When Apple introduced a redesigned iPad Pro, I started wondering if it could fit into my workflow. It had been years since I last used an iPad, and while the hardware looked impressive, the price made me hesitate. I kept asking myself—is the iPad Pro worth it?

What finally convinced me wasn’t just the specs—it was the evolving software. With each update, Apple kept pushing the iPad Pro closer to a true productivity tool. Eventually, the right mix of features and a solid deal made the decision easy.

So is the iPad Pro worth it?

The iPad Pro is worth it. The new iPadOS is a workhorse and does not disappoint. Saving and sharing files in the cloud has become a seamless breeze. And as a creative professional, having the ability to quickly take notes and sketch out ideas to share with my team has been a game-changer.

But this is just the tip of the iceberg. I'll break down my favorite features in more detail below, but first, let me give you some rationale behind the specs I chose.


The iPad Pro specs I chose (and why)

I went back and forth for a while, but I ended up opting for the 11" iPad Pro with a 64 GB hard drive in Space Gray. There were three main reasons I went with this model:

  1. I already have a 15" MacBook Pro that I use as my daily driver, so the size of the 12.9" iPad Pro seemed a bit redundant.
  2. I wanted to take advantage of the iPad's portability, so going with the smallest form factor made the most sense to me.
  3. With the majority of my work living in the cloud, I didn't feel it was necessary to waste money on a large hard drive. Plus, iPadOS now supports external hard drives via USB-C, so I can always plug up an SSD and get more space.

In addition to the iPad, I also picked up the Apple Pencil (2nd Generation) and the Apple Smart Keyboard Folio.

Apple Pencil

If I'm being honest, I was pretty excited about the 2nd gen pencil. In fact, it was one of the main reasons I decided to get the iPad. The ability to take notes, draw out ideas, and share them instantly with people seemed like magic. And yes, I know we've had Wacom tablets and other styluses for years—but having this in the Apple ecosystem made a big difference.

Apple Smart Keyboard Folio

I consider the keyboard essential. I’m typing this article on it right now. I may upgrade to the Logitech MX Keys for multi-device switching, but for now, the Folio case gets the job done.

My daily workflow with the iPad Pro

The iPad has become an indispensable part of my daily routine. If you're looking for the best iPad apps for productivity, creativity, and communication—this is the setup that works for me.

Apple Notes app for handwritten tasks and notes on iPad Pro

Apple Notes

My most-used app. Paired with the Apple Pencil, it makes handwritten task capture fast and fluid. Plus, Notes are searchable—which is wildly useful.

Apple Sidecar second display feature on iPad Pro

Apple Sidecar

This lets me use the iPad as a second display when I’m traveling. It’s not a full replacement for a monitor, but it’s a solid mobile solution.

Best digital art with Procreate on iPad Pro

Procreate for iPad

If you're wondering what iPad is best for Procreate, the iPad Pro is hard to beat. Like the Apple Pencil, Procreate was a major factor in my buying decision. For creating the best digital art, it gives you power and portability in one. Procreate makes it fast and intuitive to sketch, experiment, and share ideas. For my money, it's the best drawing app for iPad—hands down.

Notion app interface on iPad Pro for notes and task management

Notion for iPad

I do all my writing, planning, and task management in Notion. On the iPad, it just feels right—fluid, focused, and distraction-free.

Spark email and calendar app optimized for iPad Pro

Spark for iPad

Email and calendar, in one clean interface. Works great across devices, but shines on iPadOS thanks to gesture support and split view.

iPad Pro vs laptop: Can it replace your main machine?

For certain types of work—writing, sketching, email—the iPad Pro shines. But for dev work, design tools, and video editing, a laptop still wins. Until we see native versions of pro tools, the iPad is best as a powerful complement—not a full replacement.

An integrated workflow that works

The iPad Pro is now a core part of my weekly workflow. It’s not my everything device, but it has absolutely earned its place in my setup—for writing, brainstorming, and staying mobile.