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How useful is your Smart Keyboard?
- Thread starter kat.hayes
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I am curious as well. My current setup is a UAG case that has a great adjustable easel style back, and an Anker Bluetooth keyboard. This whole setup cost me 70 bucks, much less than the smart keyboard. I've thought about getting the smart keyboard but I don't know if it's really worth it's price.
Took some getting used to, but I'm a big fan. Wish there were function keys, but it hasn't turned out to be a huge deal. Plus the keyboard shortcuts work pretty well. Moreover, the case has a very strong magnetic connection to the iPad (more so than a normal Smart Cover in my opinion). With the the keyboard set up, I can carry around the ipad by just holding on to the keyboard base (like I would a laptop). Also, I like not having to worry about pairing with a Bluetooth keyboard.
I love it. It's sturdy, the keys feel nice, I don't have to worry about charging it, and I've had zero connection issues (can't say that for the bluetooth keyboards I've used before). Plus it's a cover and a stand. It's definitely pricey but I'm glad I bought it.
I considered getting the Logitech smart keyboard, I like that it's backlit and has function keys, but after watching video reviews of people struggling to get the iPad in and out of the case, that drove me to get the simpler Smart Keyboard. I like being able to easily transition from tablet to "laptop" mode.
I also prefer my Apple devices nekkid so I just use the Smart Keyboard and a sleeve case.
I considered getting the Logitech smart keyboard, I like that it's backlit and has function keys, but after watching video reviews of people struggling to get the iPad in and out of the case, that drove me to get the simpler Smart Keyboard. I like being able to easily transition from tablet to "laptop" mode.
I also prefer my Apple devices nekkid so I just use the Smart Keyboard and a sleeve case.
How about someone who's been using one for a few months? I love it! Same effect as typing on any keyboard. I can look at the screen to see what I am typing versus looking at the on screen keyboard to see that I think I hit the key I wanted but did not proof read the results. Much faster. Feels fine to me to. Not the same keystroke as a conventional keyboatd but still a definitive "click" to let you know you hit a key.
I could write a book with this thing if I was a writer. But for all the uses I have I think it is great.
There are cheaper options if you don't mind the additional weight or setup.
However, in terms of portability, the Apple Smart Keyboard serves several purposes - a protective cover, a stand and a keyboard of course - all while weighing a mere .74lb / 335gm. In contrast, I believe the UAG case weighs 1.06lb? Adding the Anker Keyboard @ .42lb and you end up with 1.48lb... exactly double the weight, in two separate parts, and the Anker Keyboard is a separate battery-charged device (albeit it rarely requires recharging).
You do get more protection with a UAG case though. But if you just want a grab and go combination with maximum portability and functionality, ASK + iPad Pro is hard to beat. See what you need.
You should always get AppleCare+ for an iPad Pro however. The out-of-warranty replacement is a ridiculous $599, 4 times what you'd pay if you'd bought AppleCare+ ($99+$49).
However, in terms of portability, the Apple Smart Keyboard serves several purposes - a protective cover, a stand and a keyboard of course - all while weighing a mere .74lb / 335gm. In contrast, I believe the UAG case weighs 1.06lb? Adding the Anker Keyboard @ .42lb and you end up with 1.48lb... exactly double the weight, in two separate parts, and the Anker Keyboard is a separate battery-charged device (albeit it rarely requires recharging).
You do get more protection with a UAG case though. But if you just want a grab and go combination with maximum portability and functionality, ASK + iPad Pro is hard to beat. See what you need.
You should always get AppleCare+ for an iPad Pro however. The out-of-warranty replacement is a ridiculous $599, 4 times what you'd pay if you'd bought AppleCare+ ($99+$49).
I had the Logitech Create. I think it's a better keyboard (Fn keys, backlit, better feel) but it was too heavy and it made the iPad Pro experience go from a huge iPad into a crippled "notebook".
The Smart Cover is actually a very very poor effort by Apple (awkward origami setup, no backlight, no Fn keys, terrible type feel) but I prefer it because of the convenience of a lightweight, easily removable keyboard cover.
In the end, the I learned a few things:
1) A keyboard without a mouse just feels wrong
2) Magnets are awesome.
3) Microsoft got it right. Not only would a kickstand design solve a dozen problems, The entire Surface hybrid design is the inevitable future of both the iPad and Macbook so Apple is wasting our time by resisting a properly designed iPad Pro notebook/tablet.
The Smart Cover is actually a very very poor effort by Apple (awkward origami setup, no backlight, no Fn keys, terrible type feel) but I prefer it because of the convenience of a lightweight, easily removable keyboard cover.
In the end, the I learned a few things:
1) A keyboard without a mouse just feels wrong
2) Magnets are awesome.
3) Microsoft got it right. Not only would a kickstand design solve a dozen problems, The entire Surface hybrid design is the inevitable future of both the iPad and Macbook so Apple is wasting our time by resisting a properly designed iPad Pro notebook/tablet.
yeah I don't know why Apple didn't just copy the Surface wholesale. Simple single flap keyboard, proper rectangular keys (I'm sure you get used to the smart keyboard but they felt horrible in store), and a stand built into the ipad. If they don't like the big flap that the surface uses, the HP x2 has a nice way of just using the edge of the tablet as a frame that comes out to form a stand.
I'd also want mouse support. Keyboard without a mouse or trackpad is only a half solution (personal opinion obviously)
so near, yet so far.
