IPad Pro 12-inch 2018 Keyboard: A Deep Dive
Hey guys, let's talk about the iPad Pro 12-inch 2018 keyboard. It's a pretty important accessory if you're looking to turn your iPad Pro into a more productive machine. This keyboard, designed specifically for the 2018 model of the 12.9-inch iPad Pro, offers a significant boost in terms of usability and functionality. We're going to dive deep into what makes this keyboard tick, its pros and cons, and whether it's the right choice for you. So, buckle up, because we're about to explore the world of iPad Pro keyboards!
Understanding the iPad Pro 12-inch 2018 Keyboard
The iPad Pro 12-inch 2018 keyboard isn't just a simple keyboard; it's a piece of tech designed to seamlessly integrate with your iPad Pro. Apple calls it the Smart Keyboard Folio. It's a folio-style keyboard, which means it acts as both a keyboard and a protective cover for your iPad. This design choice is all about convenience, offering a compact and portable solution for users on the go. The keyboard connects to the iPad Pro via the Smart Connector, eliminating the need for Bluetooth pairing and charging. This magnetic connection ensures a stable and reliable connection, providing a lag-free typing experience. The keyboard itself features a full-sized key layout with a comfortable key travel. The keys are covered in a fabric-like material which gives a premium feel. The Smart Keyboard Folio also provides adjustable viewing angles, allowing you to position your iPad at the optimal angle for typing and viewing. So you can use it to write emails, articles, or even code. So, in terms of design, it's pretty impressive and works smoothly.
Design and Build Quality
Alright, let's get into the nitty-gritty of the design and build quality of the iPad Pro 12-inch 2018 keyboard. Apple is known for its sleek and minimalist designs, and this keyboard is no exception. The Smart Keyboard Folio is slim and lightweight, adding minimal bulk to your iPad Pro. The exterior is made of a durable, yet soft-touch material that feels great in your hands. This material also helps to protect your iPad from scratches and minor bumps. The keyboard is integrated into the folio, and the keys are covered with a fabric-like material. This design offers a unique feel, providing a comfortable typing experience while also protecting the keys from dust and spills. The Smart Connector, which we mentioned earlier, is cleverly integrated into the design, ensuring a seamless connection with your iPad Pro. The magnetic attachment is strong, keeping the iPad securely in place. The overall build quality is top-notch, reflecting Apple's commitment to premium materials and craftsmanship. It’s definitely built to last.
Key Features and Functionality
So, what are the key features and functionalities that make the iPad Pro 12-inch 2018 keyboard stand out? Firstly, the Smart Connector is a game-changer. It eliminates the need for Bluetooth pairing and charging, making it incredibly convenient to use. Simply attach your iPad Pro to the keyboard, and you're ready to go. The full-sized key layout is another major plus. The keys are well-spaced and offer a comfortable typing experience, making it easier to type for extended periods. The keys have good key travel, which means that you'll feel a satisfying tactile feedback when you press them. The keyboard also features a range of iOS function keys, such as brightness controls, volume controls, and media playback controls. These function keys make it easier to control your iPad Pro without having to reach for the screen. The adjustable viewing angles are also a great feature. You can easily adjust the angle of your iPad Pro to find the perfect position for typing or watching videos. It's a lot more comfortable than trying to hold your iPad at an awkward angle. Furthermore, the Smart Keyboard Folio also functions as a protective cover, shielding your iPad Pro from scratches and minor bumps. This is a nice bonus that adds extra value to the overall package. These features combine to make the iPad Pro 2018 keyboard a really useful and convenient accessory.
Pros and Cons of the 2018 Keyboard
Like any piece of tech, the iPad Pro 12-inch 2018 keyboard has its pros and cons. Let's break them down, so you can make a more informed decision.
