Keyboard for 2021 iPad Pro - Help!

[ArmouredBear]

I just ordered a brand new iPad Pro, it's only the 128MB model but with M1 processor etc. for $200 I couldn't resist.
Price was a loyalty deal from my phone supplier here in Switzerland.

I haven't had an iPad for years, my computing is on a Mac mini, MBA, iPhone 13 Pro, also have Apple TV so iPad functionality will be a nice complement. Although I'm only buying it because of the deal, if I was paying full price I'd rather have a MBA.

Anyway, I'd like to get a keyboard to use when travelling for Emails and such and find it hard to choose.
There seem to be 3 main contenders.

1. Apple Magic Keyboard
+ Good Feel
+ Small footprint
- Very expensive
- No protection for iPad
2. Logitech Combo
+ Decent Value
+ Better protection
- Large footprint making it unsuitable for planes/trains
3. Zagg Pro Keys
+ Cheap
+ Flexible
+ Small Footprint
- Has to be charged separately?

I'd rather go with the Logitech or Zagg despite but am concerned about suitability for use on planes/trains.

Any others I should consider or advice from those with experience?

 

[sparksd]

I have both the Apple and Logitech for my M1 12.9 and far prefer the AMK. I like the way it is slightly raises the tablet above the keyboard and the touchpad is more consistent. I do wish it had the fabric covering of the Logi.

Edit: If you get the Logi, make sure you get the new version with the change to speaker openings in the cover. The new one has holes, the old one a slot. The old on - which I have - will get loose and bulge at that point over time.

 

[ArmouredBear]

I have both the Apple and Logitech for my M1 12.9 and far prefer the AMK. I like the way it is slightly raises the tablet above the keyboard and the touchpad is more consistent. I do wish it had the fabric covering of the Logi.

Edit: If you get the Logi, make sure you get the new version with the change to speaker openings in the cover. The new one has holes, the old one a slot. The old on - which I have - will get loose and bulge at that point over time.

Thanks, hard to stomach paying much more for the keyboard than the iPad though!

 

[sparksd]

Thanks, hard to stomach paying much more for the keyboard than the iPad though!

Can't disagree with that. I bought the Apple thinking I'd end up returning it but liked it so much I kept it. No regrets. But like all Apple accessories, it is overpriced.

 

[ArmouredBear]

I just watched this great comparison video and for me, the only thing that stops the Logitech being a no-brainer is the footprint.
I also read about the Brydge MAX+ which despite the lack of Smart Connector, looks awesome for the Laptop experience, apart from the Trackpad

 

[sparksd]

I just watched this great comparison video and for me, the only thing that stops the Logitech being a no-brainer is the footprint.
I also read about the Brydge MAX+ which despite the lack of Smart Connector, looks awesome for the Laptop experience, apart from the Trackpad

Note that Brydge is in foreclosure.

https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/202...-apple-accessory-king-quietly-calls-it-quits/

 

[Isamilis]

I just ordered a brand new iPad Pro, it's only the 128MB model but with M1 processor etc. for $200 I couldn't resist.
Price was a loyalty deal from my phone supplier here in Switzerland.

I haven't had an iPad for years, my computing is on a Mac mini, MBA, iPhone 13 Pro, also have Apple TV so iPad functionality will be a nice complement. Although I'm only buying it because of the deal, if I was paying full price I'd rather have a MBA.

Anyway, I'd like to get a keyboard to use when travelling for Emails and such and find it hard to choose.
There seem to be 3 main contenders.

1. Apple Magic Keyboard
+ Good Feel
+ Small footprint
- Very expensive
- No protection for iPad
2. Logitech Combo
+ Decent Value
+ Better protection
- Large footprint making it unsuitable for planes/trains
3. Zagg Pro Keys
+ Cheap
+ Flexible
+ Small Footprint
- Has to be charged separately?

I'd rather go with the Logitech or Zagg despite but am concerned about suitability for use on planes/trains.

