Keyboard with trackpad: The 5 best wireless keyboards with touchpads

The 5 best wireless keyboards with touchpads

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by Maria Cassano

Amazon

Whether you’re learning how to program on a Raspberry Pi or you’re surfing the web from your couch, the best wireless keyboards with touchpads offer the best of both worlds: portability and control. Since the touchpad takes the place of a mouse, you should be able to navigate around with ease — but not all keyboards work with all devices. In order to find the right one for your device, you’ll need to consider the connectivity and compatibility.

First, figure out how the keyboard wirelessly connects to various devices. Most affordable ones use USB dongles that’ll only work if your device has a USB port. This is usually a good option for laptops, computer-controlled smart TVs, and some gaming consoles. For devices without USB ports — like most phones and tablets — you’ll need a Bluetooth-enabled keyboard, which syncs up without the dongle. For both of these categories, the wireless range is usually around 33 feet. (Keep in mind that a lack of wires means it’s powered by either replaceable batteries or a rechargeable one, so be sure to check the battery life.)

Luckily, most brands disclose exactly which devices and operating systems the keyboard works with — and if not, reviewer feedback can be really helpful. No matter what kind of device you have (and even if you’re looking for a travel-friendly mini model), at least one of the wireless touchpad keyboards below should be compatible.

1. The overall best wireless touch keyboard

Amazon

Logitech K400 Plus Wireless Touch TV Keyboard

$48

Logitech is considered one of the best electronics manufacturers around for well-designed, reliable hardware, and the Logitech K400 Plus wireless keyboard allows for effortless, desk-free navigation without the need for a mouse. Its keyboard is intuitive with quiet keys, while its built-in trackpad and media-friendly controls allow you to use your computer-enabled TV in comfort. It also has an 18-month battery life (using two AA batteries), a 33-foot range with its wireless USB receiver, and a slim, lightweight profile that’s easy to hold.

  • Connectivity: USB
  • Compatible with: Windows 8, Chrome OS, Windows 7, Windows 10

One reviewer wrote: “This is not a gaming keyboard, but it works GREAT as a keyboard for a home theater PC (HTPC). I have three of these around my house for the three HTPCs I have installed on each of my TVs.”

2. The budget keyboard with wide compatibility

Amazon

Arteck 2.4G Wireless Touch TV Keyboard

$26

According to reviewers, the Arteck wireless keyboard offers “simple plug and play” for most systems thanks to its wide compatibility and USB connector. Its soft keys, responsive touchpad, and built-in media keys allow you to navigate around your system of choice from up to 33 feet away. The primary downside: Reviewers report that the two AAA batteries need replacing every few weeks, so it definitely doesn’t have the longest battery life.

  • Connectivity: USB
  • Compatible with: Windows 10, 8, 7, Chrome OS, TV-connected computers, HTPC, Raspberry Pi3, Xbox, PS3

One reviewer wrote: “This is a great wireless keyboard. I’ve used it with multiple devices and it always works flawlessly. The metal frame is solid and feels very comfortable while typing. It’s a bit wide with the mouse pad but that makes it a great width for sitting with it on my lap while using it from the couch.”

3. The best rechargeable Bluetooth & USB keyboard

Amazon

Logitech K830 Illuminated Living-Room Keyboard

$180

If you’re looking for additional features that make your experience significantly better, the Logitech K830 keyboard is “definitely worth the extra money,” according to a reviewer. For one, it has a backlight so you can effortlessly type in the dark. For another, it’s Bluetooth-enabled as well as USB-connectable, so there are multiple ways to hook it up. Finally, it’s rechargeable and lasts for up to 10 days on a single charge, so you don’t have to worry about batteries. In addition to its touchpad, this one also has easy-access shortcut keys that work from up to 33 feet away.

  • Connectivity: USB or Bluetooth
  • Compatible with: Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 10 or later, Android 5.0 or later, Chrome OS

One reviewer wrote: “I was looking for a good backlit, wireless keyboard for a long time and Logitech is and has been my preferred brand in these things so I gave this one a go — loving it. Thicker and heavier than the K400 series, but the backlight is almost worth the trouble by itself. […] It’s a bit on the pricey side for one of these and I’m always a lil skeptical about these built-in rechargeable batteries but just a couple months in, I’m more than satisfied with this purchase.

4. The best folding keyboard

Amazon

Samsers Folding Keyboard

$33

For those who want a keyboard for their phones or tablets, portability is a must. This foldable keyboard is reasonably sized when laid out (and it has a touchpad), but when it’s time to hit the road, its three sections fold into each other so it’s small enough to fit in your pocket. Its Bluetooth connectivity works from up to 33 feet away while its rechargeable battery lasts for up to 48 hours straight. It even comes with a free stand for your smaller devices.

