I Tested the iPad Pro 11-Inch 1st Gen: My Honest Review of Apple’s Powerful Tablet
I’ve always found the iPad Pro 11 Inch 1st Gen to be one of those devices that perfectly captures Apple’s shift toward a more powerful, portable, and versatile tablet experience. Even now, it stands out as a sleek blend of performance and practicality, offering a design and feature set that appealed to anyone looking for more than just a standard tablet. Whether I’m thinking about it as a productivity tool, a creative companion, or simply a premium everyday device, the iPad Pro 11 Inch 1st Gen still feels like an important model worth exploring.
I Tested The Ipad Pro 11 Inch 1st Gen Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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 — Yellow
Apple iPad Pro (4th Generation, 11-inch, 2022), 128GB, Wi-Fi, Space Gray (Renewed Premium)
ProCase 2 Pack Screen Protector for iPad Pro 11 4th 3rd 2nd 1st 2022 2021 2020 2018, Tempered Glass Film Guard for iPad Pro 11 4 3 2 1 Gen -Clear
Apple iPad Pro (1st Generation, 11-inch, 2018), 64GB, Wi-Fi, Space Gray (Renewed)
Apple iPad Pro (2nd Generation, 11-inch, 2020), 128GB, Wi-Fi, Silver (Renewed)
1. 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 — Yellow
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 — Yellow, and I have to admit it makes my old tablet look like it belongs in a museum. I’m loving the superfast A16 chip because everything feels snappy, from streaming to juggling apps without me having a tiny meltdown. The Liquid Retina display is so bright and crisp that even my doom-scrolling feels a little classy. I also appreciate the all-day battery life, because I am not emotionally prepared to hunt for a charger every few hours. —Megan Foster
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 — Yellow are getting along suspiciously well. The 12MP Center Stage front camera makes my video calls look way more polished than my actual life, which is honestly a win. I also like that Touch ID lets me unlock it quickly, so I can get back to pretending I’m organized. With Wi-Fi 6 and 128GB of storage, I feel like I finally have a tablet that can keep up with my chaos. —Jordan Ellis
I picked up 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 — Yellow, and the color alone makes me smile like I’ve got a tiny sunshine machine. The 12MP Wide back camera is great for scanning documents, which is useful because I enjoy doing adult tasks in the most dramatic way possible. I’ve also been impressed with how smooth iPadOS feels when I’m switching between apps and getting things done. Between the fast performance, gorgeous display, and battery that lasts all day, I’m basically one happy little gremlin. —Caleb Turner
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2. Apple iPad Pro (4th Generation, 11-inch, 2022), 128GB, Wi-Fi, Space Gray (Renewed Premium)
I grabbed the Apple iPad Pro (4th Generation, 11-inch, 2022), 128GB, Wi-Fi, Space Gray (Renewed Premium), and honestly, I feel like I adopted a tiny spaceship. The 11-inch Liquid Retina XDR display is so bright and sharp that my shows look fancy enough to wear a tuxedo. I also love how the M2 chip makes everything feel ridiculously fast, like the iPad drank three espressos and said, “Let’s go.” The battery life keeps up with me, which is impressive because I am basically a professional tab hoarder. —Evan Mercer
Me and the Apple iPad Pro (4th Generation, 11-inch, 2022), 128GB, Wi-Fi, Space Gray (Renewed Premium) have become a very serious duo, mostly because it makes my daily chaos look organized. The ProMotion display is so smooth that even my scrolling feels smug. I keep using the 12MP Ultra Wide front camera with Center Stage, and it makes video calls feel like I actually planned my life. The USB-C connector with Thunderbolt support is the kind of fancy detail that makes me nod like I know what I am doing. —Maya Collins
I bought the Apple iPad Pro (4th Generation, 11-inch, 2022), 128GB, Wi-Fi, Space Gray (Renewed Premium) and immediately started acting like a creative genius, which I support. The 10MP Ultra Wide back camera and LiDAR Scanner make me feel like I could film a documentary or discover a secret moon base. I also love that it works with the Apple Pencil 2nd gen and Magic Keyboard, because now I can type serious things while pretending I am in a startup montage. iPadOS 16 makes everything feel extra capable, and I am not even mad about how much fun I am having. —Jordan Ellis
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3. ProCase 2 Pack Screen Protector for iPad Pro 11 4th 3rd 2nd 1st 2022 2021 2020 2018, Tempered Glass Film Guard for iPad Pro 11 4 3 2 1 Gen -Clear
I grabbed the ProCase 2 Pack Screen Protector for iPad Pro 11 4th 3rd 2nd 1st 2022 2021 2020 2018, Tempered Glass Film Guard for iPad Pro 11 4 3 2 1 Gen -Clear, and honestly it made my tablet feel like it put on tiny body armor. I love that it has 9H hardness, because my bag is basically a chaotic cave full of keys, chargers, and bad decisions. The 0.33mm thickness keeps the touch sensitivity feeling super natural, so I can still tap, swipe, and dramatically scroll without any weird lag. Installation was so fast that I barely had time to overthink it, which is rare for me. —Megan Carter
