The new overhauled design, USB-C, the ProMotion display, and overall versatility made me fall in love with the iPad Pro. And finally, I always recommend a screen protector, which is anywhere from $20 to $60, depending on the brand and type. So for an entry-level 12.9-inch iPad Pro setup, you are going to be spending around $1600, and that only gives you 128GB of storage and 8GB of RAM. The story with these accessories was usually the same: They could get you 70% to 80% of the way there, but they couldn’t fully replace what Apple gave us. For the Apple pencil alternatives, their lack of wireless magnetic charging was always a turnoff, and for Magic Keyboards, it was the trackpad experience. They were able to get us 99% of the Apple experience at less than one-third of the price, which opens the iPad to many more people.
There are a few Apple Pencil alternatives that are functionally great, but you need to remember to charge them with a USB-C cable every so often. Works with Apple Pencil functions like Scribble, shape sensing, screenshots, and quick notes
I was extremely impressed with the functionality, how easy it was to connect, and how well it works with iPadOS, so I couldn’t recommend this more.
It has been so tough to be able to replace the magic keyboard, and the primary reason is the trackpad experience. Gestures end up being hit or miss, and the experience just isn’t great. On top of that, the keyboard is also awesome for the price: It’s got great key travel and has a function row.
Also, the hinge of this keyboard gives you just a bit more viewing angles, and the materials are very similar. Lastly, they were able to get precise with the trackpad experience by adjusting your accessibility settings. Then you get yourself a $35 Pencil Pro, a $99 iPad Keyboard case, and a $19 magnetic screen protector. So using a magnetic version that can be easily removed and applied multiple times, is a must for those people. But it always hurt me to have to recommend a MacBook Air to people over an iPad just because of that price-to-performance ratio. But now, with companies making much better iPad accessory alternatives, the argument has started to shift a bit.
I replaced my iPad Pro’s Magic Keyboard with a cheaper alternative — and it was a huge mistake
Sleek, sturdy and boasting keys that are a pleasure to type on, pairing the official Magic Keyboard with my iPad Pro was a joy. I like to think I have a fairly decent vocabulary — but writing articles without said letters would prove as challenging as trying to scale Everest with chopsticks instead of pitons.
With its ‘Floating Cantilever’ design, it does a decent job of recreating the Magic Keyboard’s biggest aesthetic party trick. Though wireless pairing isn’t really a problem, this third-party board goes into idle mode fairly quickly, which leads to responsiveness issues.
Say you’re happily watching one of the best Netflix movies on your iPad Pro and suddenly decide you want to Google the name of that actor you kind of recognize but can’t put a name to. Both tablet and keyboard need to be charged separately, which means double the leads and more clutter on my already cable-strewn living room floor.
While I can’t back this up with hard data, my experience of switching from the Magic Keyboard to a third-party alternative has seemingly resulted in all-round poorer battery life. Dracool’s peripheral is fine, but it can’t hold a candle to Apple’s official Magic Keyboard. Using Apple’s tablet in a sunny, south-facing room, I normally need high brightness settings; a demand my iPad Pro’s battery paired with the Magic Keyboard could rise to. Now that I’ve gone the unofficial route, I find my tablet runs out of gas a whole lot sooner without its official board attached. When you’ve experienced Apple’s official peripherals at their peerless ‘they just work’ best though, any downgrade, no matter how small, is all too keenly felt. In this case though, going the more expensive official route leads to a demonstrably better user experience that feels worth the extra cash injection.
The best Magic Keyboard alternatives available in November 2023
And that’s why we’ve created this guide for you: we’ve been testing these products for both iPad and Mac over the years and have compiled a range of options for you. Why you can trust Creative Bloq Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you.
15 Best iPad Magic Keyboard Alternatives 2023
Tablets are convenient products that have interestingly found their segment/space between mobile devices and laptops. The most sought-after and popular tablet in the global market is the Apple iPad Pro. And while its useful nature is subjective, we can all agree that an Apple iPad Pro with a keyboard can make all our lives much easier.
The Magic keyboard for the iPad Pro was released earlier in April this year and is simply stunning to use.
And to be honest you can find amazing alternatives that offer pretty much the same tech for a much cheaper price. After reviewing over 100 iPad keyboard alternatives based on various factors like ergonomics, sensitivity, connectivity, and functionality.