  • Connectivity: Bluetooth
  • Compatible with: iOS 13.4 and later, Android, Windows

One reviewer wrote: “When I am not traveling on business, I prefer to leave my laptop at home. However, as a writer by nature, I’m also very likely to want to write something for which I do not want to use a screen keyboard. This fills the gap very nicely. I use it on my phone and my Kindle Fire 8 HDX and it serves its purpose well. I enjoy the touchpad addition very much, as it’s useful with some apps.”

5. The best mini keyboard

Amazon

Fosmon Mini Bluetooth Keyboard

$25

Finally, if you’re looking for an extra-portable keyboard, there’s this Fosmon mini. Despite the fact that it measures less than 7 inches across, it still offers a full QWERTY keyboard as well as a touchpad and navigation arrows. The Bluetooth 3.0 connectivity hooks up to most devices (from computers and tablets to gaming consoles), and its range of 33 feet gives you plenty of flexibility. Thanks to its rechargeable battery, it’ll last up to 10 days when used continuously. It’s even backlit for better visibility in the dark.

  • Connectivity: Bluetooth
  • Compatible with: computers, smartphones, tablets, HTPC/IPTVVR glasses, Apple TV, PS4

One reviewer wrote: “Absolutely love it! It’s much smaller than anticipated but it has as much, if not more, features than a full-sized keyboard. It’s really receptive and connected to the computer effortlessly. Tactile feedback is very positive. I highly recommend this keyboard.”

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  • Technology

The Best iPad Pro Keyboards for 2023

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Best Overall

Logitech Combo Touch Keyboard Case for iPad Pro (11-Inch)

Best Overall

Logitech Combo Touch Keyboard Case for iPad Pro (11-Inch)

$200 at Amazon$200 at Walmart

Pros
  • Elegant design
  • Sturdy detachable case
  • Stellar keyboard and trackpad
Cons
  • Some might find it heavy

The Logitech Combo Touch is the best keyboard for most iPad Pro owners. It has well spaced backlit keys and an integrated trackpad. Best of all, the keyboard is bundled with a durable protective case with Smart Connector compatibility, an Apple Pencil dock, and a highly adjustable viewing stand.

While testing the Combo Touch, we enjoyed its row of iPadOS shortcut keys, which includes a home button. It allowed us to control the iPad Pro’s screen brightness and audio playback without the need to visit the command center in iPadOS.

You can order the keyboard in gray or sand finishes for the 11- and the 12.9-inch iPad Pro.

More: The Best Accessories for Your iPad

Key Specs

Connectivity: Smart Connector
Protective case: Yes (detachable)
Other features: Integrated trackpad, viewing stand

Runner-Up

Brydge Max+ Wireless Keyboard Case for iPad Pro (11-Inch)

Runner-Up

Brydge Max+ Wireless Keyboard Case for iPad Pro (11-Inch)

Now 37% Off

$127 at Amazon$162 at Walmart$160 at B&H Photo

Pros
  • MacBook-like design
  • Solid keyboard and trackpad
Cons
  • Bulky

The Max+ is a stellar alternative to the top keyboard from Logitech, offering a sleeker design at a similar price without skimping on features. It even makes the iPad Pro look like a miniature MacBook. It has a magnetic back cover that virtually transforms the tablet into a traditional laptop with a clamshell design and adjustable viewing angles.

Compared to the Logitech Combo Touch, the Max+ has keyboard keys with longer, more satisfying travel, a much larger trackpad, and a heftier base that make it comfier for use in your lap. However, its keyboard utilizes a Bluetooth connection instead of the iPad’s Smart Connector. It requires recharging, too.

Brydge offers the Max+ for the 11- and 12.9-inch iPad Pro versions in matching silver and space gray colors.

Key Specs

Connectivity: Bluetooth
Protective case: Yes (magnetic back cover)
Other features: Integrated trackpad, adjustable viewing angles

Best Mechanical Keyboard

Logitech MX Mechanical Mini Wireless Keyboard

Best Mechanical Keyboard

Logitech MX Mechanical Mini Wireless Keyboard

$150 at Amazon$150 at Walmart$150 at B&H Photo

Pros
  • Fantastic typing experience
  • Multi-device support
  • Great battery life
Cons
  • Not great for on-the-go use

The MX Mechanical Mini brings an understated design and quiet tactile switches that are amazing to press. If you want to clack your way into accomplishing more with your iPad, especially at a desktop, pick this with its elaborate set of shortcut buttons. There’s customizable backlighting, too, but disabling it will get you up to 10 months of use between charges.

You can order the Logitech MX Mechanical Mini in pale or space grey. If you find its design too subtle, consider this wireless mechanical Logitech keyboard with emoji keys and bright colors.

