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Give your iPad with Smart Keyboard an extra layer of protection and new features by getting one of these case covers.
Many new iPad users consider getting Apple Smart Keyboard cases. On one side, they are terribly expensive. You will have to pay between $150 and $200 depending on which iPad you own.
Tap a switch to use your Mac's trackpad and keyboard with your iPad. Photo: Charlie Sorrel/Cult of Mac Apple’s new Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro — the one with the built-in trackpad — looks amazing. The arrival of the iPad Pro and a keyboard that you can attach to the tablet 24/7 brought with it a change in approach for Apple. No longer is the iPad only a media consumption device; having a keyboard always at hand transforms the iPad into a more-than-capable computer.
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Many consumers prefer Apple computers because they offer functionality that you can’t get from windows. A lot of people use the Mac because it’s user friendly and doesn’t suffer from many of the software errors that make Microsoft Windows difficult to use. If you own an Apple computer, then you’ll need a keyboard for your Mac.
There are two types of Apple’s original keyboard case:
- Smart Keyboard – compatible with the basic iPad (10.2-inch model) or iPad Air. When closed, it covers only the front of the tablet,
- Smart Keyboard Folio – it’s designed to work with iPad Pro 11 and 12.9. This case covers both the front and back of the device.
That’s why, getting an affordable third-party case that can protect what Smart Keyboard can’t is a good idea, especially when it comes to iPad and iPad Air.
In this brief roundup, you will see the best Smart Keyboard compatible cases that are currently available on Amazon.
As you will see, it’s quite easy to spot the case that support Smart Keyboard for iPad and iPad Air. It usually has a long cutout on its side. It’s where the Smart Keyboard attaches to the iPad and connects via Smart Connector. You can use such a case with or without Smart Keyboard. It makes sense: the Smart Keyboard protects the front, the case cares about edges and back of the iPad.
It’s a different story, when it comes to iPad Pro and Smart Keyboard Folio. As the folio covers both the back and front, you put the third-party case on the keyboard. That’s why, you have to have the Smart Keyboard Folio in order to use the case.
Apple iPad – what other users are searching for?
Best iPad case covers compatible with Apple Smart Keyboard
1. TiMOVO iPad 10.2 hard clear case
Here is the most convenient option for anyone who intends to buy the original Smart Keyboard but cares about the sides and back of the iPad as well.
The back shell offered by TiMOVO is super slim and adds minimal bulk. It’s made of a transparent hard plastic so that you can enjoy the perfect beauty of your iPad any time you want.
Most importantly, the case is compatible not only with the Smart Cover, but also Apple Smart Keyboard! It means that you can guarantee 360-degree protection while using the iPad as your laptop computer.
An extra benefit of TiMOVO case is that the company offers lifetime warranty.
✨ For: iPad 10.2 (2019)
2. ESR flexible slim-fit soft case for iPad 10.2
Here is another Smart Keyboard compatible iPad case. Created exclusively for the 2019 10.2-inch iPad, this slim case from ESR has a large cutout on the side that leaves enough space for the Smart Connector to seamlessly attach to the Apple’s Keyboard while keeping 100% of its functionality.
One more benefit of the case is that it’s made of soft and flexible TPU. Thanks to that, you can attach and detach it easily whenever you need.
Therefore, this case is a perfect solution for anyone who wants to invest in original Apple accessories, but also cares about giving the iPad a complete protection against scratches and bumps.
✨ For: iPad 10.2 (2019)
Average rating: 4.1/5
3. Poetic Lumos iPad Air 3 case with Apple Pencil holder
The case from Poetic was designed to seamlessly work with Apple’s Smart Keyboard. It has an open slot on the side for docking the keyboard case.
Moreover, the case features an integrated Apple Pencil holder doubling as an extended grip area helping to hold the device easily with one hand.
The Smart Keyboard compatible case from Poetic is available in two color variants: Crystal Clear and Gray. Both are transparent showcasing the beauty of your iPad all the time.
I bought this because my smart keyboard for my iPad Air 3 didn’t have back coverage and protection. I saw it suggested by another user on the smart keyboard reviews and fell in love with the Apple Pencil holder!
