Become a MacRumors Supporter for $50/year with no ads, ability to filter front page stories, and private forums.

C. Robert

macrumors 65816
Original poster
Oct 1, 2013
1,379
979
Baltimore
Is anyone else getting arm or hand fatigue when using the combination iPad Pro and magic keyboard. I have notice that when I use my computer at work I’m fine but when I use the IPad there is some a little bit of finger, hand, and wrist pain. Could just be me but I’m interested to see.
 
Which size do you use?
I use 11 inch iPad Pro and Magic Keyboard on top of the Magic Keyboard box. So it’s elevated a bit. More comfortable in my experience.
 
  • Like
Reactions: C. Robert
It could simply be a short period of adjustment that your body needs to go through but of course only you can judge that.

If for example you are used to working with one specific setup with one computer, then the iPad might bring a different keyboard or trackpad position into your workflow. Definitely keep observing it closely.
 
  • Like
Reactions: C. Robert
Part of the reason why I got rid of my 11” iPP was hand/arm fatigue in trying to hold it one handed without any cases etc.

When I replace it (Either same size or larger iPP), I‘ll just use it at the table or on a desk with the Magic Keyboard.
 
  • Like
Reactions: C. Robert
The only reason i could think is that with the magic keyboard I keep my hands at a certain position to use the keyboard/track pad and touch screen. So my hand is bent in a awkward position.
 
I also have this problem. Iv been getting alot of wrist pain when using the magic keyboard
 
Exchange it for an 11-inch iPad Pro and see if that makes a difference.

As you can see from post 4 that’s not necessarily a successful approach. We are all a bit different with regards to tools. I don’t see how a slightly smaller iPad with Magic Keyboard would make a positive impact.
 
I’m not seeing my earlier response. So, I apologize if this is a repeat. I use an external, Apple trackpad while using the MK folio on my laptop style lap “desk”. I no longer have wrist pain by not having to crank my wrist to the small built-in trackpad. On a real desk or table I have less issues. I also seem to be able to navigate faster with the external trackpad.
 
  • Like
Reactions: C. Robert
I use a MK with an 11pro...no fatigue of any kind, but I’m not writing novels or using it as a all day work device.

I don’t think there should be anything inherent in the MK that causes this fatigue. I like the idea of another poster above who uses the MK case to just raise the keyboard a bit.

I think its because the keyboard side is so thin, that could cause the wrist to bend instead of laying flat.

How about using a gel pad or something to position the wrists more comfortably?
 
  • Like
Reactions: C. Robert
Could it be from working all day and all night on a keyboard? I know its a wonderful setup and hard to put down 😂.
 
Trackpad is small on the 11". Anyone have problem with fingers hitting the bottom of iPad when using top row of keys?
 
Trackpad is small on the 11". Anyone have problem with fingers hitting the bottom of iPad when using top row of keys?


Both the 11” and 12.9” trackpads are very similar in size. And yes they are small compared to the Apple laptops, but they are very useful and wonderful to use in my experience. The first few days I had my MK I was hitting the bottom of the iPP screen but I soon adjusted and after a few days, it is not an issue anymore.
 
  • Like
Reactions: Robbosan
Both the 11” and 12.9” trackpads are very similar in size. And yes they are small compared to the Apple laptops, but they are very useful and wonderful to use in my experience. The first few days I had my MK I was hitting the bottom of the iPP screen but I soon adjusted and after a few days, it is not an issue anymore.

I don't have a laptop but use the Apple trackpad on my iMac. Do you have the 11" pro?
 
I don't have a laptop but use the Apple trackpad on my iMac. Do you have the 11" pro?

I do have the 11” iPP. I also have a 2018 Mac Mini with the Track Pad. I have had several Apple laptops most recent a 2020 MBA and a 2015 MBP. Apple Track Pads are above anything else and a fluid experience. This MK track pad although smaller rates just as good its just smaller.
 
I do have the 11” iPP. I also have a 2018 Mac Mini with the Track Pad. I have had several Apple laptops most recent a 2020 MBA and a 2015 MBP. Apple Track Pads are above anything else and a fluid experience. This MK track pad although smaller rates just as good its just smaller.

Yes i really do like it, just struggling with the $499AUD price tag here, i have a return booked for Monday but will use it all weekend and see how i go.
 
  • Like
Reactions: IngerMan
I’m not seeing my earlier response. So, I apologize if this is a repeat. I use an external, Apple trackpad while using the MK folio on my laptop style lap “desk”. I no longer have wrist pain by not having to crank my wrist to the small built-in trackpad. On a real desk or table I have less issues. I also seem to be able to navigate faster with the external trackpad.
You might be correct that it’s the tiny track pad.
 
Could it be from working all day and all night on a keyboard? I know its a wonderful setup and hard to put down 😂.
Idk, I haven’t changed anything in my workflow except using the magic keyboard. It starts with the fingers then goes quickly to the hand. I have to admit that the position of my hands on this setup is way different that any other device.
 
  • Like
Reactions: jazz1
I like your two device idea. The MK has been killing my wrist. I have to assume it is the small track pad and what I consider an awkward angle going from the keyboard to the trackpad. To be fair maybe I have a pre-existing wrist issue from years of using a mouse and trackpad.

I actually started using an external Apple trackpad with the MK. Kind of weird I know. Messed around with a Logitech MX Master 3 mouse on the iPad. Even easier on my wrist, but too big for laptop desk use on the couch.

When the ARM laptops come out I’ll be supplementing my iPad Pro with a new laptop which I assume will have a bigger trackpad. Maybe even replacing it with a smaller iPad for pure table use.
 
  • Like
Reactions: C. Robert
I like your two device idea. The MK has been killing my wrist. I have to assume it is the small track pad and what I consider an awkward angle going from the keyboard to the trackpad. To be fair maybe I have a pre-existing wrist issue from years of using a mouse and trackpad.

I actually started using an external Apple trackpad with the MK. Kind of weird I know. Messed around with a Logitech MX Master 3 mouse on the iPad. Even easier on my wrist, but too big for laptop desk use on the couch.

When the ARM laptops come out I’ll be supplementing my iPad Pro with a new laptop which I assume will have a bigger trackpad. Maybe even replacing it with a smaller iPad for pure table use.
I’m doing exactly the same as you’re doing now and when the new macs come out. I don’t think I’ll get the first model as it will probably be the lower end. I also like using my Mac and my iPad as a second screen. That works great. I move my hand and wrist too much between the trackpad keys and touchscreen. I picked up the 2018 iPad Pro real cheap so it’s okay.
 
  • Like
Reactions: jazz1
Register on MacRumors! This sidebar will go away, and you'll see fewer ads.