My favorite iPad stylus and keyboard isn’t made by Apple

A few months ago, I reviewed Apple’s original iPad, naming it “An unbelievably good iPad,” because that’s exactly what it was.

That’s also when I had to test the new one Magic Keyboard Folio, a $249 case is Apple’s way of introducing a function row key to the iPad experience. No matter how good the accessories are, the price is still hard to swallow until now.

Some time later, Logitech introduced me Combo Touch Keyboard Case and crayon for the 10th-generation iPad, touting functionality superior to Apple’s own keyboards and Pencil – at a much more affordable price. Logitech’s PR team knows exactly what they’re doing.

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Well, months later, here’s my testimonial of the brand’s promises, none of which are broken: Logitech Combo Touch and Crayon are my favorite iPad accessories and accessories. I would recommend easy if you’re eyeing a new keyboard case or stylus for your Apple tablet. Here’s why.

Bend on the Magic Keyboard

The Combo Touch keyboard case and Apple’s Magic Keyboard Folio have many similarities, such as their two-piece design (the kickstand and keyboard are detachable) and how they can be connected to an iPad-only keyboard. with a snap of the pogo pins on the underside.

But Logitech has made some additional design choices that I love.

Firstly, while both accessories have a sturdy stand, the one on the Combo Touch folds up to the point where the iPad has a low enough angle (see image below) for comfortable writing and sketching – – a common use case for tablet owners.

Then there’s the build quality of the Logitech case, which comes with a hard plastic protective case that you attach the iPad to, compared to Apple’s version, which simply sticks to the back of the tablet via magnets. . The magnet case is minimal and easier to install, to be sure, but it’s also less protective and leaves the sides of the iPad vulnerable to bumps and scratches. You can see the difference in screen protection in the comparison below.

One of the problems I’ve had with Apple’s Magic Keyboard Folio, aside from the price, is that there’s no room to store the Apple Pencil. (Remember, even though the 10th-gen iPad looks like Air iPad, it doesn’t have a magnetic stripe on the side to hold the stylus accessory.) That’s why the stylus holder at the top of the Logitech box is worth mentioning. It’s a convenient outlet that safely stores the original Apple Pencil (1st generation) or Logitech’s Crayon stylus, ready to pull out when needed.

Also: 5 best Apple iPad keyboard cases

To avoid being completely dismissed by Apple devotees, I must admit that typing on the Magic Keyboard is significantly better than on Logitech’s. While both keyboards use scissor switches and have relatively similar key travel and bounce, there’s something about Apple’s wider, square keys that make typing within the tablet’s width. less crowded than expected. However, both offer backlit keys, a row of functions, and support for multi-touch gestures, while also getting the job done. And one is $90 less.

Bring Apple Pencil to school

As for the stylus debate, the Apple Pencil is as legendary as tablet accessories, but my reasons for siding with Logitech’s weird name Crayon mainly due to the form factor and the method of charging. And believe me, just knowing about one of these two things is enough to make you lean toward Logitech.

The most notable difference with the Crayon is the carpenter’s pencil-like design; The front and back of the stylus are flat, almost like a thick ice cream stick. It sounds odd, but this form factor has two main advantages over the first-generation Apple Pencil: a firmer grip, and the stylus doesn’t roll off any uneven surfaces.

Also: What is the best iPad stylus and is there an alternative to Apple Pencil?

While the Crayon is about $30 cheaper than the Apple Pencil, its brushed aluminum texture provides a more premium grip than the pencil’s glossy, plastic exterior.

Let’s be frank, it doesn’t take long to impress someone who’s gone through the awful journey of pairing a 1st-generation Apple Pencil with a 10th-gen iPad through Apple’s. USB-C dongle $9. (I’m still trying to get that image out of my head.)

Also: How to Pair and Charge Apple Pencil

Luckily, charging the Crayon is as simple as connecting the open end of the stylus to the iPad with a single cable. I wish I wasn’t impressed by this, but I’ve learned to be grateful for the simplest things in life.

To protect it, Apple Pencil supports pressure sensitivity while Logitech does not. This is especially noticeable for graphic designers, artists, and users who rely on depth and multiple levels of input to get the job done. Crayon is great for jotting down notes and serving as a more precise touch point than your finger, but for professional work, Apple’s first-party option is admittedly a step up. further. In fact, I recommend choosing Apple Pencil 2nd generation (and iPad supports it) if you’re after functionality.

bottom line

by Logitech Combo Touch Keyboard Case and crayon They aren’t perfect, but they offer a more feature-rich experience than Apple’s first-party accessories at a fraction of the cost. It’s not a blow to Apple’s iPad keyboard and stylus; Both are worthy of your consideration.

It’s important to raise awareness of what else is available — beyond the walled garden. Because more often than not, you’ll find something better.

Alternatives to consider

Open up the prospect of keyboard cover and stylus for iPad? Check these out.