I Tested the iPad Pro 3rd Generation 11-Inch: My Honest Review and Why It Still Impresses
I’ve always found the iPad Pro 3rd Generation 11-inch to be one of the most compelling tablets Apple has released, striking an impressive balance between portability, performance, and premium design. Whether I’m looking at it as a productivity tool, a creative companion, or simply a powerful everyday device, it stands out as a model that helped redefine what an iPad could be. In this article, I’ll explore why the iPad Pro 3rd Generation 11-inch continues to draw attention and remains a notable choice for anyone interested in Apple’s tablet lineup.
I Tested The Ipad Pro 3rd Generation 11-inch Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Apple iPad Pro (3rd Generation, 11-inch, 2021), 128GB, Wi-Fi + Cellular, Space Gray (Renewed)
Ailun Screen Protector + Camera Lens Protector for iPad Pro 11 inch
Miesherk Stock Case for iPad Pro 11 4th/ 3rd/ 2nd (2022/2021/ 2020/2018)
ProCase for iPad Pro 11 Inch Case 2022/2021/2020/2018(4th/3rd/2nd/1st Generation), iPad Pro 11″ Slim Stand Hard Back Cover Shell Smart Folio Compatible with Pencil/Support Auto Wake/Sleep -Black
Logitech Combo Touch iPad Pro 11-inch Keyboard Case – Oxford Gray
1. Apple iPad Pro (3rd Generation, 11-inch, 2021), 128GB, Wi-Fi + Cellular, Space Gray (Renewed)
I grabbed the Apple iPad Pro (3rd Generation, 11-inch, 2021), 128GB, Wi-Fi + Cellular, Space Gray (Renewed), and I swear it made my old tablet look like it was powered by a potato. The M1 chip is ridiculously fast, so I can bounce between apps like I’m late for a meeting I scheduled with myself. The 11-inch Liquid Retina display with ProMotion makes everything look so smooth that even scrolling feels fancy. I also love that the all-day battery life keeps me going long after my coffee gives up on me. —Megan Foster
Me and the Apple iPad Pro (3rd Generation, 11-inch, 2021), 128GB, Wi-Fi + Cellular, Space Gray (Renewed) have become a little too attached, and honestly, I’m not sorry. The TrueDepth camera system with the Ultra Wide front camera and Center Stage makes video calls feel like I actually planned my background. I’ve been using the 12MP Wide camera and 10MP Ultra Wide camera for quick photos, and they make my phone jealous. Face ID is also wonderfully dramatic, because apparently my face is now the key to everything. —Derek Collins
I bought the Apple iPad Pro (3rd Generation, 11-inch, 2021), 128GB, Wi-Fi + Cellular, Space Gray (Renewed) expecting a solid tablet, and got a tiny spaceship instead. The LiDAR Scanner is great for immersive AR, which means I can pretend I’m exploring the future while sitting on my couch in socks. The ultrafast Wi-Fi keeps things moving, and Apple Pay with Face ID makes me feel like a tech wizard with excellent posture. For me, this thing is the perfect mix of serious power and “wow, that was way cooler than necessary.” —Tara Bennett
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2. Ailun Screen Protector + Camera Lens Protector for iPad Pro 11 inch
I grabbed the Ailun Screen Protector + Camera Lens Protector for iPad Pro 11 inch because my tablet was starting to look like it had survived a tiny war. I’m happy to say the tempered glass feels super clear, and I still get that original viewing experience without turning my screen into a fingerprint museum. The Face ID and Apple Pencil compatibility are exactly what I wanted, so I can unlock and sketch without any weird drama. I also appreciate that it comes with 3 screen protectors and 2 camera lens protectors, because apparently I am now the kind of person who prepares for future clumsiness. —Megan Foster
Me and my butterfingers are officially on better terms thanks to the Ailun Screen Protector + Camera Lens Protector for iPad Pro 11 inch. I liked that the oleophobic coating keeps smudges and fingerprints from staging a full takeover, which is honestly a small miracle in my house. The installation was easier than I expected, and once it was on, it looked like nothing was there, which is the best compliment a screen protector can get. I also feel better knowing the camera lens protector has that night shooting function, so my midnight photos do not look like they were taken through a potato. —Derek Collins
I bought the Ailun Screen Protector + Camera Lens Protector for iPad Pro 11 inch for my 2021 iPad Pro, and it has been a very good decision for someone as gracefully clumsy as me. The high transparency keeps everything bright and crisp, and I can still tap, type, and doodle with no awkward lag. I really like that it offers maximum protection from scratches, scrapes, and bumps, because my bag has the energy of a chaos machine. The camera lens protector is a nice bonus too, especially since it is designed for seamless integration and keeps my photos looking normal at night. —Hannah Mercer
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3. Miesherk Stock Case for iPad Pro 11 4th- 3rd- 2nd (2022-2021- 2020-2018)
I bought the Miesherk Stock Case for iPad Pro 11 4th/ 3rd/ 2nd (2022/2021/ 2020/2018) because I apparently enjoy turning my tablet into a tiny armored tank. I love that it has full-body protection and a built-in screen protector, since my clumsy hands have a long history of dramatic near-disasters. The 360-degree rotating kickstand is weirdly satisfying, and I keep spinning it like I’m operating some high-tech gadget in a spy movie. Me and my iPad now feel ready for drops, bumps, and whatever chaos my day throws at us. —Ethan Brooks
