iPad's Magic Keyboard vs Magic Keyboard Folio: Shockingly Weird Differences

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[@marksuter1983]

I love the floating keyboard. My only complaint is that it’s so heavy

[@richarddcrossley]

As someone who has the Logitech combo touch for 10.5 iPad Pro and a surface go with keyboard I do prefer the iPad Pro Magic Keyboard. I miss the function keys but it’s actually usable in smaller areas like a plane/train and especially some lecture halls chairs with small attached tables. Even the surface go took up a fair bit of space and you are always worried the kick stand will fall off the back! Plus you can use iPad Magic Keyboard on your lap.

[@richarddcrossley]

@@arcana1973 I haven't been to the US for a while but I did notice the planes have more space to accommodate larger individuals (which appreciate as I'm 6ft 2 but know that's small there!) Flying around Europe the tray tables and seats are tiny as they ram in extra seats to try make cash 😂

[@Streamlined955]

I have both and prefer the Logitech. I love being able to prop up my iPad anywhere around the house. The Magic Keyboard is such a niche use case. It’s basically just for typing.

[@Ciboulon]

@@Streamlined955exactly 😊 this is why I love my Magic Keyboard case : It’s so easy to put the iPad Pro on it to type then to remove it (and put it in the Smart Folio) for other usages 🤩 this is the magic of the iPad versatility

[@picnicphoto]

My magic is starting to split at the very front corner edges of the keyboard-and I really like the Magic. I do use mine in my lap all the time so that’s important that it is possible to use that way. Think I’ve decided to let it get really bad before I replace it. I have an M1 12.9.

[@richarddcrossley]

@@picnicphoto if you have Apple care and got it at same time as the iPad the accessories are covered too just in case you do!

[@elliottonyt]

I’m a mini user of both iPad and iPhone. With the iPhone I use the swipe to type keyboard. This would be a cool dedicated integration in an iOS update if you could elect to have iPhone as an additional keyboard option when using iPad.

[@LeahDykema]

Just signed up for the course! Love the video!

[@alexisschiffer4830]

I bought the iPad Air 5 for the start of this school semester for taking notes in university classes. I was so confused when I saw classmates also using iPads to take notes but their keyboard looked different from mine. Thanks for explaining the situation.

[@sray9714]

Thank you, you really helped me to decide.

[@CookieCft]

I was just looking for one of these videos, thanks

[@louritter2809]

Having recently gone through this evaluation for 12.9” 2021 M1 iPad Pro, I can offer a few points. I did first purchase the Logitech Combo touch, and wanted to like it (fabric, slightly lighter weight, function keys, etc.), but returned it. It was painfully frustrating to open, Magic Keyboard is much easier to open. I also often use on a glass table - the kickstand would frequently slide and flatten. I did not try the newer folio style from Apple, which only recently released. I did replace the Logitech with Apple Magic Keyboard (open box buy saved some $s). It is easier to open, still needs two hands but does open much easier, and it is a bit heavier. Obviously, as you mentioned, it lacks the function keys - but Control Panel has most and that is just a finger swipe( or trackpad click) away. It is MUCH more stable, as you clearly mention, and the backlit keys may be the best I’ve seen yet - minimal, to almost none, light bleed surrounding the keys - pretty much light only comes through the actual “letters” on the individual keys (which I Love, love, love). I did also get a Pitaka case for the iPad when off the Magic Keyboard case. I also found two sort of “hacks” for writing/drawing on iPad while using the Magic Keyboard case: 1) has more angle, slide the iPad off the magnetic backing and lower it to align the lower edge of the iPad to the ridge/lip just below the keys and just above the trackpad, laying the upper edge of the iPad against the magnetic back (does not magnetically grab) - this is stable and works well. 2) turn the entire Magic Keyboard case upside down so that the keys are perpendicular and facing you, and slide an iPhone (or other cellphone) into the gap between the iPad and keyboard keys (to prevent the iPad/magnetic-back from flattening); this too is stable, less angle and works well. Granted, you clearly point out different iPad sizes are also a factor, as is price. For me, Apple Magic Keyboard case is what works for “me”, and I also like the height of the iPad on it, how it brings the iPad a bit closer to me, and also the orientation for use with MBP and sidecar. Overall, I think it is all subjective - to each user’s preferences and needs. There are also some other areas I find some savings to offset some of the price difference; the pencil, there are several 3rd party options that offer pretty much the exact same functionality as Apple Pencil - only found two differences (other than 1/5 the price): while they magnetically sit on iPad, no magnetic charge (requires cable) and no tap-pencil for erase, which is just a tap on the erase function on the screen - so $25 vs $125 is an easy compromise. Pitaka is also doing something interesting, while proprietary, Pitaka does use the 3-dots (Magic and Logitech use) to extend those connections into their own version of a MagSafe type charge function in the center of the Pitaka case back (uses either the Pitaka charge stand and/or Pitaka charge disc - both “wireless” to the iPad, even though both have their own wire to AC as does any other MagSafe). I did not get this option, as I use my iPad mostly in the Magic Keyboard case, but I did get the Pitaka for edge protection while in the Magic Keyboard case, and overall protection when off the Magic. Pitaka iPad case does leave one iPad edge exposed, so Magic Keyboard can close - but while in the Magic case, that edge is covered (against the Magic hinge) and only exposed when off the Magic Keyboard case. Yeah, its a lot to digest, and it certainly IS all subjective to the user’s preferences and needs; all considered, I found Magic better serves “my” preferences and needs. Each will find their own, just hope these points become helpful to others wrestling with these decisions.