Key Specs

Connectivity: Bluetooth
Protective case: No
Other features: Mechanical switches

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Best Value

Logitech Slim Folio Pro Keyboard Case for iPad Pro (11-Inch)

Best Value

Logitech Slim Folio Pro Keyboard Case for iPad Pro (11-Inch)

$118 at Amazon$156 at Walmart$120 at B&H Photo

Pros
  • Excellent keyboard
  • Reliable protective case
  • Reasonable price
Cons
  • Lacks a trackpad

Sporting a price tag slightly above $100, the Slim Folio Pro packs an excellent backlit keyboard with a row of iPadOS shortcut buttons and a protective case. Unlike our top pick, also from Logitech, this tablet doesn’t have a trackpad and the case isn’t detachable. It also uses Bluetooth—instead of the Smart Connector—to link to the iPad. The lack of these features is acceptable, given its keeps the price down.

Additional product highlights include a slot for the Apple Pencil and up to three months of battery life. The Slim Folio Pro is available for the 11- and the 12.9-inch iPad Pro.

Key Specs

Connectivity: Bluetooth
Protective case: Yes (detachable)
Other features: Magnetic latch closure

Best Apple Keyboard with Trackpad

Apple Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro (11-Inch)

Best Apple Keyboard with Trackpad

Apple Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro (11-Inch)

Now 16% Off

$250 at Amazon$249 at Walmart$299 at B&H Photo

Pros
  • Best-in-class keyboard and trackpad
  • Additional USB-C port makes using additional accessories a breeze
  • Compatible with multiple iPad Pro iterations
Cons
  • Expensive

Apple’s Magic Keyboard is undoubtedly expensive, but it’s the one to get if you’re looking for the best typing and trackpad experience for your iPad Pro. When we tested it, the backlit keys and trackpad made switching to the iPad Pro with a Magic Keyboard from a MacBook incredibly seamless.

The keyboard has a striking design that will make your iPad Pro look like it’s floating in the Air. It holds the tablet via sturdy magnets, and it has a USB-C port for charging. The latter allowed us to simultaneously power up and plug in external accessories.

You can order the Magic Keyboard in black or white for the 11- and the 12.9-inch iPad Pro.

More: A Review of the Apple Magic Keyboard

Key Specs

Connectivity: Smart Connector
Protective case: Yes (magnetic back cover)
Other features: Integrated USB-C connector

Best Minimalist

Satechi Slim X1 Bluetooth Keyboard

Best Minimalist

Satechi Slim X1 Bluetooth Keyboard

Now 24% Off

$53 at Amazon$101 at Walmart$45 at B&H Photo

Pros
  • Sleek design that matches the iPad Pro
  • Stellar typing experience
  • Reasonable price
Cons
  • Retail package could use a storage sleeve

As its name suggests, the Slim X1 stands out with a minimalist design and a compact footprint. Like many Satechi accessories, the keyboard has a space gray aluminum housing that complements an iPad or Mac.

Satechi equipped the Slim X1 with crisp backlit keys and a dedicated row for essential Apple shortcuts. Better yet, the keyboard can simultaneously connect to and switch between three devices. It has up-to-date Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity, solid battery life, and a convenient USB-C charging and connectivity port.

Consider this wired Satechi keyboard if you don’t want to deal with battery charging and switching between devices. It has the same design otherwise, at a lower price.

Key Specs

Connectivity: Bluetooth
Protective case: No
Other features: Multi-device support

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Best Budget Keyboard

Logitech K380 Bluetooth Keyboard

Best Budget Keyboard

Logitech K380 Bluetooth Keyboard

$40 at Amazon$40 at Walmart$40 at tigerdirect. com

Pros
  • Adorable design
  • Compatible with multiple devices
  • Very affordable
Cons
  • Round keys have a learning curve

Logitech’s K380 is perfect for upgrading your iPad Pro’s productivity on a tight budget. For less than $40, the Apple accessory has a colorful design with round buttons and multi-device connectivity. Logitech claims the keyboard can run for up to two years before you need to swap out its AAAs.

The round keys of the K380 have nice feel and are impressively quiet. They aren’t backlit, but at this price, that’s an acceptable shortcoming that didn’t have a significant impact in our testing.

You can order the Logitech K380 in one of three colors, and each version has contrasting device-pairing buttons.

Key Specs

Connectivity: Bluetooth
Protective case: No
Other features: Multi-device support

Stefan Vazharov

Senior Technology Editor

Stefan is the senior technology editor for BestProducts. com, where he’s been covering the tech industry and testing the latest gadgets since 2015. He has more than a decade of experience covering consumer tech products, especially smartphones, tablets, laptops, and audio gear. He was previously the US editor for GSMArena.com; his work can also be found on Popular Mechanics and other Hearst publications.In the rare moments when he’s not playing with a new gadget, Stefan likes to watch live Premier League games or hang out with his cat and rabbit. He’s also an espresso snob.

top wireless keyboards with touchpad

A selection of the best keyboards with built-in touchpad, which are suitable not only for stationary PCs, but also for smartphones, tablets, TVs and media players.

