I Tested the iPad Pro 11 2nd Generation: My Honest Review of Apple’s Powerful Tablet
I’ve found that few devices generate as much attention as the iPad Pro 11 2nd Generation. It sits at an interesting crossroads of power, portability, and versatility, making it appealing to anyone who wants more than a typical tablet experience. Whether I’m thinking about it as a creative tool, a productivity companion, or an everyday device for entertainment and browsing, it stands out as a model that continues to draw interest for good reason.
I Tested The Ipad Pro 11 2nd Generation Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Apple iPad Pro (2nd Generation, 11-inch, 2020), 128GB, Wi-Fi, Silver (Renewed)
Apple iPad Pro (2nd Generation, 11-inch, 2020), 128GB, Wi-Fi + Cellular, Space Gray (Renewed)
Apple iPad Pro (4th Generation, 11-inch, 2022), 256GB, Wi-Fi, Space Gray (Renewed)
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 — Blue
Apple iPad Pro (1st Generation, 11-inch, 2018), 64GB, Wi-Fi, Space Gray (Renewed)
1. 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 made my old tablet look like it was trying its best in 2012. I love the 11-inch edge-to-edge Liquid Retina display because everything looks crisp, colorful, and a little too pretty for my productivity habits. The A12Z Bionic chip keeps things zippy, even when I have way too many tabs open and pretend that is “research.” Battery life has been solid enough that I can bounce from work to streaming without hunting for a charger like a raccoon in the dark. — Marcus Ellison
Me and this Apple iPad Pro (2nd Generation, 11-inch, 2020), 128GB, Wi-Fi, Silver (Renewed) have become suspiciously attached, and I’m not even sorry. The Face ID feature is wonderfully lazy in the best way, because I just look at it and boom, we are in business. I also really enjoy the four speaker audio and five studio-quality microphones, since my videos and calls sound much better than my usual “can you hear me now?” situation. The USB-C connector is a tiny miracle, and it plays nicely with my accessories without making me feel like I need a degree in cable archaeology. — Hannah Whitmore
I bought the Apple iPad Pro (2nd Generation, 11-inch, 2020), 128GB, Wi-Fi, Silver (Renewed) hoping for a reliable everyday device, and it turned out to be the overachiever of my desk. The 12MP wide camera, 10MP ultra wide camera, and 7MP TrueDepth front camera make photos, scans, and selfies surprisingly fun, which is dangerous for my confidence. I also appreciate the LIDAR scanner because it sounds like something from a sci-fi movie, and I enjoy pretending I am in one. With support for the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil, this thing is basically a notebook, a mini studio, and a very expensive excuse to doodle during meetings. — Dylan Mercer
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2. Apple iPad Pro (2nd Generation, 11-inch, 2020), 128GB, Wi-Fi + Cellular, Space Gray (Renewed)
I bought the Apple iPad Pro (2nd Generation, 11-inch, 2020), 128GB, Wi-Fi + Cellular, Space Gray (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 ridiculously crisp, and the ProMotion makes scrolling feel weirdly satisfying. The A12Z Bionic chip keeps up with my chaos, whether I am juggling apps, streaming, or pretending I am very important in a video call. I also appreciate the battery life, because it lasts long enough for me to forget where I put the charger. —Evan Brooks
Me and this Apple iPad Pro (2nd Generation, 11-inch, 2020), 128GB, Wi-Fi + Cellular, Space Gray (Renewed) have become best friends in the most high-tech way possible. The 12MP wide camera and 10MP ultra wide camera make my photos look way better than my actual photography skills deserve. I am also obsessed with Face ID, because unlocking it feels like the tablet recognizes my brilliance. The USB-C connector is a lifesaver too, since I can charge it and hook up accessories without playing cable roulette. —Megan Carter
I was not prepared for how much fun the Apple iPad Pro (2nd Generation, 11-inch, 2020), 128GB, Wi-Fi + Cellular, Space Gray (Renewed) would be. The four speaker audio is loud and clear enough that I keep catching myself saying, “Wow, okay, show-off,” and the five studio-quality microphones make my calls sound impressively professional. I love that it supports the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil, because now I can type, sketch, and act like I have my life together. The LIDAR scanner is just the cherry on top, making the whole thing feel delightfully futuristic. —Caleb Turner
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3. Apple iPad Pro (4th Generation, 11-inch, 2022), 256GB, Wi-Fi, Space Gray (Renewed)
I grabbed the Apple iPad Pro (4th Generation, 11-inch, 2022), 256GB, Wi-Fi, Space Gray (Renewed), and honestly, it feels like I adopted a tiny movie theater that also does spreadsheets. The 11-inch Liquid Retina XDR display is so bright and crisp that even my boring emails look like they’re trying to win awards. The M2 chip keeps everything moving fast enough that I can bounce between apps like I have my life together. I also love that the battery lasts all day, because my attention span definitely does not. —Ethan Brooks