[@howardeastin1474]

I chose the Magic Keyboard in the end for my iPad Pro 12.9 for a few reasons. Before arriving to the Magic Keyboard I did try some alternatives. Alternative 1. The Folio touch keyboard from Logitech. What I did not like about the Logitech was the bulk added to the iPad. The iPad 12.9 is already a big tablet, and to add anything that adds bulk just makes the iPad seem that much more bigger. 2, Alternative was the Max+ Brydge keyboard. What I did not like about that Keyboard was the added weight. Now when you weigh the Magic Keyboard against the Brydge keyboard only comes to .5lb more. However because of the weight management on the Brydge keyboard, makes the iPad feel like a 50 lb brick in your bag. So the Magic Keyboard. 1. I love the typing experience. I able to type the fastest using this keyboard case. The trackpad, although small, is very precise and sensitive so that it never misses a beat when needing it. I also bought the Magic Mouse to go with the iPad, just because I prefer mice over trackpads and the fact that the Magic Mouse supports iPad gestures make it that much more of a necessary accessory and is cheaper than Apples Magic Trackpad.

[@jsl8461]

From a design perspective, the floating design of the Magic Keyboard allows the iPad+keyboard to have a small footprint, but also means there is a lot less space for the trackpad and keys. Hence the smaller trackpad and the lack of function key rows. The Magic Keyboard Folio has the "kickstand" design, just like the Logitech Combo Touch, so it has more space to accommodate a bigger trackpad and the function key row. However, the footprint is huge; unlike the floating Magic Keyboard, it cannot be used on the lap, and also cannot be used on a small table (such as at a small cafe, or on an airplane tray table). I write a lot and I personally value the small footprint a lot more than the function keys. Shortcuts like Cmd+"." (escape), Cmd+H (home), and Globe+C (opens up Control Panel, where I can adjust brightness and volume levels) work fine for me, and I type on my lap and on small tables all the time.

[@BenjaminDenverstone]

I use the 12.9" iPad Pro with the floating Magic Keyboard. I would love the function keys but it's a great keyboard.

[@DaisoOne]

I’ve been using the Logitech slim folio for about 2 years now .. but the whole keyboard is starting to peel.. vinyl outer layer just frays and comes off.. I’ve trimmed some of it out and pasted stickers on it .. but I am considering upgrading to the magic keyboard.. the Logitech slim folio is very heavy though and has the added protection around the areas.

[@araffaelegmw]

Great accessory for a iPad or any tablet that supports this kind of keyboard cover. Makes a tablet into a portable laptop computer. Expensive but worth it

[@msteppling3550]

I’m in the Logitech Combo touch for my iPad Pro after seeing many videos comparing that to the Magic Keyboard. Best of all worlds right now with one exception: the Apple Pencil can separate from the side if jostling around in a bag or tote. I wish all the case and keyboard options had some kind of magnetic strap to secure the Apple Pencil to the side.

[@ThomasEJohnson]

Right now I think Brydge makes the best keyboard/trackpad options, based on my experience after getting and using a Max + unit for my 12.9” iPad.

[@maxwell-cole]

Love your posts. Very specialized to my needs as a Apple tech lover. Apple annoys me with not making pencil 2 available for any new iPads. They really need to put the features and functionality into all products that users keep asking for with pencil, keyboards, camera placement on iPads. We all know they can do this but they’ll continue to nickel and dime us because it leads to more sales.

[@Jmcarr24]

You didnt get the white Magic Keyboard for the M2 IPad Pro like the M1. What are your thoughts on the white vs the black?

