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roccobladr

macrumors 6502
Original poster
Jul 25, 2011
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I know this has been discussed already, but I wanted to see what people are using long term for their 10.5” iPad Pro (or the 10.2” iPad that is the same size).

I bought the 10.5” pro when it was released along with the Apple Smart Keyboard. It was my main computer for a while and the keyboard mostly worked great, just some random key sticking issues. After a year and a half or so (pretty much right after warranty expired) the keyboard stopped working completely. It’s now an expensive folio stand.

Has anyone found a decent keyboard case alternative, ideally with a track pad, that is less expensive? Are the Amazon versions around $50 worth a shot?
 
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I went with the Magic Keyboard. I'm loving the tactile feedback and backlighting.

Things they could improve are the viewing angles and the ability to fold the case back so that the screen is available with the case is closed. I use my iPad while on the treadmill and the case foldback (foldover?) feature let's me put the iPad on the device tray( L shape , device rests on the lower lip of the "L" ).

I'll get another case for that use case.
 
Any other thoughts on something that is “lap friendly”?
The Logitech combo doesn’t seem like it would work well on a lap.

The Apple Smart Keyboard worked fine in those regards, but again I was already burned once and don’t want to blow another $150+ on something that I’ve already had a bad experience with.
 
I bought the Smart Keyboard with my 10.5 IPP initially too. I then wanted a case that protected the body of the iPad, and didn’t like the cheap silicone option I bought from Amazon. So I ended up getting the Logitech Combo Touch as I liked the kickstand built into the case, and the keyboard is removable. This is great for media consumption and I don‘t want the keyboard taking up space. The downside is it is not comfortable on the lap and is more for table use, but if I’m on the couch or recliner I usually remove the keyboard and use it hand held. My Smart Keyboard is in practically new state that I haven’t gotten around to get rid of yet. I’ll be upgrading to a new IPP hopefully soon if they announce any new models, and will give this one to my wife. I’ll probably see which case she wants to keep and look into getting rid of the other.
 
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So I’ve done a bunch of research for my needs...
I wanted something that wasn’t too expensive..
And not the Apple Smart Keyboard because that burned me already by dying after a year..
The Logitech k480 was a consideration but reviews say it’s extremely bulky...
Brydge keyboard reviews suggested it could damage the screen..
Logitech’s touch combo was too bulky and too pricey..

that left me with this setup:

an old anker Bluetooth keyboard that I lay on top of my broken Smart Keyboard.
 

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Old thread I know, but I finally found a solution…an ebay version of the iPad Smart Keyboard! I’m not sure if it is a knockoff, if it then it is really good because it connects perfectly and the typing experience and quality feel the same! Only 40$ too!
I hope this helps someone out there.
 
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