As more features are added to the Apple iPad and iPad Pro, they're becoming more useful and flexible tools. These days, many people use an iPad as a primary device for everyday browsing and getting work done, both while at home and on the road. However, typing on a touchscreen can be frustrating, so there are keyboards specifically designed for iPads that you can use to enhance your typing experience. Many of the best keyboards for iPad pro or iPad tablets come in folio cases, so you'll have to make sure it fits your specific device, while others are stand-alone keyboards, so you can use them as long as they have Bluetooth support.
We've tested over 190 keyboards, and here are our recommendations for the best keyboards for iPad. While these picks are specifically for use with iPads, we also have a list of picks for the best keyboards for Macif you're looking for a keyboard to use in the larger Mac ecosystem. Or, if you just need a wireless option, check out thebest wireless keyboards. Otherwise, there are always our best cheap keyboard recommendations if you're just looking for a basic, affordableoption.
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Best iPad Keyboard
Apple Magic Keyboard for iPad 2021
Gaming
6.2
Mobile/Tablet
3.5
Office
7.2
Programming
6.3
Entertainment / HTPC
3.8
iPadOS Full
Size
Compact (65%)(Video) Apple's Confusing 2023 iPad Lineup - Which iPad to Buy?!Mechanical
NoBluetooth
NoSee all our test results
The Apple Magic Keyboard for iPad 2021 is the best keyboard for iPad we've tested. As its name suggests, it's Apple's flagship model and is available in different sizes for the 11-inch and 12.9-inch iPad Pro and 4th and 5th generation iPad Air models. It uses Apple's Smart Connector feature to connect to the iPad and draw power directly from it. While this means the keyboard isn't compatible with any other mobile device, you just have to worry about charging your iPad and not the keyboard separately.
The folio case attaches with a strong magnet on the back that holds your iPad in place. The keyboard part has a rubber exterior, so the whole unit stays firmly in place on desks or other hard surfaces. Plus, if you sit with your iPad on your lap, like a laptop, the keyboard is very stable and doesn't flex or flop over easily. However, if there is a downside to this keyboard, it's that the case doesn't wrap around the sides of the iPad and instead leaves them exposed. If you're planning on traveling a lot with your iPad, you might want the side protection offered by our next pick, the Logitech Combo Touch.
See our review
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Best Mid-Range iPad Keyboard
Logitech Combo Touch
Gaming
4.9
Mobile/Tablet
3.5
Office
6.8
Programming
5.4
Entertainment / HTPC
4.6
(Video) Apple Magic Keyboard: Floating iPad Pro?iPadOS Full
Size
Compact (75%)Mechanical
NoBluetooth
NoSee all our test results
If you're looking for a mid-range folio keyboard that offers good protection for your iPad, we recommend the Logitech Combo Touch. It's got similar features and is frequently closer in price to our first pick, the Apple Magic Keyboard for iPad 2021, but lately, it's gone up and down in price and may be considerably cheaper when you're reading this. It comes in size variants to fit 11-inch and 12.9-inch iPad Pro models as well as 4th and 5th-generation iPad Air models. It also uses Apple's Smart Connector for power, so you won't have to charge the keyboard as it'll draw power straight from the iPad. On the back of the case, there's a sturdy kickstand you can use to prop your iPad up at a comfortable viewing angle.
The keycaps have a nice soft-touch coating to add some grip, which is helpful as the tile-like keycaps can be slippery. There's also a trackpad for on-screen navigation, so you don't have to get fingerprints on your screen, and there's even a slot to hold an Apple Magic Pencil. Overall, this folio keyboard has a lot of additional features, and thanks to all its size variants, it's the best mid-range option for iPad Pro that we've tested.