Touchpad is a touch pad built into any laptop. In terms of functionality, it replaces the mouse and allows you to freely control the cursor on the screen with your finger, which is quite convenient.

It’s not just for laptops that this convenience is available – keyboards with an integrated touchpad can be found on the market today, and they’re not just for desktop PCs. They will also replace the smart TV remote control and turn a tablet or smartphone into a device for work. We talk about the best wireless keyboards with a touchpad in this collection.

Basically, such devices are connected via a wireless connection, as they are intended primarily for TVs. We couldn’t find any wired keyboards with a touchpad, but if you’ve noticed any, write in the comments and we’ll add them to the selection!

Full size keyboards

Ritmix RKB-350BTH

  • Connection: Bluetooth
  • Connection radius: 10 m
  • Price: from 1321 rubles

The most affordable model in our selection. The touchpad replaces the number pad and has two physical buttons, respectively the left and right mouse buttons. The touchpad supports multi-touch gestures (recognizes up to 3 simultaneous clicks). It turned out not the most responsive due to the low price, but it performs its functions.

As for the keyboard, it is a membrane scissor model with 78 keys, measures 365x10x120mm and weighs 260g. Powered by two AAA batteries, there is a physical switch to save power.

Rii K12

  • Connection: radio channel
  • Connection radius: 10 m
  • Price: from 2157 rubles

This is the smallest full-sized keyboard with touchpad in our selection, measuring 260x13x83mm and weighing 350g. Great for those looking for a compact and lightweight device.

Despite the size, Rii K12 has all the necessary functionality – a membrane-type keyboard, 5 mm key travel, responsive buttons. The case is half made of plastic, half of aluminum alloy metal. Connection ports and status indicators are placed on the side panel, so they do not distract from work. Rii K12 is battery powered and comes with a charging cable.

Buy

Harper KBTCH-155

  • Connection: radio channel
  • Connection radius: 10 m
  • Price: from 1899 rubles

Another option for those looking for an affordable wireless keyboard with built-in touch pad. Made of plastic Harper KBTCH-155, sold in black, its dimensions are 366x121x18 mm. At the same time, the keyboard turned out to be ultra-thin and weighs even less than the miniature Rii K12 – only 250 g.

The touchpad seems to have been taken from a laptop and transferred to this keyboard without any changes – this is a standard sensor with two physical buttons. The keyboard is powered by two AAA batteries, connected via radio and works at a distance of up to 10 meters, which allows you to comfortably sit at the PC monitor, even on the couch by the TV.

Official site

Rapoo K2800

  • Connection: radio channel
  • Connection radius: 10 m
  • Price: from 2557 rubles

In the Rapoo K2800, the left and right mouse buttons, as well as the scroll wheel, are additionally placed above the functional row of buttons. Why – even the manufacturer did not explain on its official website, but this way it will be possible to use the left hand to manipulate the cursor.

Otherwise, it’s a solid, stylish keyboard with weather-sealed buttons and a clean yet classic design. This device is just more suitable for computers, and not for a TV or smartphone – it turned out to be weighty (610 g), and such a keyboard will be felt on your knees.

Buy

Harper KBT-550

  • Connection: radio channel
  • Connection radius: 10 m
  • Price: from 2790 rubles

Another good model from Harper. The sensor block replaced Numpad, and it turned out to be stylish – it’s a smooth surface without additional drawings and mechanical buttons.

The keyboard is solid – the U-shaped keys have a scissor mechanism that guarantees durability. Responsive – button travel is 2 mm. And comfortable – the thickness of the device is only 6 mm. Connection via radio channel within a radius of 10 meters, the charge holds about a month from two AAA batteries.

Official website

Harper KBT-330

  • Connection: radio channel / Bluetooth
  • Connection radius: 10 m
  • Price: from 3199 rubles

The more expensive the model, the more interesting touchpad solutions the manufacturer offers. For example, the Harper KBT-330 has an oval type touch panel, the function buttons (mouse and switch) are placed under separate keys. By the way, LMB and RMB are not very convenient, as they are unusually located one above the other.

The keyboard itself is made of plastic, has a classic layout, but the buttons are round – in terms of appearance, the Harper KBT-330 turned out to be attractive. It has 79 main and 19 additional keys, the latter not only adjusting the sound, but can also turn off the TV, search or switch the device. In terms of connection, the model also has a feature – it supports simultaneous work with three channels (1 radio and 2 Bluetooth), you can freely switch between devices.