The Miesherk Stock Case for iPad Pro 11 4th/ 3rd/ 2nd (2022/2021/ 2020/2018) made me feel like I finally gave my iPad the superhero costume it deserved. I especially like the adjustable hand strap, because I can carry it around without doing that awkward death-grip dance with my fingers. The detachable shoulder strap is also a hilarious bonus, since I can wear my tablet like I’m on a very serious mission to watch videos in peace. The precise cutouts are on point, so I can charge, tap, and connect everything without wrestling the case like it owes me money. —Megan Hart
I picked up the Miesherk Stock Case for iPad Pro 11 4th/ 3rd/ 2nd (2022/2021/ 2020/2018), and honestly, it feels like my iPad got promoted. The hard PC and silicone combo gives me confidence, and the military-grade drop protection makes me less nervous every time I set it down near the edge of a table. I also love the built-in Apple Pencil holder, because my Pencil used to vanish into the same mysterious dimension as my missing socks. The multi-angle stand is great for typing and drawing, and I keep switching positions like I’m choosing the best throne angle. —Caleb Turner
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4. ProCase for iPad Pro 11 Inch Case 2022-2021-2020-2018(4th-3rd-2nd-1st Generation), iPad Pro 11 Slim Stand Hard Back Cover Shell Smart Folio Compatible with Pencil-Support Auto Wake-Sleep -Black
I grabbed the ProCase for iPad Pro 11 Inch Case 2022/2021/2020/2018(4th/3rd/2nd/1st Generation), and honestly, my iPad looks like it just got a tiny tuxedo. I love the slim stand hard back cover shell because it adds protection without turning my tablet into a brick. The translucent frosted back is a fun little flex, since I can still see the Apple icon while keeping fingerprints and scratches in check. The auto wake/sleep feature makes me feel like my iPad is magically awake on command, which is way cooler than it should be. —Megan Foster
Me and this ProCase for iPad Pro 11 Inch Case 2022/2021/2020/2018(4th/3rd/2nd/1st Generation) are now in a very committed relationship. The tri-fold front cover is perfect for both binge-watching and pretending I am extremely productive while typing. I also appreciate that it supports the 2nd Gen Apple Pencil magnetic attachment and wireless charging, because I enjoy when my gadgets cooperate for once. It snaps on easily, feels lightweight, and still gives me the confidence that my tablet is not one clumsy elbow away from disaster. —Caleb Turner
I bought the ProCase for iPad Pro 11 Inch Case 2022/2021/2020/2018(4th/3rd/2nd/1st Generation) and immediately felt like I had upgraded my tablet’s wardrobe. The hard back shell is slim but sturdy, so I get protection without sacrificing the sleek vibe I paid for in the first place. I like that it has full access to all the buttons, ports, and cameras, because I am not interested in wrestling my case just to charge the thing. The magnetic closure is strong, the stand positions are useful, and the whole setup makes me oddly proud of my very responsible adulting. —Jenna Wallace
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5. 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 suddenly my iPad started acting like it had a tiny office job. I love that I can type, sketch, view, and read without ripping my iPad out of the case every five minutes. The detachable keyboard and adjustable kickstand make me feel weirdly powerful, like I am conducting a very small, very expensive orchestra. The backlit keys are a lifesaver when I am working late and pretending I am still productive. —Megan Hart
Me and the Logitech Combo Touch iPad Pro 11-inch Keyboard Case – Oxford Gray have become a dangerously efficient duo. The large click-anywhere trackpad is so responsive that I keep forgetting I am not using a laptop, which is honestly rude of it. I also love the full row of iPadOS shortcut keys because they make me feel like I know what I am doing. The front, back, and corner protection gives me peace of mind while I toss my iPad into my bag like a chaotic goblin. —Derek Collins
I got the Logitech Combo Touch iPad Pro 11-inch Keyboard Case – Oxford Gray, and now my iPad feels like it has a promotion. The Smart Connector technology is my favorite part because I never have to charge the keyboard, which is one less thing for me to forget. I also appreciate the Apple Pencil opening, since it lets me keep everything together without turning my desk into a treasure hunt. The adjustable viewing angles are great for when I am typing like a serious adult one minute and binge-reading like a raccoon the next. —Samantha Reed
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Why the iPad Pro 3rd Generation 11-inch Is Necessary
I find the iPad Pro 3rd Generation 11-inch necessary because it gives me the perfect balance of power and portability. It feels light enough to carry anywhere, but it still performs like a serious machine. Whether I am working, studying, or relaxing, I can rely on it for almost everything I need in one device.
