Logitech For Mac Keyboard

By Mark Linsangan
Thursday, April 25, 2019, 10:13 am PT (01:13 pm ET)

Amazon's Choice for logitech mac keyboard and mouse Logitech K750 Wireless Solar Keyboard for Mac — Solar Recharging, Mac-Friendly Keyboard, 2.4GHz Wireless - Silver 3.7 out of 5 stars 3,910.

With the introduction of the Logitech Slim Folio Pro, iPad Pro owners now have a second option to Apple's Smart Keyboard. For the $50 savings Logitech provides, many will consider it —but which one should you go with?


As soon as we reviewed the Logitech Slim Folio Pro, we received a giant number of queries on how it compares to Apple's first-party keyboard. So, let's look at the pair together.

Overviews

The Logitech Slim Folio Pro is a protective Bluetooth folio-style keyboard that covers the front and back of the iPad. Apple's Smart Keyboard, on the other hand, is slim, minimal looking, and pairs via the iPad Pro's Smart Connector on the back.

The Smart Keyboard doesn't require an external battery whatsoever, it uses the Smart Connector and feeds power from the iPad Pro. Its overall profile is very slim, with decent keys that offer a good amount of space between each, but the throw and key travel is almost non-existent.
Apple's Smart Keyboard also doesn't sound that great when you're typing quickly. It has a soft, muffled sound rather than a substantial click from a membrane or mechanical keyboard. It is still a good keyboard nonetheless, thanks to the ease of use and slim profile.

The Logitech Slim Folio Pro, on the other hand, is a rugged keyboard case solution for the iPad Pro. It protects all four corners of the iPad and enough clearance for the second-generation Apple Pencil to sit and charge easily along the top edge. Unlike Apple's Smart Keyboard, you'll have actual drop protection for your iPad Pro given the pliable silicone material. Apple's folio will likely just fall off in the event of a tumble.

Design

In terms of the overall design, we like Apple's Smart Keyboard in terms of looks. It's a lot sleeker and feels far better to carry the iPad when it's closed. It is exceptionally lightweight and any pounds we can shed from our gear bag the better.

On the contrary, the Logitech Slim Folio Pro is not a 'slim' device at all —despite the word 'Slim' in its name. It's a lot thicker than the Smart Keyboard, and a lot heavier too. The reason for this is that it houses a larger keyboard, a rechargeable battery, offers protection, and it uses different materials than Apple's Smart Keyboard.

Functionality

When it comes to functionality, and how the keyboards perform, the Slim Folio Pro is the clear winner here. Like we mentioned in our review, the keyboard feels great, and has plenty of travel, very reminiscent of Apple's MacBook keyboard before they switched over to their new butterfly switches. The Keyboard is also backlit with two brightness options which is great for night time typing. It features iOS shortcuts along the top —like a home button, spotlight and a lock/unlock button —which makes the device feel more 'pro'.
Typing on the Smart Keyboard was great, but once we switched over to Logitech's Slim Folio Pro, it was a night and day difference. The tactile buttons, the throw, and backlit keys won us over.

Both keyboards allow for two different typing angles. The Smart Keyboard has two different slots where it magnetically snaps the iPad into place. The Logitech Slim Folio on the other hand only has one, but you can set it to a different angle by adjusting the back which gives you a more vertical view of the display.
We really had a problem with Apple's new design of the Smart Keyboard Folio. You can dig deeper in our full review, but the short version is that when you want to use the folio in the vertical position for watching content, the keyboard still extends out the front a ways and takes up a large footprint compared to the previous generation. When you also fold the Smart Keyboard Folio behind the iPad, your hands come into contact with the keys which feels uncomfortable.

You can also set both keyboards in 'drawing' mode where the keyboard goes behind the iPad, but given the bigger footprint, and key travel on the Smart Folio Pro, pushing down on the iPad on either side of the device will make the iPad uneven at times and can be a bit frustrating when using the Apple Pencil. That's not the case with Apple's Smart Keyboard due to its slimmer profile. So just be aware of that if you're also considering using the Apple Pencil.
The Apple Smart Keyboard runs off the iPad's battery using the smart connector, so battery life doesn't exist, technically. The Slim Folio Pro can last up to three months on a single charge and it charges via USB-C. You can either use the iPad Pro's bundled USB-C charger or you can connect a USB-C cable to the output of the iPad Pro and charge directly from there —helpful for when away from an outlet.