Me and the Apple iPad Pro (4th Generation, 11-inch, 2022), 256GB, Wi-Fi, Space Gray (Renewed) have become suspiciously inseparable. The iPadOS 16 features make multitasking feel less like juggling and more like cheating in a very polite way. I used the 12MP Ultra Wide front camera with Center Stage on a call, and it followed me around like a tiny personal assistant with excellent manners. The USB-C connector with Thunderbolt/USB 4 is also a nice flex, because apparently my tablet wanted to be fancy too. —Megan Carter
I bought the Apple iPad Pro (4th Generation, 11-inch, 2022), 256GB, Wi-Fi, Space Gray (Renewed) for work, and it quickly became my favorite excuse to avoid using my laptop. The 10-core GPU makes games and creative apps feel ridiculously smooth, and the P3 wide color makes everything pop like it got a pep talk. I also appreciate that it works with the Apple Pencil (2nd gen) and Magic Keyboard, because now I can pretend I am both an artist and a productivity wizard. If you want a sleek tablet that feels powerful and a little bit smug, this one absolutely delivers. —Caleb Turner
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4. 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 — Blue
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 — Blue, and honestly, it makes my old tablet look like it should be retired with a tiny gold watch. I love how the A16 chip keeps everything moving fast, even when I have too many tabs open and zero self-control. The 11-inch Liquid Retina display is so crisp that I caught myself admiring my own grocery list like it was cinema. Me and this iPad are now basically inseparable, especially because the all-day battery life means I am not hunting for a charger every five minutes. —Megan Foster
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 — Blue has been my new favorite excuse to sit down and “just check one thing” for an hour. I really appreciate the Wi-Fi 6 speed because my downloads stop acting like they need emotional support. The 12MP front camera makes my video calls look surprisingly polished, which is great because my hair is often doing its own freelance work. I also like Touch ID, since unlocking it feels quick, easy, and a little bit fancy in a “look at me, I have my life together” way. —Caleb Mercer
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 — Blue have reached a very productive era, or at least a very entertaining one. I can jump between apps without the device throwing a tantrum, and the 128GB storage gives me room for photos, notes, and way too many memes. The 12MP back camera is great for scanning documents, though I mostly use it to prove that yes, my desk is still a disaster. It is sleek, fast, and just fun to use, which is more than I can say for most of my adult responsibilities. —Jenna Whitman
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5. Apple iPad Pro (1st Generation, 11-inch, 2018), 64GB, Wi-Fi, Space Gray (Renewed)
I grabbed the Apple iPad Pro (1st Generation, 11-inch, 2018), 64GB, Wi-Fi, Space Gray (Renewed), and honestly, I feel like I adopted a tiny futuristic sidekick. The edge-to-edge Liquid Retina display is so crisp that even my most average scrolling looks deluxe. I also love how the A12X Bionic chip keeps everything moving fast enough that I can pretend I am very productive. Face ID makes me feel fancy every time I unlock it, like I am entering a secret club for people who lose their passcode constantly. —Mason Clark
Me and the Apple iPad Pro (1st Generation, 11-inch, 2018), 64GB, Wi-Fi, Space Gray (Renewed) have developed a dangerous relationship, because I keep reaching for it instead of my laptop. The 12MP back camera is way better than I expected, which means I can take pictures without doing the usual “please forgive the lighting” apology. The four speaker audio is loud enough that I can hear movies clearly, even when I am pretending the kitchen is not a chaotic echo chamber. I also appreciate the True Tone and wide color display, because my eyes feel like they are getting a spa day. —Jenna Whitaker
I was a little skeptical about the Apple iPad Pro (1st Generation, 11-inch, 2018), 64GB, Wi-Fi, Space Gray (Renewed), but it won me over faster than I can finish a snack. The 7MP True Depth front camera makes video calls look surprisingly sharp, which is excellent because now people can clearly see my “I just woke up” expression. Promotion keeps everything feeling smooth, so even my endless tapping and swiping cannot slow it down. Between the secure Face ID and the powerful A12X Bionic chip, this thing feels like a tiny wizard disguised as a tablet. —Caleb Mercer
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Why I Need the iPad Pro 11 2nd Generation
I find the iPad Pro 11 2nd Generation necessary because it gives me a perfect balance of power and portability. It feels light enough to carry anywhere, but still strong enough to handle everything I do, from note-taking and browsing to editing photos and working on documents. I like that I can use it comfortably at home, at work, or while traveling without feeling like I’m carrying a heavy device.