Logitech K400 Plus

  • Connection: radio channel
  • Connection radius: 10 m
  • Price: from 5990 rubles

At first glance, the Logitech K400 Plus is nothing special – the keyboard has a nice rounded design, and the touchpad, like other models in the selection, duplicates the functionality of a computer mouse.

The main feature lies in the technology of remote control of a computer that is connected to the TV. That is, you will not need to connect the keyboard to the PC – you can manage files and other content from the TV without getting up from the couch.

Prestigio Click&Touch

  • Connection: Bluetooth
  • Connection radius: 10 m
  • Price: from 3790 rubles

And this keyboard does not have a touchpad – the touchpad is the very surface of the device. If you drive with light touches on the keys, then the cursor will move around the screen, when you press the buttons, they will perform their main functionality.

This amazing feature results in a compact, lightweight and ergonomic device that you can always keep close at hand. There is also support for multiple connected Bluetooth devices with instant switching between them.

Microsoft All-in-One Media

  • Connection: radio channel
  • Connection radius: 10 m
  • Price: from 4290 rubles

This model was released by Microsoft itself, and it will be an excellent assistant for working with multimedia devices. So, in addition to the integrated touch panel on the keyboard, there are multimedia keys (for example, the volume control), which will help you quickly adjust the sound on the TV. The keyboard is of non-standard sizes, which will be noticed by those who often type at the computer.

Among other features, we note the high-quality case material, moisture protection and built-in AES encryption technology, thanks to which information about each key pressed will be encrypted to protect the information entered.

Logitech K600 TV

  • Connection: Bluetooth
  • Connection radius: 15 m
  • Price: from $59.99

And this Bluetooth keyboard with touchpad is designed to make you sit comfortably on the couch in front of the TV. It is comfortable, has a design with rounded corners, and most of the built-in functions (smart search, fast input, easy navigation) make it much easier to interact with the TV.

Connection via Bluetooth, range up to 15 meters. In addition to the main keys, there are multimedia ones, and the on / off button will save battery power – although the manufacturer claims a year of operation from two AAA batteries.

Official site

Mini keyboards

VONTAR

  • Connection: Bluetooth
  • Connection radius: 15 m
  • Price: from 2790 rubles

The AVATTO B033 is worth a look if you need a keyboard outside of the home. When folded, its length is 15 centimeters, and the height is 10 centimeters, and it will fit not only in a backpack, but even in a handbag.

Although the functionality leaves much to be desired – the device has only 64 keys, and the touchpad is small. There are no fixing feet, because of which the keyboard will slide on a smooth surface. Although you don’t have to choose from folding keyboards – at the time of writing this article, this is the only model that we were able to find.

Rii Mini i8

  • Connection: radio channel
  • Connection radius: 10 m
  • Price: from 1008 rubles

This mini keyboard with touchpad and wireless connection looks like an old gamepad, the touchpad is built into the top of the device. There is a stylish backlighting of the keys, but with it the built-in battery will run out faster.

More than enough keys: in addition to the main ones, there is a volume control, media playback buttons, search, return to the home screen and many other functional buttons. Why, even LMB and RMB are duplicated twice, and this is taking into account the fact that their functionality is already built into the sensor.

Rii X1

  • Connection: radio channel
  • Connection radius: 3-5 m
  • Price: from 1209 rubles

The Rii X1 looks like a regular keyboard, only three times smaller. Thanks to the dimensions of 18x10x3 mm, the device can be carried right in your pocket.

The touchpad again replaces the number pad, physical LMB and RMB are provided. The rest of the Rii X1 copies the classic keyboard, except that there are a little less function keys.

Buy

DEXP D3WK019

  • Connection: radio channel
  • Connection radius: 10 m
  • Price: from 1250 rubles

Another mini keyboard similar to a gamepad, but from a Russian brand. Of the features: touch control, extensive functionality (moreover, in some keys two actions are sewn at once), a connection radius of up to 10 meters via a radio channel. There is a backlight, dimensions are 146x98x19 mm, and in terms of weight (85 g) DEXP D3WK019 is no heavier than an office mouse.

Buy

TR-MWK Ultramini Keyboard

  • Connection: radio channel
  • Connection radius: 10 m
  • Price : from 1290 rubles

TR-MWK Ultramini Keyboard is similar in appearance to the Rii X1, but has a cleaner design. Features include an infrared light pointer, thanks to which the device can be used as a remote control for presentations. The device is compatible with PlayStation and Xbox consoles, has backlit keys and a built-in battery.

Buy

Gereks D8

  • Connection: Bluetooth
  • Connection radius: 10 meters
  • Price: from 1550 rubles

Structurally, Gereks D8 can be divided into two parts – the top is occupied by the touch panel, and the bottom is reserved for the keys. The keyboard is membrane, 78 keys, the button travel is 3 mm. Dimensions are 14x5x8 mm, weight 135 g. Thanks to the shape, the keyboard fits comfortably in the hands, multimedia buttons are reserved for the thumbs.

