Customers recognize the Smart Keyboard for 9.7-inch iPad Pro as having high-quality keys, being easy to use, and lightweight. Many appreciate its convenient size, long battery life, and protective qualities, along with the included stand. Positive feedback also highlights its design. However, some customers find the price to be expensive.
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Page 1 Showing 1-20 of 1,498 reviews
Pros mentioned:
Keyboard quality
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
A Great Compromise, but a Questionable Cost
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This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
If you're considering an iPad Pro 9.7 inch model, or perhaps if you've already bought this device, then make no mistake: this is the keyboard that you're looking for. For the time being, at least. It is to the iPad Pro, what the Surface Type Cover is to the Surface Pro 4 - if you'd like to use your iPad Pro to the best of it's ability, and especially if you intend for this device to replace your primary computer, this accessory is simply indispensable. It is, in fact, a compromise in many positive ways. Yet, this device is not without it's flaws, even after you consider the almost prohibitively high price tag of $149...
PROS
- The keyboard itself is light enough that it will happily go wherever your iPad goes without making the device's total weight cumbersome. In other words, it does not noticeably detract from the outstanding portability that the iPad is known for.
- The keyboard doubles as a high quality cover when not in use, and offers the flexible standing positions that Apple's smart covers are known for.
- The keyboard itself makes good use of what meager space there is on the cover, spacing the keys wisely, and even thinking to fit in a cmd key complete with potentially time saving shortcuts to help you navigate your iPad Pro without removing your hands from the keyboard.
- The keyboard is waterproof nylon fiber! A waterproof peripheral is always welcome in my workplace, and does, in fact, add value to this product.
- The keys somewhat compensate for a diminished travel distance by being very responsive.
- Despite the unusual material, the keyboard *feels* like a premium product that will last. How long? Only time will tell, but it feels as sturdy as it is lightweight.
CONS
- Althought the keyboard still maintains a low-profile, considering that it is a fairly complete keyboard, when folded up as a smart cover, 2/3 of the cover is visibly extruded quite a bit higher than the 1/3 which is closest to the smart connector. This is obviously because the keyboard has to hide somewhere, but this asymmetrical apperance might bug the OCD Apple Aesthetic Fan in you.
- This keyboard is as small as you should expect it to be on a 9.7 inch device. If you've got big honking hands with big sausage fingers, or if you found the *12.9* inch version to be too small or uncomfortable, then I can't recommend this keyboard to you with any certainty.
- The keyboard isn't backlit! Honestly, quite a let down. Part of me understands that it may not have been possible or desireable for some reason to put backlit keys in... but another part of me is outraged that a premium keyboard at this price level doesn't have such a practical, and valuable, feature.
- The very minimal feedback on the Smart Keyboard relative to your average desktop or even laptop keyboard and the feel of the keyboard keys themselves is certainly an acquired taste. Simply put, this keyboard is different. And if you don't appreciate the difference, or expect something more like the Surface Pro Type Cover, then you may be greatly dissapointed by this given the exorbitant price. Which leads us to...
- This thing is very expensive at the moment. In fact, it's entirely possible that it's too expensive for your tastes, and I can't blame you for feeling that way. But the
The bottom line is this - if you're getting an iPad Pro, then you should be considering this keyboard, and you should consider how expensive it is before you sign up to buy an iPad Pro. I'll tell you right now that the Apple Pencil isn't a *must have* accessory for this device, but the keyboard has a very functional, practical idea in mind that you would do well not to ignore. The Smart Keyboard is one of those things that you feel should be included in the box, but it isn't. Again, much like the Surface Pro 3/4 Type Covers. That said, it's not the only bluetooth keyboard that plays/looks nice with the iPad, and certainly not the only one that functions as a case, which is a luxury that we *didn't* really have with the Surface Pro line (we still don't actually... I think). If you're a patient girl/boy, then it won't even be the only *smart connector* keyboard for this device for very long either. But when all is said and done, in spite of its borked price tag, not being backlit, and perhaps the bulge that it creates when used as a cover, I can honestly say that I'm pleased that Apple has essentially made a super Smart Cover that I can unfold to type on within minutes. As a fellow with smaller hands, I can also sincerely say that it is quite a pleasure to type on, although it might take some adjusting to for some, and it might not be a feasible option at all if you have larger hands than I. I can't say I happily forked over $149 for this keyboard at the time, and you would be wise to consider if you have that kind of money to spend on a keyboard before doing so. But now that I have mine, I've come to realize that I'm quite pleased with my Smart Keyboard. It completes my iPad Pro Computing experience, and aside from being short a set of backlit keys, it feels like a quality, durable product that I can count on for as long as my iPad lives, and it affords me a great deal of convenience and screen protection to boot. So, in the end, I suppose this is what Apple was going for. And ultimately, this product was worth it to me. A price cut would be lovely. But still worth it in my opinion. I'm giving this product 5 stars, thought I would like to give it 4.5. In spite of it's shortcomings and cost, I really do believe that it is a well designed multifunctional keyboard, easily among (if not) the best in its class.
