There are times when I don’t want to carry both my MacBook and iPad—especially for tasks I can do on either device. With that in mind, I wanted a keyboard case for my iPad, but decided against investing in one of Apple’s keyboards for these reasons.
Third-party keyboards are cheap
Although I’m a big fan of anything Apple products, its products are expensive enough to burn a hole in my pocket. Since I already own a MacBook and use it for most of my work, I need an iPad keyboard to handle occasional tasks like writing articles or answering emails when I don’t have my MacBook—for example, when I’m in college with just my iPad.
Apple sells two keyboard cases for my 5th-generation iPad Air: the Magic Keyboard and the Smart Keyboard Folio, which cost $299 and $179, respectively. I could justify the price if I relied solely on my iPad, but I can’t justify spending so much on an accessory for a device I use mostly for school and occasionally for work.
That’s when I realized a third-party keyboard would be the ideal solution. It would suit my needs and save me a lot of money. I purchased the Logitech Pebble Keys 2 K380s keyboard for $39.99 from Logitech’s website. You can get it for even cheaper on Amazon for $27.
Ultimately, whether you choose Logitech or another brand, third-party keyboards are usually much cheaper than anything with the Apple name on it. So, you probably shouldn’t waste your money on the Magic Keyboard when there are cheaper options.
Apple’s iPad keyboards aren’t practical
Since I use my iPad primarily for note taking, I’m constantly switching between typing and writing with the Apple Pencil. None of Apple’s keyboards for my iPad Air can be folded all the way back, which means when I want to use my stylus comfortably, they get in the way.
I either have to use it at an angle or fold the keyboard back, which isn’t ideal for long-term use with the Apple Pencil. This meant that there was no way to write comfortably with the Apple Pencil, despite having the option to type.
So, a separate Bluetooth keyboard that I can easily set aside to use the Apple Pencil and bring back when I’m done seemed like a better solution.
Apple’s iPad keyboards don’t offer full protection
The last thing I want is to spend hundreds of dollars repairing or replacing my iPad’s screen because it slipped out of my hand. So the first thing I did when I bought my iPad was buy a case that protected it from every angle.
Apple’s Magic and Smart Keyboard connect directly to the iPad via magnets and the Smart Connector. Ultimately, this comes down to two options for me: either use my iPad without a case or remove my case whenever I want to attach the keyboard. Apple’s keyboards do offer some protection, covering the front and back of the iPad when closed.
However, they offer no protection at all for the exposed edges of the iPad, which is reason enough for me not to feel comfortable using the keyboard as a case. Since I also use a second-generation Apple Pencil that magnetically attaches to the edge of the iPad, I’m putting that at risk as well, since Apple’s keyboard cases offer no protection for the Apple Pencil and unlike most traditional cases, don’t have a latch for it either.
Switching back and forth between the case and Apple’s keyboard seemed like too much of a hassle, so I thought I’d be better off getting a keyboard that connects to my iPad via Bluetooth and doesn’t attach magnetically. Now, I can carry my iPad in my backpack separately from my Bluetooth keyboard!
My keyboard can switch between three devices
If you have a multi-device setup for work, such as a MacBook and iPad, you probably already know that typing on Apple’s iPad keyboard isn’t easy, especially if you have the 11-inch model.
Universal Control allows you to use your Mac’s keyboard and trackpad with your iPad and vice versa, but if you’re a Windows PC user, you don’t have any options. However, the Logitech Pebble Keys 2 have Easy-Switch buttons that let you switch between three devices with just one press. This makes it extremely convenient to seamlessly go from your laptop to iPad and even your phone.
When deciding which iPad keyboard case is right for you, it’s important to consider your needs, budget, and comfort. If you’re using your iPad as a replacement for your MacBook, don’t use a stylus, and your primary use is typing, you can justify the cost of Apple’s iPad keyboard. Otherwise, I recommend getting a separate Bluetooth keyboard.