The best iPad Pro keyboard cases of 2024: Expert tested and reviewed

4 months ago 28

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The iPad Pro is one of Apple's pricier products, coming close to the prices of new MacBooks. That's why it's critical to protect your purchase from potential damage (unless you're okay with bumps, scratches, or breaks, then do as you please).

Also: The best iPad screen protectors to guard your screen from damage

iPad keyboard cases are a simple way to bring the ease of a computer to your tablet without sacrificing on style, substance, or protection. Plus, with the launch of the new iPad Air and iPad Pro models in May, there's no better time to invest in a functional keyboard case than when you first purchase your iPad. That's why we rounded up the best iPad Pro keyboard cases considering size, protection, connection, and cost -- some of which will still fit some of the new iPad models.

Also: The best iPads you can buy: Expert tested

What's the best iPad Pro keyboard case right now?

Our top pick for the best iPad Pro keyboard case is the Logitech Combo Touch keyboard for its oversized trackpad, smooth typing, clean design, and fair price. Read more to explore our other options -- including Apple's Smart Keyboard -- and see how they stack up to each other to find the best pick for you.

Also: The best iPad stylus of 2024

The best iPad Pro keyboard cases of 2024

Pros

Oversized trackpad Improved design Smooth typing experience

Cons

Limited storage capability Price increase on latest model

Logitech Combo Touch Tech Specs: Dimensions: 11.24 x 0.69 x 8.89 inches | Weight: 1.72 lbs | Size: 11, 12.9, 13 inches

Right now, the Logitech Combo Touch is our pick for the best iPad Pro keyboard case overall. The detachable keyboard uses the Smart Connector for connectivity and employs an adjustable kickstand for greater stability. It offers single-color backlighting for its 78 keys with 16 levels of brightness to get just the right lighting for your work.

It also employs a large trackpad that works with Multi-Touch gestures for easier use. You also get to choose between four exclusive modes: Type, sketch, view, and read. Plus, there's a spot for you to store your Apple Pencil so it's never far when you need it.

Current Amazon users said they liked the ease of use, protection, quality, and appearance of the Combo Touch case. They said it pairs easily, is well made, and is worth the price, though some said the Combo Touch adds too much weight to their iPad.

Read the review: Logitech Combo Touch review

Pros

Incorporated kickstand Versatile design Soft keys

Cons

Lacks backlighting Limited protection

Apple Smart Keyboard Folio Tech Specs: Dimensions: 10.12 x 7.52 x 0.91 inches | Weight: 5.3 oz | Size: 11-inch

The Apple Smart Keyboard Folio is one of the best folio keyboard cases, offering a complete enclosure for your iPad Pro. Instead of plugs or cords, it uses magnetic connectivity using the Smart Connector to connect to your iPad without trouble.

This ergonomic keyboard has a foldable design, making it a breeze to use. The 64 keys also offer single-color backlighting to enhance visibility.

Current Amazon users said they liked the quality, design, and added function of the Apple Smart keyboard. They also said it's a good in between option from a separate keyboard accessory and stepping up to the Apple Magic keyboard. Some users said it's a bummer that the keyboard only allows for two viewing angles and that the key action is soft -- but that it's not a dealbreaker.

One customer even said, "it significantly enhances the experience of using an iPad."

Pros

Floating design Shortcut keys and mouse Can get under $100 on sale Easy to use Great value

Cons

Limited colors Smudges on front of case Heavy

ESR iPad Case Tech Specs: Dimensions: 13.19 x 7.08 x 0.67 inches | Weight: 2.27 lbs | Size: 11, 12.9, 13 inches

The ESR keyboard case lets you upgrade your iPad to a more functional laptop-style work experience. The floating cantilever design allows your iPad Pro to float stylishly over your keyboard and gives you the perfect angle to work. It's equipped with a full, multi-touch gesture support to let you browse the web, build presentations, and edit documents at unparalleled speed, and offers a full row of shortcut keys for maximum productivity.

Current users on ESR's website said they liked the backlit keys, added features, long lasting battery life, and the ability to use your iPad horizontally or vertically with the keyboard. They also love that it's more affordable than some other options on the market. Customers said the only downsides are that the case is on the heavier side, it has limited color options, and that the front cover shows fingerprints easily.

One customer noted that "it does everything you could want from an iPad Keyboard."

Pros

Drop protection Apple Pencil holder One-year warranty Wrap-around protection

Cons

No charging cable Limited backlighting

Zagg Pro Keys Tech Specs: Dimensions: 7.73 x 9.98 x 0.89 inches | Weight: 1.48 lbs | Size: 11, 12.9, 13-inch

The Zagg Pro Keys keyboard case is perfect when you are on a budget and looking for an iPad Pro keyboard case that will do the trick. It will also work with your iPad Air for greater compatibility. There are 78 backlit keys with RGB color support and an ergonomic Pro keyframe design for enhanced comfort. The magnetic closure helps secure your keyboard. And if you have slippery fingers you don't have to worry about dropping this model because it has drop protection up to two meters.