Any others I should consider or advice from those with experience?

My recommendation: Apple Magic Keyboard. It’s expensive, but probably you can buy used one. It’s expensive due to its simplicity, comfortable, stylish, durability and lightness/small footprint (compared to other keyboard).

However in my use case now, I am more comfortable using MBA (similar weight with iPad + MK) for typing and use iPad for reading tablet only. Hence, I rarely use MK now.

 

[ArmouredBear]

Note that Brydge is in foreclosure.

https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/202...-apple-accessory-king-quietly-calls-it-quits/

Thanks, the trackpad was a dealbreaker anyway.

 

[prospervic]

My recommendation: Apple Magic Keyboard. It’s expensive, but probably you can buy used one. It’s expensive due to its simplicity, comfortable, stylish, durability and lightness/small footprint (compared to other keyboard).

Just bought an "open-box" 12.9 Magic Keyboard from eBay for $179. That's just over half-price for a new one, and the condition was 99% flawless. At that price the MKB is totally worth it.

 

[ArmouredBear]

Just bought an "open-box" 12.9 Magic Keyboard from eBay for $179. That's just over half-price for a new one, and the condition was 99% flawless. At that price the MKB is totally worth it.

I've been looking second hand too and so far they look like **** and/or are stupidly priced.

 

[prospervic]

I've been looking second hand too and so far they look like **** and/or are stupidly priced.

This is the one I bought on eBay. The seller has more in stock. https://www.ebay.com/itm/115739460052

 

[ArmouredBear]

This is the one I bought on eBay. The seller has more in stock. https://www.ebay.com/itm/115739460052

Thanks, they don't ship to Switzerland where I live unfortunately.

I just ordered the Logitech Combo Touch, see how I go.
Watch this space to see me come back crying

 

[prospervic]

Thanks, they don't ship to Switzerland where I live unfortunately.

I just ordered the Logitech Combo Touch, see how I go.
Watch this space to see me come back crying

Good luck!

 

[bondr006]

Thanks, they don't ship to Switzerland where I live unfortunately.

I just ordered the Logitech Combo Touch, see how I go.
Watch this space to see me come back crying

My first hand personal experience is, I tried both the Magic Keyboard (MKB) and the Logitech Combo Touch (LCT) when I first got my M1 iPad Pro 11 back in Nov 2021. I returned the MKB and have been using the LCT ever since with no regrets and no intensions of ever getting a MKB.

I have had my LCT for going on two years now and still love it. It is standing up well to a lot of use. Has fully protected my iPad Pro from three drops now without a mark or malfunction on the LCT. The thing is built tough and fully protects my iPad.

Like the MKB, the LCT has the smart connector so you do not have to worry about charging it, or having to depend on a Bluetooth connection. It easily detaches from the keyboard while still giving my iPad protection and a fully adjustable kickstand.

The typing experience is A#1, and the bigger multitouch trackpad has all the gestures we Apple folk are used too. It is smooth, and clicks anywhere on the trackpad. I have not experienced any hiccups with the trackpad or keyboard.

Things I would miss if I had to give up the LCT.

1. Protection on all the edges.
2. Being able to remove the backlit keyboard and still have iPad protected in a case with an adjustable kickstand.
3. The larger, multi touch click anywhere track pad. It's frigging amazing.
4. The material the MKB is made of splits, rips, smudges and marks up easily. The LCT material is tough and does not.
5. And last but not least, the really convenient full row of iPadOS shortcut keys, which the MKB does not have.

I would not hesitate recommending the LCT to anyone looking for a great keyboard case for their iPad Pro. I have not had anything but a good experience with it, and many other Logitech products for over two decades.

 

[ArmouredBear]

My first hand personal experience is, I tried both the Magic Keyboard (MKB) and the Logitech Combo Touch (LCT) when I first got my M1 iPad Pro 11 back in Nov 2021. I returned the MKB and have been using the LCT ever since with no regrets and no intensions of ever getting a MKB.