Decision time

If you're the type of person who lugs around their iPad Pro everywhere and you want the most minimal looking keyboard case the Apple Smart Keyboard Folio is what we recommend you pick up.

However, if you're willing to give up that ease of use, lightweight and slim form factor and you care more about how the keyboard feels, want some added protection, and you want to maximize how you work then you should pick up the Logitech Slim Folio Pro.
It's only $120 versus Apple's $179 Smart Keyboard. With the money you're saving, you can use that to pay towards the Apple Pencil if you haven't picked one up yet.

Where to buy

Apple's Smart Keyboard Folio for the 11-inch iPad Pro and 12.9-inch iPad Pro can be purchased at Amazon for $179 and $189.99 respectively (the 12.9-inch accessory is currently $10 off).
Meanwhile, the Logitech Slim Folio Pro for the 11-inch iPad Pro and 12.9-inch iPad Pro can be ordered from Logitech directly for $119.99 to $129.99 with free shipping.

It’s 2019, and your MacBook will be one year older soon in just a few months. For all the hours you spend typing on your MacBook’s keyboard, it’s time to find out if using an external keyboard may be better for your workflow.

After all, making your workspace your own has many advantages. With an external keyboard, you’ll have greater freedom to position your Mac at a comfortable viewing height and distance, be able to clear space by raising it on a laptop stand but still type, and do your work without worrying that you’re developing carpal tunnel syndrome.

For those of you who use an old MacBook Pro with some keys broken or not functioning well, getting an external keyboard means increased productivity. And you don’t need to spend the time and extra cost for key replacement.

In this article, we’ll show you a list of the best wireless keyboards, and help you pick the right one and put the spotlight on a few of our personal favorites.

Quick Summary

External keyboards come in a variety of styles and many offer special quirks that other brands may not. Here’s our breakdown of what’s best when it comes to available features:

• For the official Apple option that is sure to work perfectly with your MacBook, we recommend Apple Magic Keyboard.
• For a classic mechanical keyboard with a modern touch, we recommend Logitech MK545 Wireless Keyboard and Mouse Combo.
• For a full-size keyboard with glossy, flat keys and a USB dongle connection, we recommend Arteck HB030B Universal Slim.
• For a compact and Bluetooth option that will work on more than one device, we recommend Anker Ultra Compact.

Do I Need an External Keyboard for My MacBook?

External keyboards can be a great asset to your MacBook setup. They offer a variety of benefits, such as greater adjustability and positioning freedom for your screen. You can also sit further away from the harsh light, which is better for your eyes (and health).

If you plan on selling your MacBook eventually, an external keyboard will prevent the built-in keys from accumulating wear and tear. That means your Mac laptop will get higher residual value.

You’ll also benefit most from a keyboard if you’re someone who tends to use your MacBook Pro along with other device or papers that take up a lot of space on your desk, or in a relaxed environment where you have the freedom to spread out as much as you need.

That said, an external keyboard will be less helpful if you tend to use your MacBook Pro while commuting, in isolation, or do not have enough space at your workplace to expand.

Also, for those who own the newest MacBook Pro with the beautiful touch bar, you’ll be giving up easy access to Apple’s latest innovation if you choose to purchase an external keyboard.

So, as you see: it’s not always a good (nor bad) idea to buy an external keyboard for your MacBook, all depending on your goals and preferences. If you’ve decided to purchase one, make sure you also learn the following criteria.

Buying an External Keyboard for Mac: What to Consider in 2020?

Keyboard Style

The first thing to consider when choosing an external keyboard is the style, which is dependent on your needs. Many laptop owners are used to membrane style keyboards, which means your keys travel a short distance and press very quietly.

But if you’re getting an external keyboard, you may prefer the mechanical keyboard that produces the classic “clacking” sound while you work. You should also determine if you need a full-size keyboard with a number pad or just the standard QWERTY lineup.

