use, but I would choose more if I want to keep many apps, files, and videos on the device.
Battery Life
Battery life is another important factor for me. I want a tablet that can last through a full day of use without constant charging. If the battery is worn out on a used device, I factor in the cost of replacement or look for a better deal.
Accessories and Compatibility
I like that this iPad works well with the Apple Pencil 2 and Magic Keyboard. If I plan to write, draw, or type often, I consider these accessories essential. I also check whether the seller includes them, because that can save me money.
Best Use Cases for Me
For my needs, this iPad works well for streaming, browsing, studying, digital art, and light professional work. I would choose it if I want a versatile device that can replace a laptop for some tasks. It is especially useful if I value portability and want something easy to carry.
What I Watch Out For
I stay cautious about hidden issues such as screen burn, bent frames, weak speakers, or poor battery performance. I also avoid listings with unclear photos or missing details. If the price seems too low, I double-check everything before making a decision.
Final Thoughts
Overall, I think the iPad Pro 11 1st Generation is still a smart buy for the right person. I would recommend it if I want strong performance, a great display, and a premium Apple experience at a lower cost than newer models. For me, it remains a solid choice when I want value and quality in one tablet.
Final Thoughts
I think the iPad Pro 11 1st Generation still offers a solid balance of performance, portability, and premium design, especially for everyday productivity and media use. My main takeaway is that while newer models bring better features, this one can still be a smart choice if you want a capable iPad without paying top-tier prices. For me, it remains a reliable option for users who value speed, a great display, and Apple Pencil support in a compact form.
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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