See our review
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Best Budget iPad Keyboard
ZAGG Pro Keys
Gaming
6.6
Mobile/Tablet
8.1
Office
(Video) STOP! Don't buy the M2 iPad Pro.. You MUST WAIT for M3!7.2
Programming
6.5
Entertainment / HTPC
5.6
iPadOS Full
Size
Compact (75%)Mechanical
NoBluetooth
YesSee all our test results
For the best option at a budget price point, we recommend the ZAGG Pro Keys. You may notice there's a fairly wide price difference between this pick and our best mid-rangepick above. While there are folio-style options available between these two, spending a bit more or a bit less will get you a better product in the end. The Pro Keys is a folio-style keyboard compatible with 10.2-inch iPads, but there are versions suitable for 11-inch and 12.9-inch iPad Pro and iPad Air models. While the unit we tested doesn't have a trackpad, you can buy a version that does. Since it doesn't use Apple's Smart Connector, it's one of the best Bluetooth keyboards for iPad available on the market, thanks to its wireless versatility and multi-device pairing ability. You can pair it with up to two devices simultaneously, which is helpful if you use a laptop or another device alongside your iPad.
Inside the folio case, there's a slot for your Apple Pencil, so you won't have to worry about losing it. If you sit with your iPad on your lap often, the iPad stays propped up even without the support of a table or desk beneath it. It also has multi-color backlighting with seven different colors you can cycle through. Overall, it's a versatile keyboard with plenty of different size configurations available to suit the currently available iPads.
See our review
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Best Standalone iPad Keyboard
Logitech K780
Gaming
6.2
(Video) Apple iPad SPRING 2023 BUYING GUIDE - Don't Make these Mistakes Before Buying!!Mobile/Tablet
6.9
Office
7.9
Programming
6.7
Entertainment / HTPC
5.5
iPadOS Partial
Size
Compact (96%)Mechanical
NoBluetooth
YesSee all our test results
If you're planning on using your iPad as part of a larger, multi-device setup, you may want a more permanent solution at your desk. The Logitech K780 is an excellent choice for a wireless, standalone keyboard to use with your iPad. Along the back, there's a tray with a rubber coating that provides a good grip for holding your devices. The tray runs the whole length of the keyboard, so you can easily hold an iPad and a smaller mobile device, and the tray provides a slight tilt, so their screens stay at a good viewing angle. It connects wirelessly with up to three devices using a Bluetooth connection, and you can switch between devices using the F1-F3 function keys.
Since it uses two AA batteries for power with an advertised battery life of 24 months, you don't have to worry about carrying around charging cables or frequently needing to recharge. The typing experience feels satisfying thanks to the well-spaced keys, rounded keycaps, and low-profile design. Alternatively, if you don't want a full-size unit, as you plan on bringing your iPad around with you to cafes or other tight working spaces, check out the Logitech K380. As a compact unit, it's much more portable, but it doesn't have a device tray or stand for your iPad, so you'll have to get a separate case for your iPad or get creative in how you prop it up.
See our review
Recent Updates
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Mar 10, 2023: We've made some small changes for clarity and reviewed our lineup of recommendations to verify all products are available and in stock, but we haven't made any changes to our picks with this update.
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Jan 10, 2023: We've audited this list and made some phrasing adjustments. We've also confirmed all picks are in stock and continue to represent the best picks for their categories.
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Nov 11, 2022: Minor changes to text for clarity; no changes to picks.
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Sep 12, 2022: Overhauled article to better reflect current market options and user expectations. Removed Notable Mentions that are not relevant.
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Jun 09, 2022: Complete overhaul of the article to better align with user expectations.
(Video) The BEST iPad stand just got BETTER! - Magflött PRO!
All Reviews
Our recommendations aboveare what we think are currently the bestkeyboards foriPad Pro and iPads in generalfor most people. We factor in the price (a cheaper product wins over apricier one if the difference isn't worth it), feedback from our visitors, and availability (no keyboard that is difficult to findor almostout of stock everywhere).
If you would like to do the work of choosing yourself, here is the list of all our iPad keyboard reviews. Be careful not to get too caught up in the details. While noproduct is perfect for every use, most keyboards are great enough to please almost everyone, and the differences are often not noticeable unless you really look for them. Be sure to know your key switch preferences before choosing.
FAQs
The 4 Best iPad And iPad Pro Keyboards - Spring 2023: Reviews? ›
Apple's Magic Keyboard for iPad is a reliable and decent keyboard for your iPad Pro or iPad Air. Typing on it is comfortable and the case does a good job of protecting the iPad from any knocks. The viewing angle is decent for most purposes although artists may find a dedicated iPad drawing stand better for their needs.
Which is the best Apple iPad keyboard? ›...
The best iPad keyboards available now
- Logitech Combo Touch Keyboard Case. ...