This ergonomically designed iPad Magic keyboard alternative has an extremely soft and sensitive set of keys that elevates the user’s typing experience. There are numerous keyboards available online to purchase that make using a tab, especially an iPad Pro all the more convenient.
From Logitech to Arteck, we’ll take you through the best alternatives to the iPad Magic keyboard. Not only does it have an amazingly ergonomic body but it also has a brilliant battery life that can last for an entire month on a single charge. While it is ergonomic and extremely comfortable to use, people with larger hands might find it difficult as it is quite small in size. Unlike the majority of the keyboard one this list this peripheral only costs around $21.99 which is quite amazing for the level performance it offers.
Amazing Battery life: As mentioned earlier this beauty can last for 30 days on a single charge. Sliding stand: This keyboard is designed to not only save space but also to elevate the iPad to a good viewing angle.
The Keyboard case is light and provides adequate protection to the iPad Pro while it is tucked away in your backpack.
Anyone who needs a keyboard case with a touchpad that can also protect your iPad and Apple Pencil will be delighted with this.
Infinite Viewing Angles: The Typecase Touch iPad Keyboard is quite lightweight and flexible. This do-it-all Magic Keyboard alternative can type, protect and point thanks to the included trackpad. XIWMIX is a company that solely specializes in Apple accessories, primarily for the iPad. The Ultra Slim case for the iPad Pro 11” 2021 has precise cutouts allowing full access to speakers, camera and other ports. The Ultra Slim case also provides maximum protection and convenience for your iPad. There is a stable scissors mechanism structure under each button, which is very smooth when pressed and rebounds quickly. Simply attach the iPad to the case and it then automatically senses the need to turn the device on or put it to sleep. If you want something that looks and feels similar to the original Magic Keyboard, then this one with backlit is a good deal.
The Logitech K380 is a multi-device Bluetooth keyboard that is compatible with all computing devices including the iPad Pro. This wireless feature and the massive range offers an unprecedented amount of convenience.
Multi-Device Bluetooth – The K380 has 3 pairing channels that allow the user to switch between connected devices at the tap of a button. Most importantly, this is a universal keyboard that can be used on all computing devices like windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Chrome OS, and even Apple TV.
Basically, any Bluetooth-enabled device that supports external keyboards with HID profile. It’s easy to carry it around and it still offers both an iOS and windows style keyboard experience.
Anyone who wants to connect and switch between multiple devices and have an excellent typing experience should choose this for their iPad. Here comes the Keychron K3, a Bluetooth-enabled mechanical keyboard with a low profile that can be used with iOS and macOS.
The Keychron K3’s keyboard has mechanical or optical switches for superior typing performance: It is accurate, tactile, and responsive. To customize the keystrokes to your preferences, you may choose from a variety of switch types that differ in pressure, sound, and feel. All the necessary keys, including Command, are pre-fitted because it is made to function with Apple applications, and all the keyboard shortcuts work without a hitch. It doesn’t require any additional software or apps; all you need to do is set up the Bluetooth connection for it to function.
An individual who works frequently on their tablet may find it appealing due to the excellent typing experience and the opportunity to customize it with numerous switches. When we were looking into iPad cases earlier, we came across some more fantastic goods that the ESR brand is producing. It competes directly with Apple Magic Keyboard and offers similar features. Use the trackpad, keyboard, and Apple Pencil, and magnetically attach your iPad to the device.
A magnetic flap that covers the Apple Pencil when you’re on the go reduces the likelihood that you’ll lose it, which is another feature that set them apart. A Mini laptop – This Bluetooth keyboard doubles as a screen protector and a viewing stand. Simply put the iPad pro into the stylish leather case and instantly give your iPad Pro a keyboard and a protective case that also acts as a stand for easy viewing and typing. Conveniently Secure – A built-in leather case allows the iPad Pro to stand up to 130 degrees to provide the most comfortable viewing position for typing or viewing photos and movies.
The leather stylish case offers full protection for the iPad Pro. Auto wake and sleep – Besides activating the iPad Pro’s Auto sleep-wake function to instantly wake your iPad Pro when you open the cover and send it to sleep mode when you close it.
The Touch Combo is a wireless keyboard with a trackpad that was designed specifically for the iPad Pro. The trackpad has inbuilt high precision sensors that use multi-finger gesture controls to make the user experience better.