I'd also want mouse support. Keyboard without a mouse or trackpad is only a half solution (personal opinion obviously)
so near, yet so far.
I'm not sure about the bolded part above. I've never used a kickstand on my lap like I can with this apple keyboard, does the kickstand work the same?
I returned the Apple Smart Keyboard because I don't need a physical keyboard on a regular basis and when appropriate I have a Logitech K810, also the ASK is added bulk and weight. My choice of the IPP over a laptop was to minimize size and weight for mobile computing.
Greetings,
I had also thought about the Logitech keyboard but decided against it because it's hard to get iPad out and the weight/bulk. I hated the price of the Smart Keyboard and silicon case so I found an Open box keyboard for 145.00 at Best Buy and got a back cover for 10 bucks from Amazon (ESR). I now use my iPad Pro more than my MBA or MBP. It gives the iPad a lot more functionality. When I want to read or play a game I just take the Smart Keyboard off.
Cheers,
Bobbie
I had also thought about the Logitech keyboard but decided against it because it's hard to get iPad out and the weight/bulk. I hated the price of the Smart Keyboard and silicon case so I found an Open box keyboard for 145.00 at Best Buy and got a back cover for 10 bucks from Amazon (ESR). I now use my iPad Pro more than my MBA or MBP. It gives the iPad a lot more functionality. When I want to read or play a game I just take the Smart Keyboard off.
Cheers,
Bobbie
The Smart Keyboard is (supposedly) the same switches and travel as the new 12" Macbook keyboard, which I also love. For me, it's terrific as a portable keyboard. I use it regularly when I am not writing code on my favorite keyboard by a mile, the aptly-named CODE 104-Key Mechanical Keyboard - Cherry MX Clear. The Smart Keyboard is quick to type on, very portable, and the quick travel on the keys and the new switch mechanism make typing on it also very good. I wish it had function keys (play / pause, volume up, volume down, etc.) but I have learned to just use headphones with my iPad Pro and do those functions through the heaphones.
Definitely, and for several reasons.
1) Smart covers are magnetically attached to screen so sometimes they can detach when jostled. Kickstand is integrated to screen.
2) Smart Keyboard requires some origami work to get it set up which means more points of unraveling or detachment. With a kickstand out then the keyboard connects at a single point at the Smart Connector.
3) Kickstand has a wide range of angles so you can lock it in high for typing or lower it for games/viewing. Unfortunately, the Smart Keyboard has a single angle that is fine for desks but on my lap it really isn't that comfortable.
I'm not trying to sound like some sort of Surface Pro advocate because I sold mine pretty quick. But I was really impressed with how much versatility the kickstand created for the Surface experience so I do hope that Apple uses stuff like an integrated stand to differentiate the "Pro" models from the regular iPads.
I totally agree. I originally planned to get the Create, but the convenience of the magnet won me over.
God I hope not. That's what cases are for, because having one built in will add to the weight and the bulk of the device. When I need a kick stand there are cases for it. When I don't..
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I have the Create, it goes back tonight.. The bulk and the sunken in keyboard annoys me to no end.
I disagree - I've had a surface and it was really awkward to balance in on your knee with the kickstand and the keyboard moving all over the place. I much prefer the iPP and smart keyboard: it feels more sturdy and balances easily on my knee.
Before I got it, was concerned by the design, but in use I love it - It's not difficult to set up as a stand or a keyboard, it's light and the feel of the keyboard is fantastic
Is it just me or does the fact that the bottom of the keyboard is always on the surface you're setting the iPad on bother anyone else? I may be OCD but a lot of tables at cafes and libraries are pretty gross. I think that's the biggest thing that bothers me about the design
Is it completely flat - no angle to it at all?
I think he/she means that when using the keyboard on a public table, you are in contact with public dirt.
I agree with him/her. It is kinda gross, which is why I typically put in on my lap. Another option is to bring a disinfectant wipe to wipe the counter off first.
Yup it's flat. The whole side that'll rest on the screen gets covered with public grime when you fold up the keyboard. The only solution I found was to place a notebook/folder underneath the keyboard.
If you buy the ipp buy with the smartkeyboard otherwise its just a big ipad
The combinations keys took from osx make your life and use easier
They just need to bring the backlight keys and resolve the app switch issue that is not working flawless with cmd tab
The combinations keys took from osx make your life and use easier
They just need to bring the backlight keys and resolve the app switch issue that is not working flawless with cmd tab
Third month with the Smart Keyboard. Works great for what I do. Having said that I am writing this on the iPad screen keyboard on my lap. That works good too.
Would I use it for serious document writing. I have still to test that out, but for everything else the portability and lack of weight means it is a dream so for. And those serious docs tend to be done in my office where reference stuff is available. However I have used ipp to correct and edit stuff while sitting in my car.
I do have nagging doubts about the longevity of the Smart Keyboard but they are doubts without foundation, more to do with something this thin and flexible being up to several years serving as a a cover and a keyboard. Time will answer that one I guess.
Would I use it for serious document writing. I have still to test that out, but for everything else the portability and lack of weight means it is a dream so for. And those serious docs tend to be done in my office where reference stuff is available. However I have used ipp to correct and edit stuff while sitting in my car.
I do have nagging doubts about the longevity of the Smart Keyboard but they are doubts without foundation, more to do with something this thin and flexible being up to several years serving as a a cover and a keyboard. Time will answer that one I guess.