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It’s hard to believe the iPad has been around for over 10 years. Apple introduced the first version in April 2010. Since then, over 500 million have been sold. One of the earliest questions that legal technologists heard, and we still hear today: “Can an iPad replace my laptop?” In 2010 the answer was “no.” Now it’s a resounding “maybe.”
Most of that “maybe” depends on the software your practice uses. The iPad hardware can handle anything a legal professional would throw at a standard computer. One of the places iPad accessories have stepped up is keyboards. Here are three favorites:
- Apple’s Magic Keyboard: Introduced in 2020, this keyboard works with iPad Airs from 2020 or any iPad Pro introduced since 2018. It has quality, backlit keys and a trackpad. It’s even powered from the iPad – which means there is nothing else to charge. The downside is that it’s a bit heavy and expensive at $300. Those caveats aside, it’s like using a regular laptop keyboard that you can detach the iPad from at any point since the iPad connects with magnets.
- Apple’s Smart Keyboard Folio: This works with the same iPads as the Magic Keyboard but skips the backlit keys and trackpad. It’s much lighter than the Magic Keyboard and possibly more durable because the keys are sealed; no fear of spilling coffee between the keys. It comes in cheaper too, at $179.
- Logitech’s Folio Combo Touch: This works with the 5th generation 12.9” iPad Pro, all 11” iPads Pro, and the 2020 iPad Air. The Folio Combo Touch features a wrap-around case for the iPad and a detachable, backlit keyboard and trackpad powered by the iPad. If you need to type, fold down the keyboard and type. You can quickly disconnect the keyboard if you just want to lay on the couch and watch YouTube. It’s a nice compromise of weight, price, and functionality between Apple’s two offerings. It starts at $199.
All three of these keyboard offerings require a flat surface. That means none will convert your iPad into a “lappable” device. When packing your bag, they will also make your iPad as heavy and thick as a MacBook Air or Thinkpad X1 laptop. But remember, you’ve got two times the device in one.