Become a MacRumors Supporter for $50/year with no ads, ability to filter front page stories, and private forums.

pragmatous

macrumors 65816
Original poster
May 23, 2012
1,378
99
I only see 2 keyboards that use the smart connector. Apples's ridiculously stupid overpriced smart keyboard (I don't know why anyone would buy this) and Logitechs slightly overpriced smart keyboard. Which is way better than apple's stupid keyboard. Does anyone know of any other ones coming out or exist that's a bit cheaper?

Also, does anyone know if the logitech create keyboard can be used on your lap comfortable?

Please refer to this link for any info about my ipad: https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/ipad-device-for-drawing-comics-doable.1987805/#post-23237439

Thanks!

Side note: I love Apple I really do but they need to stop being obvious with the price gouging.
 
Last edited:

44267547

Cancelled
Jul 12, 2016
37,642
42,495
I'm not aware of any cheaper model keyboards at this point, if their were, I'm not sure what kind of quality you would receive. Like you stated, Logitech, but at a price. Honestly, Logitech's back kit keyboard is one step up from Apple's Keyboard. Although similar in price.
 
  • Like
Reactions: blaine07

sracer

macrumors G4
Apr 9, 2010
10,408
13,293
where hip is spoken
I only see 2 keyboards that use the smart connector. Apples's ridiculously stupid overpriced smart keyboard (I don't know why anyone would buy this) and Logitechs slightly overpriced smart keyboard. Which is way better than apple's stupid keyboard. Does anyone know of any other ones coming out or exist that's a bit cheaper?

Also, does anyone know if the logitech create keyboard can be used on your lap comfortable?

Please refer to this link for any info about my ipad: https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/ipad-device-for-drawing-comics-doable.1987805/#post-23237439

Thanks!

Side note: I love Apple I really do but they need to stop being obvious with the price gouging.
I agree that the ASK is obscenely priced. But I must say that it is the BEST option for anyone who wants a keyboard cover in the absolute minimum footprint. The slight keyboard bulge is the only thing different about the ASK from the Smart Cover.

The retail price of the 12.9 ASK is a hard pill to swallow, but the functionality it provides and maximum portability make up for it over the long haul.
 

Eric5273

macrumors 6502a
Apr 12, 2009
771
503
New Jersey
I have done extensive research comparing the 2 keyboards, and here are the results:

1) for typing on your lap, the Logitech is way better

2) The Logitech is cheaper and also provides full protection for the iPad Pro

3) The Logitech has a backlight and a row of iOS specific shortcut keys.

4) If you intend to remove the iPad from the case on a regular basis, then the Logitech is NOT for you. It is very difficult to remove and from what I have read, it will most likely cause damage to both the case and the iPad if you remove and install it regularly. It is meant to install and leave it there permenantly.

5) The Logitech weighs quite a bit. Together with the iPad Pro 12.9, the weight will be more than 3 lbs.

6) Some have complained that the Logitech has caused tiny scratches on the iPad screen since the screen rubs against the aluminum wrist rest area when closed.

Based on all of this, I went with the Apple Smart Keyboard. All it takes is a small tug to remove it from the iPad -- it's just connected with a magnet. Yes, for full protection you also need a case to cover the back. So you are paying a high price for this, but for me it was the best solution.

There are also other solutions that are Bluetooth, but I preferred the smart connector.
 
  • Like
Reactions: blaine07

pragmatous

macrumors 65816
Original poster
May 23, 2012
1,378
99
Ya I'm leaning towards the apple smart keyboard (I realize the irony lol). Just because it is designed pretty well so. I'll check it when I get my ipad pro tomorrow and probably get the apple keyboard. Just wish there were more options.

I have done extensive research comparing the 2 keyboards, and here are the results:

1) for typing on your lap, the Logitech is way better

2) The Logitech is cheaper and also provides full protection for the iPad Pro

3) The Logitech has a backlight and a row of iOS specific shortcut keys.

4) If you intend to remove the iPad from the case on a regular basis, then the Logitech is NOT for you. It is very difficult to remove and from what I have read, it will most likely cause damage to both the case and the iPad if you remove and install it regularly. It is meant to install and leave it there permenantly.

5) The Logitech weighs quite a bit. Together with the iPad Pro 12.9, the weight will be more than 3 lbs.

6) Some have complained that the Logitech has caused tiny scratches on the iPad screen since the screen rubs against the aluminum wrist rest area when closed.

Based on all of this, I went with the Apple Smart Keyboard. All it takes is a small tug to remove it from the iPad -- it's just connected with a magnet. Yes, for full protection you also need a case to cover the back. So you are paying a high price for this, but for me it was the best solution.

There are also other solutions that are Bluetooth, but I preferred the smart connector.
 

Pspressart

macrumors 6502
Sep 14, 2012
254
137
Ya I'm leaning towards the apple smart keyboard (I realize the irony lol). Just because it is designed pretty well so. I'll check it when I get my ipad pro tomorrow and probably get the apple keyboard. Just wish there were more options.
I have both the ASK and the Logi Create. I use the ASK 98% of the time. Every now and then I try the Logi Crete, but I keep going back to the smart keyboard. Its lighter weight and flexibility works well for me. I am not usually in a situation where I would need the backlit keys of the Logi Create, so I do not miss it.
 
  • Like
Reactions: blaine07

pragmatous

macrumors 65816
Original poster
May 23, 2012
1,378
99
thank you! All the responses have been super helpful. I ended up getting the apple smart keyboard. I get it tomorrow. Both the ipad pro and everything else. I'm really excited.

