I Tested the iPad Pro 11 1st Generation: My Honest Review, Performance, and Real-World Experience
I’ve always found the iPad Pro 11 1st Generation to be one of those devices that quietly changed expectations for what a tablet could do. Sleek, powerful, and remarkably versatile, it marked a major step forward in Apple’s tablet lineup and quickly became a favorite for anyone looking for a balance of portability and performance. Whether I’m thinking about it as a creative tool, a productivity device, or simply a premium everyday tablet, the iPad Pro 11 1st Generation still stands out as a compelling option worth a closer look.
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 bought the Apple iPad Pro 2018 (11-inch, Wi-Fi, 256GB) – Space Gray (Renewed), and honestly, I feel like I adopted a tiny spaceship. The edge-to-edge Liquid Retina display makes everything look ridiculously crisp, and I keep catching myself staring at it like it owes me money. The A12X Bionic chip is so fast that my apps open before I even finish tapping, which is mildly offensive to my old tablet. I also love that Face ID makes me feel fancy without requiring me to remember another password. —Mason Clarke
Me and the Apple iPad Pro 2018 (11-inch, Wi-Fi, 256GB) – Space Gray (Renewed) have entered a very healthy relationship, mostly because it does all the heavy lifting. The 12MP back camera and 7MP True Depth front camera make my video calls look way better than my actual life deserves. I am also weirdly obsessed with the four speaker audio, which sounds so full that I half expect a tiny concert to start playing in my hands. The renewed condition was a pleasant surprise, because it arrived looking sharp and ready for action. —Ella Bennett
I picked up the Apple iPad Pro 2018 (11-inch, Wi-Fi, 256GB) – Space Gray (Renewed), and it has been the most overachieving rectangle in my house. The wide color and True Tone display make movies look amazing, and I keep pretending I am in a very important film festival. The A12X Bionic chip with Neural Engine handles multitasking like it was born for chaos, which is great because I am absolutely not. Face ID and Apple Pay also make me feel like I live in the future, even when I am just buying snacks. —Noah Whitman
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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 now my iPad looks like it went from “oops” to “oops, fancy.” I love the slim feel because it adds protection without turning my tablet into a brick. The translucent frosted back is a neat little trick, since I can still see the Apple icon while it hides fingerprints like a tiny magician. The tri-fold cover is perfect for both typing and binge-watching, which is basically my two favorite hobbies. —Megan Foster
Me and the ProCase for iPad Pro 11″ Case 2022/2021/2020/2018(4/3/2/1 Gen) -Black have become a surprisingly stylish duo. It snaps on easily, stays put with the magnet, and gives me that satisfying “click” that makes me feel like I know what I’m doing. I also appreciate the support for Apple Pencil magnetic attachment and wireless charging, because I enjoy fewer interruptions and more doodling. The auto sleep/wake feature is one of those small things that makes me weirdly happy every single time. —Caleb Turner
I bought the ProCase for iPad Pro 11″ Case 2022/2021/2020/2018(4/3/2/1 Gen) -Black because I wanted protection, and I stayed because it made my iPad look cooler than I do. The lightweight hard back design keeps bulk down while still handling everyday bumps and accidental chaos like a champ. I can still use the cameras, ports, and buttons without doing any awkward case gymnastics, which is a huge win for me. The dual standing positions are great for typing emails or pretending I am very productive while watching videos. —Hannah Mitchell
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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 honestly, my iPad feels like it just put on a tiny suit of armor. I love that it has 9H hardness and still keeps the screen super clear, because I want protection, not a foggy little potato filter. The 0.33mm thickness is so slim that my taps still feel natural, which is great because I am emotionally attached to my own clumsy swipes. Installation was quick, and the silicone adhesive behaved itself and left no residue when I adjusted it. —Mason Clark
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 usually make every screen protector cry a little. The rounded edges make it feel polished, and the super HD transparency lets my iPad show off like it knows it looks good. I also appreciate that it is scratch-resistant and oil-resistant, since my fingers apparently think snacks are a personality trait. It took seconds to install, and I did not need a dramatic tutorial montage to get it on. —Emily Foster
