iPad Pro 11" 2018, 1st gen.

iPad Pro 11" 1st generation — what matters when choosing accessories

The 2018 iPad Pro 11" measures 247.6 × 178.5 × 5.9 mm and weighs 468 g. The 11-inch IPS display has ProMotion with refresh rates up to 120 Hz and True Tone. Instead of a Home button there is Face ID, with a USB-C port on the bottom edge and a Smart Connector for keyboards on the back. The long side has a magnetic connector that holds and charges the 2nd generation Apple Pencil. The tablet also supports Apple Pencil (USB-C). On the back there is a single 12 MP camera.

The iPad Pro 11" 2nd generation has the same dimensions but a larger camera bump with an extra lens and a LiDAR scanner. Cases labelled “2018/2020” have a cut-out sized for the larger camera, so they fit both tablets. Cases designed for the 2020 model alone may need the opening checked. Screen protection is often designed for the 1st, 2nd and 3rd generations together, because the front glass has the same dimensions.

Which iPad Pro 11 2018 case should you choose?

• Folio cases with a pencil slot — the cover puts the tablet to sleep and wakes it, and a cut-out at the edge leaves the pencil attached to the magnetic connector, so the Pencil charges inside the case.
• Origami cases — the cover folds into a landscape or portrait stand.
• Rugged cases — thicker frames and reinforced corners for fieldwork or for children.
• Keyboard cases — with a Bluetooth keyboard, they turn the tablet into a typing setup.
• Sleeves and bags — soft sleeves for the tablet with or without a case. You will find more models in the bags, backpacks and pouches category.

Cases for this model are offered by ESR, Spigen, Urban Armor Gear, Moshi, Speck, Puro and ZAGG, among others.

Tempered glass and films for the iPad Pro 11 1st generation

Tempered glass protects against scratches and a cracked screen, and its smooth surface does not change the feel when you swipe. Paper-like and matte films reduce reflections and add noticeable resistance when writing with a stylus — they are popular with people who draw in graphics apps. When applying the protector, make sure it does not cover the Face ID sensors in the bezel above the screen.

What to look for when choosing

• Check cases for 2018 or 2018/2020 labels — the 2018 model has a smaller camera, so both versions fit.
• If you use the 2nd generation Apple Pencil, choose a case that leaves the magnetic connector exposed.
• Smart Connector keyboards do not need charging — Bluetooth keyboard cases have to be charged separately.

You will find other models in the iPad Pro category, including the iPad Pro 11" 5th and 6th generation, which has a different, thinner body.

Frequently asked questions

Does an iPad Pro 11 2020 case fit the 2018 model?

Usually yes — the dimensions are identical, and the opening for the larger camera of the 2020 model does no harm on the 2018 model. The reverse does not always work.

Which Apple Pencil works with the iPad Pro 11 1st generation?

According to Apple, the 2nd generation Apple Pencil and Apple Pencil (USB-C).