The Magic Keyboard case is noticeably heavier than the Smart Keyboard Folio and adds quite a bit of weight to the iPad (1.6 pounds versus 0.89 pounds). It’s still possible to love the Smart Keyboard Folio, particularly as the design keeps the case thin and keeps crumbs and other particles from slipping in between the keys. You will still be reaching (or swiping) up to the Control Center to manage essential functions all the time. That balance probably comes partly from the Magic Keyboard’s most unique design element: the floating screen.Īfter giving in and providing a clamshell design and a trackpad, leaving both the Esc key and a function row out seems obstinate. What are the key differences – Magic Keyboard vs Smart Keyboard? Design Furthermore, the 2021 12.9-inch iPad Pro is slightly thicker than the previous version. The situation gets trickier if you’re considering using the 2018 Smart Keyboard Folio with the 2020 or 2021 iPad Pro since the cutout for the camera in the 2018 model is too small for the square array found on the 2020 iPad Pro. If you want to equip your 2018 iPad Pro with the new Magic Keyboard, go for it. Compatibilityīoth models of the Smart Keyboard Folio and the Magic Keyboard case work with all models of the iPad Pro made after 2018. That’s an attractive difference, but keep in mind that you’re really missing out on a lot of features by sticking with Apple’s older design. The Smart Keyboard Folio will work with the 20 iPad Pro models.Īs for the Smart Keyboard Folio, the 12.9-inch model costs $199 and the 11-inch model costs $179, while the Smart Keyboard costs $159. The 11-inch version costs $179, while the 12.9-inch version will set you back $199 instead. The Smart Keyboard Folio has the advantage of being a lot cheaper than the Magic Keyboard. It works with both versions of the iPad Pro 11-inch. The 11-inch iPad Pro version is cheaper, but only slightly, and will still cost you an eye-watering $299. The Magic Keyboard for the iPad Pro 12.9-inch will set you back a staggering $349, and will work with the fourth and third-generation iPad Pro 12.9 - that’s the 20 models.
The Magic Keyboard is certainly impressive - but the admission price is steep. Not a huge deal for me, but some people really need that (the Magic Keyboard is backlit) Only two angles of viewing, as opposed to the newer Magic Keyboard.You have to pay a premium to avoid pairing/bluetooth