Can anyone share Apple Magic KB vs. Apple Folio KB thoughts?

[Donnation]

Can anyone comment who has both (or has at one time tried both) on their thoughts on the Magic Keyboard vs. the Folio Keyboard? I use the Folio Keyboard every day and don't have any issues with it (aside from wanting more angles and no keyboard backlight) and was just curious if you felt the Magic Keyboard was far superior to the Folio.

I'm thinking of ordering the MK but was curious from some real world users on their experience with both.

 

[Mike Boreham]

There are numerous threads doing exactly what you are asking for.

 

[c14nhl]

I have both.

What is your priority with the case?

 

[Nikhil72]

No question, significant upgrade in the keyboard department. If you type a lot, it’s a no brained. Having the trackpad inbuilt allows for far more flexibility than the magic trackpad on the side (typing in bed with the iPad propped up on your legs, for example, like a laptop, or on the sofa). It’s a 2.3-3 pound package, which people seem to be freaking out about, but it offers significant and unparalleled versatility over a laptop of a comparable size for the person for whom iPadOS can carry out all their tasks (I don’t have a mac left in my house, for example). I wrote for two hours while doing some medical research and browsing papers and then after submitting what I needed, I pulled my 12.9” off the magic keyboard, went to the sofa, and browsed for an hour and played some games comfortably leaned back without a keyboard in the way.

These scenarios are not possible with the folio; it served me well for a while, but it‘s floppy and not particularly stable, the keys are abysmal in comparison, and there is obviously no trackpad or built in backlighting. The pass through USB-C is also a lovely touch and allowed me to be charging while transferring ~150gb worth of files from my iPad to an SSD yesterday via the Files app.

 

[zhenya]

I have both. I’ve used the keyboard folio for the last year and a half. The Magic keyboard is undoubtedly better - it feels like a real keyboard - very slightly cramped, but perfectly passable. The trackpad is a game-changer for productivity on the iPad (and will be all the more so as 3rd party apps update with full compatibility.) Text selection and manipulation, all sorts of Office and creative, design - based work has really felt like a chore to me on an iPad with touch interaction.

It’s substantially heavier than the folio - this is very much noticeable, however it doesn’t bother me that much because when folded up the weight isn’t so bothersome, and this isn’t something you’ll use while holding the device. If you use your ipad while walking around - say as a reference device or to take notes, this isn’t the case for you. It definitely makes the iPad feel more like a laptop, and I can see myself using it - even casually - less in tablet mode now that I have the trackpad.

Screen angles are better, with a wider range, and continuous motion, making it better for video calls.

Overall, a major win, but at a substantial cost!

 

[ascender]

If you want to use your iPad as a laptop - i.e. the laptop form factor which give you a portable device with built-in keyboard and trackpad, the Magic Keyboard is the best device for achieving this.

 

[The Game 161]

Can anyone comment who has both (or has at one time tried both) on their thoughts on the Magic Keyboard vs. the Folio Keyboard? I use the Folio Keyboard every day and don't have any issues with it (aside from wanting more angles and no keyboard backlight) and was just curious if you felt the Magic Keyboard was far superior to the Folio.

I'm thinking of ordering the MK but was curious from some real world users on their experience with both.

Experience keyboard wise is massive on magic keyboard from the ASK

Backlit is a big advantage and has better angles and easier when changing those angles.

only thing better is the weight and not folding it back like on the ASK

 

[glhiii]

I use a magic trackpad and a portable (6 oz) foldable keyboard ($25). Much cheaper, lighter, allows me to keep my cover on the iPad and works very well (also works with other devices, since both trackpad and keyboard are bluetooth). Perhaps many can benefit from the magic keyboard, but I'd try out some other cheaper options before committing myself.

 

[canyonblue737]

John Gruber said it best and I agree...

The Smart Keyboard Folio is a thin COVER that also is a keyboard.

The Magic Keyboard is a portable keyboard and trackpad STAND.

If you want that easy flippable behind thin cover get the SKF and perhaps on occasion pair it with a Magic Trackpad or Bluetooth mouse. If your bread and butter is typing, typing and more typing and the easy access to an integrated trackpad is what you want than get the Magic Keyboard but be prepared for the weight and the fact to use the iPad as a tablet you will need to remove it from the "stand".

I’ve had a SKF for 3+ years including the one for the 11 inch iPad Pro since launch... now I have a Magic Keyboard. I will NEVER go back.

 

[Mike Boreham]

Remember that the MK has no resistance to water or crumbs. The ASK has a membrane giving protection to both.

 

[limesmoothie]

For me, it is an absolute gamechanger in terms of using the iPP for work productivity. The keyboard is laptop standard, the SKF feels like a toy in comparison.

I like the SKF, but it is most useful if you like the 2 angles and never need anything else, or want to use your iPP as a tablet a good percentage of the time and like the 'fold back' option.

 

[tbayrgs]

I use a magic trackpad and a portable (6 oz) foldable keyboard ($25). Much cheaper, lighter, allows me to keep my cover on the iPad and works very well (also works with other devices, since both trackpad and keyboard are bluetooth). Perhaps many can benefit from the magic keyboard, but I'd try out some other cheaper options before committing myself.