I have both the ASK and the Logi Create. I use the ASK 98% of the time. Every now and then I try the Logi Crete, but I keep going back to the smart keyboard. Its lighter weight and flexibility works well for me. I am not usually in a situation where I would need the backlit keys of the Logi Create, so I do not miss it.
 

blaine07

macrumors 68030
Nov 14, 2014
2,501
2,460
Oklahoma
Logi Create here as well; Eric pretty much nailed it. I wish and don't wish it was easier to put on/take off as he mentions. Beyond that it IS bulky but serves its purpose, well. You'll be happy either way
 

MrGimper

macrumors G3
Sep 22, 2012
9,060
13,007
Andover, UK
The fact that I can choose my back-cover, if any at all, and the easy removal, made me choose the ASK over the logitech.
 

Edmonddon

macrumors newbie
Oct 19, 2017
3
0
Oklahoma
I only see 2 keyboards that use the smart connector. Apples's ridiculously stupid overpriced smart keyboard (I don't know why anyone would buy this) and Logitechs slightly overpriced smart keyboard. Which is way better than apple's stupid keyboard. Does anyone know of any other ones coming out or exist that's a bit cheaper?

Also, does anyone know if the logitech create keyboard can be used on your lap comfortable?

Please refer to this link for any info about my ipad: https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/ipad-device-for-drawing-comics-doable.1987805/#post-23237439

Thanks!

Side note: I love Apple I really do but they need to stop being obvious with the price gouging.
[doublepost=1508418749][/doublepost]Research current problems with the keyboard. I think this is becoming a very big issue. Google current forums.
 

ejin222

macrumors 6502a
Oct 12, 2011
564
432
i went with the Logi Slim Combo. to me, the only things the ASK has over the Slim Combo is the weight and the ability to fold the cover in the back. other than that, the Slim Combo has:
1) Row of Smart Function keys
2) Blacklit keys
3) Amazing typing feel
4) Detachable case
5) Better feel on lap
6) Pencil holder
7) Back protection
8) And it seems to hold up better and longer than the ASK
 
  • Like
Reactions: BrianSoCal

Bobby dazzler

macrumors regular
Nov 17, 2013
112
17
Agree with Edmonddon

Watch out

ASK is troublesome to say the least. Should last longer for the money, but it just doesn’t do well.
 

sracer

macrumors G4
Apr 9, 2010
10,408
13,293
where hip is spoken
Agree with Edmonddon

Watch out

ASK is troublesome to say the least. Should last longer for the money, but it just doesn’t do well.
I don't deny that people have had issues with their ASK.

For as much as a single anecdote is worth, my first hand experience has been excellent. After 20 months of daily use, it is still working perfectly and still looks like new. (well, if I took the time to wipe down the outer part of the cover) :)
 

kasakka

macrumors 68020
Oct 25, 2008
2,389
1,084
I suggest giving the virtual keyboard a try. I can write on it very well because the screen is so large whereas I wanted a physical keyboard in my Air 2.
 

markusbeutel

macrumors regular
Sep 26, 2014
144
14
I'm on my 4th ASK. It's the worst apple product I've ever used. Continuous dissconnections. Usually fixed with a reboot (if detaching and reattaching doesn't work).

First time it happened, when through the whole Genius Bar rigamarole - last two times (at different Apple stores mind you so it's not like they recognize me) - I've gotten a replacement, no questions asked.

It's like... they know it's garbage.
 

ejin222

macrumors 6502a
Oct 12, 2011
564
432
I'm on my 4th ASK. It's the worst apple product I've ever used. Continuous dissconnections. Usually fixed with a reboot (if detaching and reattaching doesn't work).

First time it happened, when through the whole Genius Bar rigamarole - last two times (at different Apple stores mind you so it's not like they recognize me) - I've gotten a replacement, no questions asked.

It's like... they know it's garbage.

The only thing the ASK has over the Logi Slim Combo is the weight. Give it a try
 

Alvi

macrumors 65816
Oct 31, 2008
1,209
311
Mars
Side note: I love Apple I really do but they need to stop being obvious with the price gouging.

Get over the fact that it looks like an iPad cover and consider its functionality. I have to admit that I didn't pay the full price on mine but if someone took it away from me for some reason I'd gladly pay almost 200$ for it. The switches are great, the key travel is great and the feedback is great. It takes about an hour to get fully used to it.

It is on par with typing on my MacBook and that's the most important thing for me. I don't even have to look at the thing and I'm fine. The Logitech one feels much cheaper however lap tying is much better on it because it holds the iPad super stable but the Smart Keyboard isn't exactly unstable either.
 
  • Like
Reactions: sracer

Cpsadowski

macrumors newbie
Sep 6, 2017
14
15
I only see 2 keyboards that use the smart connector. Apples's ridiculously stupid overpriced smart keyboard (I don't know why anyone would buy this) and Logitechs slightly overpriced smart keyboard. Which is way better than apple's stupid keyboard. Does anyone know of any other ones coming out or exist that's a bit cheaper?

Also, does anyone know if the logitech create keyboard can be used on your lap comfortable?

Please refer to this link for any info about my ipad: https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/ipad-device-for-drawing-comics-doable.1987805/#post-23237439

Thanks!

Side note: I love Apple I really do but they need to stop being obvious with the price gouging.
I have the Logitech keyboard and like it 100 fold over the Apple. Don’t waste your money. While the apple keyboard is lighter, you will be constantly stressed by it simply failing to work...!
 

markusbeutel

macrumors regular
Sep 26, 2014
144
14
How long ago was that? Logitech fixed that problem and mine never plays music

They didn’t fix anything - their forums and current amazon reviews all mention it still happens. That’s probably why you cant buy the 12.9 version anywhere - all the Apple stores in Canada still carry the 10.5, but not the 12.9.
 
Register on MacRumors! This sidebar will go away, and you'll see fewer ads.