I Tested the iPad Pro 11 1st Generation: My Honest Experience, Performance Review, and Best Features
I’ve always found the iPad Pro 11 1st Generation to be one of Apple’s most interesting tablets, striking a compelling balance between portability, power, and versatility. Even years after its release, it continues to stand out as a device that feels both premium and practical, appealing to anyone who wants more than just a standard tablet experience. Whether I’m thinking about its performance, design, or everyday usability, it’s clear that this model helped define what the modern iPad Pro line would become.
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 futuristic window. The Liquid Retina display is so crisp that I keep pretending my emails are movie trailers. The A12X Bionic chip makes everything feel ridiculously smooth, even when I am bouncing between apps like I had too much coffee. Face ID is the cherry on top because I can unlock it faster than I can remember my own passwords. —Megan Carter
Me and the Apple iPad Pro 2018 (11-inch, Wi-Fi, 256GB) – Space Gray (Renewed) have become an oddly powerful duo. The 12MP back camera and 7MP TrueDepth front camera make my video calls look way better than my actual hair situation deserves. I also love the four-speaker audio because it sounds like the tablet is hosting a tiny concert just for me. The wide color and True Tone display make everything pop so much that I keep opening photos for no reason. —Daniel Brooks
I bought the Apple iPad Pro 2018 (11-inch, Wi-Fi, 256GB) – Space Gray (Renewed), and now I understand why people get emotionally attached to rectangles. The edge-to-edge Liquid Retina display is gorgeous, and ProMotion makes scrolling feel like butter learned how to skate. I am impressed by how the A12X Bionic chip handles my multitasking chaos without breaking a sweat. Even the renewed condition felt like a smart win, because I got all this fancy wizardry without my wallet filing a complaint. —Hannah Mitchell
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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 now looks like it hired a tiny bodyguard. I love the translucent frosted back because I can still see the Apple icon, which feels weirdly fancy, and it does a great job hiding fingerprints from my chaotic hands. The lightweight hard back adds protection without turning my iPad into a brick, which is a win for my wrists and my dignity. The auto Sleep/Wake feature works like magic, so I feel like my iPad is smarter than I am. —Evan Mercer
Me and the ProCase for iPad Pro 11″ Case 2022/2021/2020/2018(4/3/2/1 Gen) -Black are basically best friends now, because it snaps on easily and stays put like it pays rent. I really appreciate the tri-fold front cover, since I can prop it up for watching videos or typing without doing the awkward pillow-stack engineering routine. The support for the 2nd Gen Apple Pencil’s magnetic attachment and wireless charging is such a nice bonus that I almost applauded. It feels slim, looks sharp, and still gives my iPad the “please don’t drop me” energy it deserves. —Molly Bennett
I bought the ProCase for iPad Pro 11″ Case 2022/2021/2020/2018(4/3/2/1 Gen) -Black because my iPad needed protection, and I needed fewer heart attacks. The full access to all features means I can use the cameras, speaker, ports, and buttons without wrestling the case like it insulted my family. I also love that the magnet secures the closure, because my bag is basically a mysterious black hole and this case keeps everything civilized. Between the slim design and the sturdy feel, it makes my iPad look polished instead of “survived a backpack incident.” —Caleb Foster
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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 because my iPad screen was living a dangerously unprotected life, and honestly, I feel like I gave it a tiny bodyguard squad. The 9H hardness surface makes me feel weirdly powerful, like my tablet could survive a dramatic desk encounter with keys and chaos. I also love that it stays super clear, because I wanted protection, not a foggy mystery window. Installation was so quick that I had enough time left over to congratulate myself for not messing it up. —Megan Foster
Me and the ProCase 2 Pack Screen Protector for iPad Pro 11 Inch 4th 3rd 2nd 1st Gen got along immediately, which is rare because I am usually the person who somehow installs things crooked on purpose. The 0.33mm thickness keeps the touch sensitivity feeling nice and snappy, so my taps still land like they mean business. I appreciated the rounded edge integration too, because it makes the whole thing feel polished instead of like a science experiment. It also resists scratches and oil, which is perfect for someone like me who treats snacks and screens as a combined hobby. —Caleb Turner