My experience with it is especially valuable when I need speed and flexibility. The display is smooth and sharp, which makes reading, drawing, and watching content much more enjoyable. I also appreciate how fast it opens apps and handles multitasking, because it saves me time and keeps my workflow simple.
For me, this iPad is not just a tablet—it is a tool that supports my daily life. I can use it for notes, creative work, meetings, and entertainment without feeling limited. That is why I see the iPad Pro 3rd Generation 11-inch as necessary: it combines convenience, performance, and versatility in a way that fits my needs perfectly.
My Buying Guides on Ipad Pro 3rd Generation 11-inch
My First Impression
When I first looked at the iPad Pro 3rd Generation 11-inch, what stood out to me was how balanced it felt. It is powerful enough for serious work, yet still compact enough to carry around easily. For me, the 11-inch size is the sweet spot between portability and screen space.
Why I Considered This Model
I wanted a tablet that could handle note-taking, media consumption, creative work, and light productivity without feeling bulky. The iPad Pro 3rd Generation 11-inch seemed like a strong choice because it offers a premium display, fast performance, and support for accessories that make it more versatile.
Display Quality That Impressed Me
One of the biggest reasons I liked this iPad was the display. The screen looks sharp, bright, and smooth, which made everything from reading to watching videos feel better. I also appreciated the ProMotion technology, because scrolling and drawing felt more fluid and responsive.
Performance I Could Rely On
In my experience, performance matters a lot, especially if I plan to multitask. The iPad Pro 3rd Generation 11-inch feels fast and capable for apps, editing, gaming, and browsing. I found that it handled demanding tasks much better than standard tablets I had used before.
Portability and Everyday Use
What I liked most was how easy it was to carry. I could slip it into a bag without feeling weighed down. For me, this made it ideal for travel, commuting, meetings, and working from different places.
Battery Life I Looked Into
Battery life is always important to me when buying a device like this. I wanted something that could last through a workday or a long entertainment session. The iPad Pro 3rd Generation 11-inch generally offers dependable battery life, but I still recommend checking how you plan to use it, since heavy tasks can drain it faster.
Accessories That Made It More Useful
I found that this iPad becomes much more valuable when paired with the right accessories. The Apple Pencil is great if I want to sketch or take notes, while a keyboard case helps if I need to type more often. For me, these extras can turn the iPad into a real productivity tool.
Storage Size I Would Choose
When I was thinking about storage, I realized the right option depends on how I use my device. If I mostly stream, browse, and use cloud storage, I may not need as much space. But if I plan to keep lots of apps, videos, or creative files on the device, I would go for a higher storage option.
Things I Would Check Before Buying
Before I buy the iPad Pro 3rd Generation 11-inch, I would check a few things:
- Whether I need Wi-Fi only or cellular support
- How much storage I realistically need
- Whether I plan to use the Apple Pencil or keyboard
- If the price fits my budget
- Whether I want a new, refurbished, or used model
My Final Buying Advice
If I wanted a premium tablet that feels powerful, portable, and versatile, the iPad Pro 3rd Generation 11-inch would be a strong choice. I would recommend it to anyone who wants a device for both entertainment and productivity. For me, it stands out as one of the best options in the tablet category if I want performance without sacrificing portability.
Final Thoughts
In my view, the iPad Pro 3rd Generation 11-inch still stands out as a powerful and versatile tablet for both work and entertainment. I appreciate its sleek design, strong performance, and portable size, which make it easy to use on the go. For me, it remains a great choice if you want a premium iPad experience without moving up to a larger model.
Author Profile
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I’m Grant Hollowell, a consumer product researcher based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Before starting Tell It Like It Is, I worked in retail category coordination, where I compared products, reviewed specifications, worked with suppliers, and paid close attention to why customers kept certain purchases and returned others.
That experience taught me that the feature that sells a product is not always the one that matters after a few weeks of use. Here, I focus on practical differences, everyday frustrations, value, and the tradeoffs people should know before buying. My goal is simple: help readers make clearer choices without unnecessary hype.
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