Thanks for reading this review, I really hope it gave you some valuable insight and helps you come to whatever decision is best for you! This is your friendly neighborhood reviewer Pragmatic Theo, signing off!
I would recommend this to a friend
Pros mentioned:
Battery life, Ease of use, Keyboard quality
Rated 4 out of 5 stars
Pretty good and compact
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This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
This keypad works great most of the time. Occasionally it just stops working and I've got to turn everything off and restart to get it working again. It's very small and compact and protects the screen when not in use. I like that it doesn't need to be charged separately. This is way better than the keypad I had on my last i-Pad.
I would recommend this to a friend
Pros mentioned:
Ease of use, Keyboard quality, Weight
Rated 4 out of 5 stars
Very comfortable typing and easy to set up
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This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
I've owned Ipads before but have never used a keyboard. So when I bought my new Ipad Pro, I also purchased the Smart Keyboard. The keyboard makes the Ipad feel like a laptop. The keys are comfortable to type. It's so easy to set up and is very lightweight. I gave it 4 stars instead of 5 because I wish it offered multiple viewing angles when attached to the Ipad. It only offers one, which is perfect if sitting on a desk, but not as comfortable if it's on your lap. It's perfect for taking on a trip or to meetings because it's so portable and lightweight.
I would recommend this to a friend
Pros mentioned:
Keyboard quality
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
Perfect keyboard
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This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
Fully functional keyboard and easy to use. No set up required (it syncs via magnets on edge of iPad.
I would recommend this to a friend
Pros mentioned:
Keyboard quality
Rated 3 out of 5 stars
Its OK
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This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
Keys feel nice and it does its job protecting the screen but it adds a lot of weight and the keyboard doesn't sit flat so it's always bouncing up when I type.
I would recommend this to a friend
Pros mentioned:
Battery life, Keyboard quality, Size
Rated 4 out of 5 stars
Great addition to a great IPad
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This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
Initially, I was worried about how it would effect the weight and bulk of the iPad. But after making the purchase I am happy with it. The keyboard is small, but still manufactured to function as a keyboard and fold up as part of the cover. Of the three positions you can utilize it in, the viewing position is the only negative. The angle, for me, is just not appropriate to watch videos. The connection through the smart connector is simple and I haven't noticed its impact on battery life. Overall, very happy customer.
I would recommend this to a friend
Pros mentioned:
Battery life, Keyboard quality, Size
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
Great Keyboard
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This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
This keyboard is small, light and compact compared to other third party keyboards. No batteries, uses the iPad accessory port so no charging and no checking of battery for keyboard before leaving home/office. Comfortable to use but people with larger hands may want to try out in store before purchase. Only downside is that it only has one fixed angle in the keyboard stand mode.
I would recommend this to a friend
Pros mentioned:
Battery life, Ease of use, Keyboard quality
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
Awesome Keyboard
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This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
Apple Smart Keyboard is unbelievably better than other keyboards!! It is light, partially covers the iPad, easy to type on, doesn't require recharging and doesn't require a Bluetooth connection!!!
I would recommend this to a friend
Pros mentioned:
Keyboard quality
Cons mentioned:
Price
Rated 4 out of 5 stars
Great Keyboard...but pricey!
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This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
Recently I bought the iPad Pro 9.7 model (coming from an iPad Air 2), and was looking into purchasing a keyboard. I never was a fan of the tablet keyboard because of 1) Bluetooth connection can be spotty and 2) it either needs a battery or some type of other power supply to make it work. Plus most keyboards that I have tried made the iPad very bulky. So when I tried the Smart Keyboard, I was still skeptical. This time around it was due to the “strange” look keyboard…it reminded me of the old Atari 400 computer’s keyboard at first sight! Boy was I wrong.
Pros
The typing experience: It reminds me of the MacBook keyboard….only smaller. Keys are very responsive with very little travel when struck. One thing I do like is there is no hit shift to get to numbers like on the virtual iOS keyboard. Because the keys are rather small, for some people it may turn them off. For me, it took several minutes to adapt to this type of typing experience, but so far I like this better than typing on the iOS virtual keyboard when I type long emails, reports, or for that matter this long review!
Very thin: Wow this keyboard is this and light when compared to the other makers. The keys themselves is covered with some type of fabric. And when folded up it does act similar to a cover. The keyboard is very small, which means I am very close to the already small 9.7 screen. To me, this makes it easier to type and interact with the iPad Pro.
Shortcuts: Makes apps a lot easier to get to and specific functions such as bold/italicizes easier! By holding down the Command key, the keyboard brings up a list of shortcuts depending on which program you are in.