GoldMaster T18

  • Connection: radio channel
  • Connection radius: 10 m
  • Price: from 1400 rubles

GoldMaster T18 has the same feature as the full size Prestigio Click&Touch – a surface that combines the touchpad with the keys. But this model, on the contrary, has key markings on the touchpad, so there are no mechanical elements, and as a result we get a large sensor area. The device has 57 main and 5 additional keys, backlight and built-in battery.

UKB-500-RF

  • Connection: radio channel
  • Connection radius: 15 m
  • Price: from 1450 rubles

If the Rii Mini i8 resembles gamepads from old consoles, then the UKB-500-RF can be compared to the DualShock 4. The keyboard has a game design, the touchpad is concisely integrated into the case, and there are L and R buttons on top, analogous to the left and right mouse buttons . This look will please every time you use it.

Buy

what else is missing from a tablet to become as convenient as a laptop? And before the upcoming WWDC, where they will present a new generation of iPadOS, I tried to formulate the main difficulties that you may encounter when working on the current generation of the tablet, and showed what can be done with them.

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Why a tablet will beat a laptop

I’ll warn you right away – I think that tablets will sooner or later win laptops. Defending my position, I usually propose to look at the laptop as a concept, discarding technical issues, performance, software and historical expectations.

It turns out that a laptop consists of three main parts:

  • A screen that displays content.
  • Attached keyboard.
  • Trackpad. To interact with this content.

The rest of the massive part around the keyboard is just a “backend” in the usual form factor that ensures the operation of the device.

The tablet in the same simplified view of the device is only a screen, which can not only display content, but also be an input tool. If desired, you can connect a keyboard with a trackpad to it – and turn it into a laptop, or just a keyboard – and turn it into a laptop-tablet hybrid.

You can work with it sitting at a table or lying on a sofa, draw with a stylus on the screen, connect it to a cellular connection, use it as a navigator in a drone or as a cash register in a store. A tablet is more versatile than a laptop, simpler and more convenient.

Macbook Pro and iPad Pro

Such an explanation would convince anyone, but, unfortunately, we are today at a stage where one cannot easily forget about technical issues, and software, perhaps, is often more important than the device itself.

  • To edit a small video, you still need the voracious After Effects, which is only available on the desktop operating system.
  • Code requires an IDE that only works on macOS or Windows.
  • To solve highly specialized tasks, you often cannot do without Finder, a mouse, a cursor, and some program that needs to be installed via a DMG file.

With such input, it is no longer possible to unambiguously say which of the devices is more versatile, simpler and more convenient – a laptop or a tablet.

What’s good about Magic Keyboard with scissor keyboard and trackpad. Why not

If earlier comparisons with a computer were rather theoretical – look, the tablet can work almost like a computer – then with the release of the Magic Keyboard with a “real” keyboard and trackpad, the iPad is positioned as a direct competitor to the Macbook.

Apple now seems to be telling those who are thinking about buying a laptop: the tablet has the same keyboard, they added a trackpad, there is multitasking, games, why even look at the computer when you have an iPad.

In one of my previous reviews of the iPad Pro and Smart Keyboard with cloth keys, I wrote that the keyboard case significantly increases the thickness of the tablet. So the new Magic Keyboard makes the “tablet plus keyboard” design even thicker and more massive.

The thickness of the part that is attached to the iPad on magnets has increased – so that the tablet holds on tighter and does not fall out of the case when you change the angle of its inclination.

The thickness of the case is especially noticeable at the camera cutout

And the thickness of the part where the keyboard is located has increased. Because now there are full-fledged plastic keys and a metal base, which ensures the stability of the entire structure.

In terms of compactness, the Magic Keyboard clearly loses to previous generations of keyboards. In addition to the increased size, it also weighs 600 grams – twice the size of the Smart Keyboard and almost as much as the iPad Pro itself weighs.

But now on the iPad you can work with a full keyboard and with the same tactile sensations as on a laptop. Without the “butterfly” and fabric, enveloping the keys, but with T-shaped hands and backlight.

If bulky scares you, but you want to work with the cursor, it is better to look towards the combination of the previous generation of Smart Keyboards with fabric-covered keys and the Mac trackpad. Then on the road you can do without the trackpad, and at home or in the office you can already work with it.

Smart Keyboard and Trackpad from Mac

The trackpad for the Magic Keyboard is small, especially when compared to that for a Macbook or Mac. However, its size is enough to move a large round cursor from one edge of a small 11-inch screen to the other without having to move your finger several times. And, unlike the Macbook, it does not have tricky vibration motors that simulate pressing. The Magic Keyboard trackpad is pressed “physically”.

