1. I'd go with the 256, I'm at 61 gigs and I don't feel like I have a ton of stuff on it. I've had the iPad Pro since the new ones came out this summer if that gives you any idea of how much junk I could have put on it (almost all of it is college stuff.)
   
   
2. I wouldn't wait. The new iPad Pro has been a game changer for me since the summer semester (philosophy undergrad). I still love real books, there's something to be said for holding an actual book in your hands and highlighting it and taking notes in the margins, but for taking in-class notes and notes on articles and PDFs I can't imagine going back to the way I used to do it. Even the notes I take on real books make their way to my iPad.
   
   
3. Since you already have a laptop I wouldn't recommend the keyboard at all. I have one that I carry with me (Logitech K811) and I rarely use it unless I'm at the library. It's just not as convenient in class with small desks and whatnot. The Apple pencil feels thin and slippery to me so I use this and put it in this. I also love fountain pens, so it's a nice little case for a few pens, my head phones, and charger.
   
   
4. I use a screen protector, it makes the Apple Pencil feel more like it's writing on paper - a little bit of feedback against it's normal smoothness. Plus I have a little peace of mind in case of accidents.
   
   
5. I use this case and I just throw it into my satchel/laptop bag/manbag and I feel totally comfortable that it's protected.
   
   With lots of paper readings/highlights may I recommend LiquidText. The annotations on that app are amazing. I use Notability for just about everything else.

I would recommend a bluetooth mechanical keyboard. This one linked below has RGB lighting and connects to the iPad via Bluetooth. I love mechanical keyboards for the tactile typing experience. This will be a better feeling keyboard than the Smart Keyboard Folio and cheaper too lmao.

https://www.amazon.com/MOTOSPEED-Wireless-Bluetooth-Mechanical-Smartphone/dp/B07HFR6D2C/ref=sr_1_19?crid=351R4WT7PGS6Q&keywords=bluetooth+mechanical+keyboard&qid=1562170961&s=gateway&sprefix=bluetooth+mechanc%2Caps%2C158&sr=8-19

I use my Smart Keyboard cover as my daily driver but got this stand up folio case to use on the plane. It’s pretty much exactly the same as the Apple Smart Folio cover but only cost $20. Highly recommend it.

Ztotop Case for iPad Pro 11 Inch 2018,Strong Magnetic Ultra Slim Minimalist Smart Case with Auto Sleep/Wake,Trifold Stand Cover for iPad Pro 11 Inch 2018,Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07JVBFXVB/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_9JgrDb66NXDFT

As far as accessories go, I definitely recommend the Apple Pencil. I personally didn't go with the smart keyboard - instead, I opted for a foldable bluetooth keyboard. Others swear by the Apple Keyboard, but I just couldn't afford it.

I've heard amazing things about the Zugu Muse Case, but I personally got the Ztotop Case.

I wound up going with the 11" iPad Pro because it felt better? I recommend going to an Apple Store/Best Buy/Costco/etc., and just handling both devices IRL. I thought I wanted the 12.9", but after holding it for a while, it felt too big.

My spouse uses the Zugu Muse case (https://www.zugucase.com/the-muse-case-for-2018-ipad-pro-12-9-in-3rd-gen/) for his. He’s also an artist. And, he uses a matte “paper type” screen protector - though we don’t use the “Paperlike” brand. We found a similar brand on Amazon with better reviews. You get two of them for $9.95. Might be a decent one to try with less investment than the Paperlike brand. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07GZKL8WH/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1 Also, usually Amazon has the Zugu case with free Prime shipping which might end up cheaper/faster arrival than direct from Zugu. He’s not had any issues with his screen protector pulling up. In fact, I’d also say that the edges are almost held down, if anything. Full protection, magnetic pencil charging, pencil travel pouch built into the case, 8 or so angles w/strong magnetic foot, auto off/on, easy to open cover w/ the tab, perfect cutouts. No affiliation w/the company. Just really enjoyed it ourselves.

I am currently using this case and while its not perfect it is sufficient for me. It doesn’t have we multiple viewing angles, which may be a dealbreaker for you, but it’s $20 so it could be worth trying to see if you can get by. There are a lot of good things about it - the keyboard pairs automatically when the iPad magnetizes into viewing position, and the battery life is pretty good.