It just works!: No batteries, no Bluetooth connection…it just works! Instantly connect the connector from the iPad Pro to the keyboard and start typing away.
Nice material and design: Very elegant and smooth feeling. As stated before the make of the keyboard makes it similar to a screen protector when folded. One concern that I had with the Logitech keyboard was the screen was exposed to the screen. Would this cause the keys to scratch the screen surface? Not sure but it was somewhat of a turnoff.
Despite the many reasons I like it, there are several reasons that keep this from a perfect score.
No function keys: At first it was not a big deal until I realized that on my MacBook Pro 15 inch I would always use the function keys related to listening to music! Yes, if they did include function keys it could make the keyboard loose its small footprint. However, I’m not sure why Apple didn't create “virtual” function keys (example: hold down the option key to instigate these keys).
No backlit keys: Kind of miss this feature here. I do most of my typing in the light, but having backlit keys would be beneficial. Would this have increased the price? Not sure, which leads me to my next con…
Price: At $149.00 it's indeed a pricey keyboard when compared to the competition (which has backlit keyboard and function keys). Not sure if it's due to the way the keyboard is made (the material that is) or maybe it's just an Apple product being pricey pricing because, well, it's an Apple product.
Can the fabric rip?: I like the way the keyboard feels, but I'm wondering if someone who has jagged fingernails could rip the fabric? I tried to include an image of what the fabric looks like on the keyboard.you can defiantly see the fabric move while typing. Would the fabric withstand jagged fingernails? I don't have any intentions to test this, so hopefully this was just a mute paragraph.
So overall so far it's a pretty good keyboard. If it had virtual function keys similar to the MacBook, then this would be a perfect 5. Backlit keyboard and lower price would have been nice, but if you are looking for a slim and responsive keyboard without the above options, this is for you.
I would recommend this to a friend
Pros mentioned:
Keyboard quality, Weight
Cons mentioned:
Price
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
Love this keyboard!
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This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
Had an iPad 2 and bought a new one and this keyboard. I love the combination because the iPad is now much lighter and I really like the feel of the keyboard and I don't have to charge it separately. It works flawlessly. My previous keyboard often double printed keystrokes. This one works great! I have had it about a month now and although it was very expensive, $150, I think it was well worth it. Highly recommend it.
I would recommend this to a friend
Pros mentioned:
Battery life, Keyboard quality
Rated 4 out of 5 stars
Great keyboard for on the go
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This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
I did not think I would like this keyboard as much, but its lightweight, has a good clickiness to it (I like loud keyboards) and I love that you do not have to worry about keeping it powered since it just draws power from the iPad itself. I do wish it were backlit, but I do like how its spill resistant if you get some water on it you can just wipe it off gently. The way you fold it is awkward, but after a little while of use you get used to it. I'm happy happy with it for bashing out emails at night at home or writing papers at a coffee shop or cafeteria. It does not have as much travel as the normal Apple keyboard or a PC keyboard so I would not write a research paper on it, but for an on-the-go keyboard that you don't want to have to mess with wireless connections, the battery running out, or having another bulky item in your bag this is great
I would recommend this to a friend
Pros mentioned:
Keyboard quality
Cons mentioned:
Price
Rated 4 out of 5 stars
Thin and Light
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This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
First the Good: This keyboard works extremely well. While the keys are formed under a single sheet of fabric-like material, they have a nice feel and I found typing to be natural and easy. The biggest reason to purchase this keyboard, however, is the incredible thinness. It's barely bulkier than an ordinary Apple screen cover. The soft, inner material will help clean your screen and it draws it's power and connectivity by magnetically connecting to the iPad pro.
What's not to like? To start with, $150 is a pretty steep price for a minimalist keyboard with no backlighting or function keys. It also is only a screen cover, so the back of the iPad will be uncovered unless you combine this with another cover. To do so, would be over $200, which is definitely getting pricey.
The verdict: Get this if you will use it occasionally and can either stomach the price of this keyboard plus a case, or can live with only the screen cover. If you answer "no" to any of this, then I'd recommend looking at the Logitech Create keyboard. It has backlighting, function keys, provides a strap for the Apple pencil and functions as a case. The only real downside to it is it is thicker and heavier.
I would recommend this to a friend
Pros mentioned:
Battery life, Keyboard quality, Size
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
Interesting and useful
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This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
I wasn't initially searching for a keyboard for the tablet, but as i started using my tablet increasingly instead of my laptop, i needed an alternative to the onscreen keyboard. its a very good keyboard, essentially the same as a Macbook keyboard. it's not bulky in the slightest and requires no battery or bluetooth connection. very handy and great for travel,
I would recommend this to a friend
Pros mentioned:
Ease of use, Keyboard quality
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
Easy to use and handy while traveling
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This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
The keyboard case provides protection for the IPAD screen and is easier for me to use as a stand and keyboard for anything over a sentence. I am used to two hand typing and the keyboard stand makes that easy for me. It is also comfortable for watching videos and chatting.
