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Apple Smart Keyboard worth it?

  • Yes

    Votes: 96 77.4%
  • No

    Votes: 28 22.6%

  • Total voters
    124
For me, not worth it. I have stopped using mine with my 10.5" iPP - I prefer the sturdier Zugu case and use a Bluetooth keyboard when needed. The ASK was a regrettable buy for me because it is so pricey.
 
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For me, not worth it. I have stopped using mine with my 10.5" iPP - I prefer the sturdier Zugu case and use a Bluetooth keyboard when needed. The ASK was a regrettable buy for me because it is so pricey.

Yep I do the same. Although the case is different.
 
For me, not worth it. I have stopped using mine with my 10.5" iPP - I prefer the sturdier Zugu case and use a Bluetooth keyboard when needed. The ASK was a regrettable buy for me because it is so pricey.
any link of zugu case
 
I had mine replaced (out of warranty) because of the well-documented problems with it losing its connection. My replacement basically does the same thing. I wouldn't buy a new one.
 
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I had mine replaced (out of warranty) because of the well-documented problems with it losing its connection. My replacement basically does the same thing. I wouldn't buy a new one.
I'm curious if it happens to you Loses the connection) only when you log into a wifi system that requires you to click 'ok' or similar on a splash page (Starbucks, library, McDonald's, etc)? It seems like that is the only time that my ASK looses its connection, but it's consistent & happens almost every time I try to use it in those environments.
 
I'm curious if it happens to you Loses the connection) only when you log into a wifi system that requires you to click 'ok' or similar on a splash page (Starbucks, library, McDonald's, etc)? It seems like that is the only time that my ASK looses its connection, but it's consistent & happens almost every time I try to use it in those environments.

No, mine would lose its connection randomly (and increasingly often). My new one does the same thing, a little less frequently, but I'm sure it'll ramp up just like the other one did. I end up having to unfold it and snap it back into position, or sometimes take it completely off and put it back on again. Doesn't seem to be tied to any sort of wifi event (I don't generally use public wifi like that, as I just connect through my tethered phone plan when I'm not at home or work).
 
For the overall life of the iPad, I say yes it’s worth it. I am using the iPad Pro 12.9” since its introduction along with Apple’s Smart Keyboard without any real issues. I find that the case fits well, adds protection, and the keyboard works just fine. I really appreciate the fit, and that there is no stupid battery maintenance and extra charging cable related to the keyboard. I tried the first Logitech case introduced for the iPad Pro and that went back as soon as the Smart Keyboard was available because the original Logitech case was a tank. There was a recall for the keyboard part of the case, which Apple addressed quickly and easily.

I do agree with the negatives regarding screen tilt, and that the keyboard only works on solid surfaces, but I find that when I am typing I am normally at a table anyways... I use a notepad or extra pencil lying around to slip between the screen can screen prop to adjust the tilt if needed. The weight is not an issue as I would have a protective case on anything that I carry.

When the next version of the iPad Pro is released with hopefully a swipe screen (no home button) and Face ID, I will outfit it with a Smart Keyboard again...
 
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For the record, i use my ASK every day since the 10.5 was released (so what... 8 months now?).

I've had it lose connection maybe... 3-4 times. If that.

So whilst i agree it is a little bit annoying, its hardly a chronic issue - at least in my case. I'm still using mine, still don't regret it.
 
For the record, i use my ASK every day since the 10.5 was released (so what... 8 months now?).

I've had it lose connection maybe... 3-4 times. If that.

So whilst i agree it is a little bit annoying, its hardly a chronic issue - at least in my case. I'm still using mine, still don't regret it.
About the same for me. Once or twice a month. Almost always fixed in a second by disconnecting and reconnecting.
 
I have the similar issue where my iPad Pro 12.9 disconnects from the ASK. I have tried disconnecting the ASK and reconnecting it and even been to my local Apple Store 3 times, they have replaced the keyboard twice and the iPad once so far, but the issue is still there. It comes and goes, it's not always consistently not working.
 
I think it really depends on what you're going to use it for. I think that a lot of people look as ASK and think "That's what I need to fully make this a laptop replacement!" and it just simply isn't. For me, I have a business and my partner is overseas, so our main method of communication is through text - for me, this makes the ASK worth it alone. Its not for everyone, but I think if you can afford to spend the money on it and you feel you'll get enough use out of it, its a good product.

For the record, I havent experienced much of the lost connection issue...once or twice.
 
I had this debate with myself last summer when the 10.5 came out. I even bought the ASK and then returned it because I didn't want the added bulk. I've been turning to my Logitech K380 when I can anticipate that I'll be doing more than just a little typing. Honestly though, I'm still going back and forth in my mind. There have been quite a few times where I've been out and about and I end up needing to respond to an email or something. The K380 doesn't do me any good in those situations since I didn't have it with me. Still, that price... At least I can get a $10 discount through work.
 
