Logitech Combo Touch (M4) vs Magic Keyboard Case (M4) - 11 inch M4 iPad Pro

[DSTOFEL]

Wanted to share my thoughts on these two keyboard cases for the 11 inch m4 iPad Pro.

For context: I purchased both to test. The MKC $289 and the Logitech Combo Touch $199

I’m still evaluating…but I’m leaning towards keeping the Apple Magic Keyboard Case

I really like the Logitech case. It’s sleek…much less bulky than previous Combo Touch cases. I love that the keyboard detaches and it easily converts to tablet mode use. The keyboard is excellent. I almost always have my feet up on something when using the ipad (e.g., a coffee table, etc…) so the larger footprint of the Logitech with kickstand is not really an issue for me. There are a lot of pros for the Logitech.

The cons I see with the Logitech are:

• Trackpad:
  • The precision is not on par with the MKC
  • The scrolling speed/fluidity is hard to dial in compared to the MKC
  • The trackpad has a bad case of the “rattles”. It’s not fixed like the MKC and even in “tap mode” it rattles every time you touch it. This makes it feel cheap.
• The bottom plate: Not crazy about the fingerprint prone aluminum bottom plate. If they’d just used the same material as the top cover would have been better in my opinion.

I really like the Apple Magic Keyboard Case too. It has an overall premium feel. It’s nice and compact with a small footprint so very easy to use on the lap or in tight spaces (e..g, airplane seat back tray, etc..). The trackpad is just excellent in every respect. The keyboard typing experience is good. I do prefer the feel of the Logitech for typing. I think it’s something to do with the key travel. The “extra” fast charging port is great to have….let’s you conveniently charge the iPad from either side.

The cons I see with the MKC are:

• The exposed aluminum hinge: Not sure why Apple did not wrap this with the same material as the top/bottom cover. With the exposed aluminum, you have to be careful sitting the ipad down on furniture.
• Can’t detach keyboard: Makes it almost a necessity to also purchase some sort of a folio case for when you want to use the iPad in tablet mode. I picked up a Pitaka case…an extra $49.

Both cases are fingerprint magnets…so didn’t mention that as a con above.

Due primarily to the Logitech’s inferior trackpad precision and “rattles”, I’m probably going to stick with the much more expensive Apple/Pitaka combo.

Curious to hear observations of others who’ve tried both cases.

 

[sparksd]

I've had both and am currently using the MKB with the 13" iPP. With the MKB, I like the additional charge port, freeing up the iPad's port for use with external storage. I like the smaller footprint of the MKB. I like that the screen is raised somewhat and brought closer to me. I also like that it has a lighter back casing; I do use a Pitaka case with it for detached protection and to get away from the slippery feel of the bare iPad. The MKB is overpriced like all Apple accessories but the pluses were enough to draw me away from the Logitech.

 

[DSTOFEL]

I've had both and am currently using the MKB with the 13" iPP. With the MKB, I like the additional charge port, freeing up the iPad's port for use with external storage. I like the smaller footprint of the MKB. I like that the screen is raised somewhat and brought closer to me. I also like that it has a lighter back casing; I do use a Pitaka case with it for detached protection and to get away from the slippery feel of the bare iPad. The MKB is overpriced like all Apple accessories but the pluses were enough to draw me away from the Logitech.

💯

 

[DSTOFEL]

Finally, decision made! I found an “open box’ (Excellent) at my local Best Buy of the Apple M4 Magic Keyboard case for $192. It’s perfect….in identical condition to the new one I bought for $289. So, gonna return the new one and keep the open box. I’m keeping the Pitaka folio for Tablet “only” use ($49). I was really having a hard time swallowing the $289 price for the MKC. $192 is still a lot…but I’m good with it!

 

[kitt9000]

To Add, I previously tried the logitech keyboard for my 13 inch M4 iPP, and with the foot print super large, for the 13" iPP, the logitech was a no go when needing on-the-lap use. For 11", I believe its not too bad for someone that likes the surface type design.