[@thetechdude1]

When do you think they will come out with a 2nd gen Magic Keyboard for the iPad Pro?

[@VoltX_1]

May

[@extremelucky1]

iPad Pro with a Magic Keyboard easily became my favourite Apple product - super versatile. I barely need my Mac or PC anymore.

[@bySterling]

I’m all about the Elevated experience!

[@allenschneider1847]

Can the folio keyboard be used with an ipad pro or air?

[@elliottonyt]

I’d like to think that apple has something more pro planned for next years release to wow the pro user. Who knows what that would be. Maybe pencil compatibility on a larger touchpad. Wouldn’t it be cool if the keys were like mini Kindle screens? App to app, the keys might display shortcuts or new functions in lieu of unnecessary punctuation keys. Plus could allow for more language integration options?

[@egauci1]

I couldn’t care less about function keys. I rarely use them when they’re available. The pro version holds the iPad in just the right spot. The basic one looks so far away

[@guycortesi]

Yes - the Magic Keyboard brings the screen in close, making it very easy to touch. Since the iPad is a touch-first interface, this is a critical item in the design that makes it much better. Also, it can be used on a lap, though not as easily as a laptop. It’s not bad, though.

[@davidmelius1064]

I have an IPad Air 3 with a Logitech combo touch. I have to say that i constantly use the function keys. The volume and skip buttons are very helpful. I haven’t used the Magic Keyboard but honestly i don’t think that the positioning of the ipad is very important to me. Actually i love the kickstand because i can put the ipad flatter but still inclined for note taking and art.

[@fresco_dinero5155]

@@davidmelius1064 yeah function keys very useful idk what he on about. I have use a K380 and I used to have a combo touch and the function keys are used daily for me. Especially now with external monitor support.

[@noah-j00]

i use them a ton,to each thier own bro

[@TRC714]

I hate kickstands. I use my iPad Pro on my lap all of the time. If it means sacrificing function keys to do so I’ll take it.

[@jovimax]

Surely this is a redundant argument. If they both fitted the same iPad then it would be relevant, but they don’t so pointless really.

[@rupdraws]

Hey pls also review Logitech slim folio for 10thgen it is just launched I saw on macrumors shorts

[@laurentroose2429]

That’s why I love my logitec combo!!! More pro and cheaper

[@tiffany68395]

Does anyone have the weight specs for the Magic folio (without the ipad attached)? Apple doesn't have it anywhere on their website!

[@TurboPikachu]

Thrilled I could score a new open-box Magic Keyboard Folio for $90, a much more appropriate price for a base model iPad accessory

[@marymadigan9707]

Thanks Chris 🇮🇪😎👏

[@ThomasEJohnson]

I hate kickstands. Tried out the Logitech Combo Touch for the iPad Pro and didn’t like it. I don’t don’t care for the new design for the Magic Keyboard Foli either and since Apple will probably go that route for the next version of the iPad pro keyboard only adding backlighting to it, I picked up an ESR Rebound Magnetic Bluetooth Keyboard Case for my 12.9” iPad Pro, and they make this for all the iPads save the Mini. This is ESR’s version of the Magic Keyboard, only with bluetooth, and adding function keys, and diffrent color options for the keyboard backlighting so you can change it depending upon your enviorment. I like this unit a lot and will stick with it, especially if Apple switches to kickstand-style keyboards across the iPad line.

[@Goblue373]

This also depends on what iPad you have or are going to get. The white one only supports the 10 generation and the black one only supports the iPad Pro.

[@ironbolt2678]

0:14 Make that 3

[@nikkisaunders3590]

Has anyone been able to find any sort of cover for the Magic Keyboard folio? Been searching and all I’m finding are the covers for the keyboard for the iPad Pro. :(

[@lilacookiee]

It's called switcheasy coverbuddy!

[@user-fi6hg8vq6c]

The biggest annoyance of the OG magic keyboard is no media keys. It's very "charger port on the bottom of the mouse" design.

[@RedonPrifti]

I would include condenser so it become as big as a blackberry meanen used in both formats

[@TotemKommo-o]

I think the Logitech Combo Touch for the new 10th gen iPad is much better. It's basically the same functionality wise, has additional side protection, an Apple Pencil/Logitech Crayon holder, and costs $159 vs the Magic Keyboard Folio's $249. They both have (mostly similar) function row keys and pretty similar design.

