Using a keyboard with an iPad can make a huge difference, whether it’s one made by Apple or another company. An external keyboard brings the experience closer to what many are used to with a full computer. Of course, it aids typing for those used to a physical keyboard, but perhaps even more important, is the amount of screen space that is liberated when the large on-screen keyboard is cleared.
For many years, Apple discouraged the use of any but the most basic of external devices with an iPad. There was the charger, the camera connection kit and a keyboard dock. It wasn’t long before people figured out that a USB keyboard could be used through the camera adapter. Using a keyboard without the dock allowed more flexibility and that theme carries forward to newer iPad models and Bluetooth keyboards. Modern iPads have a Smart Connector that allows instant pairing, compared to most third-party options that use Bluetooth without the Smart Connector. One of the reasons is that skipping that technology means the device doesn’t have to go through Apple’s MFi certification process, saving time and money, getting to market quicker, and at a lower price. What this means for the user is an extra moment when first pairing the keyboard to the iPad. Many keyboards allow multiple devices to be paired with an easy way to switch between them, mostly eliminating the pairing headaches that can plague Bluetooth keyboards.
Apple makes three iPad-specific keyboards that use the Smart Connector for instant pairing. All three double as covers for the iPad, folding down to a slim profile that’s convenient when traveling. The most expensive and full featured model is the Magic Keyboard, which appears to make the iPad hover a little over an inch above the surface it rests on. The magnetic attachment makes it super easy to use, as the iPad can be placed against the raised panel and it will hold. The Magic Keyboard also includes a trackpad, which removes the need to raise a hand to the screen to adjust the cursor. Of course, it’s only one inch above the keyboard, so it may be easier to just tap the screen. At $299 for the 11-inch and $349 for the 12.9-inch, it’s quite expensive.
The Smart Keyboard Folio is a more reasonable $179, but lacks the fancy magnetic hovering and trackpad. If an iPad has the Smart Connector circles on the back, Apple offers the previous two options. For those with the Smart Connector on the edge, there is the Smart Keyboard at $159. It’s quite similar, but only covers the front when folded. These are not ideal keyboards, but they are quite convenient when traveling, for protecting the iPad, and offer a relatively good typing experience. Apple does also make regular Bluetooth keyboards which will work with an iPad as well, and the Mac version of its Magic Keyboard is a nice option at just $99 (or $129 with a numeric keypad).
Third-Party Bluetooth Keyboards For iPad
Within the Bluetooth keyboard category, there are plenty of folios and clamshell options, replicating what Apple already offers. The clamshell provides a hard shell which may be important to some and Bridge offers a clamshell keyboard that is among the best. This option starts at about $200 for Pro models with trackpad, or $100 without. However, when stepping out of the Apple ecosystem and moving away from the Smart Connector, there is an opportunity to do something different. Embracing the separation of keyboard and screen can allow an experience that is closer to a desktop computer. For example, an iPad can be placed in a stand that is much higher and closer to eye level and create a more comfortable posture for long-term use with a keyboard.
For anyone looking to get some serious work done and aren’t looking for a travel keyboard, a proper Bluetooth solution can be found from Logitech. There are a wide range of multi-device keyboards and suitable for any budget, including the K380 ($40) and K780 ($80). Logitech does have an odd preference for round keys, but some find that better for typing. For those that prefer a mechanical keyboard for its satisfying click and deeper key-travel, Keychron is a popular and well-rated brand that offers Apple-specific options for $60 to $80. This brings up an important note for those shopping for iPad keyboards. iPadOS and apps will expect the use of a command key for copying and pasting (as well as other key combinations) rather than a control key, so be sure to pick an iPad-compatible Bluetooth keyboard.