I would recommend this to a friend
Pros mentioned:
Keyboard quality
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
Great keyboard choice for Ipad Pro
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This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
At first I was skeptical, I didn't think I would need a keyboard, but it turns out this cover is pretty good. It doesn't require any special battery or charging, and it has a similar feel to the regular Apple smart cover. The main difference is there is a hump where the keyboard folds out that makes it a bit different.
When opening the keyboard it has a good magnet to hold it in place. I was easily able to use this while seated or while on an airplane and it also works great just as a stand vs the regular cover - much more stability.
The keyboard does add additional weight compared to the normal smart cover, but I still like it enough that I keep it on full time despite the weight difference. It's still very comfortable to use the ipad on the couch for hours with no fatigue.
Another great bonus is you get some additional keys, such as the command button, tab, etc that you can use similarly in applications, just like on a mac laptop. It also has arrow keys for navigation. Another nice bonus is when you have the keyboard engaged, it will remove the soft-keyboard from the screen so you can see more of what you are working on.
I would recommend this to a friend
Pros mentioned:
Battery life, Ease of use, Keyboard quality
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
Great keyboard solution for iPad
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This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
This keyboard is super easy to attach and does not scratch screen. Powered by iPad so no charging or batteries needed. Key touch is very nice as well as solid keyboard will never be affected by dirt or spills. I am very satisfied with this product.
I would recommend this to a friend
Pros mentioned:
Keyboard quality, Size
Rated 4 out of 5 stars
A lightweight keyboard case.
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This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
The case is a solid fit. It provides moderate protection from scratches when you put your ipad in your carry-bag, briefcase, or backpack. The keyboard is slim but you can still type on it... Two downsides: Occasionally the magnetic seal disconnects and there should be more color options.
I would recommend this to a friend
Pros mentioned:
Keyboard quality
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
Worth the Bucks
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This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
I was really hesitant about spending the money on this keyboard. I read several reviews and when it came down to it I am glad I went with this one. It's meant to work with the Pro. If you are a fan of the original Apple Smart Cover you will love this. The design is great, When keyboard is not being used you can still use the Smart Cover as the keyboard remains hidden and the cover is still super thin and light. AS for the keyboard itself, really comfortable. Keys are reactive and have the same feel as my MacBook. Apple did a great job designing... quality all the way. Worth the extra bucks. Adds so much more value and function to my iPad.
I would recommend this to a friend
Pros mentioned:
Keyboard quality
Rated 4 out of 5 stars
Good Keyboard Case
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This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
I recently purchased an iPad Pro and I really wanted to try out this keyboard but I wasn't sure if I would like it. From the photos it looks like the keys would be squishy and hard to type on. I'm very pleased to say that they are great to type on. It feels similar to typing on a MacBook but the fabric covering makes the typing sound very muted while also protecting the keys from dirt and debris.
It's very similar in look to the standard Smart Cover but it just has a hump that takes up about 2/3rd's of the flap. It does add a bit of extra weight but I've found that to be a very easy trade off for the convenience of having a hardware keyboard. It does activate sleep and wake functionality. You can also fold the keyboard behind the iPad and have it function as just a stand but I've found it very easy to tip forward in that mode. Since it attaches magnetically you can just quickly snap it off if you want to hold just the iPad.
The typing experience is great for me. I have pretty big hands but I haven't had any issues typing just as fast as I would on a full sized keyboard. They keys are a bit smaller but they are tall enough and have good enough feedback that the size really doesn't matter. With the exception of FN keys, all of the regular Mac keys are present. You can things like CMD C or CMD V for copy and paste and so on. You can hold down the CMD key in various apps to bring up a chart showing what some of the other key combos that are available. When the keyboard is connected a bar is shown across the bottom of the screen for autocorrect and other text/font related options. I've really enjoyed the combo of autocorrect and a hardware keyboard as it really rapidly increases my typing speed without having to make minor corrections.
There isn't really anything that I don't like about it. Given the choice, I would definitely add a loop or something on the edge to hold the Apple Pencil.
Having the iPad Pro and this keyboard I've actually replaced my normal computer with it. You do have to get a little creative if you want to do certain things but it's working great for me so far. It does absolutely everything I want it to do. It is pretty expensive so you really have to decide if it' sporty it to you. Overall, this is a great keyboard and works very well if you are willing to spend the money on it.
I would recommend this to a friend
Pros mentioned:
Battery life, Ease of use, Keyboard quality
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
Great keyboard/case combo
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This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
I was surprised at how easy it is to type using this case/keyboard combo product. I have had other similar products but they didn't function as well. The best part is that you don't have to charge the keyboard separately.