The iPad is receive ever more knock-down , and a honorable supply - on keyboard can help you turn your iPad into a real rival for a conventional MacBook laptop
When the iPad was first launch , it was in the first place stand for as a machine for entertainment – for tasks such as web browse , rain cats and dogs video and play . In late years , though , Apple has progressively turned the iPad into a productiveness tool , both for routine office staff employment , and also for creative users who solve in domain such as graphic , video and design .
The self-aggrandizing drawback here , of class , is the iPad ’s deficiency of a strong-arm keyboard – but , of course , Apple never misses the chance to sell some expensive peripherals and accessories , and it has been quick to unloose a number of keyboard designed specifically for the iPad . Currently , Apple sells two kind of iPad keyboard : the Magic Keyboard and the Magic Keyboard Folio . The former is an all - in - one keyboard and cover that encases the iPad , and the latter is a two - part keyboard and stomach . Some of Apple ’s iPad keyboard are design for specific iPad simulation and some are useable in dissimilar sizes for use with several unlike iPad models .
Of of course , there are also plentifulness of alternative keyboards available from rivals such as Logitech , which are often gimcrack than Apple ’s own keyboard , and may provide extra feature article too . So here ’s our guide to the best keyboards that can help you to get some serious work done with your iPad .
This article cover keyboard that can be used with a variety ofiPad models , we ’ve admit link so you’re able to find the model that works with your iPad . You do n’t have to apply a keyboard designed specifically to turn with an iPad though – any Bluetooth keyboard will unite to and work with an iPad , and this can often be a trashy root . So if you are looking for a wireless keyboard stop out our round - up of thebest Mac keyboards .
Apple Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro
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Apple introduce a mark Modern keyboard alongside the M4 iPad Pro models in 2024 , while it seems to consider the existing Magic Keyboard good enough for the M2 iPad Air .
The Magic Keyboard for the iPad Pro M4 , comes in white or pitch-dark for both 11 - in and 13 - inch configurations . It is aluminum on the inside , which ( if you choose the smuggled model ) work it bet similar to a current MacBook Air when in enjoyment .
A strong magnet holds the iPad Pro tightly in seat and three contact lens connect to the keyboard . Like all Apple iPad keyboards the iPad does n’t link up via Bluetooth , but via the three contacts of the Smart Connector .
You do n’t have to pair the keyboard with the iPad and it does not command its own power supply , which allow it to be heavyset and unclouded . There is a USB - C port on the joint , but this is a pass - through port , only for commit . Thus , the USB - nose candy larboard at the base of the iPad Pro remain free .
When opened , the cantilever design smoothly adjusts to multiple viewing angles . The keyboard is sturdy . The key are pleasant to type with . Along the tip is a strip of 14 function keys ( including screen brightness , intensity controls and other features ) , the older mannequin lacked this , although the tenth genesis iPad keyboard ( below ) partake in this feature .
Apple has also better the trackpad for this model . It is now larger , made of glass and bring much more exactly and reliably than the trackpad on the received Magic Keyboard and the Magic Keyboard Folio . It delivers haptic feedback and works with Multi‑Touch gestures .
When folded up the pillowcase provide front and back tribute for your iPad . The outside of the 658g/1.45 pound case is rubberized , so it ’s quite grippy and ca n’t slip out of your hand easily . However , this control surface is regrettably also more sensitive to soil than the aluminum at heart , and the black cover seems to pull in dust . At least this can be pass over off .
nibble the correct model for your iPad :
Logitech Combo Touch
Previous models in the Combo Touch range of a function were all very similar , simply varying in size to accommodate dissimilar iPad modelling , and the unlike types of Smart Connector that Apple has introduced over the age . However , the Modern 2024 variant has had a spot of a redesign and is available for the recent 11 - inch and 13 - inch iPad Air and iPad Pro with M2 and M4 processors that were launch in May this class .