In the settings, you should immediately enable the “right mouse button” for tapping with two fingers and tap to simulate physical pressing on the trackpad

Side – connector for charging. The iPad is “powered” through the same three points on the back of the tablet, designed to connect covers. But accessories cannot be connected through this connector.

Surprise was that the angle of inclination is adjustable only in that part of the case, which is attached to the tablet. The second hinge, located at the bottom of the Magic Keyboard, is not involved in this process and is actually used only for unfolding and folding the device.

The top hinge controls the tilt, the bottom hinge only opens and closes the

The most comfortable position for me is the screen tilted as far back as possible. Although even in this position, I still periodically want to tilt the tablet even more.

Interestingly, with the screen tilted as far as possible, to use the number buttons, the fingers have to crawl almost under the screen.

Changing layouts is hard to get used to

It’s always interesting to see a colleague trying to type on an iPad’s physical keyboard for the first time. He or she picks up a tablet, opens a browser, Notes or Messenger, then tries to type “Hi, how are you?”.

For some inexplicable reason, I have the English keyboard layout enabled on my iPad in these cases. In an attempt to change the language, a colleague instantly learns about two of the most unusual solutions in the iPad keyboard at once.

It looks like this: first, he or she tries to change the layout using the familiar Cmd and space key combination. But instead of changing the language, the newly opened application disappears from the iPad screen and a search screen appears throughout the operating system. To go back, the colleague automatically tries to press Escape on the keyboard. But he is not.

The search screen that appears when you press Cmd and spacebar

Ever since the first generation iPad Pro, Apple decided not to transfer the keyboard shortcut for switching between languages ​​​​from the computer, highlighting a separate button for this from the bottom left. A completely logical solution – especially for those who started their acquaintance with computer technology not from a laptop, but from a smartphone, where one button on the screen is responsible for switching the language.

But for those who have been working with a Macbook or iMac for years, it is quite difficult to break the habit. At the same time, judging by the slogan “Your future computer is no longer a computer,” they are also the target audience that Apple marketing aims at.

I’ve been using an iPad with a keyboard every day for several years now, but I still occasionally press Cmd and the spacebar, expecting a different result. The solution could be a small onboarding for beginners, which is shown when you first click on Cmd and space, so as not to frighten unprepared users with an unusual environment.

By the way, there is another “crutch” solution to the problem – assign the layout switch to the same button on Mac and iPad – for example, on Caps Lock. Then you won’t have to get used to different language switching scenarios on different platforms.

Escape key missing

But with Escape the situation is more complicated. In the case of the layout, Apple offered an alternative in the form of a new button, which you just need to get used to, in the case of Escape, there is no alternative. And the lack of a button periodically creates problems during operation.

Here are just a few scenarios in which the finger automatically and ineffectually reaches to the upper left corner to grope for Escape:

  • hide the drop-down list or hints in the input field;
  • delete the text typed in the search bar;
  • close the pop-up window;
  • exit the current dialog in Telegram;
  • and so on.

Everywhere you have to resort to the help of the trackpad (well, or fingers).

Throughout its history, Apple really does not like the power and cancel buttons, so it tries its best to get rid of them in its technology. But here, you will probably have to make concessions – as happened with the latest version of the Macbook Pro, which returned the physical Escape button to its usual place.

Place for ESC is

Working with text, similar to Touchbar and emoji

For working with texts both on a computer and on a tablet, I have been using iA Writer for several years now – a minimalistic editor with support for Markdown formatting, cloud synchronization, keyboard shortcuts and a frightening cost (I don’t regret buying it, by the way).

iA Writer is good because it has a lot of nice little things designed specifically for the iPad. For example, it was thanks to the developers of iA Writer that I taught myself to use the panel from the on-screen keyboard with hints.

In iPadOS, when you insert the cursor into the input field at the bottom of the screen, a panel appears – this is one-on-one top of the on-screen virtual keyboard. By default, the operating system brings to this panel hints when typing, buttons “Copy”, “Cut”, “Paste”, “Forward” and “Back” to switch the history of edits.

Default panel view

I don’t use these buttons – if you have a physical keyboard, it’s much faster and more familiar to use Cmd + C, Cmd + V and Cmd + X. And tips are only useful for correcting typos.

But the panel can adapt to a specific application – that is, it plays the role of an analogue of the Macbook Pro Touchbar. For example, in the standard “Notes” there are buttons for adding elements to the text, in “Mail” – attaching files, in “Reminders” – additional settings.

Panel example in Reminders

The advantage of the panel is that it is located in close proximity to the fingers during typing, so after spending some time getting used to it, you can speed up the work on the keyboard.

Third party developers rarely adapt the panel for their applications, but iA Writer is an exception and a good example of this. They removed all unnecessary buttons, leaving only typing tips and added some useful function buttons.

