Is it BETTER THAN THE MAGIC KEYBOARD?? - ESR Rebound 360 Keyboard Case for iPad Pro 13-inch (M4)

[@stressthemindLOTL]

Just got one, and my take on it is pretty much the same but with a few added points I’d like to mention… 1. The auto off function for the backlit keyboard is 90 seconds vs 30 seconds on the Magic Keyboard, the track pad on the esr doesn’t wake the keys as the Magic keyboard does. 2. Without that port on the side as Brian mentioned, you’ll need a dongle to charge and connect an external SSD for video editing. 3. Trackpad feels a little cramped and not nearly as smooth and accurate on the ESR 4. Price isn’t as much of a difference if you search your local Best Buy for an open box Magic Keyboard, I got mine for $275 instead of $350 5. If you take the iPad off the keyboard and set it aside like he shows in the video and then use the iPad, if you need to type something the keyboard stays connected and the on screen keyboard doesn’t appear, so you have to remember to connect and disconnect it rather than the Magic Keyboard that does that instantly and automatically. All in all the ESR keyboard is ok, love the car and the pencil holder that Apple SHOULD have included, but like Brian to me it’s easy worth the extra money to get aluminum build and haptic feedback and instant on off keyboard. Hope this helps anyone else!

[@tosvus]

well, the ESR is now 100 on amazon, so it is still almost 3x more expensive to get the magic keyboard..

[@vg4902]

I bought both the MKB and the ESR for my 13 M4 Pro. Despite the weight difference, I actually find myself using the ESR more. I find the weight actually makes it much more stable, both on a table as well as on more uneven surfaces, like a bed or couch. The MKB doesn’t have enough weight in the platform to offset the weight of the iPad and it ends up being way too top heavy for my liking.

[@PreacHPlayz]

Do you notice any difference between the connection? I know when I’ve used other Bluetooth keyboards they weren’t as responsive as the MKB Hoping ESR doesn’t have that issue

[@strikesbac]

I’ve got a new iPad Air 13 as well as the new iPad Pro 11, I bought the new Apple Magic Keyboard for the 11, and the ESR Rebound case for the 13. I’ve been using both for around 2 weeks now. The ESR case is good for the money, the keyboard feels nice to type on and the keys are well spaced out. The only issue, and it’s only a niggle is that the trackpad is slower and less responsive than the Magic Keyboard. If you’re just using this on your iPad then I don’t think that you’ll have any issues. However if, like me, your using your iPad to remotely connect to a Windows or Mac via Remote Desktop, then the ESR trackpad is a bit too annoying, at least when compared to the Magic Keyboard. Overall, the ESR is a great case for the money. The Magic Keyboard is a touch of class and excellent quality, but it’s way overpriced.

[@Brians_tech]

It’s definitely overpriced but it’s the best option. I like it more than the ESR, especially the trackpad.

[@IzaanFitness]

@@Brians_tech they should make the case that compatible to put with magic keyboard, much better than others third party

[@monichao678]

Can you update how it works after a month or two. That would be really helpful, thank you!

[@kabaneri2]

Thank you for pointing out that the track pad will do all the gestures like the mkb

[@ColinHuijser]

Such a missed oppurtunity to attach a kick stand on the back of that seperate cover. Imagine having this, and when you take it out of the cover it can stand on its own. It would be the perfect combo of the MKB and the Logi combo touch. I would buy it immediatly for a premium.

[@britzglam6866]

Loving this idea. They need to have a updated one

[@ZoneTan10]

Moft made a case for the old 12.9 that worked with the iPad attached to the MKB. When you take it off you can attach it to a magnetic origami stand. Hoping they make it with the new MKB

[@mohammadnooristani4450]

logitech made that

[@terrywarnold]

I’ve had the Magic Keyboard and the ESR case. My preference is the Magic Keyboard but for the difference in price, you can’t beat the ESR case. I currently have the ESR case for my 13 inch Air. I got it for $20 in gently used condition. And for what I use it for, it’s perfect. I probably will still try to find a Magic Keyboard cause I just like the convenience of not having to charge it.