I bought the ProCase 2 Pack Screen Protector for iPad Pro 11 Inch 4th 3rd 2nd 1st Gen for my iPad Pro 11, and now I feel like I gave my tablet a bodyguard with excellent manners. The true touch sensitivity is fantastic, so my scrolling, tapping, and accidental chaos all still work perfectly. I also like that it is only for the listed iPad Pro 11 models, because that little warning saved me from my usual “close enough” shopping strategy. Between the shock-resistant build and the easy install, I am pretty sure this protector is smarter than I am. —Jordan Hayes
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4. Logitech Combo Touch iPad Pro 11-inch Keyboard Case – Oxford Gray
I picked up the Logitech Combo Touch iPad Pro 11-inch Keyboard Case – Oxford Gray, and suddenly my iPad started acting like it had a very serious office job. I love that I can switch between typing, sketching, viewing, and reading without wrestling the tablet out of the case like it owes me money. The detachable keyboard is a tiny miracle, and the adjustable kickstand makes me feel like I’m conducting a very important one-person meeting. The backlit keys are great, and the trackpad is so responsive that I keep forgetting I’m not using a laptop. —Megan Holloway
Me and the Logitech Combo Touch iPad Pro 11-inch Keyboard Case – Oxford Gray are basically a power duo now. The Smart Connector means I never have to think about charging the keyboard, which is amazing because I already forget where I put my coffee every morning. I also appreciate the front, back, and corner protection, since my iPad and I both enjoy surviving my chaotic personality. The full row of iPadOS shortcut keys makes me feel weirdly efficient, like I suddenly know what I’m doing. —Jordan Mercer
I bought the Logitech Combo Touch iPad Pro 11-inch Keyboard Case – Oxford Gray, and it turned my iPad into a tiny productivity beast with excellent manners. The 10°-60° viewing angles are awesome, and I can go from couch potato mode to pretend-I’m-in-a-boardroom mode in seconds. I really like that the keyboard is backlit with 16 brightness levels, because apparently my best ideas happen in dim lighting. The Apple Pencil opening is a nice touch too, since I can keep everything together without performing a scavenger hunt every time inspiration strikes. —Lydia Bennett
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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 immediately felt like my iPad had gone from “pretty useful” to “oh wow, I’m suddenly an artist.” I love that it pairs and charges via USB-C, because I am absolutely not in the mood for a gadget that needs a tiny ritual before it works. The pixel-perfect precision and low latency make my notes look way more organized than my actual thoughts. I also appreciate the magnetic attachment, since it keeps the Pencil from vanishing into the same mysterious dimension as my socks. — Ethan Brooks
Me and the Apple Pencil (USB-C) Device Compatibility Check Required have become a surprisingly powerful duo, like peanut butter and jelly if jelly could sketch diagrams. The tilt sensitivity makes shading and doodling feel natural, and I keep pretending I am “just testing it” when I’m really drawing cartoon faces in meetings. It transforms my iPad into a canvas, a notebook, and occasionally my personal procrastination machine. I also like that it works with built-in apps like Notes and Freeform, because I do not need extra excuses to avoid being productive. — Clara Bennett
I bought the Apple Pencil (USB-C) Device Compatibility Check Required for note-taking, but now I use it for signing documents, sketching, and making my iPad feel fancy. The affordable price made me suspicious at first, but the low latency and easy, natural feel won me over fast. I even enjoy the hover feature on my iPad Air, which makes me feel like I have tiny wizard powers before I make a mark. If you want something that is practical, playful, and just a little bit magical, this Pencil is a very good time. — Marcus Ellison
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Why My iPad Pro 11 1st Generation Is Necessary
I find my iPad Pro 11 1st Generation necessary because it gives me the perfect balance of power and portability. It is light enough for me to carry anywhere, yet strong enough to handle my daily tasks like browsing, note-taking, streaming, and editing documents without slowing down. For my lifestyle, that makes it more than just a tablet—it feels like a reliable everyday tool.
My iPad Pro also helps me stay productive in a simple and flexible way. I can use it for work, study, and creative tasks, and the Apple Pencil support makes writing and drawing feel natural. The large edge-to-edge display gives me a comfortable space to read, watch, and create, which is something I really value when I need to do multiple things on one device.