Connection Type

If you only plan on using it at a single location, you might be fine with a wired option. But if you’re always on the go, wireless is probably the better choice. Additionally, wireless keyboards come in several different types themselves. Many models use Bluetooth, but a good amount of keyboards use a USB dongle instead.

Battery Life

If you plan on going wireless, battery life is definitely a factor to consider. Most external keyboards will be battery-operated, but some are rechargeable. Whichever you end up choosing, you should keep checking if the charge length is long enough not to inconvenience you.

The Best MacBook Pro Keyboards in 2020: Our Picks

Please note that all the products listed below are chosen based on the guidelines above and our personal preferences. They are not in any particular order and offer their own advantages and disadvantages.

1. Apple Magic Keyboard

Made by Apple for Apple, the magic keyboard is the best option if you’re a pure Apple fan who decides to go all the “Apple” way to your setup. It’s a clean membrane keyboard that comes in silver and white that will flawlessly match your MacBook Pro.

Pros:

• It’s designed and made by Apple, one of the world’s most trusted brands.
• It looks beautiful with clean design, and it’s extremely light and comfortable to carry around.

Cons:

1. It’s a bit pricey and certainly not the most portable design available while compared to some of our other recommendations.
2. Also, it doesn’t have a numeric keypad which can be a productivity boost if you deal with numbers on a regular basis.

2. Logitech MK545 Advanced Wireless Keyboard and Mouse Combo

From the long-trusted Logitech brand, this mechanical keyboard is complete with a number pad and comes with a free mouse as well. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a modern wireless keyboard with an old-school touch in the form of classic clicking keys.

Pros:

• It’s battery operated and claims long lifetime before batteries need to be replaced.
• The mechanical style is great if you don’t like membrane keys.
• Also, it has a number pad and shortcuts keys.

Cons:

• Plastic keys are rougher than classic Mac keys, and may feel unappealing in comparison.

3. Arteck HB030B Universal Slim Portable Wireless Keyboard

If you’re looking for a full-sized membrane keyboard but don’t want to sacrifice a good sized chunk of space, this model from Arteck is beautifully designed and it’s much smaller than a standard keyboard. It also offers function keys and a glossy finish.

Pros:

• It’s small enough to carry easily.
• The membrane keys are smooth and can be pressed easily.
• It also includes programmable hotkeys, can be connected via USB dongle.

Cons:

• It uses a “Windows” key rather than “Command” despite Mac compatible, and the keyboard may feel cramped.

4. Anker Ultra Compact Profile Wireless Bluetooth Keyboard

With this keyboard, you won’t be limited to just your MacBook Pro – it’s compatible with your iPad as well. It’s about 30% smaller than your normal laptop keyboard, so your desk will remain uncluttered. The 6-month battery life means you won’t be worried about lack of charge when it’s time to work.

Pros:

• The rechargeable battery can last up to one month without having to recharge (based on 2 hours of non-stop use per day).
• It has clean white style, Bluetooth connection, extremely compact and slim.
• Also, it’s very light and weighs in at a featherlight about 10.4 ounces.

Cons:

• Keys might feel cramped compared to a normal keyboard, and there’s no number pad.

Useful Tips & Resources

Sometimes it’s less about what keyboard you use, rather more about how you use it. If you’re interested in some helpful key shortcuts, check out this list from ComputerWorld that will reduce the amount of time you spend unnecessarily clicking on certain tasks.

Maintaining and cleaning your keyboard is also necessary if you want to maximize its life and keep it in good shape, you may be interested in reading this article from Logitech where the author shared four quick tips to keep your device clean.

If you’ve decided to purchase an external keyboard, also consider adding these two items to your shopping cart:

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• ColorCoral Keyboard Cleaner Universal Cleaning Gel – helps remove dust, hair, and crumbs from the surface of a keyboard.
• MECO Rechargeable Mini Vacuum – helps clear off dirt from inside the keyboard.

Final Words

An external keyboard is a fantastic investment if you like versatility in your workplace. It will allow you greater comfort and help you be more productive by allowing you to customize your workplace.

Do you already use an external keyboard with your MacBook Pro? Tell us which model you use and what your experience has been like.