 

[DSTOFEL]

To Add, I previously tried the logitech keyboard for my 13 inch M4 iPP, and with the foot print super large, for the 13" iPP, the logitech was a no go when needing on-the-lap use. For 11", I believe its not too bad for someone that likes the surface type design.

Honestly, I was about to go with the Logitech Combo Touch as Amazon has the 11 inch Midnight Black version for $169. With the Logitech, I didn’t need the 2nd Pitaka case. Comparing that to the combined price of the Apple MKC $289 plus the Pitaka $49…roughly $340 in cases alone….the Logitech was 1/2 the price. Getting the extra $100 off the MKC sealed the deal. Sending the Logitech back.

 

[elmoss]

White is $100AUD off here but not black.

 

[DSTOFEL]

White is $100AUD off here but not black.

Interesting! I see the White one discounted more steeply here too….typically! The Space Black iPad must be the more popular color. I’ve always gone with silver iPads…but this time chose SB. I’m coming from the silver M1 iPad with the white Magic Keyboard cover and found the letters on the keyboard did not show up well at night with backlighting with the white KB.

 

[elmoss]

Interesting! I see the White one discounted more steeply here too….typically! The Space Black iPad must be the more popular color. I’ve always gone with silver iPads…but this time chose SB. I’m coming from the silver M1 iPad with the white Magic Keyboard cover and found the letters on the keyboard did not show up well at night with backlighting with the white KB.

That wouldn't worry me.
Does the white get dirty easily?

 

[DSTOFEL]

I didn’t find the white got dirty easily! I found it stayed looking new/fresh compared to the black m1 MKC…which I used for 2 yrs and sold. The black case shows every mark and is a fingerprint magnet…much like the M4 black case I have now! I would have gone silver/white again for M4…except for the backlight issue on the white keys I had with the M1 case!

 

[Isamilis]

Honestly, I was about to go with the Logitech Combo Touch as Amazon has the 11 inch Midnight Black version for $169. With the Logitech, I didn’t need the 2nd Pitaka case. Comparing that to the combined price of the Apple MKC $289 plus the Pitaka $49…roughly $340 in cases alone….the Logitech was 1/2 the price. Getting the extra $100 off the MKC sealed the deal. Sending the Logitech back.

Just curious. Have you applied the Pitaka case? How is the experience? Is it really protect the iPad from dent (with its very thin layer)?

 

[DSTOFEL]

Just curious. Have you applied the Pitaka case? How is the experience? Is it really protect the iPad from dent (with its very thin layer)?

Yes, I’ve been using the case. It’s a folio case much like the Apple Smart Folio (which I have for my M1 11 inch Pro…that I’m now selling😊). That being said…it’s not designed with ultimate protection in mind, but more to be somewhat protective while still being slim and light (which it is). I’d say it’s more protective than the Apple Smart Folio as it’s thicker on both sides.

Why I like it:

• I need “something” when I use the iPad in “tablet” mode (writing, browsing in portrait mode, etc..).
  • The ipad is just too “slippery” IMHO to use “naked”
• It’s slim, light and stylish
• It has a flap to hold the Apple Pencil in place when not in use. Huge advantage over Apple’s Smart Folio.
• Has a very premium feel
• Strong magnets to both hold the iPad in place and to secure the “flap” to the back of the iPad when using it.
• Much more functional than the Apple Smart Folio due to the origami design (e..g, multiple configurations for use).

I use the iPad in the MKC at least 80% of the time, but when I want to whip it out….and still talking iPad here….the Pitaka is perfect!

Public Service Announcement: I saw the the 11 inch Pitaka case (in White) on “Woot” today: $39

 

[elmoss]

I didn’t find the white got dirty easily! I found it stayed looking new/fresh compared to the black m1 MKC…which I used for 2 yrs and sold. The black case shows every mark and is a fingerprint magnet…much like the M4 black case I have now! I would have gone silver/white again for M4…except for the backlight issue on the white keys I had with the M1 case!

ok, I have the silver iPad, am not worried about backlighting.