I have had my Logitech Combo Touch for going on two years now and still love it. It is standing up well to a lot of use. Has fully protected my iPad Pro from three drops now without a mark or malfunction on the LCT. It may weigh a little more than the MKB, but that is no issue for me, as it is built tough and fully protects my iPad.

Like the MKB, the LCT has the smart connector so you do not have to worry about charging it, or having to depend on a Bluetooth connection. It easily detaches from the keyboard while still giving my iPad protection and a fully adjustable kickstand.

The typing experience is A#1, and the bigger multitouch trackpad has all the gestures we Apple folk are used too. It is smooth, and clicks anywhere on the trackpad. I have not experienced any hiccups with the trackpad or keyboard.

Things I would miss if I had to give up the LCT.

1. Protection on all the edges.
2. Being able to remove the backlit keyboard and still have iPad protected in a case with an adjustable kickstand.
3. The larger, multi touch click anywhere track pad. It's frigging amazing.
4. The material the MKB is made of splits, rips, smudges and marks up easily. The LCT material is tough and does not.
5. And last but not least, the really convenient full row of iPadOS shortcut keys, which the MKB does not have.

I would not hesitate recommending the LCT to anyone looking for a great keyboard case for their iPad Pro. I have not had anything but a good experience with it, and many other Logitech products for over two decades.

View attachment 2244327

Thanks a lot, gives me a lot of confidence.
The only real doubt I have is the increased footprint with the kickstand when travelling.
Hopefully won't be an issue in practise.

 

[Shanghaichica]

The Apple magic keyboard. I have one for my 11 inch iPad Air. I've also used the Logitech keyboard with my old 10.5 inch pro. I did like the Logitech keyboard and of course it's price is appealing. The only thing I would say it has over the magic keyboard is the function key row. Otherwise the Magic keyboard is better. The keyboard is better, the trackpad is better, it's not as heavy, it's more lapable and it looks better.

 

[bondr006]

Thanks a lot, gives me a lot of confidence.
The only real doubt I have is the increased footprint with the kickstand when travelling.
Hopefully won't be an issue in practise.

That may be a consideration if you travel a lot. I have never had it on a plane so I have no advice there. I have used it on my lap with no problem though. I am a realtor/property manager so I have it out a lot, but also like it as a desktop setup. iPad OS17 has given Stage Manager some upgraded functionality. One thing I wish they would add to SM is the ability to control sound output. Otherwise, with a keyboard, trackpad, and external monitor, my iPad Pro makes for a nice desktop setup for the work I do.

 

[Macalicious2011]

I have a LCT for my 11 inch M1 iPad. I like it so much that I purchased one for my GF’s 10.5.

The key deciding factors were:
-All around protection. Don’t need to worry about the ipad getting scuffed or damaged.
-It’s super flexible and can even be used as a laptop whilst slouching on the couch or in bed.

 

[prospervic]

My first hand personal experience is, I tried both the Magic Keyboard (MKB) and the Logitech Combo Touch (LCT) when I first got my M1 iPad Pro 11 back in Nov 2021. I returned the MKB and have been using the LCT ever since with no regrets and no intensions of ever getting a MKB.

I have had my LCT for going on two years now and still love it. It is standing up well to a lot of use. Has fully protected my iPad Pro from three drops now without a mark or malfunction on the LCT. It may weigh a little more than the MKB, but that is no issue for me, as it is built tough and fully protects my iPad.

Like the MKB, the LCT has the smart connector so you do not have to worry about charging it, or having to depend on a Bluetooth connection. It easily detaches from the keyboard while still giving my iPad protection and a fully adjustable kickstand.

The typing experience is A#1, and the bigger multitouch trackpad has all the gestures we Apple folk are used too. It is smooth, and clicks anywhere on the trackpad. I have not experienced any hiccups with the trackpad or keyboard.