It still retains the detachable , two - piece design of late models , with a separate typesetter’s case and keyboard jury . you’re able to use the iPad in the caseful without the keyboard , just to allow for some superfluous protection when you ’re holding the iPad in your hand or carry it around , and there ’s a burn - out section on the case that leaves room to attach an Apple Pencil . The case also has an adjustable pedestal that will allow you to sit back and keep an eye on television while the iPad pose on a desk or table .
When you ’re ready to do some work you could merely use the Smart Connectors on the case to confiscate the keyboard panel and start typing . That ’s clientele as common for the Combo Touch keyboards , but these redesign models for 2024 are quite a mo calorie-free than their predecessors . The keyboards for the 11 - in and 13 - inch iPad Air consider 495 g and 686 g severally , and – as with Apple ’s new Magic Keyboard – the iPad Pro version is even scant , at 474 gravitational constant for the 11 - inch theoretical account and 660 GB for the 13 - column inch model .
The trackpad on these Modern keyboards is larger as well , which take it soft to habituate multi - finger gesture for tasks such as zooming in on photo , or thumb from one photo to another . The keyboard feel truehearted and responsive , and there have been some change to the Function keys as well . The key that antecedently activated the on - screen keyboard and Search have been replaced with keys for capturing screenshots and using Siri or command , and the key that used to shut up the iPad screen now switches to Do Not Disturb mode . So while it might not have the gilded material and build quality of the new Apple Magic Keyboard , the Combo Touch for 2024 allow a lightweight and versatile keyboard / case combo at a considerably lower price than its Apple competition .
ESR Rebound 360
For : 11 - inch iPad Pro M4 , 13 - in iPad Pro M4
Most keyboard design for the iPad spliff with a conventional landscape painting ( horizontal ) intent , but ESR ’s competitively priced Rebound 360 has a handy trick up its arm as it allows you to place the iPad in either landscape or portrait ( upright ) mode . The Rebound 360 is available in a motley of size , including manakin for the 2024 11 - in and 13 - inch iPad Pro and iPad Air , and ESR also provides U.S. and U.K. keyboard layouts as well . Just take care when ordering , though , as there ’s an older mannikin – but call the Rebound – which is limited to landscape mode only .
Like most iPad keyboards , the Rebound 360 has a hinged stand that allows you to adjust the viewing angle . However , the iPad itself is held in position by slotting it into a detachable magnetic case . This allows you to remove the iPad while it ’s in the face and rotate it between portrait and landscape painting fashion as require , perhaps using portrait mode for typing or scrolling through long documents or web Page .
you could also just remove the iPad while it ’s in the face and hold it in your hands when you require to use it as a tablet , and then sequester it to the keyboard again when you need to get back to body of work . The only disadvantage of this design is that the keyboard is heavier than some of its rivals , weighing in at a full one kilogram .
The keyboard is well build though , providing good protection for the iPad when you ’re traveling . There ’s a magnetic clasp to make certain that the screen is n’t disclose unintentionally , and the clasp can also be used to hold an Apple Pen or stylus in place as well .
The trackpad is a little small , perhaps , but the keyboard itself is idealistic for working on the move , with firm keys that find smooth and responsive when you ’re typecast . There ’s a row of Function keys that can be used to conform bulk and brightness level , Play / Pause for music and video recording , and activate the Lock screen . Like most keyboards , the Rebound 360 has a Function key that permit you aline the grade of the backlight , but there ’s also a key that let you change the color too .
If you get carried away with the colorful backlight then the battery will only last for about two weeks , but you may extend that to around three months of daytime use without the backlight , and we like the fact that the backlight turns itself off automatically after 90 second of inertia to aid economise office .
Logitech Folio Touch
The Folio Touch is the little brother of Logitech ’s Combo Touch . Both immix all - round tribute for the iPad and a full - fledged keyboard with trackpad – both have come after .
The mounting of the iPad in the Folio Touch case is easy and the rubber corners keep the iPad dependable at all time , the fit is good . Thanks to the connection via the Smart Connector on the back , the Folio Touch does not require its own battery or connection via Bluetooth .
There is a row of iOS specific key along the top quarrel offering a base button , volume control , a hunting key , and screen door lockup .
