Magic Keyboard For 12.9-inch IPad Pro (2021): Review

Hey everyone! Today, we're diving deep into the Magic Keyboard specifically designed for the 12.9-inch iPad Pro (2021). If you're considering leveling up your iPad experience, or just curious about this sleek accessory, you're in the right place. We’re going to explore everything from its design and features to performance and whether it’s actually worth the investment. So, grab your favorite beverage, get comfy, and let's get started!

What Makes the Magic Keyboard Magical?

First off, let’s talk about what makes the Magic Keyboard stand out from other iPad keyboards. It’s not just a keyboard; it's an entire experience meticulously crafted to transform your iPad Pro into a pseudo-laptop. The main draws? The floating design, backlit keys, integrated trackpad, and the overall premium feel that screams Apple. Let's break down each of these features a bit more.

The Floating Design

The floating design is arguably one of the most visually striking aspects of the Magic Keyboard. Your iPad Pro magnetically attaches to the keyboard, giving the illusion that it's floating above the keys. This isn’t just for aesthetics, though. It allows for adjustable viewing angles, so you can tilt your screen to find the perfect position whether you’re typing away at a desk or trying to catch up on your favorite show on the couch. The hinge is sturdy and smooth, providing a premium feel when adjusting the angle. Apple has nailed the engineering here, ensuring that the iPad stays securely in place without feeling wobbly or unstable. It’s a small detail, but it significantly enhances the overall user experience, making the iPad Pro feel more like a cohesive laptop replacement.

Backlit Keys

Typing in low-light conditions? No problem! The Magic Keyboard comes equipped with backlit keys that automatically adjust to your environment. This is super handy for those late-night work sessions or when you're traveling on a dimly lit plane. The backlighting is even and consistent across all the keys, preventing any annoying light bleed or uneven illumination. Plus, the keys themselves have a comfortable amount of travel, making typing feel satisfying and tactile. It’s clear that Apple put a lot of thought into the typing experience, and the backlit keys are a testament to that attention to detail. Whether you’re writing emails, coding, or just browsing the web, the backlit keys ensure that you can always see what you’re doing, no matter the lighting conditions.

Integrated Trackpad

Perhaps one of the biggest game-changers is the integrated trackpad. This trackpad supports multi-touch gestures, allowing you to navigate your iPad Pro with ease. Swipe between apps, scroll through web pages, and even trigger Mission Control with familiar gestures. The trackpad is responsive and precise, making it a joy to use. No more smudging up your screen with fingerprints! The trackpad's sensitivity can be adjusted in the iPad's settings, so you can customize it to your liking. Apple has seamlessly integrated the trackpad into iPadOS, making it feel like a natural extension of the operating system. For those who are used to working on a laptop, the trackpad makes the transition to using an iPad Pro for productivity much smoother and more intuitive.

Performance and Daily Use

Okay, so it looks great and has some cool features, but how does the Magic Keyboard perform in real life? In daily use, it truly shines. The typing experience is fantastic, closely mimicking that of a MacBook. The keys have a satisfying click and enough travel to make typing feel comfortable even for extended periods. The trackpad is smooth and responsive, making navigation a breeze. Multitasking becomes significantly easier with the trackpad, as you can quickly switch between apps and manage your workflow more efficiently.

Typing Experience

The typing experience on the Magic Keyboard is genuinely impressive. The keys are well-spaced and offer a good amount of tactile feedback, which is crucial for touch typists. The key travel is surprisingly good for such a slim keyboard, providing a comfortable and satisfying typing experience. Over time, you'll likely find that you can type just as quickly and accurately on the Magic Keyboard as you would on a traditional laptop keyboard. This is a huge advantage for anyone who needs to do a lot of writing or coding on their iPad Pro. The keyboard's stability also contributes to the positive typing experience. It sits firmly on a flat surface, without any noticeable flex or wobble, allowing you to type with confidence and precision.

Trackpad Gestures

The trackpad gestures are intuitive and responsive, making it easy to navigate iPadOS. You can use two-finger swipes to scroll through web pages and documents, three-finger swipes to switch between apps, and four-finger swipes to access the app switcher. The trackpad also supports tap-to-click and force click, adding even more functionality. These gestures make using the iPad Pro feel more like using a MacBook, which is a significant benefit for users who are accustomed to the macOS environment. The precision of the trackpad also allows for more accurate cursor control, making it easier to select text, edit photos, and perform other tasks that require fine motor skills. Apple has clearly put a lot of effort into optimizing the trackpad experience for iPadOS, and the results are impressive.

Portability

While the Magic Keyboard adds some weight and bulk to your iPad Pro, it still maintains a relatively slim profile. It's easy to slip into a bag and take with you on the go. The added weight also gives the iPad Pro a more substantial and premium feel. However, it’s worth noting that the combination of the iPad Pro and Magic Keyboard is noticeably heavier than some ultraportable laptops. So, if portability is your top priority, you might want to consider whether the added weight is a worthwhile trade-off for the improved functionality. The Magic Keyboard also folds around the iPad Pro, providing protection for the screen when you're not using it. This is a nice added bonus that helps to keep your iPad Pro safe from scratches and other damage.

Is It Worth the Investment?

Now for the big question: Is the Magic Keyboard worth the hefty price tag? The answer, as always, depends on your needs and how you plan to use your iPad Pro. If you primarily use your iPad for consuming content – watching videos, browsing the web, reading – then the Magic Keyboard might be an overkill. However, if you're looking to use your iPad Pro as a laptop replacement for work or school, then the Magic Keyboard is an absolute game-changer. It transforms the iPad Pro into a powerful and versatile productivity machine.

Who Should Buy It?

• Students: If you're a student who takes notes, writes essays, and does research on your iPad Pro, the Magic Keyboard can significantly improve your workflow.
• Professionals: If you're a professional who needs to write emails, create documents, and manage projects on the go, the Magic Keyboard can help you stay productive wherever you are.
• Creatives: If you're a creative professional who uses your iPad Pro for graphic design, photo editing, or video editing, the Magic Keyboard can provide a more comfortable and efficient way to work.

Who Should Skip It?

• Casual Users: If you primarily use your iPad Pro for watching videos, browsing the web, and playing games, the Magic Keyboard is likely not worth the investment.
• Budget-Conscious Buyers: The Magic Keyboard is an expensive accessory, so if you're on a tight budget, there are other, more affordable keyboard options available.

Alternatives to the Magic Keyboard

If the Magic Keyboard is not quite right for you, there are several alternatives to consider. These include:

• Smart Keyboard Folio: Apple's Smart Keyboard Folio is a more affordable option that still provides a decent typing experience.
• Logitech Combo Touch: The Logitech Combo Touch is a popular alternative that offers a detachable keyboard and a built-in kickstand.
• Bluetooth Keyboards: There are many Bluetooth keyboards available from various manufacturers that can be paired with your iPad Pro.

Final Thoughts

The Magic Keyboard for the 12.9-inch iPad Pro (2021) is a premium accessory that offers a fantastic typing experience, a responsive trackpad, and a sleek design. It transforms the iPad Pro into a versatile productivity machine, making it a worthwhile investment for those who want to use their iPad as a laptop replacement. However, it is an expensive accessory, and there are other, more affordable options available. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to buy the Magic Keyboard depends on your individual needs and budget. If you value portability, performance, and a premium design, then the Magic Keyboard is definitely worth considering. Thanks for reading, and I hope this review helped you make an informed decision!