Low-Cost iPad Air 5 Keyboard? ESR Rebound vs. Magic Keyboard

[@ItsCaputo]

Who wants to win the Rebound Keyboard Case? Take a picture of your desk setup and tag me on either Instagram or Twitter (@caputo) and I will pick a winner by March 20, 2022.

[@7tacosmoore260]

⌨️

[@MarquiseParker2007]

I found this keyboard case at the goodwill for $3.99 I was like that is a great deal

[@terrywarnold]

I received this case for my 10th gen iPad earlier this week and absolutely loved it. I actually found it on eBay for $45. Condition was excellent. One thing I would change about it is the fact that it has the Apple Pencil holder. I would feel different if there was issues with the had issues staying closed. I probably in the minority with that opinion.

[@Technolotea]

Been using one of these cases for my 12.9” iPad Pro. Neat case, but has its up and downs for me with the trackpad. Still testing it out see how it holds up with regular usage though.

[@alice-jt7dr]

Hi. May I ask how’s you experience with those two recently?

[@trikeonabike4949]

@@alice-jt7dr I just ordered one, it arrived today and currently using it now (but its for the 11”). The keys feel pretty good for for it is. The whole thing has a rubberised type feel to it, but my pinky accidentally keep striking the delete/backspace key- they’re too close. No palm rejection during typing, but you can turn off the mousepad in the Ipad settings, which defeats the purpose of even having a mousepad- just to turn it off. The lighting is pretty bright for what it is. Is it worth it? Maybe for $60, if that. You have to touch the keys to ‘wake it up’ whenever you open it; its not automatic; and will automatically disconnect after a few minutes of nonuse. The ONLY ‘up’ in my opinion is the pencil flap… that’s it.

[@fernandoroque1547]

You did not talk about the typing experience and the quality of the trackpad

[@KazukiMatsuoka]

The ESR looks amazing, but I'm conscious about safety, I'm wondering that maybe if I could add a transparent case to the iPad, could it still magnetically work with the keyboard?

[@carlosmiles2110]

It should work

[@ItsCaputo]

**Correction** Due to a scale malfunction, the incorrect weight for the 11" ESR Rebound Keyboard case was stated which is part of my conclusion with reasons why you'd choose one over the other. The ESR weighs 788-grams compared to 608-grams for the magic keyboard. That makes the magic keyboard lighter by 180 grams or 6.35 ounces.

[@LemonsRage]

where was the comparson? You only reviewed the esr rebound and only compared weight and said that the magic keyboard is expensive

[@PeterEmery]

Connecting the iPad Air 5 and the keyboard via a USB-C cable allows the keyboard to charge via the iPad's battery. Neat.

[@mamatheregoesthatwoman]

Thanks!

[@PeterEmery]

Australian pricing has the ESR at $140 vs $489 for the Apple offering.

[@princejamin8748]

How long does the battery realistically last?

[@Spoppy90]

I originally wanted to buy this case, but I ended up with Logitech combo touch just because I don’t want to deal with charging the keyboard after charging my iPad

[@mitchellroffer2027]

Does it allow charging of iPad without the keyboard?

[@DarthAndre24]

My 2 year old magic keyboard is already fraying on the sides even with care, it doesn’t affect the function but it’s disappointing for a 300 usd accessory. Might have to consider this as a replacement if it dies.

[@mxsb1153]

Really, Michael: That wasn't much of a review as it lacked (a) comparisons and (b) details, details, details and critique.

[@doug_EX]

2:49 the magnets look weak.

[@SkyDawg108]

Excellent vid. Thanks. FYI, If I follow the affiliate link for this keyboard, it comes up with a coupon for 15% off. BUT, they've jacked the list price to $115 USD, so that applying the coupon brings you back to $98, pretty much the same as the 99.99 price you mention. On ESR's website, the Rebound is showing as out of stock for U.S. buyers, so I'm guessing that high demand has led to a price boost. I suppose it's a quibble given the savings off a Magic Keyboard, but thought you should know.

[@ItsCaputo]

Thanks for the info!

[@jofasho2kool]

Thanks for the review!

[@ibnu.fajaris]

finally, thanks for review 👍🏻

[@Yeahnahme]

Just got one of these cases for my iPad Air 5th Gen, looks good, can’t afford the Apple version too expensive

[@nik4975]

Hey can you tell me how is the trackpad and keys ? Does it feel cheap?

[@Yeahnahme]

@@nik4975 The trackpad is tiny and is nowhere near as good and responsive as Apple's trackpad. If I had my time again I wouldn't buy it.

[@nik4975]

@@Yeahnahme Thanks a lot. I have come to a conclusion that nothing is better for Ipad unless it is apple product. The cost cutting products have way too many flaws and will make us regret.

[@Yeahnahme]

@@nik4975 True, the Apple Keyboard cases are excellent, I used to own an iPad Pro (the first one) and had a Apple keyboard case and it was great. The ESR one isn't very good.

[@princejamin8748]

Is it possible to cut off that pencil holder flap without affecting the closing functionality of the case?

[@ItsCaputo]

I will look for the case tomorrow to confirm.