[@saiyan981]

The magic keyboard is on sale right now for 209 at target

[@Xxagger]

I don’t use either of these. I use Logitech combo touch rather than Magic Keyboard folio. Not paying that much for a keyboard case lmao

[@MarS-dc2qx]

It’s super wired that the Magic Keyboard 350 dollars does not have the escape button, volume, brightness ect

[@TheNickGuy408]

Moft needs to bring out a Magic Keyboard-friendly case without the pencil spot. I do not need or want the pencil but want a case.

[@RealJoseph123]

Apple should’ve put the base iPad Smart Connector where the rest is at. Magic Keyboard supremacy. It is evident, it’s a better product.

[@javtimestwo]

Already have the MBA '22, so I keep debating if I need an iPad. The keyboard prices are a huge deterrent. These items are grossly overpriced! Anyway, great job with this video and breaking down the two choices.

[@VicTechTips]

well you don't need the external keyboard. The on-screen keyboard works just fine! But if you do think you need it, you can find cheaper options online. I bought the Brydge Max+ for my 12.9 for $99 on Ebay. Or buy a dedicated keyboard and mouse to bring only when you need it, so you won't always be carrying that extra weight

[@VicTechTips]

It's pretty obvious why you dont get a function row on the magic keyboard. The floating design puts the ipad at an angle that would cover those keys. You would still be able to touch them, but not see them when you have the ipad tilted all the way back, and thats not great from a user experience standpoint. Of course not having the keys isn't great either, but I think Apple is only going to add the function row if they can solve this problem in a smart way, otherwise they'll just keep it as is.

[@casey.rob.]

I think it’s fine. Seems like people are overthinking it.

[@gstevens6948]

Definitely 1st world issues… 😅

[@SMX815]

The Magic Keyboard looks awesome & looks more Premuim 100%

[@Streamlined955]

The kickstand is much better if you have your feet propped up like in a recliner or using an ottoman.

[@fredro833]

To me it all just depends on how a person uses their iPad…. If you plan to use you iPad like a laptop or you are a writer I’d say get the Magic Keyboard. If you plan on using your iPad like a tablet, like I do personally, the flexibility from being able to type, use the Apple pencil, hold the iPad in your hand and use fingers like a tablet…get the folio or Logitech folio. I use the folio. I type long papers on my MacBook Pro.

[@LeahDykema]

As a writer who’s a visually impaired iPad relying user, I gotta say, having backlights is extremely important and I rarely use function keys on my Logitech Keys to Go keyboard for my iPad 9th gen.

[@edwardwilliams188]

I think I still prefer the Logitech vs the Apple just due to the fabric of the Logitech but what should I really know because I can’t afford either lol

[@adonaivictor4493]

We gotta see the chair

[@justbulma]

Love my Magic Keyboard for my iPad Air 4 wouldn’t trade it for anything in the world

[@user-fi6hg8vq6c]

One side bar comment is that the off brands that copy the magic keyboard design but in a Bluetooth version offer media keys and it is a non issue. Apple can add a media row and it'll be fine.

[@kevikiru]

Where is proper B-role?

[@aroh]

They got rid of the function keys on the current Magic Keyboard Folio. RIP

[@kevinmontoya43]

Now i dont know what to get

[@iMikeTech811]

The folio for the 10 inch was a setup I've been dreaming of for the iPad but especially the Pro line! Maybe what they could do was come out with a new version for the Pro where the kickstand doubles ass the connection point to the keyboard and it keeps the "floating" look. Here's a thought: Maybe Apple should take a note from Microsoft and their surface line. I know this would never happen but imagine an ipad pro with a kickstand already built in!! Lol

[@eleegs]

Apple is demonstrating that they no longer care about the best user experience when it comes to keyboards

[@MarS-dc2qx]

Apple does stuff like that on purpose why wouldn’t they put the function keys in the keyboard!? That’s a no brainer, people use the function keys its super helpful to have

[@carlosguerrero7417]

You never tested the trackpads and keyboards…!!

[@chancesareshewears]

I found the Magic Keyboard very heavy and utterly useless in my lap. It's a waste of money folks...

[@skm6777]

The floppiness of the iPad keyboard cover makes both irritating & cheap-feeling.

[@victoriadopeluvmickens8408]

And it breaks easy like the ones I have for my older iPad Pro models 🤦🏽‍♀️ I went thru 3 on my iPad Pro 9.7 and 2 on my iPad Pro 12.9 second edition

[@RR-rk5gj]

Kickstands... yuck. Kickstand footprints are too big. And no lap. I'll always take the Brydge.

[@shady2957]

Swiped keyboard is lame