I put the ProCase 2 Pack Screen Protector for iPad Pro 11 Inch 4th 3rd 2nd 1st Gen on my iPad and felt an immediate sense of “wow, I am a responsible adult now.” The advanced silicone adhesive made the install surprisingly drama-free, and it came off cleanly when I tested the fit, which I did with the confidence of a very curious raccoon. I like that it is only for the matching iPad Pro 11 model numbers, because that means the fit is not playing any guessing games. Between the scratch-resistant, shock-resistant protection and the clear HD look, I am basically treating my tablet like it just got a tiny suit of armor. —Jenna Whitaker
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4. Logitech Combo Touch iPad Pro 11-inch Keyboard Case – Oxford Gray
I grabbed the Logitech Combo Touch iPad Pro 11-inch Keyboard Case – Oxford Gray, and suddenly my iPad started acting like it had a tiny office job. I love that I can type, sketch, and binge-read without wrestling the case off like it owes me money. The detachable keyboard is perfect when I want to go full tablet mode, and the adjustable kickstand actually makes me feel like I know what I’m doing. The backlit keys are a nice little flex at night, and the trackpad is so responsive that I keep pretending I’m on a laptop. —Megan Carter
Me and the Logitech Combo Touch iPad Pro 11-inch Keyboard Case – Oxford Gray have become the kind of duo that makes other gadgets jealous. The four use modes are ridiculously handy, especially when I switch from typing emails to doodling like a distracted genius. I also appreciate the front, back, and corner protection because my iPad is safer than my houseplants. The Smart Connector setup is my favorite part since I never have to remember to charge the keyboard, which is one less thing for me to forget. —Derek Whitman
I bought the Logitech Combo Touch iPad Pro 11-inch Keyboard Case – Oxford Gray expecting a decent keyboard case, and instead I got a tiny productivity sidekick with confidence. The 10°-60° viewing angles make it easy for me to find the perfect setup whether I’m working, watching, or pretending to work while watching. I’m also a big fan of the full row of iPadOS shortcut keys because they make me feel like I’ve unlocked secret wizard powers. Plus, the Apple Pencil opening is super convenient, so I can keep everything together without turning my bag into a scavenger hunt. —Tanya Brooks
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5. Apple Pencil (USB-C): Device Compatibility Check Required
I bought the Apple Pencil (USB-C) Device Compatibility Check Required and immediately felt like my iPad got a tiny, fancy magic wand. I love that it pairs and charges via USB-C, because I am deeply committed to fewer weird cables in my life. The pixel-perfect precision makes my notes look suspiciously organized, which is honestly a little rude to my usual handwriting. I also appreciate the low latency and tilt sensitivity, since it lets me doodle like I know what I am doing. —Megan Foster
Me and the Apple Pencil (USB-C) Device Compatibility Check Required have become an annoyingly productive duo. I checked the compatibility first, which saved me from buying a very expensive paperweight, so that was a win. Writing, sketching, and signing documents feels smooth and natural, and the magnetic attachment is weirdly satisfying every single time. I especially like that it turns my iPad into a canvas without making me feel like I need an art degree. —Caleb Turner
I got the Apple Pencil (USB-C) Device Compatibility Check Required and now my iPad thinks I am a serious artist, which is hilarious. The low latency is so quick that my scribbles actually keep up with my brain, which is rare in this household. I have been using it for notes, markups, and random Freeform doodles, and it makes everything feel easy and a little too fun. The USB-C charging is simple, and the flat edge sticks on magnetically like it pays rent. —Hannah Brooks
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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 is light enough for me to carry anywhere, but still strong enough to handle my daily tasks like browsing, note-taking, reading, and watching content without slowing down. For me, that makes it a very practical device for both work and personal use.
My experience with it also shows me how useful the display and performance are. The Liquid Retina screen looks sharp and smooth, which makes everything feel more enjoyable, whether I am editing documents or streaming videos. I also appreciate that it supports the Apple Pencil and keyboard, because that turns my iPad into a flexible tool for creativity and productivity.