Things I would miss if I had to give up the LCT.

1. Protection on all the edges.
2. Being able to remove the backlit keyboard and still have iPad protected in a case with an adjustable kickstand.
3. The larger, multi touch click anywhere track pad. It's frigging amazing.
4. The material the MKB is made of splits, rips, smudges and marks up easily. The LCT material is tough and does not.
5. And last but not least, the really convenient full row of iPadOS shortcut keys, which the MKB does not have.

I would not hesitate recommending the LCT to anyone looking for a great keyboard case for their iPad Pro. I have not had anything but a good experience with it, and many other Logitech products for over two decades.

View attachment 2244327

Really glad it works for you. In my case I found the Logitech to be so heavy that it burst the bubble of the iPad as a slim/light device. Also, it never felt stable or comfortable on my lap (pretty good on hard surfaces, however).

But that's precisely why we have different options for different needs and tastes!

 

[Macalicious2011]

But that's precisely why we have different options for different needs and tastes!

Furthermore iPad keyboards have decent resale value. If you buy one but change and change you mind you could easily recoup a lot of your money - especially if it’s a premium keyboard.

 

[sparksd]

Thanks a lot, gives me a lot of confidence.
The only real doubt I have is the increased footprint with the kickstand when travelling.
Hopefully won't be an issue in practise.

That was an issue for me on the desk area I was using for my M1 12.9. The Logi is 4.5" deeper than the MKB with the kickstand in my normal usage setup. In addition, the screen is 2" farther back in the Logi - the overall footprint was too much for me.

 

[bondr006]

Really glad it works for you. In my case I found the Logitech to be so heavy that it burst the bubble of the iPad as a slim/light device. Also, it never felt stable or comfortable on my lap (pretty good on hard surfaces, however).

But that's precisely why we have different options for different needs and tastes!

You must have the 12.9' iPad Pro. I have the M1 iPad Pro 11 and have no problems with using it on my lap.

And BTW, the Magic Keyboard weighs considerably more than the Logitech Combo Touch, so it "burst the bubble of the iPad as a slim/light device" even more so.

MKB

11" (1.81 lbs) + iPad Pro 11 (1.03 lbs) = 2.84 lbs

12.9" (2.42 lbs) + iPad Pro 12.9 (1.5 lbs) = 3.92 lbs

LCT

11" (1.27 lbs) + iPad Pro 11 (1.03 lbs) = 2.3 lbs

12.9" (1.72 lbs) + iPad Pro 12.9 (1.5 lbs) = 3.22 lbs

 

[doolar]

I tried both of Apples offerings and found that the Keyboard Folio suits me the best. I don't need the trackpad, and I do not spend hours on end typing on my iPad. The Folio is lighter too.

 

[sparksd]

You must have the 12.9' iPad Pro. I have the M1 iPad Pro 11 and have no problems with using it on my lap.

And BTW, the Magic Keyboard weighs considerably more than the Logitech Combo Touch, so it "burst the bubble of the iPad as a slim/light device" even more so.

MKB

11" (1.81 lbs) + iPad Pro 11 (1.03 lbs) = 2.84 lbs

12.9" (2.42 lbs) + iPad Pro 12.9 (1.5 lbs) = 3.92 lbs

LCT

11" (1.27 lbs) + iPad Pro 11 (1.03 lbs) = 2.3 lbs

12.9" (1.72 lbs) + iPad Pro 12.9 (1.5 lbs) = 3.22 lbs

Where'd you get the weight number for the 12.9 MKB? Everything I've seen says 710 grams (1.57 lbs). I have the two keyboards here in front of me and subjectively they feel very much the same weight.

 

[bondr006]

Where'd you get the weight number for the 12.9 MKB? Everything I've seen says 710 grams (1.57 lbs). I have the two keyboards here in front of me and subjectively they feel very much the same weight.

At Amazon. Got the LCT specs from Amazon also.

MKB 12.9

MKB 11