[@Gameace730]

I’m going back and forth myself I have the 11 pro m4 I’m rocking just the folio rebound 360 but that Magic Keyboard is calling my name

[@kaiichinose9590]

Just remember that on the 11 inch version of the ESR rebound keyboard is that it does not have the function row. Only on the 13 inch. I have the ESR for mine and I love it because of the slim case that protects the device and I use it out of the case often. But it’s very nice and seamless. Love the portrait mode for documents.

[@Gameace730]

See I think I’m gonna go with the leather dbrand and magic keyboard because I just love the thin feeling of the iPad.

[@miketran4289]

Not going to lie.. I was actually going to buy this KB a few days ago but backed out since there was no reviews on it. I'll make my choice after this video.. thanks for the video btw.

[@gamingvariation1323]

Did u buy it?

[@pilyred8760]

@@gamingvariation1323I purchased the ESR for my 2018 (3rd gen) ipad pro and it works great as a magic keyboard alternative. When I get an m4 I will still probably spend the extra money for the magic keyboard. I picked this guy up from a corner once and the weight worked against me (it cracked in 2 places), still works great, but the build quality is still kinda mid. The keyboard itself is as close to a magic keyboard as you’re going to get without being a magic keyboard.

[@GregDenver303]

I don’t like the idea of having to charge the keyboard separately. I bought the Logitech Combo keyboard that is powered by the iPad itself.

[@marymadigan9707]

Nice review Brian , I know it’s heavy but for the price it’s looks great especially with the detachable case 😎

[@Brians_tech]

It’s definitely great. I just prefer the Magic Keyboard

[@marymadigan9707]

@@Brians_tech same here 👌

[@tomasthurman8957]

Can you use different angles? Like can it be straight up as opposed to slightly slanted back?

[@Brians_tech]

Yes

[@CamdenS6969]

For the built in case, when the iPad is laid down flat is it raised enough for the camera to not get scratched? also what is the back material made out of, if I am writing and taking notes in class I dont want it sliding around. Thank you for the video

[@Brians_tech]

It does protect the camera. And it’s just a soft touch plastic. It should protect the back of your iPad but may slide around on a slippery desk.

[@tonycicerone]

Looking at the Air version, looks like they drop the media/F keys on that one. Odd.

[@KellDogg1965]

I just got mine and it doesn’t use the protective case anymore. The iPad attaches directly to the ESR model like the MKB

[@brandonalvarado5156]

I’ve seen bad reviews on Amazon, and one of them stated a input lag when tying,, from “The weather today is gloomy” to “Ther today is gloomy” Do you have the same issues when typing ??

[@Brians_tech]

No, I didn’t have any issues

[@massimogalli7259]

Hello Brian, great review. I'd like to ask you wether it is possible to attach the iPad to the ESR keyboard without the case. Thank you, Massimo

[@Brians_tech]

Thank you. No it’s not possible.

[@T19835dght]

I prefer this one… it actually protects the iPad unlike to Magic Keyboard. It doesn’t have pass through charging but I don’t see that as a big deal.

[@stitchlipstudios533]

Maybe I’m a diva, but I enjoy all the QoL features on the Magic Keyboard, like the seamless integration, not needing to charge it, and having the USB-C charging port on the side.. I got mine for $120 for my iPad Pro 12.9 refurbished. I will say, I’d NEVER pay full price for it. That’s a little excessive.

[@MarvRiv]

Hey there. Do you notice any latency? Does it take a second to “wake” the bluetooth or does it feel just as fast as the Magic Keyboard?

[@Brians_tech]

Nope, I didn't notice any latency. Maybe if you haven't used the iPad for a while, it may take literally 1 second to connect, but it does it automatically. Right after that, there are no issues at all.

[@MarvRiv]

Thanks for the info!

[@Refael_Shlomo]

Hey ! Thanks for the feedback of the product . Do you need to put the plastic protection on the ipad for it to attach magnetically to the keyboard ( in landscape and portrait mode as well ) ? And if the plastic case is not necessary then what is the weight of the keyboard alone ? The portrait mode is a real plus i wish the magic keyboard had ..

[@Brians_tech]

It is necessary. iPad won’t stick to it without it

[@Refael_Shlomo]

@@Brians_tech thanks for the info !