Some very good advice, especially if cost takes priority over convenience and portablility.

Since iPadOS 13.4 beta was released, I was using a Magic Trackpad 2 in conjunction with my existing SKF and loved having cursor and gesture control without having to move my hands to the screen all of the time. That being said, I found it annoying to have to pack the trackpad separately. Many times I just carry my iPP (with attached SKF) in a sleeve and bringing along the trackpad meant using a bag/backpack. It also requires more space on a table/desk and isn’t usable on one’s lap.

Experience keyboard wise is massive on magic keyboard from the ASK

Backlit is a big advantage and has better angles and easier when changing those angles.

only thing better is the weight and not folding it back like on the ASK

Agreed. Yes, the Magic Keyboard is a noticeably more expensive option but the convenience, portability and user experience more than make up for it, IMO. My only really knock on it is its added weight but for someone who has also used a Brydge Pro extensively, this isn’t really a big deal as it feel less ungainly vs. the Brydge. I‘d also love a function row but as I’ve been using Apple’s smart keyboards since the original, I’m used to its absence.

Another thing I love is how it elevates the iPad closer to you. I wasn’t expecting it to make any difference but that extra couple of inches higher is noticeable.

 

[Donnation]

Another thing I love is how it elevates the iPad closer to you. I wasn’t expecting it to make any difference but that extra couple of inches higher is noticeable.

That's something I think I would definitely benefit from. I think I'll order one and at the very least try it out and see how I like it.

 

[xraydoc]

My new keyboard just arrived about 20 minutes ago. Using it on my 11” gen 1 iPad Pro. I’ve been playing with it and I’m typing this reply on it. I also have the original keyboard folio so I can make some comparisons.

Keyboard action on the new Magic Keyboard is fantastic. Key press is shallower than a Mac Magic Keyboard (have not used the new 16” MBP so I can’t compare), but feels way better than the butterfly keyboards of the previous generation Apple laptops. Excellent tactile action without being ”clicky” or loud. And miles better than the rubber dome keyboard of the older iPad keyboard folio.

Backlighting is excellent and adjustable from the iPad (Settings -> General -> Hardware Keyboad).

Trackpad is nice. Smaller than on a MBA or 13” MBP but just the right size for an iPad, IMHO. Clicks anywhere — not a diving board-style mechanism, so one can click at the top edge and it still responds. But also not electromechanical/taptic, which is fine by me. Microsoft Word doesn’t yet seem to be optimized for the trackpad cursor control, but Pages, Safari, Mail and others seem to be. Citrix doesn’t seem to be updated for it — the trackpad tap functions like a screen finger tap, but the remote pointer doesn’t really follow the trackpad cursor “arrow” (dot). Don’t know about Microsoft Remote Desktop but I suspect same deal there too for now. Haven’t tested any other apps yet. Double clicking on a word to select works as expected, as does right (two finger) click to reformat selected text, two finger scroll, etc. If you’re used to a Mac trackpad, the iPad’s will be second nature with zero learning curve. If you’re used to a Windows trackpad, it might take a few minutes to adjust.

Weight. OK... it’s heavy. I have the 11”, so it doesn’t weigh as much as the 12.9” model, but it’s definitely around 2x the weight of the keyboard folio. But the weight helps stabilize the cantilevered iPad, so I guess it was necessary. Most of the weight is in the keyboard itself and not the flap that attaches to the iPad. But yeah, you can feel it. I think weights were posted somewhere, but almost as heavy as the iPad itself. Together still a bit lighter than a traditional laptop, but definitely heavier than the iPad Pro by itself in a Smart Cover/folio.

Viewing angles are nicely adjustable. Would have liked it if the secondary hinge tipped back just a little more, but it’s not a dealbreaker.

Around the house I probably won’t keep the Magic Keyboard on unless I’m doing some work on it (emails, etc), but when going out and about for work (whenever quarantine permits), it’ll be coming with me.

 

[TitsLegendary]

Only complaint so far on the Magic Keyboard is that the top row of keys are very close to the iPad and because the iPad hovers near them, I find myself accidentally hitting the iPad when attempting to hit any of the top row keys. Not a huge deal and will probably get used to it over time. Overall, very happy.

 

[hesoba]

Magic Keyboard has 2 SEVERE Flaws.

Not Folding Back
Missing Function Keys

 

[metalsiren]

Magic Keyboard has 2 SEVERE Flaws.

Not Folding Back
Missing Function Keys

The Smart Keyboard didnt have function keys either , now at least that one folded back and for some people that can be a deal breaker. But thats also why there are 2 keyboards... so people have choice depending on price and feature / function.

 

[lyngo]

The Smart Keyboard didnt have function keys either , now at least that one folded back and for some people that can be a deal breaker. But thats also why there are 2 keyboards... so people have choice depending on price and feature / function.

I think there is something to be said about getting what works for you. There are options and choices that are involved and that is a nice thing. It isn’t about one thing being better than another so much as what is going to function the best for someone’s individual needs and whether or not they can purchase the different accessories.