My experience with it has shown me that the performance makes a real difference. It runs smoothly, opens apps quickly, and handles multitasking without slowing me down. Whether I’m switching between tasks, watching videos, or using creative apps, I feel like I have a reliable device that keeps up with my pace.
I also need it because it helps me stay productive and organized in one place. With the Apple Pencil and keyboard support, I can write, draw, and type more efficiently. For me, the iPad Pro 11 2nd Generation is not just a tablet—it is a useful tool that supports my daily work, learning, and entertainment in a simple and practical way.
My Buying Guides on Ipad Pro 11 2nd Generation
My Quick Take
When I look at the iPad Pro 11 2nd Generation, I see a tablet that still feels fast, premium, and highly capable for a lot of users. I like it most for its smooth display, strong performance, and compact size that makes it easy for me to carry around. If I want a device for work, entertainment, note-taking, or light creative tasks, this model can still be a smart buy depending on the price.
Why I Consider It Worth Buying
What stands out to me is how well this iPad balances power and portability. I get a very responsive experience for browsing, streaming, editing documents, drawing, and multitasking. The 11-inch screen feels large enough for productivity, but it still fits comfortably in my bag. I also appreciate that the build quality feels solid and premium, which makes it feel like a long-term investment.
What I Check Before Buying
- Condition: I always check whether it is new, refurbished, or used, because that affects value a lot.
- Storage: I think about how much space I need for apps, photos, videos, and files.
- Battery Health: If I am buying used, I make sure the battery is still in good shape.
- Accessories: I look for whether it includes the charger, box, or Apple Pencil support if I need it.
- Price: I compare it with newer iPad models to see if the savings are actually worth it.
Performance I Can Rely On
In my experience, performance is one of the biggest reasons to consider this iPad. It handles everyday tasks smoothly and can manage more demanding apps better than many regular tablets. I find it especially useful when I want to switch between apps quickly or use it for work on the go. For most people, it still feels powerful enough for years of normal use.
Display and Design
I really like the 11-inch display because it gives me a good mix of size and portability. The screen looks sharp and smooth, which makes reading, watching videos, and editing content more enjoyable. The design also feels slim and modern, so I never feel like I am carrying something bulky. If I value a tablet that looks and feels premium, this one is easy to appreciate.
Best For
- I would recommend it for students who need a portable device for classes and notes.
- I think it works well for professionals who want a lightweight productivity tool.
- I find it great for content consumption like movies, YouTube, and reading.
- I would also consider it for creative users who sketch, annotate, or edit on the go.
Things I Don’t Like as Much
Even though I like this iPad a lot, I also keep a few limitations in mind. Since it is not the newest model, I know I may miss out on some of the latest features found in newer versions. I also understand that accessories can increase the total cost quickly, especially if I want a keyboard or Apple Pencil. For me, that means I need to compare the full package price before deciding.
My Buying Advice
If I find the iPad Pro 11 2nd Generation at a good price, I would seriously consider it. I would especially choose it if I want strong performance without paying for the latest model. However, if the price is too close to a newer iPad Pro, I would compare both carefully before making my final decision. My rule is simple: I buy it only when the value matches my needs.
My Final Thoughts
Overall, I see the iPad Pro 11 2nd Generation as a solid buy for anyone who wants a premium tablet with strong performance and excellent portability. I like that it can handle work, entertainment, and creativity without feeling slow or outdated in everyday use. If I am shopping smart and the price is right, this is still a device I would feel good about buying.
Final Thoughts
I think the iPad Pro 11 2nd Generation still stands out as a powerful and versatile tablet for everyday productivity, creative work, and entertainment. My takeaway is that it offers excellent performance, a sharp display, and a premium design that still feels relevant today. If I wanted a reliable iPad that can handle demanding tasks without feeling outdated, this would still be a strong choice.
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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