- Apple Magic Keyboard (11-inch) ...
- ZAGG Pro Keys with Trackpad. ...
- Brydge Pro+ (12.9-inch) ...
- Logitech K480.
Apple's Magic Keyboard for iPad is a reliable and decent keyboard for your iPad Pro or iPad Air. Typing on it is comfortable and the case does a good job of protecting the iPad from any knocks. The viewing angle is decent for most purposes although artists may find a dedicated iPad drawing stand better for their needs.
Does 4th generation Magic Keyboard work with iPad Pro? ›System Requirements. iPadPro 11-inch (1st, 2nd, 3rd, or 4th generation) or iPad Air (4th or 5th generation) running iPadOS 14.5 or later.
What is the biggest iPad 2023? ›In October, The Information's Wayne Ma reported that Apple is developing a 16-inch iPad that it hopes to release in the fourth quarter of 2023. The prospective device would have approximately the same screen size as a 16-inch MacBook Pro, providing users with a significantly larger canvas to work with.
Which Apple keyboard to choose? ›The Apple Magic Keyboard with Touch ID and Numeric Keypad is one of the most iconic keyboards on the market. It's no surprise that it's our top pick for the best keyboard for Mac devices, as it's specifically designed to complement them with its features and aesthetics.
Which keyboard model is best? ›- Casio CT-S300 – Best Cheap Portable Keyboard (Under $150)
- Yamaha PSR-E373 – Best Beginner Keyboard Piano (Under $300)
- Roland FP-10 – Best Beginner Digital Piano (Under $500)
- Roland FP-30X – Best Intermediate Digital Piano (Under $700)
The Magic Keyboard is an amazing companion for iPad Pro and iPad Air. It features a great typing experience, a trackpad that opens up new ways to work with iPadOS, a USB‑C port for pass‑through charging, and front and back protection.
What is so special about Apple Magic keyboard? ›Magic Keyboard delivers a remarkably comfortable and precise typing experience. It's also wireless and rechargeable, with an incredibly long-lasting internal battery that will power your keyboard for about a month or more between charges.¹ It pairs automatically with your Mac, so you can get to work right away.
What's the difference between a Magic Keyboard and a smart keyboard? ›A major difference between Smart and Magic Keyboard is the trackpad which gives an advantage to Magic Keyboard. But you may achieve the same result with a Smart Keyboard by connecting an external mouse or trackpad. Mostly basic trackpad gestures for iPad are the same as for Mac, but there are unique ones only for iPad.
Is it worth it to buy Magic Keyboard? ›
The Magic Keyboard also provides a comfortable typing experience and access to shortcut keys. If this is how you use your MacBook, then yes, an iPad with Magic Keyboard can serve as a replacement for your Mac.
Which is better black or white Magic Keyboard? ›The Magic Keyboard is — hands down — the best writing tool for the iPad Air and iPad Pro. But if you're going to get one, I recommend getting the white model, as surprisingly, that color will remain looking newer for far longer than the dark gray.
Can I use a mouse with an iPad? ›You can connect Magic Mouse, another Bluetooth mouse, or a USB mouse to your iPad. Note: Mouse devices are sold separately. Not all mouse devices are fully compatible with all models of iPad.
Which iPad should i buy in 2023? ›- Best iPad for most people. iPad Air (2022) £649 at John Lewis. ...
- Best iPad for the basics. iPad 10.2-inch (2021) ...
- Best iPad for colourful design. iPad 10th gen (2022) ...
- Best iPad for portability. iPad mini (2021) ...
- Best iPad for professionals. iPad Pro 11 (2022) ...
- Best iPad for high performance. iPad Pro 12.9 (2022)
Apple IPad Pro 11 2023 is a iPadOS v15 tablet, available price is Rs 91,900 in India with Octa core (Quad core, Firestorm + Quad core, Icestorm) Processor, Battery and RAM.
Is there a new iPad coming out 2023? ›According to prominent display analyst and industry insider Ross Young, the 14-inch iPad was supposed to make its debut sometime in the first quarter of 2023. However, its launch seems to have been quietly postponed, with a release in late 2024 appearing to be much more likely.