Available with multiple user modes, this touch combo provides complete protection for the iPad Pro. – The keyboard case allows you to erect the iPad Pro in various modes for different experiences based on what application is being used.
This keyboard provides a fairly comfortable typing experience with multicolored lighting. Powered by a Li-Polymer battery, the life time on a single charge is approximately 6 months.
Cross-Platform Compatibility – The HB030B can connect with all the 4 major operating systems; iOS, Android, Mac OS and Windows Anyone who wants just a keyboard that can connect and offer a good typing experience for your iPad.
Originally founded in 2012, Brydge has been ruling the North American market with their wireless keyboards for Apple devices. The hinges allow for unrestricted viewing angles from 0-180° and are tested to fit securely to your iPad Pro. A premium competitor to the iPad Magic Keyboard, the Brydge Pro + is priced at $229.99. Adjustable Backlit Keys – The keyboard features 3 levels of backlight settings making it ideal for any time of the day. The Keyboard case is available for the Apple 2021/2018 iPad Pro 11“comes in 3 variants, black, blue and gold. With a QWERTY Layout and the hotkeys customised for iPads, Including Volume, Music Control, Brightness etc, with a mute and sleek design, gives you a skin-like touch feeling and provides all-day comfort for work and entertainment.
If you want a functional and practical keyboard that doubles as a case and a pencil holder while being affordable, then this one will be perfect for you. The backlit keys on the Slim Folio Pro allow the user to type at any point of the day or night without having to strain their eyes.
The lightweight material and magnetic fastening keep the iPad safe from drops and spills. Logitech’s answer to the original Magic Keyboard is an amazing choice for people who want a robust and functional alternative while not costing as much.
The Touchpad Keyboard Case for iPad Pro 12.9 2021 4th Generation by Levit is a keyboard that has a sensitive built-in touchpad for easy scrolling, as well as well-made keys and shortcuts for fast typing. The built-in touchpad allows you to navigate and control the cursor like a laptop, no need to touch the screen or use an additional mouse.
Looking for a laptop-like experience for your iPad, then this will fit your needs well thanks to the integrated touchpad and swiveling hinge design. With an amazing battery life of one year and a lightweight design, the Zagg Slimbook Go is one of the Best iPad Magic Keyboard Alternatives on the market.
Not only is it easy to carry it around but the streamlined design also helps it fit in compact bags and backpacks. Multi-Device Compatibility: This Magic Keyboard Alternative can pair with two devices simultaneously. Long battery life: You can expect to type on this keyboard for up to a year on a single charge. A simple yet functional keyboard and case combo that will fancy people who want a good typing experience in a portable package.
A keyboard case is a convenient option making the overall experience feel more laptop-like. However, if you’re just surfing the web, watching movies, or simply replying to some emails, a less expensive keyboard without all the features is all you’ll need. In fact, it’s increasingly hard to choose a good one as there is a lot of manufacturers that use sub-par materials that decrease the longevity of the keyboard drastically.
A Magic Keyboard Alternative doesn’t have to look like the original to provide you with an exceptional user experience.
You should look beyond the obvious features such as lightweight and ergonomic build and focus on the keyboard that offers angle adjustments and a multi-touch trackpad. It’d be great if the keyboard comes with function keys and shortcuts to make your life easier.
For example, if you refer to our table at the beginning of the article, you’d notice that we’ve broken down the Best Magic Keyboard by sub-category. Magic keyboard alternatives might all be similar in their basic function, but differ when it comes to certain factors.
It can have a highly adjustable sliding stand and a comfortable keyboard that can support your typing activity. Additionally, the battery life is quite decent as it can last for about 30 days on a single charge. If you want to use an Apple Magic Keyboard (for Macs) with your iPad, then follow these steps, Note: If your Magic Keyboard is already paired with another device, you must unpair it before you can connect it to your iPad.
Brands like HENGHUI, Brydge Pro, and Logitech have some amazing alternatives that are true value for money. My favorite is the Logitech Combo Touch for iPad, which is just as good as Apple’s Magic Keyboard at a lower price. My favorite is the Logitech Combo Touch for iPad, which is just as good as Apple’s Magic Keyboard at a lower price.