[@denniadale9549]

I own a TypeCase for my 11” iPad Pro, and it’s been great EXCEPT I’m forever clicking on things, activating things, on windows because the trackpad is so sensitive and I forget to turn it off EVERY DANG TIME I close one app and go to another or even another window within the same app! It should be the other way around. I should have the option of turning the trackpad on when I want it! not OFF when I forget it’s on. This has led to some embarrassing situations when I send the wrong message to the wrong person! One time it was almost disastrous, but I caught it in time and deleted the message! Whew!! I don’t want another trackpad that is so sensitive or that I have to remember to turn off every time the pages change! Does this one behave like that?

[@Brians_tech]

I’ve had a lot of accidental clicks with this one

[@self-awaregunship6869]

Thanks for the video! I think what is selling me on this case and is turning me away from the Magic Keyboard, since I have a Anker 6-in-1 usb hub that allows power passthrough for the IPad, is the fact that the Pencil can be latched down and there is a built in case for it that i can use in conjunction with the keyboard and folds up. I know it will be heavier, but I can live with that, I think.

[@Brians_tech]

It’s heavier for sure. At least it isn’t top heavy, so it’ll sit on surfaces better than the Magic Keyboard will.

[@carlosmiles2110]

Compared to the magic keyboard and logitech combo touch, it works when you automatically turn the ipad on. In this case will it still work immediately when the tablet is on? Or do you have to turn on bluetooth everytime you want to use the keyboard?

[@carlosmiles2110]

For example, when the tablet or keyboard becomes low battery, does it require manual connection?

[@Brians_tech]

It will automatically connect. But if the battery dies, it will require a manual connection.

[@olivermaas1]

Esr wins the Job ❤

[@silverghozt]

Size and weight make this a hard pass.

[@thewayback_playback]

Usability (and some edge cases aside), how much do any of us ‘actually’ use a keyboard with our iPAD Pros on an everyday basis (when most of us already own MacBooks, PC Laptops and desktops)? Weighing the usage and cost, I ended up returning the Apple Magic Keyboard and opted for the ESR 360 instead saving quite a bit of $$ (can’t beat the price).

[@Brians_tech]

I’m someone who uses my magic keyboard a lot and when I test these other keyboards, I use them a lot as well. Unfortunately, none of them have as good of a typing experience and trackpad experience as the magic keyboard. Which is a shame because I hate that the magic keyboard wobbles when the iPad is completely open if it’s not on a perfectly flat, hard surface.

[@snisarg]

Does this work in the horizontal and vertical mode without the iPad case?

[@Brians_tech]

No it has to have the case on it

[@borililicsernatony8659]

Apple has a folio that covers just the front and attaches magnetically to the side. Does that work with the case without the keyboard?

[@Brians_tech]

No, these magnets are a bit different.

[@annuartv]

Great review, Brian! I saw someone mentioning the mkb ends up being too top heavy, I really don’t mind the weight or paying extra for something premium, but I do mind my ipad tipping over when I touch the screen since I do 3d and illustration (lots of contact with it) and prefer something more stable. Would you recommend the ESR instead for my use case? or is it not as significant a difference in stability? thanks!!

[@Brians_tech]

I personally like the Magic Keyboard more, even thought it is top heavy. But if you care more about that than the keyboard and trackpad, definitely pick up this ESR.

[@wha-TN-ot]

Lovely review 👍!! I want to ask you for your opinion on this case compared to the Logitech Combo Touch. Your thoughts will help !!

[@Brians_tech]

The only thing I don’t like about the combo touch is that it has the flap at the back that you have to use to stand the keyboard up. But I’m going to review it

[@wha-TN-ot]

@@Brians_tech I see, thank you for your reply! I'll be looking forward for your review on that case ;) !!

[@mentoringtinyhumans]

Thank you for the review! I’ve usually use the type case that does have the 360 option. Currently using the Logitech MX mini as I just can’t handle the weight on my hands anymore. I’m disabled. I have rheumatoid arthritis but as much as I want to love the case, it’s just too heavy! Honestly, even the magic keyboard is a bit too heavy for me. I originally went with a 12.9 hoping to take advantage of of the sale pricing, but that was just too heavy and I lost my fine motor skills just pulling it in and out, especially with the ESR shift case. I use it as a laptop replacement and just setting it on my table I lost those abilities. So I’m definitely happy with my M4 13 inch, I do have to take out the keyboard and a few other contractions one by one, but for my hands it just seems to work better. However, I also did take advantage of the student discount, so I’m highly considering getting the magic keyboard for quick on the go I hate to do it just cost wise and I think it’s ridiculous to spend over 300 or more dollars on a keyboard that doesn’t even provide protection or a spot for the accessories like the pencil pro. But the weight difference just is astronomical. If I end up getting a keyboard/all in one situation it looks like I’m gonna have to go with the magic keyboard from Apple. But for those who don’t have my medical needs, ESR all the way.