 

[Isamilis]

Yes, I’ve been using the case. It’s a folio case much like the Apple Smart Folio (which I have for my M1 11 inch Pro…that I’m now selling😊). That being said…it’s not designed with ultimate protection in mind, but more to be somewhat protective while still being slim and light (which it is). I’d say it’s more protective than the Apple Smart Folio as it’s thicker on both sides.

Why I like it:

• I need “something” when I use the iPad in “tablet” mode (writing, browsing in portrait mode, etc..).
  • The ipad is just too “slippery” IMHO to use “naked”
• It’s slim, light and stylish
• It has a flap to hold the Apple Pencil in place when not in use. Huge advantage over Apple’s Smart Folio.
• Has a very premium feel
• Strong magnets to both hold the iPad in place and to secure the “flap” to the back of the iPad when using it.
• Much more functional than the Apple Smart Folio due to the origami design (e..g, multiple configurations for use).

I use the iPad in the MKC at least 80% of the time, but when I want to whip it out….and still talking iPad here….the Pitaka is perfect!

Public Service Announcement: I saw the the 11 inch Pitaka case (in White) on “Woot” today: $39View attachment 2479898

Thank you for the info. Are you referring to this Pitaka case ?

 

[DSTOFEL]

Thank you for the info. Are you referring to this Pitaka case ?

You’re welcome. No, this is the case I got: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D49NWBV2?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title&th=1


Woot: Has the “white” color only for $39 right now: https://sellout.woot.com/offers/pit...hYEYgcj_4QjracBKPBm4eh-PZxodD65IaAvZgEALw_wcB

 

[Abazigal]

I tried to love iPad keyboard cases, but I find I prefer using my iPad case-less even more. As such. I have settled on a combination of 3 magnetic cases. The Magic Keyboard, the Smart Folio case and this kickstand cover from TineeOwl.

TineeOwl for iPad Pro 11 inch (M4) 2024, Adjustable Kickstand Cover - Infinite Viewing Angles, Portrait/Landscape Stand, Apple Pencil Charging, Wing Series, (Black)

✔️ Adjustable Kickstand ▶ Enjoy infinite adjustability with the built-in kickstand to achieve the perfect viewing angle. ✔️ Landscape to Portrait Instantly ▶ Best for book reading, video calls, gaming, or scrolling through long spreadsheets and documents. ✔️ Kickstand Stops at Typing Angle ▶ The ...

www.amazon.sg

The use of magnets makes it extremely easy to switch cases, or just to detach it when I want to use my iPad in as thin and light a form factor as possible (ie: with nothing on). I also acknowledge it's pretty extravagant.

The Logitech keyboard case looks like it would be the ideal all-in-one form factor if you just want 1 case which can cover all use cases (you get a case with a kickstand, and a detachable keyboard), and it's certainly cheaper than a magic keyboard.

 

[sparksd]

I tried to love iPad keyboard cases, but I find I prefer using my iPad case-less even more. As such. I have settled on a combination of 3 magnetic cases. The Magic Keyboard, the Smart Folio case and this kickstand cover from TineeOwl.

TineeOwl for iPad Pro 11 inch (M4) 2024, Adjustable Kickstand Cover - Infinite Viewing Angles, Portrait/Landscape Stand, Apple Pencil Charging, Wing Series, (Black)

✔️ Adjustable Kickstand ▶ Enjoy infinite adjustability with the built-in kickstand to achieve the perfect viewing angle. ✔️ Landscape to Portrait Instantly ▶ Best for book reading, video calls, gaming, or scrolling through long spreadsheets and documents. ✔️ Kickstand Stops at Typing Angle ▶ The ...

www.amazon.sg

The use of magnets makes it extremely easy to switch cases, or just to detach it when I want to use my iPad in as thin and light a form factor as possible (ie: with nothing on). I also acknowledge it's pretty extravagant.

The Logitech keyboard case looks like it would be the ideal all-in-one form factor if you just want 1 case which can cover all use cases (you get a case with a kickstand, and a detachable keyboard), and it's certainly cheaper than a magic keyboard.

I have that TineeOwl case for my 13" Pro - works really well. Here it is in the US store -

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0DF281VWS/