Just my 2 cents,
I just bought an iPad Pro 10.5 to replace my iPad Pro 9.7. With the 9.7 I had the ASK and it was OK, not the best keyboard but it was nice. Worked well with the ipAd and I had the silicone base for the back of the iPad. Originally I was going to get the ASK for the 10.5, but I also wanted something to protect the iPad itself. thought about some of the alternatives out there, but the cost would have been an additional $220 or so for the rear case at $60, and $160 for the ASK. I then decided on the Logitech Slim Combo. Yes, it's bulkier, but I absolutely love the keyboard. It's got the feel of a real keyboard, backlit keys, connects just as easy as the ASK, and the back case isn't much different as far as weight goes. The keyboard, rear case and a place to put my Apple Pencil, for just $129. I thought, hey give it a try. If I don't like it I can return it. Well I got it home and put my new iPad in it and so far just love it. Yes, I miss the thinness of the previous set up, but at the same time, the functionality of this setup is so much nicer.
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I went with the ASK for the IPP 10.5 and a Khomo back case which is a perfect color match. Using both now for about three weeks and typing on it now. The IPP has replaced my MBP 15” as my travel companion. While the ASK is not perfect, it works very well as a keyboard and in combination with the Khomo back case provides good protection while not being bulky at all.

I like particularly the fact that you can easily remove the ASK and use the IPP just as a tablet when appropriate.

I did not want to create another “laptop” experience and hence did not choose the “slim combo”.

Bottomline, I can highly recommend the ASK.
 
I wish the bottom of the ask was somehow more stiff. It bends when I type on it when it’s on my lap or any surface that isn’t table like.
 
Just my 2 cents,
I just bought an iPad Pro 10.5 to replace my iPad Pro 9.7. With the 9.7 I had the ASK and it was OK, not the best keyboard but it was nice. Worked well with the ipAd and I had the silicone base for the back of the iPad. Originally I was going to get the ASK for the 10.5, but I also wanted something to protect the iPad itself. thought about some of the alternatives out there, but the cost would have been an additional $220 or so for the rear case at $60, and $160 for the ASK. I then decided on the Logitech Slim Combo. Yes, it's bulkier, but I absolutely love the keyboard. It's got the feel of a real keyboard, backlit keys, connects just as easy as the ASK, and the back case isn't much different as far as weight goes. The keyboard, rear case and a place to put my Apple Pencil, for just $129. I thought, hey give it a try. If I don't like it I can return it. Well I got it home and put my new iPad in it and so far just love it. Yes, I miss the thinness of the previous set up, but at the same time, the functionality of this setup is so much nicer.
View attachment 759613
I love ask but I wish I had snagged the raspberry slim combo to try out when best buy hear it for 75.
 
Logitech Slim Combo on 2017 IPP 12.9 LTE. Excellent portability for the daily workload I have. ASK looks to be fairly similar, but was more expensive and I prefer the keystroke on the Logitech over the ASK.
 
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Logitech Slim Combo on 2017 IPP 12.9 LTE. Excellent portability for the daily workload I have. ASK looks to be fairly similar, but was more expensive and I prefer the keystroke on the Logitech over the ASK.

Same preference here, and I have to say I really appreciate the adjustable kickstand on the Logitech as well - just adds that little bit of extra comfort when using the device.
 
I went with the ASK for the IPP 10.5 and a Khomo back case which is a perfect color match. Using both now for about three weeks and typing on it now. The IPP has replaced my MBP 15” as my travel companion. While the ASK is not perfect, it works very well as a keyboard and in combination with the Khomo back case provides good protection while not being bulky at all.

I like particularly the fact that you can easily remove the ASK and use the IPP just as a tablet when appropriate.

I did not want to create another “laptop” experience and hence did not choose the “slim combo”.

Bottomline, I can highly recommend the ASK.

I have the same setup and I love it!
 
I picked up a like new second hand ASK, for my 1st gen 12.9” iPP. I didn't want to splash on a brand new one, since I was convinced I wouldn't really use it much... Boy, was I wrong.

It's completely changed how I use this iPad. Still love the Pencil, but wow - I now get why some people are able to essentially replace their laptop with this.

YMMV, and to be clear, any other good Bluetooth keyboard will have the same result, no doubt - but the way the ASK fits the iPad, and takes up so little space, is really, really nice.

Typing on it is decent enough, but yes - it is pricey. But I think it's worth it, and knowing what I know now - if this one needs replacing, will not hesitate getting another ASK.

My only regret? Waiting so long before I bought one!
 
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