 

[Mike Boreham]

I think there is something to be said about getting what works for you. There are options and choices that are involved and that is a nice thing. It isn’t about one thing being better than another so much as what is going to function the best for someone’s individual needs and whether or not they can purchase the different accessories.

Hurrah for this. There are so many repetitive threads (not all) where those who have the MK want to convince that it is the only way to go for everyone, and vice versa. Everyones actual usage and likes/dislikes are different.

It is indeed good that there is a choice, but someone correct me if I am wrong, the SKF won’t work on the 2020 iPPs because the camera cut out in the SKF is for the single lens. The MK works on the 2018 iPPs but not the other way round so if you have a 2020 iPP the MK is the only (Apple) option.

 

[johnnylarue]

It is indeed good that there is a choice, but someone correct me if I am wrong, the SKF won’t work on the 2020 iPPs because the camera cut out in the SKF is for the single lens. The MK works on the 2018 iPPs but not the other way round so if you have a 2020 iPP the MK is the only (Apple) option.

WRONG!😡😋

The updated SKF with the larger cutout is the one now being sold at the Apple Store. You can check it out next time you‘re near an Internet.

 

[Mike Boreham]

WRONG!😡😋

The updated SKF with the larger cutout is the one now being sold at the Apple Store. You can check it out next time you‘re near an Internet.

Thanks for the correction! That is good news and confirms that Apple regards them as two alternative products not as a phased replacement of SKF by MK.

 

[Nrwrit3r]

I have the 12.9 iPad and both keyboards - the new magic keyboard is SO MUCH BETTER! First of all, when wanting to use my iPad as a tablet, I always treat both keyboards like a pouch that stores my iPad - I take it out of the keyboard case without opening the case. This allows me to read and do other things on the iPad as a lightweight tablet.

Then when I need to type I set up the keyboard case. This magic keyboard feels like a real MacBook Pro, and the trackpad is unbelievable quality. After increasing the sensitivity to almost the highest level, the size of the trackpad is completely fine. Th Setup now feels like a true laptop!! I still have a 15” MBP but for now i think this is a great portable replacement. It also works great on the lap.

Also I’ve read many reviews that say the material Is the exact same as the older keyboard....I’m not sure if that’s verified somewhere? It feels a little bit nicer to me (just a tad bit thicker) although generally of the same type of material.

Generally I’m very excited about this case. I’m hoping I can sell the apple Smart Keyboard to make up for the price a bit, but either way I’m quite sure I’m going to keep it.

EDIT: I’ll also be curious to see what Apple announced for the next version of iPad OS. I’m sure they have some killer features to make it feel even more like a laptop, especially after releasing this case with the trackpad. Very excited!

 

[salz4life]

I got mine today and I love it. I think the weight gives it a more premium feel. I’m not really a power user bot I like typing on a physical keyboard over the virtual one. It was definitely expensive, but I had the money available, so I’m happy!

 

[KPOM]

Can anyone comment who has both (or has at one time tried both) on their thoughts on the Magic Keyboard vs. the Folio Keyboard? I use the Folio Keyboard every day and don't have any issues with it (aside from wanting more angles and no keyboard backlight) and was just curious if you felt the Magic Keyboard was far superior to the Folio.

I'm thinking of ordering the MK but was curious from some real world users on their experience with both.

I have used both. The Magic Keyboard is vastly superior, but note that it is noticeably heavier, and the hinge means it doesn’t fit in my travel sleeve (I’ve got plenty of time to find a new one, though). They keyboard feel is very similar to the new MacBook Air or 16” MacBook Pro. The trackpad is nice, even though it isn’t haptic and is about 40% of the size of the trackpad on the MacBook Air. It works really well, and I haven’t had to touch the screen as often (which I find a positive when doing work on the iPad).

It does take some getting used to, particularly avoiding the bottom of the iPad when reaching for the number keys. It would be nice if Apple could find a way to make it angle back perhaps another 5 degrees (it’s about the same angle as the Folio Keyboard, but since it ”floats” an inch or so above the keyboard I find it more comfortable).

The keyboard backlight is very good. It seems even better than on the MacBook Air.

 

[McBoone]

To each his own. I agree with the post above stating that each person has their own wants and needs. Following is my opinion...

I’ve owned almost every iPad from the beginning. I have the 11” IPP (last year’s version). I’ve used the ASK from the beginning. I liked the nice thin profile and had no gripes. That being said, with the Magic, it’s a game changer for me. I feel Apple has perfected the iPad with this. I have no more wants.

After getting the Magic, I took off the screen protector I’ve had on the device. Gone are the screen marks from the ASK keyboard. I’m loving this iPad again. The screen looks beautiful naked.

There’s not a mark or fingerprint on the screen, because I haven’t touched it since getting the Magic.

Heavy? No. Heavier? Yes...but it feels solid and premium. Geez you guys...the whining about things that make no difference in feature or function just amazes me. People gottta whine.

In my opinion, Apple has perfected the iPad with this accessory. It’s a nice piece of engineering. Your mileage may vary.