Yes sir/ma'am. I use the JE Tech Tempered Glass Screen Protector on my 2018 iPad Pro 12.9". It works great and it's super cheap too!

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Here's a link: https://smile.amazon.com/JETech-Protector-12-9-Inch-Generation-Compatible/dp/B07GZTBPNT/ref=sr_1_fkmrnull_4?keywords=jetech+ipad+pro+12.9%22+screen+protector&qid=1558303737&s=gateway&sr=8-4-fkmrnull

https://www.amazon.com/PIPETTO-Origami-Pencil-Shockproof-Storage/dp/B07MMZ6JM4/ref=sr_1_5?keywords=Origami+ipad+pro&qid=1564405787&s=gateway&sr=8-5

This case is the best case for any tablet in the world. And I agree with you, what the heck is the point of the keyboard? then it's just a laptop, I want a tablet. This stand folds in ways that makes it more comfortable to use as a TABLET.

I have a Zugu Muse case, and it’s absolutely amazing. Built-in housing for magnetic pencil attachment, with a sleeve in back to carry it when you’re traveling and don’t want to risk losing it. Full protection, and eight possible stand positions. The button covers don’t have the annoyingly spongy resistance that other cases I’ve had have given me. Magnets in all the right spots, so things stay attached where they’re supposed to. Overall, it looks and feels premium.

It doesn’t have Smart Keyboard compatibility, but I’ve found that a decent portable Bluetooth keyboard takes care of that need, and although it’s not all-in-one, I like having the option to not have a keyboard in the way, as well as the ability to position it further from the iPad.

The Muse Case - 2018 iPad Pro 11 inch (New Model) - Very Protective But Thin + Convenient Magnetic Stand + Sleep/Wake Cover - ZUGU CASE https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07H7VK7K8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_Hff0DbYVABAP2

I must have a dozen packs but I got this bag and really like it -

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07FVKGPBL/

It's roomy and I like being able to disconnect the straps and stow them - makes putting this under an airplane seat easy.

I’d get the TomToc sleeve thing https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01KHJOXOM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_M6CNDbG263SHH) from amazon

I had it and loved it, however I’d also check if the Apple Leather Sleeve is still on sale at Target, got mine brand new for $30 and LOVE IT! But for $130 it might not be worth it for you

I went with this sleeve: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07GSLHXXQ/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 fits everything perfectly and has a nice soft inside to keep it safe.

I picked up the Tomtoc 11-inch Tablet Sleeve because I needed something so I could pack the iPad Pro 11 in a bag for work. It has a pocket for the pencil and a cable. Have a bigger version from Tomtoc for my Surface Pro, the quality is really nice for the price.

Edit: I have the Apple Smart Folio (not the keyboard cover) on the iPad and it fits perfectly

Not OP, but I’d recommend this protector for pencil usage — great for handwriting

Amazon link

tomtoc 10.5-11 Inch Tablet Shoulder Bag for 11" New iPad Pro 2018 | 10.5" New iPad Air 2019 / iPad Pro | 9.7” iPad | 10" Microsoft Surface Go | Samsung Galaxy Tablet, Fit Apple Pencil & Smart Keyboard https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07CC423ZL/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_dAqXCbYNGEVTR


Have this and it fits the iPad Pro 11 with ASK and pencil 2 magnetically attached. It’s fantastic.

I think it would work. I picked up this one M-Audio M-Track 2X2 C-Series | 2-in/2-out USB Audio Interface (24-bit/192kHz) and it’s working great. The only issue that haven’t figured out yet is how to charge the iPad while I’m recording. The good news is that I used it all day today recording and working in GarageBand and my battery lasted fine.

Anyone else with input?