[@Brians_tech]

Yeah this thing is super heavy, so I completely understand. The MX mini is a great keyboard though, so you’re not missing out on much using that with the iPad. The keyboard on the MX mini is better than the ESR keyboard anyways.

[@tobyr8555]

Wow the weight is pretty significant. Not saying it’s bad, but that’s basically the weight of my MBA 13” when the case has no iPad in it!

[@lunnaris474]

Is it possible to use it without the cover? I like my Apple cover so I wouldn’t want to remove it

[@Brians_tech]

No you have to use it

[@Damiann2]

if u connect through bluetooth, can i still use my airpods as well simultaneously?

[@Brians_tech]

Yep!

[@UrbanExplorer614]

Can you use this on your lap when sitting on a sofa?

[@Brians_tech]

Yes

[@Ciangi87]

I would have bought this for my m4 iPad but there no function keys on the 11’’ keyboard

[@ollieoos]

Really? That’s a deal breaker!

[@Ciangi87]

@@ollieoos for me yes!

[@Rlopezboca]

I prefer the MK quality but it’s annoying that it doesn’t secure the Apple pencil

[@Brians_tech]

I also don’t like how the MK doesn’t stay balanced on non-flat surfaces like couches and beds

[@johnlanning7088]

I need a military grade case for working out in the field. When coming in from the field and working in the office I would like to use a keypad like this but do not want to have to remove the ipad from the military grade case. Looking for something out there that would function like a Magic Keyboard and allow me to keep ipad in the military grade case.

[@Brians_tech]

You can either keep this keyboard attached to the iPad or take it off. So it can work as both. Is that what you mean?

[@johnlanning7088]

@@Brians_tech Can you flip the magnetic stand out of the way? I have a military grade ipad cover with its own stand.

[@ModuliOfRiemannSurfaces]

Is this compatible with the 12.9 M2 Pro?

[@Brians_tech]

This one isn't but I believe they make a 12.9" model

[@martin.B777]

Thanks for the review. Is the iPad (inner) case compatible with ESR Shift magnetic?

[@martin.B777]

@@Brians_tech Really? Asking, because I found info on Reddit that the internal case from the ESR Rebound 360 Keyboard case is not compatible with the ESR Shift magnetic folio. The magnets are presumably placed differently. Just bought the ESR keyboard case and would like to know...

[@Brians_tech]

Sorry, I misread your question. What you read is correct. It doesn’t work together - which I think is stupid!

[@martin.B777]

@@Brians_tech Thank you for the clarification. Great channel, I'm subscribed. Best, Martin

[@dude1diligence]

Is there a way to turn off the track pad? Thanks

[@Brians_tech]

I didn't see the option to

[@dude1diligence]

@@Brians_tech thanks for the video and the reply 👍🏻

[@hobbes7839]

Can’t find this version on Amazon only the older iPad Pro 12.9

[@Brians_tech]

It may have sold out. I put the link in the description for Amazon. If it’s sold out, it should be back in stock soon.

[@hobbes7839]

@@Brians_tech yeah maybe since it’s onsale fot 109$ with 10% off coupon as well

[@einerus]

Have you tried it on your lap or when lying down? Is it stable?

[@Brians_tech]

Yep. No issues

[@liver6513]

Is there a version for the iPad Pro 11’s 4 generation?

[@Brians_tech]

There should be. They’ve been making this keyboard for a while now

[@76williamsbh]

I am waiting for WWDC to decide if I will upgrade my iPad and this will be a strong consideration if I do. I have a 12.9” M1 but really want to size down to the 11inch Pro or Air. I was not even going to buy a keyboard but this may change my mind. Does anyone know if the interior plastic case works with any other ESR accessories such as their folio case? I really would like it if some manufacturer could make a line up of compatible iPad accessories. I have tried several but never could find anything that works right. MOFT had potential but their magnets are beyond poor.

