iPad Pro iPad Pro 10.5 - Apple Smart Keyboard Questions

[robertpolson]

I have never used the Apple Smart Keyboard before and tried it today at the Apple store with the 10.5 iPad Pro.

1. Do you get used to the keys spacing over time? It was unusual/uncomfortable to type on the keyboard compared to other keyboards that I have used.

2. It is very expensive and I am not sure if it adds any value to something like a $40 JtechBluetoothh keybaord that I use. Your thoughts?

3. The back of the iPad is exposed. Thos of you who use this keyboard, how do you protect the back of the iPad?

 

[fs454]

I have never used the Apple Smart Keyboard before and tried it today at the Apple store with the 10.5 iPad Pro.

1. Do you get used to the keys spacing over time? It was unusual/uncomfortable to type on the keyboard compared to other keyboards that I have used.

2. It is very expensive and I am not sure if it adds any value to something like a $40 JtechBluetoothh keybaord that I use. Your thoughts?

3. The back of the iPad is exposed. Thos of you who use this keyboard, how do you protect the back of the iPad?

You certainly adapt to the keyboard - give it a day or two and you'll be as fast as you are elsewhere. I believe it's the same size as a full size MacBook keyboard but the actual button area is smaller with larger gaps. If you were to imagine the keys being wider, the same muscle memory should start to kick in as the positioning is quite similar.

I personally don't like the cheap ones - you can really tell how bulky the case is and cheap feeling the keys are on the inexpensive ones. That's fine for some, but it's preference. I think the Apple keyboard feels nice enough to pound out long work without issues, and it doesn't require a Bluetooth connection, separate battery, or separate device to charge.

As for the back of the iPad - I don't think it's necessary to protect that while you're using it. I recommend a sleeve to store the iPad + keyboard in while it's not being used, but there isn't many situations where you're going to accidentally damage the iPad while it's docked in the keyboard and being used. Apple's sleeve (the one with the Pencil slot) is really awesome and fits the iPad+keyboard combo *just* barely. Unfortunately, it's another $129 which is a bit ridiculous, so I'd go for some sort of Incase neoprene sleeve.

I really don't think it's necessary to cover the entire iPad in some sort of always-on case, unless you're taking it hiking or something like that.

 

[KRG]

I'll echo everything fs454 said. I'm pleased with the smart keyboard. I bought a herschel ipad pouch for protection...wouldn't want an actual case...adds to the bulk.

 

[LibbyLA]

I have never used the Apple Smart Keyboard before and tried it today at the Apple store with the 10.5 iPad Pro.

1. Do you get used to the keys spacing over time? It was unusual/uncomfortable to type on the keyboard compared to other keyboards that I have used.

2. It is very expensive and I am not sure if it adds any value to something like a $40 JtechBluetoothh keybaord that I use. Your thoughts?

3. The back of the iPad is exposed. Thos of you who use this keyboard, how do you protect the back of the iPad?

I have typed on many a smaller keyboard over the years and have managed to adjust, so even the keyboard on the 9.7 is a nice typing experience for me. The big thing about the smart keyboard compared to a BT keyboard is not having to charge the smart keyboard. As long as the iPad has battery, the keyboard works. I don't have to remember to turn the smart keyboard off, either.

The footprint of the device with the smart keyboard may be a little smaller than with a standalone BT keyboard, but that varies with BT keyboards.

I like the convenience of the attached smart keyboard for all sorts of reasons. For me, it's worth the extra cost for the convenience but I use the keyboard probably 90% or more of the time I'm using my iPad.

 

[The Game 161]

I have the 12.9 and I love the Smart Keyboard.

Can type so much quicker on here and I don't protect the back as more often than not my 12.9 is with the keyboard or Smart Cover so it's rarely lying flat on a table.

 

[Ixidor]

The main advantage of the Smart Keyboard is its light weight. If weight isn't a big concern (say if you use it mostly on a desk), then there are many other keyboards that offer more functionality (adjustable screen angles, dedicated keys, backlit keys, better lappability etc) at lower prices.

If you are gonna be carrying your IPP around a lot, then weight will matter.