The best iPad keyboards transform your iPad into a hybrid 2-in-1 laptop. And given how powerful the latest iPads are, that's not to be sneezed at. Admittedly, iPads can't run macOS, so you won't be able to run the exact same software as on a Mac. But when it comes to photo editing, for example, the Photoshop app comes close to the desktop experience, and the iPad version of Affinity Photo is practically the same. So for anyone who works on the move, an iPad keyboard can prove truly useful.
You do have some choices to make, though. Do you prefer a separate keyboard, or a keyboard case for your iPad? The latter will help protect your iPad from damage when you're on the move, while the former gives you more flexibility in where you place your iPad and keyboard on your desk. Also, you'll need to determine which model of iPad you own, as not all of them will be compatible with every keyboard. (See our guide to iPad Generations for more on this).
We'll start with the best iPad cases with keyboards, and then look at the best separate and wireless iPad keyboards.
The best iPad keyboards: cases with a keyboard
Do you have an iPad that's not the 2024 iPad Pro (M4)? Then here's your best choice overall. (If you have invested in this latest and greatest iPad, though, skip to number 2 on our list).
Apple's Magic Keyboard has unique design that allows the iPad to seemingly hover above the keyboard, offering more precise angle adjustments compared to other Apple keyboard cases. Our reviewer, who has used one for three years, highlights its sturdy construction and ability to withstand accidental drops. That said, this durability comes with a significant weight penalty, with the 11-inch version weighing 1.34 pounds, making the combined iPad and keyboard setup quite heavy.
The typing experience is comfortable, featuring a scissor mechanism similar to MacBook Pros and backlit keys. The integrated trackpad, while small, becomes more intuitive with practice, especially once you learn specific iPad gestures. And a notable benefit is the USB-C charging port on the keyboard, which allows for convenient charging and frees up the iPad's USB-C slot.
Despite its strengths, though, the keyboard has some limitations. It lacks function keys, only comes in black and white, and its weight and thickness compromise the iPad's portability.
Earlier this year, Apple's brought out a revamped Magic Keyboard specifically for the 2024 iPad Pro, with its powerful M4 chip. This new model stands out for its stunning design, which closely resembles a MacBook and feels even more refined. It features a unique silver metal and white keycap combination, a slimmer chassis, and a noticeable weight reduction.
Other improvements include a full function key row, which was previously missing, and a larger, more comfortable trackpad with haptic feedback. The trackpad is now nearly silent and offers precise multi-finger gestures. The keyboard's typing experience is comparable to, and in some cases even better than, MacBook keyboards.
At $299 for the 11-inch and $349 for the 13-inch version, this keyboard is pretty darned expensive. But if you want the absolute best for your iPad Pro 2024, then this is it. (If not, our more affordable number one choice will still work fine.)
If Apple's official keyboard cases seem a little overpriced to you, and you have an iPad Pro (12.9 or 11 inch), let us recommend a cheaper alternative, that's nonetheless approved by Apple; they even feature it on their own site.
Logitech's Slim Folio Pro iPad Case connects to your iPad Pro via Bluetooth, features full-sized backlit keys and has storage for the Apple Pencil too. The keys are a little plasticky and don't feel quite as nice as those on the official Apple keyboards. But given the price, we'd say this still represents excellent value.
If you have an entry-level iPad, or an older model of iPad Air and iPad Pro, then Apple also has another keyboard for you to confider.
The Smart Keyboard is the most basic of all the official iPad keyboard cases. Like the Smart Keyboard folio, there's no trackpad or backlighting, and in this case, there's no choice of viewing angles either.
On the plus side, it's cheaper than the other official keyboard cases. The keyboard itself provides a very nice typing experience, it attaches easily and beautifully to your iPad. And overall you get the same high-end build quality you'd expect from any official Apple product.
The best iPad keyboards: wireless keyboards
The Logitech MX Keys Mini is light and compact, making it wonderfully portable. It's easy to set up, and comfortable to use. You can connect it to up to three different devices at once via Bluetooth (including Windows, Android and Chromebook devices as well as iOS ones), and there are dedicated keys to make switching between devices easy.
This keyboard comes in Mac and PC versions, and provides up to 10 days' use on a full charge, and an impressive five months' if you turn off the soft white backlight. That backlight, by the way, turns on when your hands are near, and turns off when not in use. You can also turn it on and off manually.
There are a couple of lovely little touches that shows Logitech has really put thought into this keyboard. Firstly, there are on-off switch toggles between a green and red background, so you can be sure it's on or off. And secondly, there are dedicated keys for dictating notes and selecting emojis.
This isn't necessarily what we'd recommend for constant, 9-5 office work: the keyboard is just a little lightweight for that, plus there's no number pad. Also note that it's slightly raised and so you can't use it flat. Other than that, this is the best accompaniment to an iPad we've found to date.
If you don't want to use a keyboard and iPad separately, but physically join them together, we recommend the Logitech K780. It has a discrete slot at the top for placing your phone or iPad at a right angle.
This can accommodate even the largest iPad, the 12.9-inch iPad Pro. Alternatively, you can use it as a wireless keyboard from up to 10m away, or connect via USB. It connects to your iPad via Bluetooth, and you can connect up to three devices at once, including Windows, Mac OS, Chrome OS, iOS and Android devices, with one-button switching between them and up to three can be simultaneously connected.
It runs off two AAA batteries, which promises up to two years of battery life. It has a number pad and arrow keys. On the negative side, the rounded keys may not to be everyone's taste, and the 2.8-degree incline is fixed.
Looking to save money? Logitech’s K480 keyboard is a great choice. Despite its low price, it has a lot to offer. You can connect to three devices at once, including iPadOS, iOS, macOS, Windows, Android, and Chrome OS ones, switching via them using a handy dial. And if you want to set things up laptop-style, it has a built-in slot to hold your iPad too. It's powered by two AAA batteries, which will keep it going for up to two years.
This is not a premium product: the keyboard feels a little plasticky, typing on the keys quickly gets tiring, and there's no backlight or trackpad. It's completely flat on the desk and doesn't incline. However, given the low cost, these may well be compromises you're willing to make.
Are you planning to use your iPad keyboard on a regular basis, day in, day out? Then you want something sturdy and ergonomic. To ensure you don't succumb to RSI, we'd suggest this well-made, mechanical keyboard, which delivers a beautifully comfortable typing experience.
You can connect to four devices at once: three over Bluetooth and via the included USB-C cable. As well as iPads, Windows, macOS, Linux, Android and iOS devices are all supported. There are two adjustable angled rubber feet, and the backlighting offers more than 15 types of RGB light in different styles (including flashing, breathing, and static white) to match your mood.
