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  1. Table of Contents
  2. Top
  3. Main Differences
  4. Design
    1. Dimensions
    2. Build Quality
    3. Ergonomics
    4. Hardware Customizability
    5. Backlight Features
    6. Backlight Clarity
    7. Cable & Connector
    8. Wireless Versatility
    9. Macro Keys And Programming
    10. Extra Features
    11. In The Box
  5. Typing Experience
    1. Typing Quality
    2. Typing Noise
    3. Switches
    4. Keystrokes
  6. Performance
    1. Single-Key Latency
    2. Multi-Key Latency
    3. Data Transmission
    4. Chord Split
  7. Software and Operating System
    1. Configuration Software
    2. Computer Compatibility
    3. Wireless Mobile Compatibility
  8. Comments

Apple Magic Keyboard 2017 vs Apple Magic Keyboard for iPad 2021

Side-by-Side Comparison

Products

Apple Magic Keyboard 2017
Apple Magic Keyboard for iPad 2021

Tested using Methodology v1.3.1

Updated Nov 27, 2023 05:17 PM

SEE PRICE
Amazon.com

Tested using Methodology v1.3.1

Updated Sep 13, 2024 04:24 PM

SEE PRICE
Amazon.com
Apple Magic Keyboard 2017 Picture
Apple Magic Keyboard for iPad 2021 Picture
  1. Recommended in 1 article:
  2. iPad

Variants

  • Magic Keyboard (Silver)
  • Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro 11" (Black)
  • Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro 11" (White)

Our Verdict

Apple Magic Keyboard 2017

Apple Magic Keyboard for iPad 2021

The Apple Magic Keyboard 2017 and the Apple Magic Keyboard for iPad 2021 are designed for different purposes. The Magic Keyboard for iPad is made for use with iPads only, so it uses a Smart Connector to directly connect to the iPad it's being used with. It doesn't have Bluetooth, so you can't use it with any other device. On the other hand, the Magic Keyboard connects wirelessly via Bluetooth, so it's fully compatible with macOS, iOS, and iPadOS. Sadly, it lacks the white backlighting that the Magic Keyboard for iPad has. Otherwise, they both use the same scissor switches, offering a very similar typing quality.

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