Current Amazon customers said they like the extensive protection, design, and appearance of this Zagg case. One user said the Zagg case provided even more protection than Apple's options. However, some customers noted they had trouble charging their Apple Pencil through the case.

"This Zagg keyboard is perfect. It provides great wrap-around protection with a shock-absorbing rubber bumper. I also love that the keyboard and bumper are two separate pieces, allowing me to remove the iPad from the keyboard without having to remove it from the bumper," they wrote on Amazon.

We love the Logitech Combo Touch iPad Pro keyboard case for its versatility and value. To see how it compares, here's a bird's eye view of the best iPad Pro keyboard cases

Best iPad Pro keyboard case	Price	Compatibility (size)
Logitech Combo Touch	$132	11, 12.9, 13 inch
Apple Smart Keyboard Folio	$119	11, 12.9 inch
ESR iPad Pro case with Keyboard and Mouse	$76	11, 12.9, 13 inch
Zagg Pro Keys	$110	11, 12.9, 13 inch

*Lowest non-discounted price at the time of writing. Please note that actual prices may vary depending on available sales, deals, discounts, and coupons.

To help you find the best iPad Pro keyboard case for your needs, here's how our expert suggestions based on our research and testing stack up to each other.

Choose this best iPad Pro keyboard case...	If you want...
Logitech Combo Touch	The top-rated iPad Pro keyboard case.
Apple Smart Keyboard Folio	An Apple designed iPad Pro keyboard case.
ESR iPad Pro case with Keyboard and Mouse	An affordable, yet functional iPad Pro keyboard case.
Zagg Pro Keys	Incredible value and reliable performance.

When choosing the best iPad Pro keyboard cases, it's probably good to keep a few things in mind. Here are a few factors we recommend looking out for during your hunt for the perfect iPad Pro keyboard case.

Size: It's essential that a keyboard has ergonomics to help you work better. Look for an iPad Pro keyboard case that will fit your iPad but also hold a nicely-sized keyboard for comfortable use. Protection: An iPad Pro keyboard case is hardly worth it if it does not protect your iPad, so look for models that offer additional protection to ensure your device stays safe. A keyboard is great, but if it doesn't offer protection, it's probably not worth your investment. Connection: Whether it uses Bluetooth or a magnetic connection, consider which type of connection will work best for your iPad Pro, your needs, and how you want to use it. Cost: Set a budget you're comfortable with before searching the market. This will help narrow down your options and also ensure you don't overspend. But if you know you'll be using a keyboard everyday, then it might be worth spending more for a top-quality case.

Our ZDNET team used a combination of personal experience and testing, in-depth research, and our expansive knowledge and testing of the iPad line and its compatible accessories to consider the best iPad Pro keyboard cases on the market.

If we think another product is worth your money, we'll update this list or write up a spotlight review highlighting its best qualities and specifying who it's for. Plus, we are routinely scouring the web for new products that are worthy of testing, following news on product rollouts and upgrades, and sourcing the best deals.

Apple announced the 6th-generation iPad Air and the 7th-generation iPad Pro models on May 7. The iPad Pro (20024) is available in an 11-inch and 13-inch display.

Also: How to order the new iPad Air, iPad Pro, Magic Keyboard, and Apple Pencil Pro

The new iPad Air comes in two sizes for the first time (11-inches and 13-inches) and features the M2 chip. In addition, the iPad Air now starts at 128GB instead of the mere 64GB that Apple previous included in the base model.

Yes, there is a new Magic Keyboard for the iPad Pro. On May 7, Apple announced an upgraded version of its Apple Magic Keyboard for the iPad Pro, where the brand simultaneously unveiled brand new iPads.

Also: Everything Apple announced at its 'Let Loose' iPad event

This new Magic Keyboard is only compataible with the new M4 iPad Pro 11-inch and 13-inch models, and includes a larger trackpad, a function row, and other upgraded features. It is available for preorder now. The 11-inch Magic Keyboard model will costs $299 while the 13-inch model is $399.

Yes and no. The last several iterations of iPad Pros have included an 11-inch and a 12.9-inch option. The 2024 iPad Pro is available in an 11-inch and a new 13-inch configuration, which means 12.9-inch cases likely won't fit.

Several companies, like Otterbox, have already released cases designed for the new iPad lineup, so there are options available. I recommend purchasing a case that specifies it is compatible with your current device for the most security in your buy.

Most iPad Pro keyboard cases work by connecting to your iPad's magnetic Smart Connection. If a Smart Connection is missing, the keyboard case typically connects via Bluetooth or a USB cord.

The cost of an iPad Pro keyboard case can vary significantly, depending on factors like size, design, brand, and features. Expect to spend over $100 on a quality iPad Pro keyboard case, and keep in mind that some options will run you closer to $200 or more. For example, Apple's Magic keyboard is $299.

If you're an owner of a 2022 iPad Pro, you may be able to grab keyboard cases for less right now following the launch of Apple's newest iPad Pro (2024).

Are there alternative iPad Pro keyboard cases to consider?

Yes, while most of the selections on this list are some of the top keyboarded cases on the market, there's still tons of options to consider. Here's a few more to explore.

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