Best IPad Keyboard Reviews 2017

Anyone that has an iPad knows that using its keypad can be a bit strenuous. This is why it’s important for every iPad owner to get an iPad keyboard; it is much easier and more comfortable to use. There are many types of iPad keyboards on the market. To help you make the right choice, after extensive research we have put together a list of 5 of the top iPad keyboards. Though we have only featured one iPad keyboard from each brand, these brands still have many others you can check out in the unlikely event that none of the featured ones meet your requirements.

Overview

PROS

CONS

SPECS

Type

Size

Keys

Compatibility

Extras

Our Top Choice

Brydge 9.7 iPad Keyboard

Brydge has been around for many years and makes highly innovative and durable iPad keyboards.

It’s durable, and has a very good battery life and a Bluetooth service which connects very easily.

It’s a bit heavy.

Laptop style

9.4 x 6.6 x 0.3 inches; 1.1 lbs.

Backlit keys (3 levels)

iPad Air, Air 2 & iPad Pro

Patented Hinge

Best Value

Belkin QODE Ultimate Keyboard Case for iPad

Known for creating products that are reliable and easy-to-use, Belkin is a bestselling manufacturer of keyboards and related accessories.

This keyboard is compatible with most devices and is lightweight. It comes with a case for safety and its Bluetooth wireless feature makes it easier to use.

The Bluetooth connection fluctuates sometimes.

Protective case

9.8 x 7.8 x 0.7 inches; 0.91 lbs.

TruType keys

iPad 3rd gen, iPad 2, iPad 4th gen

Up to 160hrs between charges

ZAGG Rugged Book iPad Keyboard

For many years, ZAGG has been producing products that make life with electronic devices very easy.

This case is sturdy and efficient. Once the battery is charged, it can last for two years!

There have been reports of the hinge, which connects the iPad and keyboard, breaking after some months.

Removable case

9.8 x 7.2 x 1 inches; 1.5 lbs.

Backlit Keys

Apple-ipad-air-2

Up to two years between charges

Logitech TYPE+ Keyboard for iPad Air2

Since 1981, Logitech has been focused on innovation and quality when designing its products which range from mice to detachable keyboards.

It is lightweight, has a dual-view stand, special keys for simple iOS commands, and keys that are very large and easy to type on.

One little challenge is that you cannot rotate the angle at which the device sits.

Protective Case

10.2 x 0.7 x 7.2 inches; 0.95 lbs.

iOS shortcut keys

Apple-ipad-air-2

SecureLock System

Apple Wireless Keyboard for iPad

Apple is one of the best brands on the market. They aim to make all their products break boundaries, bringing consumers new and innovative technology.

This keyboard has a reliable built-in Bluetooth technology which makes it very easy to use. It is also very lightweight and balances well on flat surfaces.

It doesn’t have backlit keys

Wireless Keyboard

12.6 x 14.8 x 1 inches; 0.5 lbs.

Multimedia, optical media eject..

Mac as well as iPod

Intelligent power management

(Updated August 21, 2017)

Skip ahead and go directly to the reviews.

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How Do I Choose the Best IPad Keyboard?

As we all know, typing with screen touch devices can be a hassle. However, we can’t overlook the fact that these devices are must-haves both for efficiency and style. It seems like an iPad’s only downside is its terrible habit of slowing us down when we absolutely need to type as fast as possible. And don’t even get us started on autocorrect!

Although most iOS apps do just fine with swipes and taps, there are times when our needs require quicker input ability. We still need to create documents; we still need to send long mails. And it bears repeating that capricious, whimsical, bi-polar autocorrect doesn’t help matters at all. It can get so frustrating that sometimes, plain old hand writing sounds like a much better idea. And all that looking at the screen to crosscheck after every one or two strokes (not forgetting to rein autocorrect in before it ruins your life forever), can be time-consuming and cumbersome. The reason we bought that iPad tablet was to alleviate issues, not compound them.

That’s not to say that an iPad isn’t a fantastic device, but every superhero needs his sidekick and that’s the reason we have iPad keyboards in the market today. Bluetooth keyboards are an excellent choice for iPad usage. There are some that are specifically made for iOS devices, featuring iOS oriented keys such as: “Home” and “Search”. Bear in mind, though, that pairing your iPad with a keyboard does not automatically make it a notebook. It is still very much an iPad that will do “iPad things” as opposed to “notebook things”.

