The Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro is a sleek, portable device that offers an amazing typing and trackpad experience. It features an aluminum palm rest, a function row, and a USB-C connector for pass-through. The first generation of the Magic Keyboard (A1998) is functionally compatible with the iPad Pro, and the iPad Pro’s Smart Connector powers the Magic Keyboard for iPad. Unlike other Bluetooth keyboards, you do not need to pair or turn on your Magic Keyboard.
Apple’s Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro is available to order immediately after the company’s live stream and will be available in stores starting on May 15. The keyboard allows you to type while viewing the entire iPad screen and magnetically attaches to the iPad without switches, plugs, or pairing. It also provides a lightweight protective cover when closed.
The Magic Keyboard is a must-have for those looking to turn their iPad Pro into a laptop with satisfying keys and a trackpad. It is designed to work with the iPad Air, making it more useful than a laptop replacement. The Magic Keyboard for iPad costs $299, but users need to spend another $50 if they have a 12.9-inch iPad Pro.
Apple’s Smart Keyboard has almost the same feel as the new Macbooks’ keyboards, with a floating cantilever design that allows for easy attachment and adjustment to the perfect viewing angle. If you need a portable device to type on, Apple’s Magic Keyboard is a great option.
📹 Magic Keyboard for iPad Review: “to buy… or not?”
This is why I cannot recommend the Magic Keyboard for the iPad Air or iPad Pro. If you use, or plan to use, your iPad in a way that …
What is the use of iPad Magic Keyboard?
The Magic Keyboard is a versatile keyboard designed for iPad Pro 11-inch and iPad Air, offering a comfortable typing experience, a trackpad for iPadOS, USB-C port for pass-through charging, and protection. It features a floating cantilever design for easy attachment and adjustment, comfortable backlit keys, and a scissor mechanism for quiet, responsive typing. It is compatible with Multi-Touch gestures and iPadOS cursor.
Which is better Magic Keyboard or butterfly keyboard?
The Magic Keyboard offers enhanced reliability, a comfortable typing experience, and quieter operation compared to the Butterfly keyboard. Its traditional scissor-switch mechanism provides a comfortable typing experience for extended use. Apple’s repair program and updates may help mitigate some issues for existing Butterfly keyboard users. Understanding the differences between the Butterfly and Magic keyboards is essential when choosing a MacBook or addressing keyboard-related issues. Apple’s shift back to the Magic Keyboard demonstrates their commitment to providing a reliable and enjoyable typing experience, free from the issues that marred the Butterfly keyboard’s reputation.
Does a Magic Keyboard act as a case?
The Magic Keyboard Folio is a $350 accessory that provides some protection for your iPad Pro, similar to a traditional minimal iPad case or cover. It covers the front and back with a cylindrical hinge along the binding edge, leaving the edges exposed and offering no security for the Apple Pencil when in the charging position. While it works well for typing, it’s not visually appealing or comfortable to hold in your hand. The Magic Keyboard Folio is a good choice for those who want a minimal iPad case or cover, but it’s up to you to decide if it’s enough for your needs.
Do I really need the keyboard case on iPad?
The choice between a keyboard case and iPad depends on the time spent with the keyboard. If you need a keyboard occasionally but prefer a tablet, a wireless option is recommended. The iPad works with most of the best Bluetooth keyboards, so there’s no need to buy a special keyboard. The Smart Keyboard Folio is a good option, but it only works with iPad Pro tablets. When considering options, consider your use of the peripheral and consider purchasing a stand if the case doesn’t support iPad support.
What does the iPad Pro Magic Keyboard do?
The Magic Keyboard is a versatile keyboard designed for iPad Pro 11-inch and iPad Air, offering a comfortable typing experience, a trackpad for seamless integration with iPadOS, a USB-C port for pass-through charging, and protection for both front and back. Its floating cantilever design allows for easy attachment and adjustment to the perfect viewing angle. The keyboard features comfortable backlit keys and a scissor mechanism with 1 mm travel for quiet, responsive typing. It is specifically designed for Multi-Touch gestures and iPadOS cursor.
Does the magic keyboard for iPad Pro need to be charged?
To charge your iPad, connect your USB-C cable to the USB-C port on your iPad or the USB-C port on your Magic Keyboard. The Magic Keyboard doesn’t need to be charged. The USB-C port on the Magic Keyboard provides power but doesn’t transmit data, so it can’t be used with an input device like a USB-C mouse. Never connect one end of a USB-C cable to the USB-C port on your iPad and the other end to the USB-C port on your Magic Keyboard.
To use the onscreen keyboard, tap a text field, then touch and hold on the lower-right corner of your iPad screen until the keyboard appears. To hide the keyboard, tap the dismiss button on your iPad screen.
How long does a Magic Keyboard battery last?
The Magic Keyboard (A1644) is a non-replaceable rechargeable Lithium-ion keyboard with a Lightning port that can last up to one month. It uses an ST Microelectronics STM32F103VB 72 MHz 32-bit RISC ARM Cortex-M3 processor and includes the Broadcom BCM20733 Enhanced Data Rate Bluetooth 3. 0 Single-Chip Solution. It is compatible with Macs running OS X El Capitan and later, iPhones and iPads running iOS 9 or later, and TVs running Apple TV Software 7. 0 or tvOS 10 or later.