The keyboard is firmly link up to the case , but , if you do not need the keyboard , you’re able to fold it onto the back of the iPad . Otherwise , the construction with the fold - out base is identical to the Combo Touch . So , in summation to a position for the phonograph recording , it also offers a desk posture for drawing .
There is a loop to attach the Apple Pencil , which is a honest resolution because the Pencil may detach if you only rely on the attractor . This is the primary reward over the Combo Touch .
iPad Air 11 - column inch ( M2 ) and iPad Air ( gen 4 – 5 ): $ 159.99/£169.99 . Buy fromAmazon US / Amazon UK
Apple Magic Keyboard Folio
The Magic Keyboard Folio is only useable in a single sizing and is only compatible with a single iPad model – the 10th generation criterion iPad with the 10.9 in presentation . It ’s price at $ 249/£249 ( down from £ 279 at introduction ) .
That ’s a fairly steep price given that the iPad is , after all , the entranceway - stratum model in the reach , but when introduce the Magic Keyboard Folio boast an entirely young design that pose it apart from Apple ’s other iPad keyboards . Some of the raw features have since been adopted by the 2024 Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro ( the function key fruit run-in , for example ) .
The fundamental difference between the Magic Keyboard and the Magic Keyboard Folio is that the latter number in two parts , with a stand that attaches to the back of the iPad magnetically , and a separate keyboard panel that can be removed altogether when you simply want to practice the iPad in pad of paper mode . We adopt that Apple believe that user . of the standard iPad wo n’t always want to have their keyboard attach .
The keyboard control panel is wafer - thin , so it ’s well befit to canonical task such as type out email rather than write longer documents for school or for work . It does let in a trackpad , though , which means there ’s no need for a separate mouse or trackpad , which allow you to control most of the iPad ’s main lineament the right way from the keyboard rather than having to get hold of forward to keep tapping the blind all the time .
When you do n’t necessitate to type you may just detach the keyboard gore , leaving the back panel in place . This act as a stand for the screen , allowing you to lean back and correct the viewing slant for watching video or chatting with friends on FaceTime . you may also turn up the standpoint flat when you ’re holding the iPad in your hand , so that it acts as a protective blanket the back panel of the iPad . And , when you ’re travel , you may re - attach the keyboard panel so that it protect the screen as well .
Apple Magic Keyboard
Along with the Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro and the Magic Keyboard Folio , Apple makes one more keyboard for iPads called the Magic Keyboard . That ’s really quite a confusing name because there is also a Magic Keyboard that is design to be used with Macs ( although you’re able to utilise the Mac version of the Magic Keyboard with an iPad – you’re able to use any Bluetooth keyboard with an iPad ) .
Of naturally , what put the iPad interpretation of the Magic Keyboard aside from the Mac keyboard is the fact that it ’s made for the iPad and it folds up to protect the iPad . And the main difference of opinion between this Magic Keyboard ( and the Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro ) and the Magic Keyboard Folio is that the latter comes in two part so that the keyboard can be divide from the rack , while this model is one unit that folds up around the iPad when close provide wrap - around protection for both the iPad screen and the back panel .
Like the newer Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro , this Magic Keyboard feature an adjustable charismatic sales booth that holds the iPad firmly in plaza . The stand also tilts so that you could easily alter the angle of the CRT screen for up - close work or sitting back and watching TV .
The keyboard itself feels strong and well-heeled to use – as a full - time writer I ’d prefer a small more ‘ travel ’ on the keys , but it ’s fine for ecumenical day - to - twenty-four hours use for writing emails and web browsing . A trackpad is included which make water using the iPad much almost like a conventional laptop computer , and you ’ll rarely want to lift your hands by from the keyboard for utilise the iPad ’s touch - filmdom controls . There ’s also a USB - C pass - through connector on the keyboard , which allows you to charge the iPad via the keyboard and leaves the iPad ’s built - in USB - C port wine devoid for connecting other machine , such as a memory spliff for transplant file .