Is 60 or 65 better for a keyboard? ›The 65% keyboard has become more popular than the 60% keyboard because it is both compact, and more functional. Some find it more functional due to the inclusion of arrow keys, as well as four keys to the right of the keyboard which will typically be composed of the home, delete, page up, and page down keys.
Should I get a 65 or 60 keyboard? ›60% and 65% keyboards are reduced-size models that offer space-saving design while sacrificing several keys. 60% keyboards are smaller than 65% models, but they do not have arrow keys and most function inputs. Experts recommend 65% keyboards for programming and writing professionals.
Should I get a 60% or 100% keyboard? ›Best answer: As long as you don't mind a lack of arrow keys, numpad, F keys, and navigation cluster, a 60% keyboard will save space on your desk, add some style to your setup, and is easier to carry around.
What are the top 3 keyboard layouts? ›For languages using the Latin alphabet, there are three main key layouts: QWERTY, QWERTZ, and AZERTY.
What is the most popular keyboard used? ›
QWERTY Keyboards
Designed in the likeness of old-fashioned typewriters, QWERTY is the most common keyboard layout.
The most common kind is called a 'QWERTY' keyboard. QWERTY describes the top row of letters on the keyboard.
Do you need a case for iPad if you have Magic Keyboard? ›Once attached, you can use your iPad with the Magic Keyboard as though you're not using a case. The Keyboard can still charge your iPad through the USB-C port, and your iPad can charge the Apple Pencil as usual.
How long does iPad Magic Keyboard last? ›The Magic Keyboard will work for as long as the attached iPad has battery, or is otherwise connected to a power source.
What is the difference between the Magic Keyboard and the Magic Keyboard Folio? ›The Magic Keyboard comes with a backlight, which makes it much easier to type in low-light environments. The Magic Keyboard Folio does not come with a backlight, although it does come with the aforementioned function row on the keyboard.
How long does a Magic Keyboard last? ›The Magic Keyboard battery should last for about a month based on a full charge. When it's not in use, it goes into a low power mode so that it uses less battery life while still enabling you to re-use it by tapping the keyboard any time you need to start using it again.
Why is it called Magic Keyboard? ›The most important part of any keyboard case is the keyboard, and I am happy to report that it is good. Apple calls this the Magic Keyboard, which, in part, is meant to let you know that it uses the same scissor-switch mechanism you'll find on its other Magic Keyboards for the iMac and 16-inch MacBook Pro.
How many versions of Magic Keyboard are there? ›The original Magic Keyboard design was available in two models: (A1644) Magic Keyboard, first available in October 2015. (A1843) Magic Keyboard with Numeric Keypad, first available in June 2017.
Which smart keyboard is best? ›- Logitech K480 Wireless Multi-Device Keyboard.
- Brydge Pro Keyboard Case.
- ZAGG Pro Keys Detachable Case and Wireless Keyboard.
- Logitech Combo Touch Keyboard Case.
- Apple Magic Keyboard.
Gboard. Gboard is installed on many Android phones by default, but for those who don't have it (or for iOS users), it's the best keyboard app available. It has many valuable features, from integrated Google Translate to quirky Emoji Kitchen mashups.
What are the alternative to Magic Keyboard? ›
- Source: Razer. ...
- Satechi Aluminum Bluetooth Keyboard. ...
- Plugable Foldable Bluetooth Keyboard. ...
- Keychron K2. ...
- Logitech MX Keys Illuminated Wireless Keyboard. ...
- Seenda backlit Bluetooth Keyboard. ...
- Macally Small Bluetooth Wireless Keyboard. ...
- Macally Bluetooth Wireless Keyboard.
The Magic Keyboard used an improved scissor-switch mechanism, making it more durable and reliable. Butterfly Keyboards are very fragile and prone to damage, which can cause keys to become unresponsive or faulty. The Magic Keyboard uses a scissor-switch mechanism that interlocks like a scissor when pressed.
Does Magic Keyboard reduce battery? ›There should be no noticeable battery drain when using the Magic Keyboard.
How do I protect my Magic Keyboard on my iPad? ›The Magic Keyboard Durable Sleeve is the best option if you are looking for something to protect your iPad and Magic Keyboard on the go. This high-quality sleeve features a leather tab snap closure and an interior elastic loop that keeps your Apple Pencil in place at all times.
