Apple Magic Keyboard review for iPad Pro and Air users

Description

An Elegant and Functional Design

Using the Apple Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro and iPad Air feels like stepping into a world where form truly meets function. The floating cantilever design is not just visually stunning but also incredibly practical. It allows the iPad to magnetically attach and then be adjusted effortlessly to the perfect viewing angle. I found myself frequently tilting it during use, whether for typing emails or watching videos, and it never felt flimsy or insecure. The sleek black finish adds a premium look that complements the iPad perfectly, though it does tend to attract fingerprints. The front and back protection is a nice touch, especially for someone like me who tends to toss their iPad into a bag without much thought. However, the sturdy design does make it slightly heavier than I expected.

A Typing Experience That Stands Out

I can’t overstate how satisfying the typing experience is on this keyboard case. The keys are backlit, which made typing in dim light much easier for me. They offer a tactile, responsive quality reminiscent of a high-end laptop keyboard. Typing out long documents or even casual social media posts felt natural and smooth, and I rarely made typos. The trackpad integration is another standout feature; it’s incredibly precise and makes navigating through iPadOS feel more intuitive. I especially appreciated the multi-touch gestures like swiping between apps or pinching to zoom. However, the compact layout might be a bit of an adjustment for those used to full-sized keyboards.

Highlights

• Floating cantilever design provides effortless iPad attachment and adjustment.
• Backlit keys enhance usability in low-light environments.
• Responsive typing experience comparable to premium laptops.
• Integrated trackpad with precise multi-touch gestures.

Downsides

The Apple Magic Keyboard isn’t without its imperfections.

• The overall weight adds noticeable bulk to the iPad, making it less portable.
• Limited compatibility, as it only works with certain iPad models.
• The lack of additional function keys like volume or brightness adjustment feels restrictive.

Built-In Trackpad: A Game-Changer

The addition of a trackpad to this keyboard is a major selling point. It opens up a whole new way to interact with your iPad, bringing it closer to a traditional laptop experience. I particularly enjoyed using it for text selection and editing, which can be cumbersome on a touchscreen. The gestures are fluid, and the trackpad size is just right—not too cramped but not overly large either. That said, I did find myself accidentally triggering gestures a few times, but this is something that improves with use.

Compatibility and Target Audience

This keyboard case is designed for the iPad Pro 11-inch (1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th generations) as well as the iPad Air (4th and 5th generation). If you don’t own one of these models, you’re out of luck, which could be a dealbreaker for some. However, for those with a compatible iPad, this accessory elevates the device to a whole new level. It’s ideal for professionals who want to use their iPad for productivity tasks or students who need a portable yet powerful typing solution.

Other Options

While the Apple Magic Keyboard offers a premium experience, there are some compelling alternatives. The Logitech Combo Touch is a close competitor, featuring a detachable keyboard and an adjustable kickstand. It’s also lighter and more budget-friendly, but the build quality doesn’t match Apple’s. The Brydge Pro+ is another option, boasting a similar design with a larger trackpad, but it lacks backlit keys. Compared to these, the Apple Magic Keyboard excels in design and trackpad precision, though it comes at a higher price point.

Financial Value

The premium price tag is something to consider, but in my opinion, the Apple Magic Keyboard delivers value for the cost if you’re looking for a versatile and high-quality keyboard case. It combines style, functionality, and build quality in a way that few competitors can match. However, if you only need a basic keyboard or are on a tight budget, there are other options that may suit your needs better.

The Apple Magic Keyboard is a joy to use and transforms the iPad into a productivity powerhouse, but its weight and limited compatibility might not be for everyone.

Additional information