Why I Still Cherish My First-Gen iPad Pro After Nearly 10 Years

In today’s fast-paced world, everyone seems to replace their gadgets every few years. However, my first-gen iPad Pro, which I bought way back in 2015, is still an important part of my life. You might wonder why I haven’t ditched it for a newer model. Surprisingly, even with the latest iPad Pro with its 2TB storage sitting around, I often find myself reaching for my trusty old tablet.

Why I Haven’t Retired My Old iPad Pro

I own two iPads: the original 12.9-inch iPad Pro with just 32GB and my current powerhouse with 2TB. Logic suggests I should have donated the older model ages ago. But here’s the twist—I use it several times a week. It’s made its mark, and I can’t imagine my tech lineup without it.

When Apple introduced the first iPad Pro, they wanted to show that tablets could be serious productivity devices. Fast forward nearly ten years, and this tablet is still proving that point, despite having a few bumps and far less storage than today’s models.

My Go-To Second Monitor Setup

One of the main reasons I still love this tablet is its role as my second monitor for my Intel MacBook Pro. Using the Sidecar feature, I can easily turn my iPad into an extended desktop. I prefer to connect it with a cable since it gives me a more stable connection and even allows for charging.

The 12.9-inch display is just right for keeping documents open, checking Slack, or attending virtual meetings. I could opt for a portable monitor, but at a little over a pound, my iPad fits effortlessly in my bag next to my laptop. Plus, the setup is seamless—no drivers needed!

Why It Beats Cheaper Alternatives

Once, I borrowed a so-called ‘great’ portable monitor from a friend, which he bought online for about ₹15,000. It had impressive reviews, but I was quite disappointed. Despite being at maximum brightness, it looked dull next to my iPad. Even reading was a chore due to blurriness. And guess what? Its battery died within five months.

In comparison, my 2015 iPad still works perfectly on its original battery. Apple sure knew how to make devices back then!

The Perfect Kitchen Companion

In the kitchen, I grab my old iPad without hesitation. It’s the right size to prop up for recipes, and I don’t have to worry about splashing sauce on my shiny new iPad. This gadget can last through lengthy cooking sessions without needing a recharge, and its size makes it easy to read from across the counter.

Trying to do that with a small phone screen while your hands are covered in flour? Good luck!

A Guilt-Free Device for the Kids

My two young children have taken an interest in my old iPad. They think it’s a game to guess the passcode. They once managed to lock me out for over five hours! While it sounds frustrating, it actually gives me peace of mind.

I don’t mind them using the older iPad as I am not worried about every little scratch. This device can be their gateway to understanding technology responsibly without the fear of damaging something expensive.

It Still Gets the Job Done

You’d be surprised at how well this aging tablet runs. All my essential apps, like Netflix, YouTube, and Safari, work perfectly. Is it lightning-fast? No. But for reading articles, streaming videos, and handling basic tasks, it’s just fine.

Most tablet users mostly use their devices for simple tasks like email and browsing. And guess what? My old iPad handles all of that without a hitch!

The Trade-offs of Keeping Old Tech

Of course, let’s be honest—the device is not without its flaws. Switching between my two iPads reveals a significant speed difference. Things like app loading take their sweet time, scrolling can be choppy when heavy content is involved, and multitasking requires more patience than it did before.

Charging is another issue. I often plug it in overnight because daytime charging options are not very effective. On top of that, the old Lightning port is a bit of a hassle now, especially since all my other devices have switched to USB-C.

Storage management is my biggest headache. With just 32GB, I need to keep my apps to a minimum.

Why Selling Doesn’t Make Sense

Looking online, I see similar models selling for around ₹7,500 to ₹12,000 if they are in perfect shape. My device has a few scratches, but everything still works great. For the amount I would get from selling it, I find more value in keeping it as a backup, a second monitor, and a kitchen assistant.

There’s something satisfying in getting the maximum value out of a device. This iPad Pro has served me well over the years, and it still has life left in it.

This 2015 iPad Pro has shown me that well-built gadgets can outlast any marketing campaign urging you to upgrade. While it isn’t the fastest, it doesn’t need to be. What truly matters is its ability to get the job done reliably.

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Original Text – https://www.makeuseof.com/why-i-kept-my-first-gen-ipad-pro/