Will your old case fit your new iPad Pro?
Best answer: It depends on the model you buy. If you purchase the new 11-inch iPad Pro (2021), your case from the previous 11-inch iPad Pro will fit. If you desire a new 12.9-inch iPad Pro (2021), last year's case may not be a precise fit due to the 0.5mm thickness increase of the new 12.9-inch iPad Pro. You will need to buy a new case if you want it to fit perfectly.
Do I need a different case?
The new 3rd-generation 11-inch iPad Pro has the same dimensions as the previous 2020 model; therefore, if you have last year's model and are upgrading, you will not need to purchase a new case. You can save that money for other accessories such as an Apple Pencil.
However, it's not as simple with the 5th-generation 12.9-inch iPad Pro. Apple made the 12.9-inch 0.5mm thicker, so while your old case from 2020 may work, it will not be a precise fit. You will have to decide if that is something you are willing to deal with or if it's worth the extra cash to buy a new case that will fit your new 12.9-inch iPad Pro perfectly.
Apple is best for day one
As with most of Apple's newest hardware, more third-party companies will develop cases and other accessories for the new models in the weeks to come. However, if you're looking to make sure you have a case for your new iPad Pro on day one, getting one from Apple will be your best bet.
Keyboard cases from Apple
Just in case you're curious, If you're dying to use Apple's newest keyboard cases with your older iPad Pro, the new keyboard cases for the 2021 iPad Pro models will fit the 2020 models as well. This means if you have a 12.9-inch iPad Pro from 2020 and want to purchase a Magic Keyboard, the new case for the 2021 model is backwards compatible with both the 2018 and 2020 models. As far as the 11-inch model is concerned, Apple's keyboard cases are cross-compatible for the 2018, 2020, and 2021 models.
Get it on day one!
The Smart Keyboard Folio wraps your new iPad Pro in a thin and soft case that not only protects your device from scratches but can also be used as a stand. It has a full keyboard, and if you don't mind a larger than necessary camera cutout, you can even use it with the 2018 iPad Pro models.
Backlit and with scissor switches!
The brand new Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro is perfect for getting that laptop feel when working on your iPad. The full keyboard is backlit, charges via USB-C, and has a trackpad so you can use your iPad Pro just like your Mac laptop.
