Last Updated on May 10, 2023 by Ernests Embutnieks
When I bought my first iPad, I immediately got Magic Keyboard with it. Have zero regrets. I know it’s super expensive, and the full combo iPad Pro + Magic Keyboard + Apple Pencil 2 is even more expensive than MacBook. Also, needed a case that’s compatible with Magic Keyboard, which made it even more expensive. I honestly didn’t think to search for alternatives – it turns out there are some good options equally good. Let’s take a closer look and see what they offer.
We have covered Bluetooth keyboards for tablets in the past, but I wouldn’t call them alternatives for Magic Keyboard since not all of them offer a stand + keyboard + touchpad. In this article, I’m only going to look into keyboards that are similar to Magic Keyboard. Meaning that they will have to have a stand and a keyboard and a touchpad, sort of a keyboard that will transform your iPad into a laptop.
Related: iPad Cases That Are Compatible with Magic Keyboard
1. Logitech Combo Touch
One of the most popular alternatives to the Magic Keyboard for iPads – is the Logitech Combo Touch. Keyboard with a kickstand and trackpad.
This keyboard helps you with typing, browsing, sketching, and reading, and of course, it can turn your device into a productivity machine. The keys and typing is very similar to what the Magic Keyboard offers.
It also provides you with better protection, and removing the device is effortless. You can also charge your Apple Pencil with the keyboard/case attached. There’s a special place at the top for that.
Compatibility:
| iPad Pro 11-inch (1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th gen) | ||
| iPad Pro 12.9-inch (5th gen) | ||
| iPad Air (4th & 5th gen) |
Keyboard Languages:
- UK English (QWERTY)
- Suisse Schweizer (Qwertz)
- Deutsch (Qwertz)
- Francais (Azerty)
- Espanol (Qwerty)
- Italiano (Qwerty)
- US Internationl (Qwerty)
- Turkey (Qwerty)
- Russian (Qwerty)
- Danish (Qwerty)
2. ESR Rebound Magnetic Keyboard Case
We discovered ESR brand was while back when we were doing research on iPad cases, and we stumbled upon some other great products they are manufacturing. One that we really loved is this keyboard.
It’s a direct competitor to Apple Magic Keyboard, same functions. Attach your iPad magnetically, use a keyboard to type, trackpad, and there’s a place for your Apple Pencil. The key difference is that you can attach your iPad to the keyboard vertically. Which is something the Magic Keyboard doesn’t offer. That’s what we liked the most about this specific keyboard. Definitely stand out in the market due to that.
Another thing that made them stand out is a magnetic flap that covers the Apple Pencil when you are on the go, which decreases the chance of losing your Pencil. The only drawback is that it comes in a US layout.
Compatibility:
| iPad Pro 11-inch (3rd, 4th & 5th gen) | ||
| iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd, 4th & 5th gen) | ||
| iPad Air (4th & 5th gen) |
3. Brydge MAX+
Brydge is a well-known brand that created iPad, Macbook, Windows, and other accessories, and they also have created an alternative for Magic Keyboard – Brydge Max+ for iPads. They are pretty well made. With trackpads, instant connectivity, a magnetic case, and adjustable backlit keys. Just like all of the keyboards on the list, this gives your the opportunity to turn your iPad into a laptop or get the experience at least.
It has premium quality(Aluminum), and it’s priced at $199.99. The price gets lower if you choose the keyboard case for iPad Air or a regular iPad.
Comes in three colors: space grey, silver, and white. Overall a good alternative and will save you $100.
Unlike Magic Keyboard, it has a battery. It’s rechargeable with a USB-C cable, and it can last up to 3-months with a backlight; it will only last around 40 hours.
