iPad keyboard Recommendations

Hello,

I got my daughter an iPad, finally got rid of the fire tablet thank god. But I’m looking to get her a keyboard. I’m looking for one that’s not going to break the bank. The Apple keyboard is very nice but I don’t want to spend that much money on it. I saw one on Amazon for $40 great reviews but Amazon says it’s returned frequently. My only request is that it is USBC for charging.

Any recommendations?

You did not say which iPad you got her, but look into the Logitech offering. The Combo Touch keyboards are, realistically, the only sensible alternative to the Magic Keyboard in terms of build quality vs. pricing (though they are more than $40). Combo Touch is available for most models, with some differences in build, materials, etc. They do not require separate charging as they will draw power from the iPad.

If you are happy to look at a separate keyboard, a couple of other good options include the Logitech K380, or the modern version - the Pebble Keys 2 K380. I used this for years with my iPad (I like to type with the iPad in portrait). It travelled with me around the world on many business trips and still works fine today. For something that is spill-proof and lightweight, you could try the Logitech Keys To Go. Both are priced below 40$/£/€.

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Logitech 380 for sure. I know it’s not the “fancy” Apple one or a clam shell, but I find it’s smaller and more than adequate quality. I actually use it in place of my Apple desktop keyboard sometimes as I like the form factor a bit more (blasphemy! Someone on Mac power users doesn’t use the multi hundred dollar keyboard and uses one he got for $30). I also use an LG monitor.

Don’t let people make you think these expensive keyboards are necessary. Also, Amazon has returns so go for it.

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I don’t have any recommendation for a specific product, but I do suggest that you consider how the iPad will be used: If it’s going to be on the lap a lot then getting a keyboard/case with a form factor that supports that will be important. (This may sound obvious, but it wasn’t to me until I’d made the obvious mistake :slight_smile: )

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This is a great point. My Logitech does not work at all with the lap. I never use the lap typing only holding the iPad.

I love the Logitech MX Keys Mini for Mac. It’s a stand-alone keyboard and can easily be combined with any mouse that suits her hands.

The reason I choose stand-alone keyboards is that I then can easily position the iPad at eye-height and closer to my face to get decent ergonomy. I use a regular folio-type cover that can be put on a table when needed too.

+1 for the Logi K380

I don’t use it for the iPad, but I am here to say that the K380 is an excellent keyboard. It’s my everyday keyboard on the Mac. I pound on this thing 8+ hours a day, I spill coffee on it, I drop food on it. And it just keeps going.

I can’t even remember if it uses batteries or has a USB charger because it’s been so long since I needed to charge it.

It is battery based.

Plus it has 3 Bluetooth radios so you can switch between 3 devices easily e.g. computer, iPad, phone.

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I love my Logitech K380. It isn’t rechargeable - uses regular batteries BUT the battery life is incredible (Months).

The K380 is a bit cramped for my taste. Round myself not liking it. If a Logitech MX Keys Mini is not too expensive, I would argue for that keyboard. Alternatively, you could consider a Keychron B1 Pro for around 40£.

I recently bought the Keychron B1 and have been happy with it so far, but possibly a bit early to tell. Was waiting to use it some more before giving it the thumbs up/down in the thread that I’ve seen for it here. Charges with USB-C.

Not something you’re looking to do, but I’m yet to play with the QMK layout to create some shortcuts, but I’ve tried it on other Keychron boards and been impressed.

Thank you everyone for the information. I’m looking at all of them. The reason I said USB-C is because I didn’t want a different charging cable for it. But batteries are also fine.

Thanks again

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I’m a huge fan of the Zagg Rugged Book. A bit pricey, but gives the iPad a lot of protection, and also charges on USB-C