If you’re one to require protection with your devices, you’re covered as most iPad keyboards come with cases. Although they might tend to get as bulky as a regular laptop, it is still better than typing with the virtual keyboard of your iPad tablet. We will now showcase the features of each featured product. Don’t swipe that screen just yet!

Price

iPad keyboards go for a range of prices but mostly within the $65 to slightly over $100 range. Of course, a few factors affect the cost of this product, such as brand, additional features, type of keys, etc. Generally, they all give value for money within this price range. If you’re in the habit of typing search terms like: “cheap iPad keyboards” you will soon find that you’re making a big mistake! You will be hard-pressed to find a cheap iPad keyboard that delivers in quality and value.

Features

We know the tech world can be a little confusing, so will explain in simple terms the features you should look out for in a good iPad keyboard. Here are some of them…

Type/style
Type of iPad
Size
Layout
Colors and Designs

Now to the details…

Construction and Design

Four types of iPad keyboards exist. They are:

Covers: Typically, these are detachable, single-piece keyboards that can be attached to your iPad magnetically. They also double as screen protector for your tablet. Usually, the iPad simply sits in a slot atop the keyboard when you have to type but can only be used at a particular viewing angle.

Folios: Generally, these hold your iPad in portfolio form, protecting both the front and back of your device. They can be snapped closed and carried like a book; when opened, they can be placed in various positions for typing.

Laptop style: As the name implies, these are clamshell keyboards that look essentially like laptops without a screen. They protect the iPad when closed and can be moved to different angles while in use.

Stand-alone keyboards: These are the closest to desktop keyboards available and usually vary in thickness. Some are almost as thick as a standard desktop keyboard. Usually, you’ll need a different case to hold your device up when you need to type. Some stand-alone keyboards come as wireless devices.

It’s not enough for a keyboard to be light or to be able to double as a case for your device; if you’re a touch-typist, especially, then you’re going to want to check out the layout of your keyboard before purchase.

Normally, an iPad keyboard is compromised in size when compared to a standard keyboard, some more than others. Keys are usually smaller, narrower, or removed altogether from the standard keyboard to make up for the smaller space they have to work with. All aforementioned issues pale in comparison to the effect of “scattered” keys on the psyche of a touch-typist. Touch-typists have to be especially careful to pick a keyboard that comes closest to a standard layout to avoid confusion when typing.

Performance and Ease of Use

One question you must ask yourself before you choose your style of keyboard is the orientation you wish to use your iPad most often. For instance, someone who constantly uses his iPad in portrait orientation might want to go for a cover keyboard since most folios and all laptop styles cannot be used in that orientation.

After answering that, answer again what mode you’ll most often use your iPad in—with the keyboard or as a tablet. If you’re going to use your tablet with a keyboard constantly, then it has to be laptop style because that’s the closest to a laptop feel you can actually get. The fact that you can always adjust and readjust viewing angles works for varying work environs.

On the other hand, if you’d rather your tablet remained a tablet, you can go for a cover style. Since a cover style is detachable, you cut excess baggage down to the minimum. Folios are also good if the permanent portrait orientation of the cover style bothers you. Many folios are thin and can allow the iPad to be folded on top when not needed. Some folios are also detachable.

What is the Best IPad Keyboard?

As you have seen in our buying guide, a lot goes into the purchase of an iPad keyboard. Many factors have to be considered such as the keyboard’s type, size, level of device compatibility, and even the size and layout of the keys. In the following individual brand/product reviews, we have highlighted these features and more. So, go through them and pick the best keyboard that suits your typing needs.

Our Top Choice

If you’re in the market for an iPad keyboard that’s made of high-grade aluminum and has backlit keys then the Brydge 9.7 iPad Keyboard, which is available in multiple colors and comes with a very functional Bluetooth, might be the one for you! If you need an iPad keyboard that is more affordable and can also be used for an iPad mini, you should check out the Brydge Mini Bluetooth Backlit Aluminum Keyboard.

Brydge 9.7 Aluminium Bluetooth Keyboard for iPad Air, Air 2 & iPad Pro 9.7-inch - Space Gray

Brydge iPad Keyboard BRY1012

Features

For many years, Brydge has been producing high-quality keyboards that are used for many tablets including iPads. As its name implies, Brydge has created a wonderful bridge between a keyboard and an iPad. Its goal is to create keyboards that make working a lot less stressful and which synchronize perfectly with your device of choice.

