The best alternatives to Apple's Magic Keyboard for iPad

AppleInsiderAppleInsider
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in iPad

Apple's Magic Keyboard is probably the most popular choice for users looking for an iPad keyboard, but its premium price tag and specific feature set can be off-putting. Fortunately, there are other excellent options.

Mechanical keyboard and two tablet devices with stands and external keyboards on an abstract colorful background.
The best Magic Keyboard alternatives for iPad



Whether you need a keyboard with detachable versatility, rugged durability, superior connectivity, ergonomic comfort, or affordability, our selection has you covered. Here are some alternate iPad keyboards that we like.

ESR Rebound Magnetic Keyboard Case



The ESR Rebound Magnetic Keyboard Case design includes a magnetic stand that easily aligns and supports the iPad in a floating position for comfortable typing and browsing. The back case is removable for different viewing preferences, offering a hands-on tablet experience while protecting the device.

Three tablet devices with keyboards and styluses on white background, two in upright position and one lying flat.
ESR Rebound Magnetic Keyboard Case



The setup can be adjusted for raised or portrait viewing to improve posture during prolonged use or for better interaction during video calls. The trackpad supports multi-touch gestures, similar to Apple's keyboard. The case connects to the iPad via Bluetooth, offering flexibility and ease of setup.

The ESR Rebound Magnetic Keyboard Case is designed to be compatible with the 11-inch iPad Air models from 2024, 2022, and 2020 and the 11-inch iPad Pro models from 2022, 2021, 2020, and 2018.

It's available to purchase for $159.99 from Amazon and may sometimes be found on sale.

Logitech Combo Touch Keyboard Case



The Logitech Combo Touch Keyboard Case for the iPad Pro supports multiple modes: typing, viewing, sketching, and reading. With its detachable design and backlit keys, it's ready to adapt to your needs, whether you're working, studying, or relaxing.

A modern tablet with attached keyboard stand on a white background, showcasing a colorful abstract wallpaper on its screen.
Logitech Combo Touch Keyboard Case



The case offers comprehensive protection for the iPad's front, back, and corners while allowing access to all ports. It includes up to 16 levels of adjustable backlighting and a complete row of iPadOS shortcut keys for enhanced functionality.

The Logitech Combo Touch Keyboard Case is available starting at $229.99.

ZAGG Pro Keys Detachable Case & Wireless Keyboard



The ZAGG Pro Keys Case and Wireless Keyboard for the iPad Pro and iPad Air enhance productivity by transforming the tablet into a versatile workstation. It features a detachable keyboard that connects via Bluetooth, allowing for multi-device pairing and seamless switching between devices.

Tablet displaying colorful cityscape artwork attached to a keyboard on a white background.
ZAGG Pro Keys Detachable Case & Wireless Keyboard



The keyboard case is notable for its ergonomic design with backlit, laptop-style keys that facilitate comfortable typing in various lighting conditions. Additionally, it boasts robust protection with 6.6 feet drop resistance and includes a holder for the Apple Pencil.

The ZAGG Pro Keys Case and Wireless Keyboard is available to purchase for $109.99.

UAG Rugged Bluetooth Keyboard



The UAG Rugged Bluetooth Detachable Keyboard for the iPad 10.9" (10th Gen, 2022) offers an enhanced typing and navigation experience with its backlit, laptop-style keys and a spacious multi-touch trackpad that supports gestures. It connects to the iPad and other devices via Bluetooth, allowing users to pair with up to two devices simultaneously and switch between them effortlessly.

A tablet with attached keyboard and rugged case displayed at an angled view with a wallpaper of a vehicle on a dirt road.
UAG Rugged Bluetooth Keyboard



The setup is encased in a rugged, tactical grip cover with high-level drop protection and a built-in Apple Pencil holder. The keyboard's long-lasting rechargeable battery ensures extended use, with up to 180 hours of battery life per charge.

The UAG Rugged Bluetooth Detachable Keyboard is available through ZAGG or from Amazon for $139.95.

Keychron K2 Version 2



The Keychron K2 Version 2 is a versatile wireless mechanical keyboard that can connect via Bluetooth 5.1 or a USB Type-C cable, supporting easy switching between up to three devices. It's designed for various operating systems, including macOS, Windows, and iOS, making it highly adaptable for different work settings.

A mechanical keyboard with a highlighted escape key and a close-up of a switch. Additional keycaps are shown below.
Keychron K2 Version 2



The keyboard features durable Gateron G Pro switches available in three types -- Blue, Brown, and Red -- providing options for different typing preferences. The K2 includes an impressive battery life, capable of running up to 240 hours on a single charge with the backlight off. It also features an adjustable RGB backlight for enhanced visibility in various lighting conditions.

The Keychron K2 Version 2 is available from Keychron or through Amazon for $79.99.

Logitech MX Keys S Keyboard



The Logitech MX Keys S Keyboard offers wireless and wired connectivity options. It connects via Bluetooth and can easily switch between up to three devices, supporting a broad range of operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Linux, ChromeOS, and iPadOS.

The keyboard features spherically-dished keys for precision typing and smart illumination, which adjusts backlighting based on ambient lighting conditions. Additionally, it provides comfort and durability with its low-profile design and is powered by USB-C.

A slim white wireless keyboard with gray accents on a pure white background.
Logitech MX Keys S Keyboard



Logitech says it lasts up to 10 days of battery life on a single charge or up to 5 months with the backlight off. It's available for $109.99.



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Comments

  • Reply 1 of 7
    Anilu_777Anilu_777 Posts: 572member
    What about Brydge? I’ve used their Bluetooth keyboard for years on my current iPad. 
  • Reply 2 of 7
    DAalsethDAalseth Posts: 2,983member
    Anilu_777 said:
    What about Brydge? I’ve used their Bluetooth keyboard for years on my current iPad. 
    They’re gone. Folded a year ago. I’ve got a Brydge for my 12” iPP and I like it. 

    EDIT: N/M I just looked to see if I could find an article about their demise, and it looks like they were able to come back and are still in business. Gotta say I’m very surprised
    edited May 15
  • Reply 3 of 7
    apple4thewinapple4thewin Posts: 242member
    Imagine after 5 months of usage, you are using the keyboard and the next thing you know it runs out of charge. I can see people think that the keyboard broke 😂.
    DAalseth
  • Reply 4 of 7
    lwr32lwr32 Posts: 2member
    How about the Doqo keyboard hub keyboard? It even has a place for an SSD and mini SSD card .

    https://www.doqo.shop/collections/ipad-pro-keyboards/products/doqo-3-2022
  • Reply 5 of 7
    zeus423zeus423 Posts: 264member
    I have an old white Apple wireless keyboard. Am I correct to presume it will connect to an iPad?
  • Reply 6 of 7
    fred1fred1 Posts: 1,131member
    I’d love to find something like the Magic Keyboard (attaches magnetically, very thin) for the iPad Mini. Are there any?
  • Reply 7 of 7
    MplsPMplsP Posts: 4,007member
    DAalseth said:
    Anilu_777 said:
    What about Brydge? I’ve used their Bluetooth keyboard for years on my current iPad. 
    They’re gone. Folded a year ago. I’ve got a Brydge for my 12” iPP and I like it. 

    EDIT: N/M I just looked to see if I could find an article about their demise, and it looks like they were able to come back and are still in business. Gotta say I’m very surprised
    Happy to see they came back - I got my wife a Brydge keyboard for her ipad and she loved it. It worked flawlessly for 5 years until one of the keys finally broke. Had to get another brand to replace it. :(
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