[@princejamin8748]

@@ItsCaputo will really appreciate that

[@GeorgeHzMusic]

Nice vid! How about the trackpad? Is it any good or does it feels terrible in comparison with Apple’s MK?

[@ItsCaputo]

The magic keyboard is the gold standard, but let’s be honest, the person considering this probably isn’t considering the magic keyboard.

[@victorhugobuttros9995]

Imwonder if the ESR hybrid 360 is compatible with this keyboard 🤔

[@MH-vf3wu]

More of a p push than a comparison video. I noticed that the iPad displaced when it was opened - never happen on my Apple MKB. I use the conveniently placed MKB USB-C charger a lot, which also Simultaneously charges the iPad. However, the ESR function keys are a great addition. But like the ESR suffers the same problems as the MBK - the lack of a silicon or TPU bumper for the iPad; cannot lay flat for easier handwriting notes. Imao, I would just stick with the Apple pencil 2 - you might just find that a keyboard on an iPad is little more than bragging rights.

[@enzgorgerat5936]

This is a great review! Is this available in Canada?

[@ninomendoza627]

I got the OfficeLab magic keyboard, they pretty much looks and feel the same I would say. But I am very happy with my OfficeLab keyboard :)

[@jnd5740]

I agree! I have the Officelab keyboard and it has been great. It has the best trackpad of any non Apple Magic Keyboard I’ve tried.

[@jeffyu6012]

Thanks for this, subbed. I have the Magic keyboard for a work device, was seriously considering this for my and my partner's personal iPads (pen protection, cost, function row.) A few questions? 1.) Do you know why your measured weight was so much lighter than the 1.9lbs advertised? The scale in your vid appeared showing the ESR weighing more, although it's admittedly hard seeing the units and digits. Does the ESR feel lighter/better balanced? 2.) Build quality, typing feel ie; does it feel "nice" for the price, the build durable? 3.) Did you have a chance to test battery life, with/without backlighting? 4.) Lap-ability? Stability and viewing angles while awaiting a flight is important for us. Thanks again for your time and effort.

[@ItsCaputo]

Hey Jeff, 1) thanks for pointing this out. I reweighed the ESR using a different scale, and it turns out there was a scale malfunction. The ESR weighs 788-grams compared to 608-grams for the magic keyboard. That makes the magic keyboard lighter by 180 grams or 6.35 ounces. The ESR + iPad Pro feels like a better counterbalance due to the weight being mainly in the keyboard's base. I've had occasions where the iPad Pro tips can tip over by pushing too hard on the screen. 2) I can get accustomed to typing on almost any keyboard in a matter of 20 minutes, and this keyboard is no different. The typing experience is, without a doubt, different than the magic keyboard, which is superior IMO, so I wouldn't call the experiences similar, but I wouldn't call it inferior either. It's decent. 3) Battery life has been acceptable. Since receiving it, I've charged the device once, and I have used it an hour per day over the past week. I don't have official battery sizes at this time, and I'm waiting for their update. I will update the response here. 4) This is an oversight on my part and was left out of my review. Lapability is no different than the magic keyboard based on the footprint of the base and the design. The magic keyboard has about 10º more rear tilt for viewing angles, and the Rebound hinges "lock" in place like the magic keyboard.

[@jeffyu6012]

@@ItsCaputo Tech failures happen at the most inopportune times, been there. :D I find your impressions clear and frank; thanks for helping your audience w/ purchasing and usage tips.

[@ItsCaputo]

The battery is 800 mAh and it's rated for 360 hours of continuous use during the day and 8 hours of continuous use with the backlight on at night. The battery life can last a week of use with 2 hours of daily use per day (1 hour during the day and 1 hour at night with the backlight on).

[@jeffyu6012]

Last question, Michael 😇 Can the magnetic flap be folded and locked beneath the keyboard deck while using?

[@ItsCaputo]

No, the flap is permanently attached to the bottom half of the keyboard which is less than ideal IMO. I do have a different keyboard from ESR that I'm in the process of reviewing (Ascend keyboard case) where this is possible, but it comes with a set of tradeoffs.

[@mssaadawy]

@@ItsCaputo where is the link for the Ascend keyboard case review video please?

[@spiridondarius3943]

I have a question. In my contry I find this case only for ipad 10th generation. I want to buy an ipad air 5 with such a case. Do you think that the ipad 10's case will be suitable for ipad air 5?

[@ItsCaputo]

There are rumors that a new 10th generation iPad is coming soon, like October soon. If you end up waiting, you'll get a better deal on the current 10th generation.

[@bondr006]

Hi Michael. Thanks for the great video! Also thanks for showing up at MacRumors to the thread we were debating what was the best iPad Pro keyboard case to get for the original poster. I may try the ESR, but opted for the Logitech Combo Touch for my M1 iPad Pro 11 over the Magic Keyboard. Keep up the great work and I look forward to more of your videos. Stay safe!

[@ItsCaputo]

Glad it was helpful! I think I will compare the two keyboards in a future video.