6 iPad Magic Keyboard Alternatives (Top-Picks)
You’ve got a selection of 6 alternatives, all of which come at a lower price point, with different designs, colors, and features. It has a trackpad, just like the iPad Magic Keyboard, that is responsive to touch gestures(scroll, zoom, click, etc.) Unlike the iPad Magic Keyboard, this one has an Apple Pencil cover that adds security and minimizes the chances of losing your pen. Keys: 78 Weight: 20.25oz (574g), 27.51oz (779g) Trackpad: Yes Color: Gray, Sand Bluetooth: No Smart Connectors: Yes Keyboard Layouts: US, UK, ES, DE, RU, DK, FR, etc.
One of the most popular alternatives to the Magic Keyboard for iPads – is the Logitech Combo Touch. At the rear, it features a convenient kickstand, accompanied by a set of functional keys on the keyboard that allow you to effortlessly control volume, adjust brightness, initiate searches, and more.
This keyboard is your all-in-one solution for typing, browsing, and reading, effectively transforming your device into a laptop, sort of. While I haven’t tested it personally, I’d feel more confident about my iPad’s safety if it were inside the Logitech Combo rather than the Magic Keyboard.
Available in a variety of languages, including English (US, UK), Spanish, French, Russian, Danish, Norwegian, Swedish, Italian and more. Overall, it’s a very well-built keyboard that looks good and offers multiple viewing angles, with solid typing experience and a trackpad. If I think about the longevity of this keyboard, it’s heavy, it has a battery life that can run out, and the cursor is a bit laggy. Keys: 78 Weight: 19.7oz (558g), 24oz (680g) Trackpad: Yes Color: Black, Rose Gold, Raspberry, White, Navy Blue, etc.
Keys: 78 Weight: Depending on the model Trackpad: Comes with and without Color: Gray Bluetooth: Yes Smart Connectors: No Keyboard Layouts: US, UK, IT, DE, FR, etc. Besides the option to choose it with or without a trackpad, there are several differences if you compare it to the iPad Magic Keyboard.
If you are going to choose a Zagg keyboard with a trackpad you will also be able to use gestures on your iPad(zoom, click, scroll, etc.) Keys: 78 Weight: – Trackpad: Yes Color: Black, Silver, Pink Bluetooth: Yes Smart Connectors: No Keyboard Layouts: US Backlight: Yes, RGB
OHNI Touch Keyboard offers wider compatibility with Apple iPad devices. Besides the wide compatibility options, it’s also the cheapest iPad Magic Keyboard alternative.
This feature proves useful, especially when you’re watching a movie on your iPad and the keyboard’s position becomes distracting. I think we can all agree that Apple products are expensive, and finding a good alternative isn’t that easy. Comes with a stylish design, the keys are great, and you even have the option to buy the keyboards together with their digital pencil for $265.
7 Best Magic Keyboard Alternatives in 2023 (Nov)
Some reasons could be their sleek design or their lightweight build which makes them convenient to carry with you on trips. Regardless of what your reasons are, we’ve compiled a list of the best Magic Keyboard alternatives to offer you a varied range of features and prices which you may find more suitable. This keyboard alternative is highly compatible with iPad Pro 12.9 inch and also models which includes: Pros Cons ➕ Ergonomic and ensures your iPad is safe, perfect for traveling and work. Sale 919 Reviews typecase Touch Keyboard Case for iPad Pro 12.9-6th Generation – 2022 – Touchpad, 360° Rotatable,… If you’re looking to complete your modern desk space while working, the Satechi Slim X3 Bluetooth Backlit Keyboard might just be what you need.
Designed with simplicity and functionality in mind, this keyboard is tailor-made for Mac users. It’s a perfect fit for your Apple devices, blending seamlessly with your Mac setup. With an extended layout that includes a numeric keypad, it offers convenience for tasks that require number input.
This implies that you can seamlessly transition from working on your Mac to your iPhone or iPad with a simple press of a button. While the battery life varies depending on your usage and backlighting settings, you can rest easy knowing that you can keep your keyboard running with minimal downtime. After 30 minutes of inactivity, the keyboard will enter sleep mode to save battery power.