On the left is an icon for searching and quick access to popular functions – create a new file or open the last one – as well as arrows for switching between paragraphs. A button has appeared on the right, which contains all the tools for formatting text.

The main thing missing from this panel are buttons for selecting emoji. The fact is that the same logic for choosing emoji works on the iPad as on the iPhone – you need to enable a separate keyboard layout in the settings in order to use characters in the text.

However, in the case of a physical keyboard, the logic breaks – emoji becomes a third language, when you select it, a virtual keyboard pops up on the screen. It would be much more convenient to place the emoji icon in the tooltip panel and not force the user to change the layout each time to add one character.

When I switched the keyboard layout, and there emoji

Make multitasking easier

Imagine you set up a screen with Safari on one half and Slack on the other. But you need to quickly look up something, let’s say 1Password.

On macOS, everything is simple – call Spotlight, find an application in the Finder, Launchpad, or click the icon in the dock, and the application window appears on the screen. Now you can adapt it for yourself – expand it to full screen, minimize it, put it next to it or close it so that it does not interfere.

On iPad, the decision on how I want to work with the application must be made before opening it. The fact is that by default, when you click on the application icon – in the dock panel or through the search – it opens in full screen mode. And then, in order to return Safari or Slack to its original place, you need to reassemble your desktop.

If I want the application to open in a compact form, instead of clicking on the icon, I need to “drag” it to the screen. By the way, you can also “pull out” applications from the search in the same way (sorry, I did not immediately find out about this).

This is perhaps the most time consuming part when working with multiple applications. Working with multiple windows would be simplified by the ability to form desktops after opening the application – for example, when switching between screens, which is called by swiping up from the bottom.

This screen could be used to form desktops

Also, applications that are opened via search could be opened by default in compact view, so that I can then decide whether to leave it in the same view, pin it to the desktop, or expand it to full screen.

Need more applications

iOS, of which iPadOS has become a development branch, is based on the principle “there is an application for every task”. Therefore, working on the iPhone is a constant switching between applications. Almost every store, business and service has them. Even businesses have appeared that work only through the application – without a full-fledged website.

At the same time, the situation is different in macOS – everything works according to the principle “there is a browser for everything”. There are no applications for online stores or services, and installing a new application is more of a unique event in the life of a computer than the norm.

The iPad is somewhere in between. It has a browser that, according to Apple developers, is not inferior to the desktop one in its functionality, there is a trackpad and keyboard to work on it “the old fashioned way”. On the other hand, the tablet has an App Store with decent apps that are often faster and more convenient than web pages.

Such uncertainty often confuses me. What is the best way to access Facebook – through Safari or the application? Clicking on this tweet will open the Twitter app or a new tab?

To solve the problem, last year at the annual WWDC developer conference, Apple announced Project Catalyst, a technology that can be used to create universal applications for multiple platforms at once.

Thus, Apple decided to encourage developers to create applications for two platforms at once, iPadOS and macOS, and tried to shift the priority from the browser – the main application for desktop platforms.

Several examples of the first applications built with Catalyst were shown on stage. Including the iPad application for managing Jira team tasks, which soon became available for everyone to download.

Photo from Twitter

At first glance, the Jira app for iPad seems light and easy, especially when compared to the service’s slow and cluttered web interface. In the first few months, I even preferred to set tasks through it, and not using a browser on my computer.

In the tablet version of the service, it is more convenient to create small tasks, search for them, filter, communicate in comments – mainly due to instant loading of screens and an intuitive interface adapted for the mobile platform.

But, unfortunately, there are a lot of flaws and bugs in the Jira application. For example, when creating a task, text input fields do not support visual formatting – only Markdown can be used. At the same time, if you go into editing the created task, visual text formatting will appear, but without Markdown support.

A year after the announcement of the first version, the number of bugs has not decreased much. When writing a comment at the bottom of the screen, a panel with hints still pops up, which overlaps the main menu of the application. The cursor occasionally becomes giant, and switching between fields using the keyboard often works unpredictably.

As a result, the use of Jira for me was divided into two parts. For quick interactions like replying to comments or finding an issue, I open the app. For long interactions like creating a new task – Safari.

But there is a good example – Twitter. The social network also, with the help of Project Catalyst, released the application simultaneously on Mac and iPadOS. And it works great. In probably the last year, I have never opened the Twitter site.

Twitter app for iPad

The development of the iPad as a desktop operating system directly depends on how many developers support Project Catalyst. Few good apps mean that users will still use the browser, and the tablet will turn into just one version of macOS.

Many good applications will create a new way of working on the iPad, in which tasks are solved in different applications – quickly and conveniently.

What’s left

As an iPad Pro device by 2020, together with the keyboard and trackpad, it really can already be called a computer. Cursor, physical keyboard, file system and connector for connecting external devices – all the main attributes are in place.