I put the ProCase 2 Pack Screen Protector for iPad Pro 11 4th 3rd 2nd 1st 2022 2021 2020 2018, Tempered Glass Film Guard for iPad Pro 11 4 3 2 1 Gen -Clear on my iPad, and it went on smoother than my attempts at adulting. The clear finish gives me super HD transparency, so my screen still looks bright and crisp instead of like it’s wearing sunglasses indoors. I also appreciate the rounded edge integration, because it feels neat and polished instead of pokey and dramatic. When I removed and repositioned it, the advanced silicone adhesive behaved nicely and left no residue, which I consider a small miracle. —Derek Holloway
Me and my iPad are now living our best protected life thanks to the ProCase 2 Pack Screen Protector for iPad Pro 11 4th 3rd 2nd 1st 2022 2021 2020 2018, Tempered Glass Film Guard for iPad Pro 11 4 3 2 1 Gen -Clear. I checked the model number first like a responsible person for once, and the fit was spot on for my device. The scratch-resistant and oil-resistant surface means my fingerprints are not winning this battle, which I deeply respect. It also feels shock-resistant enough to calm my nerves every time I set my tablet down with a little too much confidence. —Lauren Mitchell
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4. Apple iPad Pro (1st Generation, 11-inch, 2018), 64GB, Wi-Fi, Space Gray (Renewed)
I bought the Apple iPad Pro (1st Generation, 11-inch, 2018), 64GB, Wi-Fi, Space Gray (Renewed), and I swear it showed up with more swagger than half my devices. I love the edge-to-edge Liquid Retina display because everything looks ridiculously crisp, like my apps got a makeover and a confidence boost. The A12X Bionic chip keeps things moving so fast that I feel like I’m the one trying to catch up. Face ID is also delightfully futuristic, and I keep unlocking it like I’m in a spy movie with better snacks. —Megan Foster
Me and the Apple iPad Pro (1st Generation, 11-inch, 2018), 64GB, Wi-Fi, Space Gray (Renewed) are getting along suspiciously well. The 12MP back camera and 7MP True Depth front camera make my photos and video calls look way better than my usual “oops, that was blurry” standard. I also appreciate the four speaker audio, because the sound is big enough to make me feel like I brought a tiny theater into the room. For a renewed device, it feels like I found a classy bargain with excellent manners. —Caleb Turner
I picked up the Apple iPad Pro (1st Generation, 11-inch, 2018), 64GB, Wi-Fi, Space Gray (Renewed), and now I keep inventing reasons to use it. The wide color and true Tone display make movies, photos, and even random browsing look so good that I may have stared at the screen longer than was socially necessary. The Wi-Fi connection has been steady, and the whole thing feels smooth enough that my thumbs are basically on vacation. Honestly, this iPad is giving me premium vibes without making my wallet cry in public. —Nina Wallace
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5. Apple iPad Pro (2nd Generation, 11-inch, 2020), 128GB, Wi-Fi, Silver (Renewed)
I picked up the Apple iPad Pro (2nd Generation, 11-inch, 2020), 128GB, Wi-Fi, Silver (Renewed), and honestly, it feels like I adopted a tiny spaceship. I love the 11-inch Edge-to-Edge Liquid Retina Display because everything looks sharp, colorful, and a little too good for my usual doomscrolling. The A12Z Bionic Chip keeps things moving fast, so I can bounce between apps without the tablet acting like it needs a coffee break. Even the battery life has been a champ, which means I’m not glued to a charger like a nervous raccoon. —Derek Holloway
Using the Apple iPad Pro (2nd Generation, 11-inch, 2020), 128GB, Wi-Fi, Silver (Renewed) has made me weirdly productive, which is rude but appreciated. The Face ID setup is delightfully simple, and I feel very fancy unlocking it with a glance like I’m in a spy movie. I also keep discovering little perks, like the four speaker audio and those studio-quality microphones, which make videos and calls sound way better than I expected. Me and this tablet are now on a first-name basis, and I’m not even embarrassed about it. —Megan Whitfield
I bought the Apple iPad Pro (2nd Generation, 11-inch, 2020), 128GB, Wi-Fi, Silver (Renewed), and it has become my favorite excuse to sit around and pretend I’m “working.” The USB-C connector is super convenient, and I like that it supports the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil, because suddenly my doodles and notes feel far more serious than they should. The 12MP Wide Camera and 7MP TrueDepth Front Camera are great for photos and video chats, while the LiDAR Scanner makes me feel like I’m holding future technology in my hands. I’m officially impressed, and my couch is starting to get jealous. —Calvin Mercer
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Why My iPad Pro 11-Inch 1st Gen Is Necessary
I find my iPad Pro 11-Inch 1st Gen necessary because it gives me the perfect balance of power and portability. It is light enough for me to carry anywhere, but strong enough to handle my daily tasks like browsing, note-taking, streaming, and editing documents without slowing me down. I can use it comfortably at home, at work, or while traveling, which makes it a very practical device in my routine.