The Brydge 9.7 iPad Keyboard (Selling for $129.99 - Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price) is a durable, aluminum Bluetooth keyboard that is very compatible with most iPads. This keyboard is designed in a way that echoes simplicity and rugged reliability. Following are some of its other features…

It has backlit keys which help with maximum visibility in low lit areas
It is available in different colors so it can fit the color setting of your iPad
Its viewing angles are highly versatile; it can be moved through 0-180 degrees so you can remove the keyboard very easily when you want to
Made with very heavy-duty and high-grade aluminum which makes it quite durable and stylish
It is compatible with the iPad Outerbox Universe Case

Not sure on this one? Brydge has many other iPad keyboards for you to check out.

Best Value

Do you want an iPad keyboard that gives you a laptop-like typing experience? Then you should get the Belkin QODE Ultimate Keyboard. It also has a long-lasting battery life and is highly durable. If you want a keyboard that is just as durable and can be used for an iPad air, you should check out the Belkin QODE Ultimate Keyboard Case for iPad Air.

Belkin QODE Ultimate Wireless Keyboard and Case for iPad 2, 3rd Generation and 4th Generation with Retina Display – Available in 3 Sizes

Belkin iPad Keyboard F5L149ttBLK – iPad 4/3/2

Features

Belkin was founded by Chet Pipkin in his parents’ garage. Even then, his main aim was to satisfy customers’ needs. He started by manufacturing computer cable assemblies, and today Belkin has expanded so much that it has three international brands. Its goal is to keep on enhancing the technology that we use every day. Belkin’s products are known for their simplicity and reliability. Its employees are professional engineers who think up innovative ideas every day.

The Belkin QODE Ultimate Keyboard (Selling for $89.99- Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price) is a keyboard case that is compatible with a lot of iPads. The wireless iPad keyboard and protective case come in one package at an affordable price. Here are some of its features:

It has 3 viewing handles with precision hold magnets which increase the stability of the keyboards
It offers 160 hours of battery life after and between charges
The keyboard comes with a USB to micro USB cable
When folded, the keyboard is flat.
It has large keys which are very comfortable and provide a laptop typing experience
This keyboard is designed with a sound flow design which greatly increases an iPad’s audio clarity

Not sure on this one? Belkin has many other iPad keyboards you can check out.

The ZAGG Rugged Book iPad Keyboard is made with a multi-layered removable case that deflects energy impact from your iPad and keeps it totally safe. If you want a keyboard that is cheaper and also works for an iPad mini, we recommend the ZAGG Slim Book Ultrathin Case, Hinged with Detachable Backlit Keyboard.

ZAGG Rugged Book Durable Case, Hinged with Detachable Backlit Keyboard – Black – Available in 5 Styles

ZAGG iPad Keyboard ID6RGK-BB0 – iPad Air 2

Features

The product that gave ZAGG its breakthrough is the invisible shield which was created by Philip Chipping. It started in 2005 in a backyard shed and was selling only $200 worth of goods per day. But it has grown to a big brand within the niche. ZAGG was the brand that started the revolution of offering full-body gadget protection with clear protective film. Due to the positive results, many companies emulated them and started creating similar screen protectors and cases for many other devices. So if you are looking for a forward-thinking brand that delivers cutting-edge products, ZAGG it is.

The ZAGG Rugged Book iPad Keyboard (Selling for $149.99- Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price) is a durable keyboard that has a highly effective polymer charger that lasts up to two years when charged. It comes with magnets which activate sleep and wake functions in order to preserve battery life. It has 4 multi-function modes which protect the iPad and allow you to quickly separate them for optimum utility. This keyboard also has a mode that offers backlit keys. Its keys are very large and it has a large typing area to ensure accurate, easy, and fast typing.

ZAGG has other great iPad keyboards. Here are some of them…

ZAGG Slim Book Ultrathin Case- It has a hinge that is very unique offers 135 degrees of viewing angle
ZAGG Rugged Book Pro Bluetooth Keyboard- It has a kickstand that is built into the case that keeps your iPad at a perfect angle
ZAGG Folio Case with Backlit Bluetooth Keyboard- It is ultrathin so it is easy to move around. It is also very stylish

ZAGG has many more iPad keyboards you can check out if you want to see more options before making a decision.