[@klownaround5464]

I heard the Logitech Combo kinda gets worn out and flimsy a after time and the labeling peels off too

[@bondr006]

@@klownaround5464 Well, I have had mine since Nov 2021, and it looks just about a good as it did when it was new. I use mine every day for my real estate and property management business, it has protected my iPad pro from a few falls, and still looks great. Not flimsy, no labels peeling, no worn keys. no ripped seams. Seems to be holding up very well in my case.

[@MrLambo562]

@@klownaround5464 I’ve had mine for about a year and yes… it’s been worn down and the edges around the iPad gets loose. Although it’s still secure… it’s just an eyesore and hard as hell to get out. I won this ESR for $35 bucks on an auction so it’s a win for me.

[@DomainObject]

Nice review. Everything about this ESR keyboard looks sweet... except that magnetic latch. Feels so extra when the keyboard is open and in use. Looks like it would be irritating. I would probably just cut it off. LOL. Other than that, super nice budget alternative.

[@stevengarcia6013]

I purchased the ESR rebound case for my iPad Pro 12.9 and was wondering if the Pitaka case still connect with the keyboard well?

[@ItsCaputo]

I don’t think it will, and I don’t have the correct combo of accessories to test, but I’m interested to know, too!

[@robbie22570]

Question. When you plug in the keyboard to charge, does it charge through to the ipad?

[@ItsCaputo]

To clarify, which keyboard are you referring to?

[@robbie22570]

@@ItsCaputo The ESR keyboard. When you plug it in to charge does it charge through to the ipad? I doesn't say anywhere on ESR's website, so I assume not. Just trying to confirm.

[@mamamememoo]

You prob have to charge them separately. It’s not like the magic keyboard where charging one charges the other

[@scottliu6042]

@@mamamememoo you never have to charge the magic keyboard as it does not have a built in battery, it uses the smart connector and drains the power from the iPad.

[@ujjwalb6397]

What does US Layout mean? I'm buying it for my iPad Indian edition. Will it fit?

[@ItsCaputo]

Sorry for the delay, but I was out of the office traveling. It's the top row keyboard layout. Here in the US, we use QWERTY, some regions use AZERTY, and there are several others depending on the written language..

[@dragondoomsday163]

Is this compatible with the iPad 11 inch pro 2018

[@ItsCaputo]

It should be but I will double check the specs

[@Joshiee_]

Hi! Can i use connect a ESR rebound keybound and a wireless mouse at the same time?

[@ItsCaputo]

Yes you can!

[@Animesh_007]

ESR PLEASE PLEASE release this case in INDIA !! anyways, nice content thanks for letting us know 😊

[@NicholeGoodnight]

Hi! How would you say this compares to the Levet? Having the 12.9, I’m torn between that and this :)

[@ItsCaputo]

What’s the level?

[@davesnow7133]

You didn’t even talk about the keyboards

[@MEANDITV]

Is this case Lappable? Meaning u can use it on your lap whlie sitting?

[@ItsCaputo]

It depends if you prefer to sit cross legged or not. If that's your preference, this is not the best keyboard for you since there's an additional point of contact that the keyboard needs.

[@shibhamsourav99]

I am getting mild tingling/shock sensation on my fingers while charging my Ipad air 4... Is this normal?.. Try touching your ipad's back with finger tips while charging.. Confirm if u feel the same

[@ItsCaputo]

I’ve felt it before and it’s due to improper grounding. Try a different outlet

[@ignatiusloyolamulti1186]

The ESR keboard sucks, and by a lot ngl. The touchpad are buggy, the wight is just horrid.

[@ItsCaputo]

Hey! So what did you end up buying?

[@ignatiusloyolamulti1186]

i haven't found any other replacement tbh. Finding an economical but good Magic keyboard is a huge pain. initially i was thinking of just using a normal light folio case and buy a foldable keyboard. but idk, i haven't fully decided yet.

[@GamingPIPI]

It needs a Smart Connector. Logitech has it but doesn’t have the floating stand. Apple keyboard is unfortunately the only good choice. Inwish the Apple keyboard has a flap for the pencil and protection for the sides of the iPad.

[@RodrigoVzq]

The fact that you got the case free from ESR actually affects your review and point of view, conscious or unconsciously

[@saraahmed4376]

Dose it support Arabic language??

[@chrisb3976]

Rebound is $144 now lol

[@motivationandtravelchannel4575]

Thanks for posting this. Apple charges too much to their customers

[@ItsCaputo]

Tell me about it

[@henridona7689]

Voor de nederlandse kijkers Ik heb dit toetsebord nu enkele weken, en bevalt goed. Touchpad werkt goed en typt fijn de kijkhoek voor de ipad is ook goed. Ik zou deze kopen ipv die van apple. Rechtstreeks gekocht bij ESR. Duurde wel weken. Goed product.

[@ItsCaputo]

Does ESR offer Dutch QWERTY keyboards or did you get the international version?

[@CJ-qz9dw]

Only me that is seeing it for £234

[@Funkmasterflex.]

👍

[@sidoi37]

too heavy thing

[@izens4kcamera611]

God is with you all godbless and your families and everyone in the world amen 🙏 god and Jesus are good amen much love

[@tbu_drachenkater5397]

Shut up bot

[@HDLAngelo]

Like 👍..