Do I need a case for my iPad Pro if I have the Magic Keyboard?
While the Magic Keyboard is undoubtedly a useful accessory for the iPad Pro, it is not, however, a protective case. It is therefore necessary to use a dedicated case in order to ensure reliable protection. PITAKA’s MagEZ Case 2 offers an optimal synthesis of aesthetic appeal, functionality, and durability, rendering it an exemplary upgrade option.
What is the difference between the Magic Keyboard and the smart keyboard?
The Magic Keyboard is a premium iPad case by Apple that includes a trackpad, a feature that is not available with the Smart Folio Keyboard and Smart Keyboard. This feature allows users to connect an external mouse or trackpad to achieve the same effect with a Smart Keyboard. The iPad is now more like a laptop, with Apple offering a Magic Keyboard case for the iPad Pro and newest iPad Air. The Magic Keyboard is the same name used for its standalone Bluetooth keyboards and MacBook keyboards.
Apple also offers the Smart Keyboard Folio for those who prefer a less magical experience. The Magic Keyboard is a “real” keyboard with scissor switches, backlit keys, and 1mm of key travel. The trackpad is located below the keyboard, making it a significant factor in purchasing this keyboard.
What are the benefits of the iPad keyboard?
The Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro offers a sleek, portable design with an aluminum palm rest, a function row, USB-C connector for pass-through charging, and front and back protection. It features a floating cantilever design, a larger glass trackpad, and a 14-key function row for easy access to screen brightness, volume controls, and other features. The keyboard also includes a USB-C connector for pass-through charging and a larger glass trackpad for precision-based workflows and Multi-Touch gestures.
What is the difference between the Magic Keyboard and the wireless keyboard?
The Magic Keyboard is a rechargeable device that employs Apple’s novel scissor mechanism, thereby providing a stable and comfortable typing experience. The device is available in both wired and wireless iterations, with and without a numeric keypad, making it a convenient option for those seeking a reliable keyboard.
📹 Magic Keyboard for M4 iPad Pro: Waste Of Money?
I’ve used the new 2024 13 inch Magic Keyboard for the new 13 inch M4 iPad Pro for two weeks, is it worth the big price tag?
I think this was a great perspective for sure. However I don’t think its supposed to be a computer in that way. I more or less feel like what they’re doing is catering to the Artist, Musician and potential student that is needing a iPad for the features it offers yet need something that bridges the gap in-between a computer and iPad. So thus they released the keyboard to allow them to write papers, music, business needs, etc. Gives you the ability to design and draw and record / make music. You would use the USB-C port on the iPad itself to be able to attach multiple plug-ins like an external hard drive for more memory space, flash drives, keyboards for music, microphones, etc. Its just a way to get more out of the iPad. For people that don’t already have a PC or iMac / Mac Book then the iPad just isn’t for them.
For me, the magic keyboard is definitely worth it. Optimises the screen estate especially when you have the 11″ ipad and you need to type in lengthy documents. I’ve had mine for about a year already and I couldn’t imagine not having it. The hinge has been very durable which made my ipad a comfortable companion in perusal youtube while in bed.
Every single keyboard out there for the iPad has flaws, this one included. The Brydge Max+ has a finicky trackpad, the Logitech Combo Touch is unusable on the lap because of the depth it requires, and the Magic Keyboard has no function keys or pencil holder. Products from ESR, Zagg and others are just the same. The only question is, which flaw are you willing to live with?
The Logitech Slim Folio keyboard – charge once every three months, as opposed to the Magic Keyboard which runs off the iPads power thus seriously decreasing battery life of the iPad. I like the look and feel of the Magic Keyboard but it doesn’t compare to teh Logitech keyboard which is also backlit, has a row of function keys that are actually useful, does not drain the power of the iPad, charge it once every 3 months, cheaper and all around better product.
What kills me is this keyboard is a classic apple product. Instead of giving you what you need, they give you two options that are each unique to your specific needs, but neither meeting all of them. 🤬 The Magic Keyboard is so comfy to type on, and the backlit keys are gorgeous. I could take the trackpad or leave it, but it’s convenient I guess. My issue with this is simple. It’s heavy, and the hinge means it doesn’t bend. I love Apple’s alternate ‘Folio Keyboard’, because it folds over like a book, so NICELY. However, that keyboard has a nasty vinyl coating that’s not comfy to type on, and it’s not backlit. You’re killing me APPLE. Definitely agree with Dion that this keyboard is ultimately a confusing product, and it tries to make the iPad a surface pro…. I’m just not sure what the goal is here from Apple.
This Keyboard should cost $100 in my opinion. Maybe $125. That would be “worth it”. But, I managed to buy an Amazon Renewed unit that’s in perfect condition for $170. Still expensive, but at least I feel like I won the lotto getting it almost half price. …On another note, the key to getting the most out of any iPad keyboard is to learn the keyboard shortcuts in iPadOS and for specific apps (some apps are better than others… Youtube, unfortunately, is lacking shortcuts). If you know what you’re doing, you can really take advantage of iPad’s multitasking features and navigation all from the keyboard. There are still things that just feel better doing with your fingers like scrolling and some of the control center controls. But, once you learn to combine shortcuts with touch, it’s pretty great.