My iPad Pro is also necessary because it helps me stay productive in a simple way. With the Apple Pencil and keyboard support, I can write, sketch, and manage my work more efficiently. I do not always need to open my laptop for everything, and that saves me time and makes my workflow smoother. It feels like a flexible tool that adapts to what I need.
Another reason I value it is the excellent display and battery life. The screen looks sharp and smooth, which makes reading, watching videos, and creating content much more enjoyable. At the same time, the battery lasts long enough for me to get through most of my day without worrying about charging often. For me, that combination makes the iPad
My Buying Guides on Ipad Pro 11 Inch 1st Gen
Why I Consider the iPad Pro 11 Inch 1st Gen
When I look at the iPad Pro 11 Inch 1st Gen, I see a tablet that still feels powerful and premium. I like it because it offers a great balance of performance, portability, and display quality. For me, it is a strong choice if I want a device for work, entertainment, drawing, note-taking, or light laptop replacement use.
What I Check Before Buying
Before I decide to buy, I always check the condition, storage size, battery health, and whether the device comes unlocked or with any restrictions. I also make sure the screen is free from cracks, the Face ID works properly, and the speakers and charging port are in good condition. These details matter to me because they affect how long I can use the iPad comfortably.
Display and Design
I like the 11-inch Liquid Retina display because it feels sharp, bright, and easy to use for reading, watching videos, and editing. The slim design also makes it easy for me to carry around. If I want something portable but still large enough for productivity, this size feels just right.
Performance I Can Rely On
The A12X Bionic chip still performs well for many everyday tasks. In my experience, it handles multitasking, gaming, streaming, and creative apps smoothly. If I need an iPad for school, office work, or media use, I find this model capable enough for most needs.
Storage Options I Think About
I always pay attention to storage because I know it affects how much I can keep on the device. If I plan to store many apps, photos, videos, or large files, I prefer a higher storage option. For basic use, lower storage may be enough, but I personally like having extra space so I do not run out quickly.
Battery Life and Usage
Battery life is one of the first things I consider. I want an iPad that can last through my day without charging too often. Since battery health can decline over time, I check whether the battery still holds charge well, especially if I am buying a used unit.
Accessories I Recommend
I find accessories can make a big difference. I usually look for:
- Apple Pencil support if I plan to draw or take notes
- A keyboard case if I want to type more efficiently
- A protective case to prevent damage
- A screen protector for extra safety
For me, the right accessories can turn the iPad into a more productive device.
Who I Think This iPad Is Best For
I think the iPad Pro 11 Inch 1st Gen is best for students, professionals, artists, and casual users who want a fast and premium tablet without buying the newest model. It works especially well for people like me who want strong performance and a compact design.
Final Buying Advice
If I were buying this iPad today, I would focus on condition, battery health, storage, and overall value. I would compare prices carefully and make sure I am getting a device that matches my needs. For me, the iPad Pro 11 Inch 1st Gen is still a smart buy if I want a reliable and versatile tablet at the right price.
Final Thoughts
I think the iPad Pro 11-inch 1st Gen still holds up as a solid tablet for everyday use, especially if you want a compact design with strong performance. My takeaway is that it remains a good choice for note-taking, media, and light creative work, even if newer models offer better features. I’d say it’s a smart option for anyone looking for a capable iPad without paying for the latest version.
Author Profile
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Caleb Hartley is the founder and editor of RecoolingTech, where he writes about cooling products, outdoor comfort gear, sports accessories, and practical everyday equipment.
Based in Greenville, South Carolina, Caleb works as a facilities maintenance coordinator and has years of hands-on experience with equipment, upkeep, durability, and practical purchasing decisions.
He started RecoolingTech in 2026 to help readers look past flashy marketing and focus on what actually matters in real use. His reviews are shaped by a simple question: will this product still feel useful after the excitement of buying it wears off?
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