The Best iPad Keyboards for 2021

Works With: iPad Air (2020), iPad Pro (11- and 12.9-inch)

Apple's Smart Keyboard Folio (starting at $179.99) is a combination keyboard and case that protects your iPad Air or Pro in addition to making typing easy. Set the tablet into the case, adjust the viewing angle, and type; that's all there is to it. There's even a cut-out on the back for the camera stack. Opening the cover wakes your iPad, and closing it puts the tablet to sleep.

There's no trackpad or number pad on the keyboard, and the keys are pretty flat, but it works fine for short bursts of typing. The edge of the iPad is uncovered, so you can magnetically attach your second-generation Pencil; however, if you want to toss your iPad in your bag, you might want to invest in a more secure Pencil clip.

Works With: iPad mini (2021)

The 2021 iPad mini is a little larger than previous generations, which means you'll need a case specifically designed to fit it. Enter the Fintie Keyboard Case for iPad Mini 6th Generation ($32.99), a slim and straightforward keyboard case.

As you might expect from a product that fits an 8.3-inch iPad mini, the keyboard is very small. The keys are flat to keep from bulking up the case, and there's no backlighting. Still, it's better to type on than a screen, especially if you want to free up the iPad mini's limited screen space for displaying a document or a presentation.

Bonus: A handy slot in the frame holds your second-generation Apple Pencil securely against your iPad so it can charge while you type.

Works With: all iPad models

The iClever BK10 Bluetooth Keyboard ($36.99), made of stainless steel and ABS plastic, will please any fan of Apple's design esthetic. The integrated slope is wrist-friendly, and the rechargeable battery lasts for days.

As a bonus, the BK10 allows for a multi-device connection, pairing with up to three devices and letting you switch between them. The low-profile keys have satisfying scissor switches with moderate feedback. Thanks to the large footprint, there's room for a numeric keypad and dedicated media keys. This might not be a keyboard you throw in your backpack, but you'll be happy to come home to it.

Works With: all iPad models

Among the many inexpensive Bluetooth keyboards on the market, the Logitech K380 ($29.99) stands out. It looks and feels similar to a standard laptop keyboard, with exceptional tactile feedback and a pleasing layout.

Any device running Android, iPadOS, MacOS, or Windows can connect to this keyboard, and Logitech's easy-switch feature lets you connect up to three devices and switch among them by pressing a button. The best use of this feature is copying text on one device and pasting it onto another for ease of transferring notes and links.

Works With: iPad (2019 and 2020)

If you've ever spilled a coffee on a keyboard or needed to shake crumbs out from between keys, then the spill-proof and dirt-resistant keys on the Logitech Rugged Folio ($139.99) were made for you.

The Logitech Rugged Folio features a durable membrane-sealed Bluetooth keyboard that includes a strong magnet to connect to the included iPad case and adjustable kickstand. A convenient slot in the magnetic latch holds an optional Logitech Crayon, first-generation Apple Pencil, or other digital pencil.

Works With: iPad (2017–2020), iPad Air (2019)

Looking for a slimmer, less rugged, and less expensive version of the Logitech Rugged Folio? Consider the Logitech Slim Folio ($95.99). This folio solution delivers a laptop-style typing experience with basic iPadOS shortcut keys.

The front and back of the folio case are padded for additional protection from bumps and scratches, but it's still light and thin. Like the Rugged Folio, the Slim Folio includes an integrated holder for a Logitech Crayon or first-generation Apple Pencil, keeping your writing utensil firmly in place until you're ready to use it.

Works With: iPad (2019–2021)

If you've spent most of your budget on a new iPad and need an affordable case and keyboard combination, the New Trent iPad Case With Keyboard ($41.95) is worth a closer look.

This detachable iPad case and keyboard is made from polycarbonate and soft TPU materials. The case portion allows full access to the iPad's cameras, microphones, ports, and speakers, and the keyboard's locking hinge holds the tablet firmly in place.

The keyboard is not backlit. The individual key travel is adequate, with a depth similar to a budget laptop keyboard.

Works With: iPad (2019–2021), iPad Air (2020), iPad Pro (12.9-inch)

Zagg's ProKeys Wireless Keyboard and Detachable Case (starting at $99.99) is flexible to meet your needs. It's available in a variety of sizes to accommodate different iPad models, and the iPad and iPad Air versions can be found with or without trackpads, depending on whether you want to use your tablet as an ersatz laptop or just type more comfortably for short periods. The iPad Pro version is keyboard-only.

The case has its own battery, which powers the backlit, laptop-style keys. You can even change the color of the backlighting. Zagg claims the battery will last for up to a year without charging, as long as you close the case to put it to sleep when your iPad isn't in use.

There are two parts to the case: a frame that holds your iPad, and a flap that holds the keyboard. If you don't need the keyboard, you can detach the iPad and still enjoy the protection of the durable frame. When you want to type, the two halves of the case connect magnetically. The keyboard can also connect to another tablet, a phone, or a computer via Bluetooth for copying and pasting between devices.

As a bonus, the magnetic closure flap for the case holds your second-generation Apple Pencil in place. However, the magnet isn't very strong, so you may still lose your Pencil in the bottom of your bag every now and then.