Inside the box, you will also get a case for your iPad, but the charger won’t be included. You can use your iPad charger.
| iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd, 4th & 5th gen) | ||
| iPad Pro 11-inch (1st, 2nd & 3rd gen) | ||
| iPad Air (4th & 5th gen) | ||
| iPad 10.2 (7th, 8th & 9th gen) |
4. Typecase Magic-Style Keyboard Case for iPad Pro 12.9
Magic Keyboard alternative by Typecase. It almost looks identical to the original Apple Magic Keyboard, but there are some differences. It doesn’t have a USB-C port like Apple’s keyboard does. The quality is a bit lower, and it’s only available for iPad Pro 12.9-inch. It comes in or different colors – Black, Blue, Pearl White, and Pink. It also has 10-color backlights. It’s also priced at $150, which is a lot, in my opinion.
Overall, it provides the same feeling as the original Magic Keyboard and is a good option as a budget alternative.
| iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd, 4th & 5th gen) |
5. OHNI Touch Keyboard Case
OHNI offers a bit wider range of colors and compatibility. It’s also compatible with regular iPad unlike other brands on the list. And it’s the only one that offers the keyboard in pink. (also black and grey)
Another thing that stands out is its price. It’s a budget keyboard and the only one that you will be able to get for under $100.
Overall it’s a great experience, attaching the iPad is easy, it gives you the option to type, use a touchpad and use your device as a kickstand, which comes also in handy when you watch to watch your favorite Netflix show in your bed.
Compatibility:
iPad Pro, iPad Air, Classic iPad
Classic iPad
- iPad 9th gen
- iPad 8th gen
- iPad 7th gen
iPad Pro
- iPad Pro 10.5
- iPad Pro 11-inch 3rd gen
- iPad Pro 11-inch 4th gen
- iPad Pro 12.9-inch 3rd gen
- iPad Pro 12.9-inch 4th gen
- iPad Pro 12.9-inch 5th gen
iPad Air
- iPad Air 3rd gen
- iPad Air 4th gen
- iPad Air 5th gen
Summary
| Products | Material | Overall Score | Price | |
| 1. | Logitech Combo Touch | Plastic | 9/10 | $229.99 |
| 2. | ESR Rebound Magnetic Keyboard Case | Hard Plastic (Polycarbonate) | 9/10 | $159.99 |
| 3. | Brydge MAX+ | Aluminum | 8/10 | $199.99 |
| 4. | Typecase Magic-Style Keyboard | Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene | 8/10 | $149.99 |
| 5. | OHNI Touch Keyboard Case | Ambs Material | 6/10 | $63.99 |
I think can all agree that Apple products are expensive, and finding a good alternative isn’t that easy. A high-quality keyboard designed for the iPad is rare to find, there are multiple knockoff brands, but the quality isn’t the best, the battery life is below average, the keycaps are trash, and at the end of the day, you will regret that purchase.
But in this article, I’ve managed to find really, really good alternatives. I read some reviews from other people, and some are arguing that these are even better picks. If you ask me, it’s all subjective. The biggest surprise was ESR Rebound Magnetic Keyboard Case for me, I loved it, and I can recommend it to anyone that’s looking for a keyboard + case for their iPad Pro/Air.
All of the mentioned keyboards above are great alternatives to Magic Keyboard, each and every one has its own pros and cons. In my perspective Magic Keyboard isn’t the best keyboard for iPad necessarily, it’s about preference.
At the end of the day, they are all keyboards with touchpads, with kickstands and they do the same job.
Is there a cheaper alternative to Apple Magic Keyboard?
There are alternatives – ESR Rebound Magnetic Keyboard Case, Logitech Comco Touch, Brydge MAX+, Typecase Magic-Style Keyboard, and there are others, but these we’ve reviewed, and we can recommend as an alternative for iPad Magic Keyboard, and the quality is top-notch.
Related Articles:
How to Make the Keyboard Bigger on iPad
I love tech and all about it. I'm interested in finding ways how they can make my life more productive, and I share my knowledge with my blog readers. I'm an iPad Pro, iPhone, MacBook, and Apple Watch user, so I know a thing or two about these devices and try to write helpful content around these topics.
