Magic Keyboard Vs Smart Keyboard – Check Which One Is Best & Why?

Keyboard

Magic Keyboard & Smart Keyboard share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as quality, performance, features, design, and connectivity. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the Magic Keyboard rather than the Smart Keyboard. 

Why Do I Recommend The Magic Keyboard

  • The Magic Keyboard includes a trackpad, offering functionality similar to a laptop, enabling cursor control and multi-touch gestures, while The Smart Keyboard lacks trackpad.
  • It uses scissor-switch keys that provide a more comfortable and tactile typing experience. In contrast, the Smart Keyboard has membrane keys.
  • The Magic Keyboard comes with backlit keys for low-light environments, while The Smart Keyboard does not have backlighting.
  • It allows for floating designs and a wider range of adjustable viewing angles, but The Smart Keyboard has fixed angles.
  • Magic Keyboard features a USB-C passthrough port for simultaneous device charging, which is absent in the Smart Keyboard.

Maybe the Smart Keyboard price can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the Magic Keyboard. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.

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Side By Side Comparison

Feature Magic Keyboard Smart Keyboard
Trackpad Includes a built-in trackpad No trackpad included.
Key Type Features scissor-switch keys Uses membrane keys
Backlit Keys Yes, fully backlit for low-light typing No backlighting
Adjustable Viewing Angles Allows floating design & multiple viewing angles Limited to two fixed angles
USB-C Passthrough Port Yes No USB-C port
Attachment Mechanism Provides a sturdy magnetic attachment Uses a simple magnetic attachment
Weight Heavier due to additional features Lightweight
Price Check Magic Price Check Smart Price

What Common Both Can Do?

  • Attachment to iPad: Both keyboards attach magnetically to the iPad, creating a hassle-free setup that eliminates the need for additional components. This design ensures a secure connection, making them reliable for users who frequently remove or attach their keyboard.
  • Powered by iPad: The Smart Connector on both devices eliminates the need for an external power source. This design not only saves users from the inconvenience of charging the keyboard separately but also ensures continuous functionality as long as the iPad is powered.
  • No Bluetooth Required: Both keyboards connect directly via the Smart Connector, bypassing the need for Bluetooth pairing. This feature prevents common connectivity issues like delays, disconnections, or battery drain, enhancing reliability for professional or everyday use.
  • Thin and Portable: Despite the Magic Keyboard’s additional features, both devices maintain a slim profile, aligning with the iPad’s portability. Their lightweight and compact designs make them excellent companions for travel or mobile work setups.
  • Full-Size Keyboard Layout: Both keyboards offer a full-size layout, ensuring that users have enough space for comfortable and precise typing. This makes transitioning from laptops or desktops to the iPad keyboard seamless, especially for longer typing sessions.
  • iPad Protection: When folded, both keyboards act as a protective cover for the iPad’s screen. This dual-purpose design enhances their utility by combining the functions of a keyboard and a protective case, reducing the need for extra accessories.
  • iOS Integration: Both keyboards are fully integrated with iPadOS, allowing users to leverage system-level shortcuts, gestures, and features like copy-paste or app-switching. This integration optimizes productivity and ensures the keyboards work harmoniously with the iPad.
  • Multi-Language Support: Both devices are compatible with various keyboard layouts, making them accessible to international users. Whether typing in English, Spanish, or other languages, users can configure the keyboards to match their preferred layout and workflow.
  • Seamless Typing: Both keyboards ensure zero latency when typing, which is critical for tasks requiring precision, such as note-taking or document creation. This makes them suitable for professional and academic purposes alike.

Common Features

Feature Magic Keyboard Smart Keyboard
Attachment to iPad Uses a magnetic attachment Uses a magnetic attachment
Powered by iPad Draws power from the iPad Draws power from the iPad
No Bluetooth Required Directly connects via the Smart Connector Directly connects via the Smart Connector
Thin and Portable Slim profile despite advanced features Slim profile for portability
Full-Size Keyboard Layout Yes Yes
iPad Protection Covers the front when closed Covers the front when closed
iOS Integration Fully integrated with iPadOS Fully integrated with iPadOS
Multi-Language Support Yes Yes
Seamless Typing Yes Yes
Price Check Magic Price Check Smart Price

FAQ

Q: Are both keyboards compatible with all iPad models?
A: No, both keyboards are designed for specific iPad models. The Magic Keyboard is primarily compatible with newer iPads like the iPad Pro and iPad Air. The Smart Keyboard supports a wider range of iPads, including some older models, depending on the specific version.Q: Do both keyboards require charging?
A: Neither the Magic Keyboard nor the Smart Keyboard requires charging. They both draw power directly from the iPad through the Smart Connector.Q: Can I use gestures with the Smart Keyboard like on the Magic Keyboard?
A: The Smart Keyboard does not have a trackpad, so gestures like swiping or pinching for zooming are not possible. These functions can still be performed using the iPad’s touchscreen.Q: Which keyboard is better for low-light environments?
A: The Magic Keyboard is better for low-light environments as it features backlit keys with automatic brightness adjustment. The Smart Keyboard does not have backlighting.Q: Is the Magic Keyboard heavier than the Smart Keyboard?
A: Yes, the Magic Keyboard is heavier due to its additional features like the trackpad, backlighting, and hinge mechanism. The Smart Keyboard is lighter and more portable.Q: Do both keyboards provide a protective cover for the iPad?
A: Yes, both the Magic Keyboard and Smart Keyboard act as protective covers when closed, safeguarding the iPad’s screen from scratches and minor impacts.

Q: Which keyboard is more suitable for professional use?
A: The Magic Keyboard is more suitable for professional use due to its advanced features like a trackpad, adjustable viewing angles, and a premium typing experience. The Smart Keyboard is better for casual use and users on a budget.

Q: Can both keyboards support multiple languages?
A: Yes, both keyboards support multiple languages and layouts, making them accessible for a global audience.

Q: Do I need Bluetooth to connect these keyboards to the iPad?
A: No, both keyboards connect via the Smart Connector, so Bluetooth is not required. This ensures a stable and seamless connection.

Q: Which keyboard is more affordable?
A: The Smart Keyboard is more affordable, as it lacks the premium features of the Magic Keyboard. It is a cost-effective option for users who need basic typing functionality.

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