iPad Pro Smart keyboard folio generations

[abhi182]

So I am replacing the 2018 ipad pro with a 2021 12.9".
Based on my experience with the 2018 model, the only additional item I am going to need with the new ipad is the smart keyboard folio.

Unfortunately, the 5th gen model KB costs about 250USD equivalent in my country and unlike the ipad never really comes on discount- making it very difficult to justify mentally.
So I was looking at open box/ refurbs - and am completely confused now by the different generations I find mentioned on the listings.

I could not find any info on the 12.9 keyboard generations on the apple website either and the model numbers / identifiers also seem to be the same.
From what I could gather, there seem to be two generations - the older one with a single camera cutout and the newer one with a wider camera cutout.
Is it fair to presume that any of the listings with the wider camera cutout will be compatible with the 5th gen iPad pro - or is there something else i need to look for?

 

[Shirasaki]

Yes, the version with wider camera cutout will be compatible with 2018 iPad Pro. And funny enough, you can STILL use your current KB (assuming you have one) with 2021 iPad Pro, just that the camera will be covered a bit due to cutout but otherwise function as expected.

 

[abhi182]

Yes, the version with wider camera cutout will be compatible with 2018 iPad Pro. And funny enough, you can STILL use your current KB (assuming you have one) with 2021 iPad Pro, just that the camera will be covered a bit due to cutout but otherwise function as expected.

I have the 11" folio so will need to order one
On the latter part, wouldn't the camera bulge cause the ipad to stay wobbly/ prone to dropping out?

Reason I ask is that the older 12.9 keyboard folios are available for as low as 60USD equivalent here

 

[Shirasaki]

I have the 11" folio so will need to order one
On the latter part, wouldn't the camera bulge cause the ipad to stay wobbly/ prone to dropping out?

Reason I ask is that the older 12.9 keyboard folios are available for as low as 60USD equivalent here

Ok so you do need a new one.

As for dropping out, gotta be honest with ya, the magnet on those folios aren’t impressive when they are brand new, so certainly won’t he impressive after long term use. If you are concerned about accidental falling off, handling with care is always the better option. Yes, camera side will budge but it wont affect normal operation or connectivity. AFAIK it doesn’t even block cameras much. Only LiDAR sensor.