Advantages of the Keyboard
Alright, let's start with the good stuff: the advantages of the iPad Pro 12-inch 2018 keyboard. One of the biggest advantages is the improved productivity it offers. With a physical keyboard, you can type much faster and more accurately than with the on-screen keyboard, especially if you're writing long emails, articles, or documents. The Smart Connector is a major convenience. It provides a simple and reliable connection without the hassle of Bluetooth pairing or charging. The full-sized key layout is also a huge plus. The keys are well-spaced and offer a comfortable typing experience, making it easy to type for extended periods. The keyboard also doubles as a protective cover, safeguarding your iPad Pro from scratches and minor bumps. The adjustable viewing angles allow you to position your iPad at the optimal angle for typing and viewing, which increases comfort. It's also really portable, and it doesn't add much bulk to your iPad. It makes it easier to work on the go. Moreover, the Smart Keyboard Folio looks sleek and professional, enhancing the overall look of your iPad Pro setup. So, it's a great combination of practicality, and style.
Disadvantages of the Keyboard
Now, let's talk about the downsides of the iPad Pro 12-inch 2018 keyboard. One of the most common complaints is the typing experience. While the keys are well-spaced, some users find the key travel to be a bit shallow, which might take some getting used to. The fabric-like material on the keys, while providing a unique feel, can be prone to collecting dust and debris. Cleaning it can be a bit of a hassle. Another downside is the lack of a trackpad. The keyboard doesn't have a trackpad, so you have to rely on the touchscreen or a mouse for navigation. This might not be ideal for some users. Also, the Smart Keyboard Folio doesn't offer any protection for the back of the iPad Pro. It only protects the screen and the front edges. The price is another factor. The Smart Keyboard Folio is relatively expensive, which might be a deterrent for some people. While it's a great accessory, it's a significant investment, especially considering it doesn't offer all the features that a more traditional laptop keyboard would. The overall design doesn't really have any adjustment, and it can only be used in one position, which might not be ideal for users who are always switching between using a mouse or drawing with a pen.
Is the iPad Pro 12-inch 2018 Keyboard Right for You?
So, is the iPad Pro 12-inch 2018 keyboard the right choice for you? It really depends on your needs and how you plan to use your iPad Pro.
Who Should Consider Buying It
Okay, so who should consider getting the iPad Pro 12-inch 2018 keyboard? If you're someone who uses their iPad Pro for a lot of typing, like writing emails, creating documents, or working on long-form content, then this keyboard is a must-have. It will significantly improve your productivity and make typing a much more enjoyable experience. If you value portability and convenience, the Smart Keyboard Folio is an excellent choice. It's lightweight, easy to carry around, and provides a seamless connection to your iPad Pro. If you're a student or a professional who needs a keyboard for on-the-go work, it's a solid choice. Also, if you appreciate a clean and minimalist design, the Smart Keyboard Folio fits the bill perfectly. It enhances the look of your iPad Pro setup and adds a touch of sophistication. Basically, if you want to turn your iPad Pro into a more productive and versatile device, you should definitely consider it.
Who Should Look for Alternatives
Now, let's talk about who might want to look at some alternatives to the iPad Pro 12-inch 2018 keyboard. If you prefer a keyboard with a trackpad, you might want to consider a different option. The Smart Keyboard Folio doesn't have a trackpad, so you'll have to use the touchscreen or a mouse for navigation. If you're on a tight budget, the relatively high price of the Smart Keyboard Folio might be a barrier. There are other keyboard options available at lower prices, though they might not offer the same level of integration and quality. If you don't do a lot of typing and primarily use your iPad Pro for content consumption or drawing, you might not need a keyboard at all. In that case, the on-screen keyboard might be sufficient. If you prefer a keyboard that offers more protection for your iPad Pro, you might want to look for an alternative that covers both the front and the back of your device. Also, if you're not a fan of the fabric-like key feel or if you think you'll have trouble keeping it clean, other keyboard options with different key materials might be a better choice. It's all about finding what works best for your needs and preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the iPad Pro 12-inch 2018 keyboard is a great accessory for users who want to enhance the productivity and versatility of their iPad Pro. It offers a convenient, portable, and well-designed typing experience. However, it's important to consider your specific needs and preferences before making a purchase. Weigh the pros and cons, and decide if the features and functionality of this keyboard align with how you plan to use your iPad Pro. Ultimately, the best keyboard is the one that best suits your individual requirements. So, do your research, and choose the option that will help you get the most out of your iPad Pro experience. Hopefully, this guide has given you a clearer picture of whether the iPad Pro 12-inch 2018 keyboard is the right choice for you. Happy typing!