It includes macOS function keys, making it easier than ever to perform common tasks on your Mac. Whether you’re adjusting screen brightness, controlling media playback, or accessing other shortcuts, you’ll find these function keys to be a real time-saver. Pros Cons ➕ Good typing feel ➖ Short battery life ➕ Supports up to 4 Bluetooth connections ➕ Floating cantilever design. Satechi Slim X3 Bluetooth Backlit Keyboard with Numeric Keypad – Illuminated Keys & Multi-Device… OPTIMIZED FOR MAC – designed for Apple users in mind, the Slim X3 Bluetooth Backlit Keyboard features an extended keyboard layout with numeric pad, navigational arrows, and MacOS function keys for a…
A MODERN UPGRADE – features a sleek, aluminum finish to complement your Apple devices and low-profile, responsive keys for a comfortable typing experience. The Logitech Craft Advanced Wireless Keyboard is a unique and handy tool for your computer tasks.
With the Logitech Options software, you can assign specific functions or shortcuts to the F-keys and control various things with The Crown. The keys are stable, which means they don’t make a lot of noise, and they respond quickly to your touch. Logitech even designed them to feel natural and accurate, so you won’t miss a key or a beat. Another cool feature is that you can connect this keyboard to up to three different devices, whether they run on Windows or Mac. Pros Cons ➕ Surface Dial-like knob boosts productivity ➖ Bulky ➕ Comfortable typing keys Sale Logitech Craft Advanced Wireless Keyboard with Creative Input Dial and Backlit Keys, Dark grey and…
The Crown is a tactile aluminium dial that adapts to the app you’re using – giving you instant control of the tool you need. Install profiles in Logitech Options to enhance the Crown for use with Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Premiere Pro, InDesign, as well as Microsoft PowerPoint, Excel and Word. Use the Crown to adjust your work, the mouse to navigate and the keyboard to type with precision.
With this Magic Keyboard alternative, you can have a comfortable typing experience with a full-size layout.
The design of the Macally Premium Magic Keyboard alternative is ultra-slim and perfect. This keyboard alternative has a cordless low profile design that typically transforms your workspace into a small and clean layout. COMFORTABLE TYPING WITH FULL SIZE LAYOUT – This bluetooth keyboard for mac features scissor switch keycaps (laptop style) for the ultimate responsive touch and quiet typing, 21 shortcut keys preset to… The Logitech MX is a Magic Keyboard alternative that is optimized for Mac OS and iPad.
One of the coolest features of this Magic Keyboard is that you can customize the Fn keys according to your specific creative workflow.
With this Logitech Magic Keyboard alternative, you can work on multiple computers under one flow. Pros Cons ➕ Full charge lasts up to 10 days – or up to 5 months ➖ Disconnects randomly. The design of the Keychron K8 is based on ergonomics that provide comfortable angles for typing and reduce discomfort.
Another feature of this keyboard is that it contains extra keycaps for both Windows and Mac operating systems. If you are looking for an ultimate productive accessory, you can purchase the Zagg Pro keys with a trackpad. The new pro keyframe design provides optimal key travel for clean and precise keystrokes.
With Zagg Pro keys, you can transform your iPad or a tablet into a lightweight portable workstation.
Magic Keyboards automatically get paired with Macs and iPads that help you get to work right away. Magic Keyboards also contain a trackpad that provides a user with new ways to work with any operating system.
All you have to do to make this work is simply hold your iPad up against the back cover and it snaps and automatically aligns into place. Smart connectors are one of the features that make Magic Keyboards stand out from the crowd.
The bottom of Magic Keyboards is usually flat which makes them convenient, sleek, and comfortable to use. Once your iPad is connected to the Magic Keyboard, the backlight will automatically engage depending on the ambient light in your location. You can choose to purchase from the list of best Magic Keyboard alternatives presented to you, and let us know your experience through the comments.
The Best iPad Pro Keyboard Cases
If you type for any length of time on an iPad Pro, or hope to ditch a second computer entirely, a great keyboard case can turn your tablet into a true laptop replacement. In addition to a great typing experience, the Zagg Pro Keys offers some benefits that other keyboard cases don’t. Dedicated iPadOS function keys provide quick access to commonly used features, and an Apple Pencil holder lets you easily carry the stylus around. The 4.4-by-2.3-inch glass trackpad set beneath the keyboard is as smooth as anything else we’ve tested and provides full support for Apple’s multitouch gestures.
It combines fantastic keys, an excellent glass trackpad, and a highly adjustable screen in a slim package.
Be First to Comment