There are two dissimilar size available , start at $ 299/£299 for the modelling that fits the 11 - column inch iPad Air ( M2 ) as well as the 11 - in iPad Pro ( 1 - 4 gen ) , and iPad Air ( 4 - 5 gen ) . The larger model be $ 349/£349 and check the 13 - in iPad Air ( M2 ) as well as the 12.9 - inch iPad Pro ( 3 - 6 gen ) . While this role model fits the 2024 iPad Air models it is important to note that it was n’t designed for them – this is n’t a raw iPad keyboard , it ’s just lucky for Apple that the older model fit the new iPad Air . It ’s a shame because the Magic Keyboard Folio for the older tenth - multiplication iPad get down a sound keyboard than the 2024 iPad Air , thanks to its dustup of function keys .
Zagg Pro Keys for iPad (10th generation)
The Zagg Pro Keys offer a combination of a robust protective case and a removable keyboard . The simulation we reviewed was for the iPad 10th generation , but there models for the 2024 iPad Pro and iPad Air are bear .
The connection to the iPad is via Bluetooth and due to the correspondingly necessary assault and battery , the Pro Keys count between 450 and 650 Hans C. J. Gram , count on the model .
The protective covert has rubberized bound and offer fall protection from two meters . The protective case is unite to the keyboard via magnets , if you do not necessitate the keyboard you’re able to remove it and still use the cover to protect the iPad .
There is a compartment for the Apple Pencil .
The layout of the keyboard equate to uncouth thickset keyboard , but the buttons are sufficiently large so it ’s not to compress for well-off typewriting . In the top dustup are various function keys : including clit to switch between two devices , the home clit , a button to put the iPad into sleep mode , a button for an overview of all combat-ready apps , a globe to change over between emoji and a keyboard nomenclature , medium control and volume . When you end the keyboard , it automatically last to sleep .
A backlight makes typing possible in low Light Within . There are seven background colors to choose from and the brightness can be controlled in three level . The magnanimous drawback with this example is that it lacks a trackpad .
iPad ( tenth generation ): $ 99.99/£99.99 . corrupt fromAmazon US / Amazon UK
Keys-To-Go 2 for iPad
Logitech ’s Keys - To - Go 2 is a portable keyboard designed for iPad user who require a introductory keyboard , rather than a full - size keyboard that includes a trackpad , stand , and protective , wrap - around cover like the Logitech Folio and Combo Touch options above . usable in two versions , the standard version is suitable for Windows and Android devices , as well as iPad and Macs . It comes in unaccented grey , dark grayness or Lilac blue . There ’s also a version design specifically for iPad , which is still compatible with Windows and Macs , but has a more Apple - centric keyboard layout . That is the manikin we test . The price of both versions of the keyboard is the same .
The Keys - To - Go 2 For iPad is designed specifically for iPad , offering a more Malus pumila - centric layout with Apple ’s stock Command and Option keys . It also include a full row of Function key , allowing drug user to pair the keyboard with up to three devices via Bluetooth , control brightness and volume , and take screenshots . The keyboard also extend layouts for various languages , let in U.S. , U.K. , French , German , and Swiss .
The keyboard does not have a trackpad or numerical keypad , so business user may choose the large Combo Touch or Apple ’s Magic Keyboard .
Despite its thickset designing , the Keys - To - Go 2 is uncompromising and responsive , with a unwavering , antiphonal keyboard venire that does n’t flex like some cheaper keyboards . The individual key use a scissor mechanism for easy travel and are gravid enough not to feel cramped while typing . It does not play as a stand , so a stand or other way to support the iPad is required . Logitech offers customization choice through its Options+ app , but this app is only available for Mac or Windows PC .
The keyboard measures 9 millimetre thick , 250 mm spacious , and 105 millimetre deep , and weighs only 222 g. It can be easy slipped into a backpack or carrying case alongside the iPad , and the keyboard does not provide a protective natural covering for the iPad .
For more advice about accessories and software program for your Mac , iPad or iPhone see all ourBest pick .