– Amazon review✨ For: iPad Air 3 (2019), iPad Pro 10.5 (2017)
Average rating: 4.6/5
4. KHOMO Companion leather case with Apple Pencil holder
If you are looking for a slim case with a classic look, make sure to learn more about the one offered by KHOMO. It fits both iPad Air 3 and older-generation 10.5-inch iPad Pro.
The case is offered in five design variants. Two of them are made of faux leather: Leather Brown and Leather Black, having an executive look and feel.
There is also one variant that’s made of carbon fiber. This highly innovative material is extremely durable and light. Its glowing striped texture adds even more style to your iPad!
This case is chic, lightweight and low-profile, and it does not add any bulk to the Apple iPad.
– Product description✨ For: iPad Air 3 (2019), iPad Pro 10.5 (2017)
Average rating: 4.7/5
5. i-Blason Halo multi-benefit iPad Pro case
This innovative case from i-Blason does four things:
- It protects the back and sides of your iPad better than other slim cases
- It’s designed to be used together with the official Smart Keyboard (and only this keyboard)
- It features Apple Pencil holder
- It supports wireless charging and pairing of the 2nd-generation Apple Pencil
Therefore, if you are looking for an extra protection for your iPad Pro with Smart Keyboard and Apple Pencil 2, this case is worth considering.
The new version of i-Blason Halo has an improved magnet system to ensure the iPad and Smart Keyboard are perfectly in place.
Available in two color variants: Clear and Black.
✨ For: iPad Pro 11 (2018), iPad Pro 12.9 (2018)
Average rating: 4.2/5
6. STM Dux Shell heavy-duty rubberized case
Here is an option for anyone who is looking for an enhanced drop and scratch protection.
From STM comes Dux Shell case that’s available for iPad Pro 2018 models as well as the 2019 iPad Air 3. It’s made of durable polycarbonate that’s tested to exceed US Department of Defense Standard 810G drop tests. Add to it rubberized TPU bracket for even higher drop protection and better grip.
The case is tailored to seamlessly work with Apple’s Smart Keyboard Folio, and features a slot for Apple Pencil. In versions for iPad Pro models it allows to wirelessly charge the stylus.
In my non-engi’nerd opinion, the case is too substantial to be used with the smart cover or smart keyboard, as the magnets lack the strength to remain both closed against the screen and open against the back of the device.
– Amazon reviewBest Keyboards For Ipad
✨ For: iPad Air 3 (2019), iPad Pro 11 (2018), iPad Pro 12.9 (2018)
Average rating: 4.4/5
7. UAG military drop tested iPad Pro case
From Urban Armor Gear, a leading brand in heavy-duty iPad accessories, comes Scout feather-light rugged case.
Available for both the 11- and 12.9-inch iPad Pro models released in 2018, this is the most protective Smart Keyboard compatible case on the market.
UAG Scout meets military drop test standard MIL STD 810G 516.6 while being surprisingly light. It was achieved thanks to impact resistant soft core put inside feather-light frame.
What’s very important, UAG Scout case requires the use of Smart Keyboard Folio. In other words, you can’t use it without the original Apple keyboard.
Apple Pencil holder is compatible with wireless charging and pairing. Non-slip ruggedized grip gives easy access to all ports and touch screen.
✨ For: iPad Pro 11 (2018), iPad Pro 12.9 (2018)
Average rating: 4.5/5
8. Bonus: ESR iPad mini 5 Smart Cover compatible case
There is still no Smart Keyboard available for iPad mini (and it might not be released at all). However, if you want to give extra protection to your iPad mini with Smart Keyboard, you can spend less than $10 on the minimalist case offered by ESR.
This back shell case is made of durable transparent polyurethane plastic, adding minimal bulk and showing the full glory of the tablet.
The large cutout on the side leaves enough space for the Smart Cover to be easily attached to the iPad.