The Logitech TYPE+ Keyboard for iPad Air2 comes with a case that has a dual-view stand. It is a unique keyboard with special time-saving iOS short keys that carry out simple commands. If you want a cheaper keyboard that is also ultra-slim and comes in a variety of colors, you should check out Logitech Keys-To-Go Ultra-Portable Stand-Alone keyboard.

Logitech Type+ Bluetooth Keyboard Case for iPad Air 2 – Available in 6 Colors

Logitech iPad Keyboard LYSB00QOOVOV0-ELECTRNCS – Bright Green

Features

Logitech started in 1981 and has become a world leader in computer mice. It has greatly expanded its expertise and is now working with a portfolio of interface devices that are affecting the modern world. Its products are sold worldwide. Logitech studies its customers’ needs and preferences to make products that satisfy them.

The Logitech TYPE+ Keyboard for iPad Air2 (Selling for $99.99 -- Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price) is a durable keyboard and case that is made with a folio design. Its keyboard includes iOS short keys which save time as they can input special command functions. It has a secure lock system which holds the corners of the iPad firmly in place so it doesn’t move while in use. The case has a dual-view stand which holds your iPad at the best angle for you. This keyboard is made with a cover which gives the iPad two-sided protection against most accidents.

Here are some other Logitech iPad keyboards for you to check out:

Logitech Create Backlit Pro 9.7 Keyboard case with smart connector- Smart connector that offers highly advanced and reliable connectivity with no Bluetooth pairing required
Logitech Ultrathin Magnetic Clip-on Keyboard Cover- Flexible multi-angle stand and a rechargeable battery that can last for up to 3 months
Logitech Type+ iPad Air Keyboard Case with Integrated Keyboard- it has spaced keys and familiar layout for easy typing

Want something different? Logitech has a large variety of iPad keyboards that you can check out.

The Apple Wireless Keyboard For iPads can be used anywhere within 30 feet of your Mac or iPad because of its reliable built-in Bluetooth service. If you want a keyboard that gives you more freedom, this is it. If you want something different, you could try the Apple Smart Keyboard for iPad Pro 9.7-inch.which is very durable and can be used for the iPad Pro.

Apple Wireless Keyboard for iPad – English – Bluetooth Technology

Apple iPad Keyboard MC184LL/B

Features

Apple is a multinational technological company that is redefining the face of electronics. For many years, it has been a leading brand and has been breaking down barriers in the creative market that people didn’t even know existed. Its team is made of the best engineers and manufacturers who keep thinking of ways to go farther than ever. Apple is all about pushing and moving forward. All its products are of top quality, and its iPad keyboards are no exception.

The Apple Wireless Keyboard For iPads (Selling for $69.00- Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price) is a top-quality, durable, aluminum keyboard. It can be used anywhere within 30 feet of your Mac or iPad because of its reliable built-in Bluetooth service. Although it comes with spacious keys, this keyboard is very lightweight so it is easy to move around. This keyboard is also sleek and stylish, so not only are you getting top quality, you are also getting an aesthetically-pleasing piece of equipment which will help you work harder and faster. It requires just two AA batteries.

Apple has other iPad keyboards and related products. Here are a few…

Apple Smart Keyboard for iPad Pro 9.7-inch (2016 Model) -- Portable and connects to iPad Pro with the Smart connector.
Apple MJYR2LL/A Smart Keyboard for 12.9-inch iPad Pro -- A keyboard like none else, thanks to the Smart Keyboard which combines a number of new technologies and materials.
Apple Magic Keyboard (MLA22LL/A) -- Comes with enhanced keys, rechargeable battery (built-in) and an improved scissor mechanism for superior performance.

Apple has many other keyboards for you to check out if you don’t like the featured one.

Get the Best IPad Keyboard of 2017!

Now that you have gone through our detailed reviews, we believe you can make the right choice while buying an iPad keyboard. So, go ahead and place your order.

Our Top Choice

Brydge 9.7 iPad Keyboard

Best Value

Belkin QODE Ultimate Keyboard Case for iPad

ZAGG Rugged Book iPad Keyboard

Logitech TYPE+ Keyboard for iPad Air2

Apple Wireless Keyboard for iPad