If you havent got a macbook (or you have a big macbook) it might be worth it for ad-hoc on the move work, but otherwise it makes your slim lovely light ipad a heavy tablet. The cost is far too high as well, I have the first keyboard folio and hardly ever use it (in fact right now I dont even know where it is :))
I agree with Annette, although I have never tried the Apple Magic Keyboard, I have used the Logitech folio keyboard and have been very pleased with it. The only thing that has happened is the magnets broke, however Logitech customer service is very good and as they come with a 2 year warranty they replaced it straight away.
Thanks for the great article. One of the few I have seen with the iPad Air. I tend to write a lot, and having to use my Macbook all the time, seems like such a slog sometimes. Having an iPad with the Magic Keyboard frees me from having to use my Macbook when I just quickly want to write some content. I do think, however, that the Magic Keyboard is a “nice to have” accessory. You can definitely use the iPad without the Magic Keyboard, but the typing experience for long form content is not too great with the built-in iPad on-screen keyboard. This is why I like the Magic Keyboard as an accessory.
for me it wasn’t just the high price but how restrictive and limited in its functionality. no pencil holder and can’t fold it so always have to take it off the keyboard to use the ipad as a tablet to read comics on your lap or facetime in portrait mode etc. crossing my fingers that the next generation keyboard that will be released this year will have those functions then i wouldnt mind the price and would purchase to keep.
Thanks so much for the review- I could’ve written this myself though not quite as well and succinctly. I think the only thing that is missing from a MacBook Air would be the ability to use the Apple Pencil and that is why I went for the iPad Air – but it’s very heavy, almost the same weight as my iPad Pro 12.9 inch!
I actually find it very useful as a graphic designer. With Adobe Illustrator, when designing with text, it’s quite painful to input with the screen keyboard. Creating shapes and masking frames are a lot easier as well. When traveling, it’s such a joy not having to tote around my brick of a Macbook Pro 16!
I discovered this ipad when i was studying on a library, a girl used it i REALLY NEED IT but her, she had the pencil with it…? Or did she she bought it idk.. so my question is : Where can i find that ipad with the keyboard and the pencil and what is the name of the ipad…. ( srry for my english )
The durability is in question and how tough the hinge is might be an issue, but as for everyday use it’s a good buy. You can carry the iPad which is lighter than a laptop, and use the internet function on the iPhone. My carrier has a plan called unlimited, and I pay 10 dollars more for unlimited use.
Moved up to a pricier version for better screen resolution and processor youtube.com/post/UgkxUGaHtKW8MwCql2fPyIm9-ftTqSMzKFFA, but battery drains faster, and not having a button for control of apps turns out to be a problem. Touch ID is harder to use than with the old button on the front. Can’t really see the better screen resolution or see increase in speed, etc with better processor
Excellent review. I am a new subscriber as a result of your excellent review. I just purchased an iPad Air 5 with MK. Best Buy had a $150 off so that softened the blow or high prices. Apple has long been proud of their product. I had been using a iPad Air 3 with keyboard folio and prefer to have a keyboard with it. The MacBook Air wasn’t touch screen enabled when I looked in the past so this fits my needs. But you make great points in your article. Keep up the honest and good work you do. All the best from north Texas.
I have been using the keyboard and its been a blessing. I like the click of the keys and the small track pad doesn’t bother me at all. Only time I really noticed was when it scrolling a long long article but other than that i dont need to be scrolling for a long time because the screen is touch screen. And for that reason i can still use the iPad as an iPad but have the ability to have a good keyboard. I just snap it in and its all good for me
i don’t think it’s worth it. i got the ipad as a gift, so i got the keyboard to use it for college so that i wouldn’t be spending another thousand dollars getting a laptop. but if i could redo it i would’ve just got a macbook. i have a number of issues. one, the screen can’t be tilted up as much as i would like. 2, when you open it without bending the actual ipad portion, the ipad and keyboard aren’t even at a 90° angle, which just really irks me. also, it isn’t practical if you need the ipad to be both handheld and keyboard supported. switching it from the keyboard to a case is really aggravating for someone who would be doing it in class, and i wouldn’t want to have the ipad directly on a desk without a cover. another thing, the apple pencil. with the keyboard it just sits on the top the same as if you had no case on it. this makes storing it really annoying because in normal cases it’s surrounded and covered. when i put the ipad and keyboard in my bag the pen falls out more often than not and it’s just overall a hassle that a $300 keyboard and like $600 ipad shouldn’t have. also, if you’re deleting say an entire paragraph, you have to delete each letter one by one. that’s probably the thing i find most annoying. i find myself accidentally hitting caps lock as i type since the keyboard isn’t very big, and i won’t realize until a few sentences in, and have to click the backspace over and over and spend so much extra time just to delete my sentence. the cursor kinda annoys me too, but not a big deal.