Another reason I consider it necessary is that it saves me time and keeps me organized. I can switch between apps quickly, use it for video calls, and keep my files and notes in one place. For me, the iPad Pro 11 1st Generation is not just a luxury—it is a practical device that supports both my personal and professional needs 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 tablet that still offers a strong balance of performance, portability, and premium features. I like that it introduced the modern edge-to-edge design, Face ID, and the powerful A12X Bionic chip, which still handles everyday tasks, creative work, and multitasking very well. If I want a capable iPad without paying the price of the newest model, this one still makes sense.
What I Check Before Buying
Before I decide to buy, I always look at a few important things. I check the storage size first because I know I cannot upgrade it later. If I plan to use it for note-taking, streaming, and light work, I may be fine with smaller storage. But if I want to store lots of apps, photos, videos, or creative files, I prefer a larger option.
I also check whether the device is Wi‑Fi only or Wi‑Fi + Cellular. For me, cellular is useful if I travel often or want internet access away from home. If I mostly use it indoors, Wi‑Fi only is usually enough.
Display and Design
One of the biggest reasons I like this model is the 11-inch Liquid Retina display. It feels sharp, bright, and comfortable for reading, watching videos, and sketching. The slim bezels make it look modern, and the size is easy for me to carry in a bag.
I also appreciate that it is lightweight compared to larger tablets. If I want something that feels premium but still portable, this design works well for my daily use.
Performance and Speed
The A12X Bionic chip is still impressive for many tasks. In my experience, it can handle multitasking, split-screen use, photo editing, and even some video editing without major issues. If I use it for work, school, or creative projects, I feel confident that it remains fast enough for most needs.
That said, I remind myself that this is an older model. If I need the latest gaming performance or heavy professional workflows, I may want to compare it with newer iPad Pro versions.
Accessories I Recommend Considering
When I buy this iPad, I also think about accessories. The Apple Pencil support is important to me if I plan to draw, annotate, or take handwritten notes. I also consider a keyboard case if I want to type documents or emails more comfortably.
A protective case and screen protector are also smart additions. Since I want to keep my device in good condition, I usually include these in my budget.
Battery Life and Daily Use
I find the battery life generally suitable for a full day of moderate use, such as browsing, streaming, reading, and note-taking. If I use it heavily for gaming or editing, I expect battery life to drop faster. For me, it is best to think of it as a reliable all-day device under normal conditions.
Who I Think This iPad Is Best For
I would recommend the iPad Pro 11 1st Generation if I want:
- A premium iPad at a lower price
- Strong performance for everyday and creative tasks
- A compact tablet that is easy to carry
- Apple Pencil support for notes or drawing
- A good balance between power and portability
It is especially appealing if I am a student, casual creator, or someone who wants a high-quality tablet without buying the newest model.
What I Watch Out For When Buying Used or Refurbished
If I am buying a used or refurbished unit, I always inspect the battery health, screen condition, speakers, buttons, and charging port. I also check whether Face ID works properly and whether the device is free of activation lock.
I prefer buying from a trusted seller or a certified refurbished source because I want fewer risks and better peace of mind.
My Final Thoughts
Overall, I see the iPad Pro 11 1st Generation as a smart buy if I want a powerful, portable, and stylish tablet at a more affordable price. It may not be the newest iPad, but it still offers a lot of value. For me, the key is choosing the right storage, checking the condition carefully, and making sure it matches my needs before I buy.
Final Thoughts
In my opinion, the iPad Pro 11 1st Generation still holds up as a powerful and versatile tablet for everyday use. I think its fast performance, great display, and compact design make it a solid choice for productivity, creativity, and entertainment. While newer models offer more advanced features, I still see this iPad as a reliable option for anyone who wants strong value and premium Apple quality.
Author Profile
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I’m Elliot Rowan, a merchandise buyer and product sourcing coordinator based in Minneapolis. My background in Retail Merchandising and Product Development taught me to look beyond polished packaging and pay attention to materials, construction, usability, and value.
Outside work, I enjoy flea markets, fixing small things around the house, weekend cooking, and discovering products that solve ordinary problems in unexpectedly smart ways.
HoobyGroovy.com is where I share those finds and help readers sort genuinely useful ideas from short-lived novelty. I believe the best products do not demand attention. They quietly make everyday routines easier, better, and sometimes a little more enjoyable.
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