✨ For: iPad mini 5 (2019)
Average rating: 4.3/5
• • •
Where to buy iPad cases and accessories
New iPad covers, sleeves, and accessories are being revealed every day. If you haven’t found the perfect cover yet, make sure to visit these online stores:
Amazon – the giant online store offers the largest selection of all kinds of case covers and accessories. If we had to pick one web destination for everything related to tablet and e-reader accessories, it would be Amazon.
eBay – a proven place to shop for affordable cases and accessories. Sometimes, you can pick up here the case that’s the same as the branded one you’ve found on Amazon but costs two-thirds of the price.
Best Buy – the range of offered iPad mini cases and accessories is pretty limited, but the store is worth checking out if you want to buy cases and accessories at reduced prices.
Etsy – this is our favorite marketplace for custom items, hand-crafted to order. There are plenty of unique sleeves and jackets to choose from. Most of them are handmade, many can be personalized.
• • •
Recommendation box
Top iPad cases and accessories to get in 2020
Based on recommendations from top tech sites and customer reviews.
Zugu Muse multi-functional iPad protective case
This is the best heavy-duty iPad case you can find on Amazon. It features multi-angle stand secured with strong magnetic structure. Military drop tested ( MIL STD 810G 516.6) to withstand 5-feet drops. Available for iPad mini 5, iPad 10.2, Air 3, and latest Pro models.
Can A Keyboard For Ipad Used For Mac Pro
Average rating: 4.7/5
Penoval high-precision iPad stylus with palm-rejection technology
A great alternative to Apple Pencil. Penoval stylus is using advanced technology for precise, natural, highly responsive writing and drawing with no delays. Works with all current iPad models.
Average rating: 4.4/5
Foldable, fully adjustable aluminum iPad stand
This stylish and stable stand lets you adjust both the angle and height, helping you set your iPad closer to eye level. It’s helpful when you take part in online meetings or make lots of video calls.
Average rating: 4.7/5
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Keyboards that have you covered.
iPad keyboards provide a great typing experience and lightweight, durable protection for your iPad. And they attach to iPad magnetically — no need for switches, plugs, and pairing. The Magic Keyboard delivers even more with a floating design, backlit keys, and a built‑in trackpad.
Find the right keyboard for you.
Magic Keyboard
The Magic Keyboard is an amazing companion for iPad Pro and iPad Air. It features a great typing experience, a trackpad that opens up new ways to work with iPadOS, a USB‑C port for pass‑through charging, and front and back protection. The Magic Keyboard features a floating cantilever design, allowing you to attach it magnetically and smoothly adjust it to the perfect viewing angle for you.
Compatible with
- iPad Air (4th generation)
- iPad Pro 12.9‑inch (3rd and 4th generation)
- iPad Pro 11‑inch (1st and 2nd generation)
Comfortable typing
Full‑size, backlit keys and a scissor mechanism with 1 mm travel for quiet, responsive typing.Built‑in trackpad
Designed for Multi‑Touch gestures and the cursor in iPadOS.Floating cantilever design
Smooth angle adjustability delivers the perfect viewing angle.Front and back protection
Folds into a case to provide front and back protection for traveling.
Smart Keyboard Folio
The Smart Keyboard Folio is a full‑size keyboard when you need one, and it provides front and back protection when you don’t. Simply attach it and start typing.
Compatible with
- iPad Air (4th generation)
- iPad Pro 12.9‑inch (3rd and 4th generation)
- iPad Pro 11‑inch (1st and 2nd generation)
Two viewing angles
Switch between two viewing angles ideal for whatever you’re doing.Front and back protection
Provides lightweight, front and back protection.
Smart Keyboard
The Smart Keyboard is a full‑size keyboard made for iPad. It delivers a comfortable typing experience wherever you are and converts into a slim, durable front cover when you’re on the go.
Compatible with
- iPad (7th and 8th generation)
- iPad Air (3rd generation)
- iPad Pro 10.5‑inch
Type or watch
Folding design enables different configurations for typing email messages or watching videos.Lightweight cover
Provides slim, durable front protection.
Accessories that let you make iPad your own.
Explore keyboards, cases, covers, Apple Pencil, AirPods, and more.
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The ultimate iPad experience.
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