[@Brians_tech]

It should work with the folio as well. They seem to both come with the same case.

[@76williamsbh]

@@Brians_tech that gives me hope!

[@britzglam6866]

Can the extra case on the esr work on the magic keyboard?

[@Brians_tech]

No because it wouldn’t close

[@Mrteddyable]

@@Brians_tech But would it stick to the magic keyboard with the case from ESR and also function properly?

[@jaymack5448]

Does the apple pen still charge while the cover is on?

[@Brians_tech]

Yes

[@friendzhub]

what is the difference between US and UK layout keyboard

[@Brians_tech]

Good question. Not sure about that one.

[@ivansilvas]

Loved the video! Which kind of camera are you using for recording Brian?

[@Brians_tech]

Thank you! I am using a Sony A7IV.

[@peterxiao6217]

Can you use the keyboard without the case? Does the iPad attach without it?

[@Brians_tech]

No

[@mrbelvederetheferret]

Hi, I brought this keyboard recently but the onscreen keyboard won’t go away. Do you know how to turn it off?

[@Brians_tech]

There's a button on the keyboard you can click to make it go away.

[@dreamdoc746]

I have used this keyboard for a few days but I have stopped using it since you can hear a static sound caused by the magnets of the case, I am afraid that my iPad could be permanently damaged, does anyone know if it can damage it? The static sound is only heard with the case on, my iPad is just weeks old since I bought it.

[@Brians_tech]

It shouldn’t damage it

[@dttub]

Does inside case works with Magnetic case?

[@Brians_tech]

Which magnetic case?

[@dttub]

@@Brians_tech . ESR Magnetic Case, the one you did review. Thanks.

[@Brians_tech]

@dttub I believe it should. But the case also comes with its own inside case that is magnetic so you don’t have to worry about it fitting or not.

[@dttub]

@@Brians_tech . Because I am thinking of using 2 ESR cases but do not want to take out the inside case.

[@ThierryC-te3rx]

I was waiting for the 360 thing part...

[@orcuncobanoglu9019]

Can ı use this with my m2 12.9 ıpad pro

[@Brians_tech]

They have a version of it for the 12.9

[@engrdiszayd]

Is this compatible with the iPad Air 6 11 inch?

[@Brians_tech]

They probably have a version of it for your iPad. Check the websites in the description. They may be on there

[@pavigulati3613]

looks great! Is there any latency when using the keyboard or trackpad? How is the responsiveness of the trackpad

[@Brians_tech]

Only when you first wake the iPad for one second. Then there’s no latency. Trackpad is very responsive, if you watch all the way, I talk about how I was getting accidental clicks with it.

[@lz-c]

Is this keyboard case better then the logitech combo version?

[@Brians_tech]

Yes I think it is

[@zeynepkullebi4034]

Does the strong magnets damage the internal system on the ipad? I notice a buzzing when I put it on

[@Brians_tech]

Nope not at all. The buzzing might be coming from the actual keyboard itself. Not the iPad

[@zeynepkullebi4034]

@Brians_tech ty for responding! So do you think the buzzing that I hear near the apple logo when I put my ear at the back of the iPad even without the case wasn't caused by the case? I only noticed it after I bought the case when I saw a comment under the reviews saying the case made their ipad make buzzing sounds so i am not sure 😩🙏

[@Brians_tech]

@zeynepkullebi4034 so if you take the case off, it still buzzes?

[@zeynepkullebi4034]

@Brians_tech yes, it is much quieter than when the case is on but the faint buzz is still there when you pay attention to it :(

[@Brians_tech]

I think that you may have an issue with your iPad

[@qthebaddest627]

Reviewers never say that the Magic Keyboard doesn’t completely close like the ESR nor does it support a case when using the magic keyboard

[@Brians_tech]

Mine definitely completely closes, but you’re correct about the case part. If you use an additional case, it does not close.

[@PangPangXiong]

I bought the same one for my iPad Air 13” yesterday but shift key is not working to swap capital letter at all. Anyone knows the reason?