Can you use Word on iPad? ›Download Microsoft Word now and get the best way to create, share and edit documents from your iPhone or iPad. To create or edit documents, sign in with a free Microsoft account on devices with a screen size smaller than 10.1 inches.
Can I use a normal keyboard and mouse with iPad? ›If an external keyboard and mouse or trackpad are connected to your iPad, you can use them to work across both devices too. To use Universal Control, make sure of the following: You're using supported models of Mac and iPad. Your Mac has macOS 12.3 or later installed.
How do you split screen on iPad? ›Open an app. Slide one finger up from the bottom edge of the screen until the Dock appears, then release. Touch and hold a second app in the Dock, then immediately drag it up out of the Dock. If you drag the app to the left or right edge of the screen, it appears in Split View with the current app.
What is the difference between iPad smart keyboard and iPad Magic Keyboard? ›A major difference between Smart and Magic Keyboard is the trackpad which gives an advantage to Magic Keyboard. But you may achieve the same result with a Smart Keyboard by connecting an external mouse or trackpad. Mostly basic trackpad gestures for iPad are the same as for Mac, but there are unique ones only for iPad.
Does it matter what keyboard you get for your iPad? ›If you need a keyboard sometimes but want a tablet most of the time, you'll want to go with a wireless option. The iPad works with most of the best Bluetooth keyboards on the market, so you don't need to buy a special keyboard built specifically for it with a price hiked up to match.
What is the difference between slim folio and rugged folio? ›“The Rugged Folio offers military grade protection so it will easily withstand the wear and tear of daily life, whether you are using iPad on the go or with the family. The Slim Folio provides a flexible and simple solution for typing so you can work anywhere.
Is it worth buying Magic Keyboard? ›
It has comfortable, backlit keys that feel great to use. It locks the iPad into more of a protective case for better security. And it has a Microsoft Surface-style kickstand so it doesn't flop about. Most importantly, it also has the trackpad that – to me – makes the Magic Keyboard so magic.
Why is the Magic Keyboard better? ›Trackpad. Here's an easy one: The Magic Keyboard has a trackpad and the Smart Folio Keyboard and Smart Keyboard don't. That's a massive advantage in the Magic Keyboard's favor as you'll have to hook up an external mouse or trackpad to get the same effect with a Smart Keyboard.
What is special about Magic Keyboard? ›Magic Keyboard delivers a remarkably comfortable and precise typing experience. It's also wireless and rechargeable, with an incredibly long-lasting internal battery that will power your keyboard for about a month or more between charges.¹ It pairs automatically with your Mac, so you can get to work right away.
Do you have to buy a keyboard for the iPad Pro? ›None of the recent iPad models come with a keyboard or a stylus so you have to buy them separately. This has been the case for largely every tablet ever made, with only a few very notable exceptions to the rule.
Which generation iPad is the newest? ›New iPad 10th generation
The all‑new colorful iPad for the things you do every day.
Your buying decision should depend on your needs. If you are getting a device for professional use cases such as coding, video editing, etc, then a laptop is what you need. But if you are not a professional or you already have a device that can do every work-related thing, then an iPad is the way to go.
What is the difference between Zagg rugged and slim? ›Slim Book Go is the more sleek option of the two. The detachable keyboard is wrapped in a svelte fabric rather than just plastic. It is a bit lower profile and weighs slightly less than the Rugged Book Go but the design and materials are what allow it to go into your bag with less friction.
How much does the Smart Keyboard Folio for iPad pro 11-inch weigh? ›| Product Dimensions | 12.01 x 8.7 x 0.62 inches |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 1.19 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Apple |
| ASIN | B07K1Y3GRW |
| Country of Origin | China |
Magic Keyboard
It features a great typing experience, a trackpad that opens up new ways to work with iPadOS, a USB‑C port for pass‑through charging, and front and back protection.
Is the Magic Keyboard better than the Folio? ›
The Magic Keyboard comes with a backlight, which makes it much easier to type in low-light environments. The Magic Keyboard Folio does not come with a backlight, although it does come with the aforementioned function row on the keyboard.
Which color Magic Keyboard is better? ›The Magic Keyboard is — hands down — the best writing tool for the iPad Air and iPad Pro. But if you're going to get one, I recommend getting the white model, as surprisingly, that color will remain looking newer for far longer than the dark gray.