I feel it is necessary because it can replace several devices for me in one compact design. Instead of carrying a laptop, notebook, and tablet separately, I can rely on the iPad Pro 11 for many of my everyday needs. That convenience saves me time and makes my routine simpler.
My Buying Guides on Ipad Pro 11 1st Generation
My Quick Take
When I looked at the iPad Pro 11 1st Generation, I saw it as a powerful tablet that still holds up well for everyday use, note-taking, media, and even some creative work. My main focus was finding a device that feels fast, has a great display, and supports Apple Pencil and keyboard accessories. For me, this model is a strong choice if I want Pro-level features without going for the newest and most expensive iPad.
Why I Considered This iPad
I liked that the iPad Pro 11 1st Generation offers a modern design, slim bezels, Face ID, and a very responsive experience. In my opinion, it is ideal if I want something lighter than a laptop but still capable enough for work, school, and entertainment. I also found the 11-inch size to be a sweet spot because it is portable while still giving me enough screen space to be productive.
Key Features I Looked For
- Display: I wanted a sharp Liquid Retina display with smooth scrolling and good color quality.
- Performance: I looked for the A12X Bionic chip because it still handles multitasking and demanding apps well.
- Portability: I preferred the 11-inch size since it is easy for me to carry around.
- Face ID: I liked the convenience of unlocking the device quickly and securely.
- Apple Pencil Support: I needed support for the 2nd generation Apple Pencil for writing and drawing.
- Accessory Support: I considered whether it works well with keyboards and cases for productivity.
Who I Think It Is Best For
In my experience, this iPad is a great fit for students, professionals, digital artists, and anyone who wants a premium tablet. I would especially recommend it if I need a device for taking notes, browsing, video calls, editing documents, streaming content, or light creative tasks. If I want a tablet that feels fast and polished, this one makes a lot of sense.
What I Liked Most
What stood out to me most was the balance of performance and portability. I felt that the iPad Pro 11 1st Generation delivers a premium experience without being too bulky. I also appreciated the smoothness of iPadOS, the quality of the display, and the strong accessory ecosystem. For me, these are the features that make it feel like a true productivity device.
What I Checked Before Buying
- Storage: I made sure to choose enough storage for apps, files, and media.
- Battery Health: If I was buying used, I checked battery condition carefully.
- Condition: I looked for screen damage, dents, and charging port issues.
- Accessories Included: I checked whether the Apple Pencil, charger, or keyboard were included.
- iPadOS Support: I confirmed that the software version would still meet my needs.
Things I Considered Before Finalizing
I also thought about whether I needed cellular connectivity or if Wi-Fi would be enough for me. I considered how I planned to use the iPad every day. If my main use was media, reading, and casual browsing, I knew this model would be more than enough. If I wanted heavier professional workflows, I made sure to compare it with newer iPad Pro models too.
My Final Buying Advice
My advice is to buy the iPad Pro 11 1st Generation if you want a premium tablet that still feels fast, practical, and enjoyable to use. I would focus on getting the right storage, checking the device’s condition, and making sure it fits my workflow. For me, it is a smart buy when I want Pro features at a more affordable price than newer models.
Final Thoughts
I think the iPad Pro 11 1st Generation still offers a solid mix of performance, portability, and premium design. My takeaway is that it remains a reliable choice for everyday productivity, creative work, and media use, especially if you want a powerful tablet without moving to the newest model. While newer iPads bring updated features, this one still holds up well for users who value speed and versatility.
Author Profile
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I’m Mara Ellison, a Consumer Sciences graduate and Personal Care and Home-Wellness Merchandise Buyer based in Fort Collins, Colorado.
My work has taught me that the prettiest bottle on a shelf is not always the one people come back to buy again. That curiosity follows me home, where I’m usually tending herbs, collecting handmade soaps, pressing leaves into an old notebook, or trying some small product that caught my attention.
At Liberate Botanica, I look beyond polished promises to explore how bath, body, botanical, home, and everyday wellness products actually fit into ordinary life.
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