[@Brians_tech]

Maybe a bad unit. Try to get a replacement

[@PangPangXiong]

The shift key is not working with browser or other apps but only work with Apple notes app.😂

[@theologytome]

is it available for 11 inch iPad Pro ?

[@Brians_tech]

Yes I believe so

[@computergeak]

Can you use it without the case?

[@Brians_tech]

No, the previous versions you could. Not this one.

[@samirasouli897]

Nah I prefer the Magic Keyboard , I have been using the Logitech combo for my m1 11inch iPad Pro for about 2 years and in past 6 months the keys were not feeling like the first day even that I don’t type on it too much, today I got the Magic Keyboard and it’s on another level. I’d say for 3rd party keyboard Logitech is better but still not close to Magic Keyboard.

[@GrowUp-m7q]

How to purchase from India

[@Brians_tech]

Does your Amazon have it?

[@kaiichinose9590]

Nice review Brian as always. But when you measured the devices, you measured the Magic Keyboard without the iPad in there creating more thickness. It is still thinner than the ESR. I’m still on the fence but I wish for the price the Apple keyboard had a magnetic flap to secure the pencil and allow for portrait viewing and raising it one level higher like on the ESR. Choices choices lol and maybe a slim rubber case with Magic Keyboard for some protection on that expensive device. One thing to note on the bottom hinge of the Apple Magic Keyboard is now exposed and prone to scratching now and is a little less unbalanced when tapping the screen.

[@Brians_tech]

I measured the ESR without the iPad in it as well. It’s just super thick.

[@kaiichinose9590]

@@Brians_tech yeah I think it’s because of the internal battery in the keyboard.

[@happyfeetmg2]

Great video! I love mine! :)

[@rowbyrowby]

I use my iPad with an external ssd. And I power my iPad via the Magic keyboard. So i will not be getting this alternative keyboard because its usb plug only powers the keyboard - not the attached iPad Thanks for your detailed review.

[@Brians_tech]

Yep I agree. That extra USB C port really comes in handy when you need it. And thank you for watching 💪🏼

[@britzglam6866]

Wish the keyboard was metal like the new Magic Keyboards

[@81179venky]

1151 grams 😳

[@viralprimenetwork]

Interesting comparison! We sent you an email, take a look

[@kabaneri2]

You should’ve measured the thickness without the case. Just saying

[@4GuitarTrance]

Apple's prices, like almost everything they offer, are borderline insane for the new keyboard. But like everything else, Apple gouges customers for everything they sell, with maybe the exception of the ARM Mac Mini. On top of that, they have the nerve to charge those prices and they now solder everything to motherboards (as an example), assuring themselves of a quick purchase should anything go bad with whatever it is their customer purchases. Let's not forget to mention Apple charging what they charge for sub-par memory in their products, which users can no longer upgrade themselves. I mean, in this day and time, who solders memory to motherboards? Apple, that's who! Mr. Jobs memory wasn't even cold before Apple went back to their 90's proprietary ways. And price-wise the "Magic" Keyboard (Isn't everything Apple sells "magic"? Ask them... they'll tell you) is no different. It's a shame the ESR and the Logic keyboard aren't a bit better in some ways... I would purchase one simply to prevent Apple from getting more of my $$$$$! I've been an Apple fanboy since I was a kid in the 90's... switched from being a rather avid young PC user. Since Jobs' unfortunate and untimely passing, Apple, while still making some decent products, has slid in the wrong direction (backward) in so many ways... and their exorbitant pricing for, in many instances sub-par hardware, is only one of example. If I didn't love the Mac OS and actually need an iPad I would have to ditch Apple after so many years of enthusiastic Apple usage. I have not tried the "Magic" Keyboard, and I'm sure it's aluminum frame and contents are probably nice in many ways. Yet for what they're asking, price-wise, and the fact the iPad OS STILL doesn't have functionality it should by now, they have their nerve, once again with yet another product, charging that price for an iPad keyboard. Only my .02 cents! Thanks for the review.

[@enginethatcould5257]

No it's not better.

[@issys.visio-verse]

Lol

[@n1ngnuo]

Way too heavy and bulky, and overpriced for a third party.

[@Brians_tech]

I agree. It's really heavy and bulky.