Folding Bluetooth Keyboard, Jelly Comb .I love it portable and fold able :)

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https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07B9RVF9L/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Cheap and good solution for now, get some egg crate bed foam from walmart for 20 bucks that you can cut up, it will diffuse the sound from the corners. You'll hear a huge difference. :)

Edit: OR thick moving blankets https://www.amazon.com/12-Moving-Blankets-Professional-Furniture/dp/B07MDX9S44

Folio case: Ztotop Case for iPad Pro 11 Inch 2018,Strong Magnetic Ultra Slim Minimalist Smart Case with Auto Sleep/Wake,Trifold Stand Cover for iPad Pro 11 Inch 2018,Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07JVBFXVB/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_u06YDbHKFYVQ1

Screen protector: AINOPE 2 Pack for iPad Pro 11 Screen Protector, Install Frame FACE ID Recognition iPad Pro 11 Tempered Glass Anti-Fingerprint Scratch Resistance iPad Pro Screen Protector 11 inch 2018 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07V3F4G8C/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_306YDbQMSG08Y

Keyboard case: Arteck iPad Pro 11 inch Keyboard, Ultra-Thin Bluetooth Keyboard with Folio Full Protection Case for Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (2018) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07RYM8DM2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_s16YDb3NQ59GH

Everything is awesome without breaking the bank!

Screen protector: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07JQ3YZT7/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Zugu Case: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07Q4FRXJT/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

And a bumper case https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07GD7FSWZ/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1 so it can be easily placed in a car mount during road trips.

*** Don't forget to sign up - you get a free year subscription to Apple TV+ with your new purchase https://www.apple.com/promo/pdf/EN_US_ATV+_Promo_TandCs.pdf

https://www.amazon.com/Inateck-Compatible-Backlight-Detachable-KB02005/dp/B07MZT4N4H

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I got the Inateck and its surprisingly durable and gives good typing action. Mostly I like it because when I use it at night, the keyboard breathes and rotates between several hundred different color schemes. Looks pretty sick.

I’m using an Apple Smart Keyboard, and I store my iPad Pro in a TomToc sleeve. It fits the iPad, keyboard, and pencil without having to take anything apart, and the protection is top notch.

Link to both for the curious:

https://www.amazon.ca/CHINFAI-Ultra-Slim-Magnetically-Detachable-Bluetooth/dp/B07QSPQ7QR/

https://www.amazon.ca/Inateck-Compatible-Backlight-Detachable-KB02005/dp/B07MZT4N4H/

I wanted to go with the matte protector at first, i was used to it with my previous iPad but it was the Mini 3 and the AP didn’t exist for it back then.
Now i have the iPad Pro 12.9” (2018) with the AP2, but i was more scared that it would wear down and damage the tip with my everyday drawing use, especially as i’m more used to drawing heavier than most people. I looked up reviews that said their AP tip appeared more worn down when using a matte protector, and it also really affected the quality of the screen, colours didn’t appear true etc. And seeing as the second gen AP didn’t come with a spare, i wasn’t willing to possibly pay for new tips every few months of everyday use, i’m used to having my Wacom tablet with plenty of spare nibs to hand.

I bought this screen protector, it’s tempered glass so it hasn’t got the paper-like feel you’re looking for, but if you’re also worried about tip wear, it might be worth giving the tempered glass protector a try :)

Are you looking for a matte screen protector specifically? Currently using this tempered glass screen protector, and haven't had any issues.

https://www.amazon.com/Arteck-Keyboard-Ultra-Thin-Bluetooth-Protection/dp/B07RYM8DM2/ref=sr_1_11?keywords=ipad+pro+11+keyboard+case+arteck&qid=1566206632&s=gateway&sr=8-11

What about this on amazon?

https://www.amazon.com/Tablet-Stand-Adjustable-Lamicall-Reader/dp/B01DBV1OKY/ref=sr_1_3?crid=2TEBMNG5BKZ19&keywords=ipad+pro+12.9+stand+2018&qid=1555162937&s=gateway&sprefix=ipad+pro+12.9+stand%2Caps%2C158&sr=8-3

or

https://www.amazon.com/KABCON-Adjustable-Aluminum-Transformer-Bag-Space/dp/B07DD7G77L/ref=sr_1_4?crid=2TEBMNG5BKZ19&keywords=ipad+pro+12.9+stand+2018&qid=1555162937&s=gateway&sprefix=ipad+pro+12.9+stand%2Caps%2C158&sr=8-4

zugu case slim sturdy and different viewing angles

JETech Screen Protector for iPad Pro 12.9-Inch (3rd Generation 2018 Model, Edge to Edge Liquid Retina Display), Face ID Compatible, Tempered Glass Film https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B07GZTBPNT/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_RY00CbB2Z60QA