This is really good to know! Though my point and question is the older v1 version of the keyboard and pen that a normal basic iPad supports (7th and 8th generation basically) have any downsides or disadvantages compared to the newer keyboards and pen for the iPad Pro and iPad Air ?
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iPad Wow I didn't realize the basic iPad could use a keyboard and pen now like the older brothers iPad Pro & iPad Air
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ASK doesn't have built-in trackpad. Instead of buying an ASK, I use just the keyboard/trackpad portion of the Logitech Combo Touch paired with my ESR SmartCase clone if I need to bring it somewhere (to be used on a table or other stable flat surface).
I think there were a couple features introduced in the Apple Pencil 2 but since I just use my Pencil for note taking, I've never really paid attention. I'm using an Apple Pencil clone (based on Logitech Crayon technology). These work just as well as the original AP1 for note taking and bonus is you can use the clones on any 2018 iPad or newer so if you get an Air 4 or something, you can still reuse it.
I think there were a couple features introduced in the Apple Pencil 2 but since I just use my Pencil for note taking, I've never really paid attention. I'm using an Apple Pencil clone (based on Logitech Crayon technology). These work just as well as the original AP1 for note taking and bonus is you can use the clones on any 2018 iPad or newer so if you get an Air 4 or something, you can still reuse it.
Op not only that, the entry level 8th gen ipad can essentially do everything the ipad pro and air can do. Literally everything.
The 8th gen iPad is excellent and my preference for any iPad (Pro or not) larger than the Mini. There's a smartcover available for it (rather than a full case/folio) and the Apple Smart Keyboard (ASK) makes the combo super portable and minimal. When I had my 12.9 Pro, I liked the ability to easily detach the ASK and use it as a unfettered tablet... and snap on the smartcover when I wanted it to be even leaner.
Doing these things with the smaller form-factor of the 8th gen iPad is going to be even better.
IMO, the 8th gen iPad offers the greatest value in the entire iPad lineup.
Logitech Combo Touch for the basic iPad?
Logitech Combo Touch Keyboard Case with Trackpad for iPad 9th generation - Apple
Apple Store Search Results
www.apple.com
There's a version for the Pro 10.5 and Air 3 but that just has a slimmer kickstand case paired with same keyboard/trackpad. With the old style Smart Connector, I've actually been able to use the keyboard/trackpad with the Pro 9.7 and Pro 12.9 2nd gen as well. The keyboard itself pairs well with the SmartCase clones I've used.
I find the Apple Smart Keyboard is more stable to use on the lap, though. Kinda pointless for me though since I normally just prefer to use the OSK anytime I'm not on a desk.
In terms of the Apple Pencils, there’s no difference in how well it draws. They’re the same. The difference is how they’re charged and the finish (smaller, matte vs longer, glossy).
People make a big thing as if the only way to charge the Gen 1 Apple Pencil is to plug it in the iPad’s Lightning port, but I have never done that despite using the thing every day of the week. I just bought a nice charging stand that sits on my desk.
The big thing about the iPad vs the others, to me, is the lack of laminated display in the basic iPad (unless they’ve finally changed that). I tried, but I can’t go back to a non-laminated display. Just feels weird trying to write & draw on it.
People make a big thing as if the only way to charge the Gen 1 Apple Pencil is to plug it in the iPad’s Lightning port, but I have never done that despite using the thing every day of the week. I just bought a nice charging stand that sits on my desk.
The big thing about the iPad vs the others, to me, is the lack of laminated display in the basic iPad (unless they’ve finally changed that). I tried, but I can’t go back to a non-laminated display. Just feels weird trying to write & draw on it.
In terms of the vast majority of iPad tasks, an iPad 8th gen with a keyboard case and pencil is as capable as the $2,400 iPad Pro
Presumably, if you're buying the $2,400 iPad Pro, it's because you have use for the larger 12.9" display, 2TB storage and cellular support.