iPad Keyboards

I recently acquired the new Apple Magic Keyboard for the iPad Pro. I already have the Smart Keyboard Folio but the Magic Keyboard has a built in touchpad, which I wanted. I’ve been using a Magic Touchpad that I had hanging around with the iPad Pro and have found it a great addition to the iPad. If you do much work on an iPad, you can’t go wrong with the addition of a touchpad or mouse.

I also can highly recommend the Smart Keyboard Folio. It has performed perfectly! I like the feel of this keyboard as it uses the butterfly style keys that Apple has discontinued. I’m probably the only one that loves it!

The new Magic Keyboard also has a great feel. I was worried about that not being the case. I like the fact that it is backlit, an option the Smart Folio doesn’t have. The trackpad on the Magic Keyboard works well although it is a little loud, click wise and requires a firm press as it is a true mechanical touchpad.

The iPad “floats” above the keyboard via a very nice magnetic hinged back. This allows the iPad to tilt a little more than the Smart Folio and also locates it a little closer to you. The keyboard has an attachment for power (usb-c connector), which is great.

But, and this is my one big complaint, that floating design and small touchpad / palm rest, makes the keyboard feel cramped. The Smart Folio, which is basically the same size as the Magic Keyboard, is arranged differently and that makes all the difference in the world. It feels wide open compared to the cramped feel of the Magic Keyboard.

I do have larger hands so this may not be an issue with everyone.

So, what keyboard is the best? That is something everyone will have to find out for themselves as keyboards are very personal. For me, I’d like the room of the Smart Folio with the Magic Keyboard. Maybe an electronic touchpad as well.

Can I recommend the Magic keyboard? Well… I’d say try before you buy. Make sure you have the room you need. It is an expensive piece of kit so it needs to really work. I can completely recommend the Smart Folio along with a Magic Trackpad. This may actually be the best of all worlds although it is an expensive purchase as well.

One last thing to consider, the Smart Folio is significantly lighter than the Magic Keyboard. That backlighting though, is very nice on the Magic Keyboard.

No matter what, a keyboard and trackpad will significantly increase the usability of your iPad Pro!