Which keyboard for iPad Pro M5 - the M4 one fits, older ones don't

Which keyboard for iPad Pro M5 - Apple iPad Pro M5

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Quick answer: our top pick is Apple Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro (Apple original · trackpad · function row).

See Apple Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro on Amazon →

Which keyboard for iPad Pro M5? Best solutions

For the iPad Pro M5, the best choice is the original Apple Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro in the appropriate size or the Logitech Combo Touch model. If you already have a keyboard bought for the iPad Pro M4, you do not need to spend money on a new one, as according to Apple it also fits the M5 generation. Older Magic Keyboard models designed for iPads from 2018-2022, unfortunately, will not work with your new device.

It is worth remembering what you actually get when buying the tablet itself. In the factory box with the iPad Pro M5, you will find only a 1-meter USB-C cable and a 20 W power adapter. There is no keyboard included, so if you want to type comfortably like on a laptop, you need to buy a suitable accessory.

Before making a purchase, make sure which exact hardware you are holding in your hands. Apple advises checking this information directly in the tablet's software. Go to Settings, select General, go to About, and check the Model Name field.

Fun fact: The Magic Keyboard created for the iPad Pro M4 also fits the iPad Pro M5. If you are upgrading from the previous generation, your existing keyboard stays in use, and you do not have to buy another one.

Reviewers' opinions on the Magic Keyboard and the Logitech alternative

Tech journalists unanimously praise the capabilities of Apple's official accessory. The TechRadar editorial team points out in their iPad Pro M5 review that with the Magic Keyboard, the tablet is closer to a laptop than ever before, highlighting the precise haptic trackpad. The design uses a magnetic connection and the Smart Connector, ensuring instant operation.

Meanwhile, reviewers from Stuff magazine note that typing on the Magic Keyboard is very comfortable, although the accessory itself is quite bulky and very expensive. Expert Reviews reaches a similar conclusion, noting that a base 11-inch iPad Pro paired with the Magic Keyboard and the Pencil Pro stylus adds up to a significant expense for the buyer.

This is where the Logitech Combo Touch comes in as the main rival to Apple's design. Cult of Mac emphasizes that Logitech's keyboard offers features that Apple missed. Apple, on the other hand, stands out with a more refined design where the tablet floats stably above the desk surface.

Screen sizes and cheaper models on the market

When choosing a keyboard, you must match it strictly to the size of your tablet, either the 11-inch or 13-inch version. Both variants feature a Smart Connector and a Thunderbolt / USB 4 port, but they differ in chassis dimensions. A keyboard designed for the smaller tablet will not fit the larger one, and vice versa.

The Logitech Combo Touch connects via the built-in Smart Connector, so it does not require separate pairing or battery charging. You will also find other solutions on the market, including Bluetooth keyboards such as the Logitech Flip Folio. In the description of this model, the manufacturer lists compatibility with iPad Pro M4 and M5 as well as iPad Air M2, M3, and M4 of the same size, allowing you to use one case across both tablet lines.

Another option with a trackpad is the ESR case magnetically fitted to the M4 and M5 models, with the manufacturer noting a lack of compatibility with 11-inch versions from 2018-2022. Also remember that Apple offers the Magic Keyboard Folio exclusively for iPad 10th generation and iPad A16 models, and does not manufacture keyboards for iPad mini at all.

We have selected accessories that have confirmed compatibility with the latest models according to official manufacturer specifications. The roundup below will help you find the right version for your tablet.

Recommended keyboards for iPad Pro M5

Recommended keyboards for iPad Pro M5 - Apple Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro

1. Apple Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro

Apple original · trackpad · function row

Apple's keyboard with trackpad and function row for the iPad Pro. Apple lists it only for the 11- and 13-inch iPad Pro M4 and M5. Amazon listings sometimes call it the Pro M4 keyboard; it is the same model.

See Apple Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro (11-inch) on Amazon → · 13-inch version →

Recommended keyboards for iPad Pro M5 - Logitech Combo Touch for iPad Pro

2. Logitech Combo Touch for iPad Pro

Smart Connector · backlit · trackpad · kickstand

A case with a detachable backlit keyboard, trackpad and kickstand, connected through the Smart Connector. Logitech's listing names the iPad Pro M4 and M5 and says it is not meant for the nano-texture glass version.

See Logitech Combo Touch for iPad Pro (11-inch) on Amazon → · 13-inch version →

Recommended keyboards for iPad Pro M5 - Logitech Flip Folio

3. Logitech Flip Folio

Bluetooth · keyboard folds behind the screen · Air and Pro

A case with a Bluetooth keyboard that folds behind the screen. Logitech's listing names the iPad Pro M4 and M5 and the iPad Air M2, M3 and M4 of the same size, so one case covers both lines.

See Logitech Flip Folio (11-inch) on Amazon → · 13-inch version →

Recommended keyboards for iPad Pro M5 - ESR keyboard case for iPad Pro

4. ESR keyboard case for iPad Pro

Magnetic case · trackpad · 11 and 13 inch

A keyboard case with trackpad, matched by magnets to the iPad Pro M4 and M5. ESR notes it does not fit the older 2018-2022 11-inch iPad Pro.

See ESR keyboard case for iPad Pro (11-inch) on Amazon → · 13-inch version →

Keyboard layout and the nano-texture glass issue

When shopping online, pay close attention to the physical layout of the keys. Each keyboard is manufactured in different language versions, including German QWERTZ, French AZERTY, Italian, and English in US International or British UK variants. On shopping platforms, each version is listed as a completely separate product, so always verify the layout designation directly in the product title.

Another important factor when choosing protective accessories is the display finish of the tablet itself. Apple offers iPad Pro with standard glass or with nano-texture glass.

Fun fact: Logitech explicitly notes in its specifications that the Combo Touch case is not intended for iPad Pro with nano-texture glass. If you own such a tablet, be sure to read the keyboard description carefully before purchasing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro M4 fit the Pro M5?

Yes, the original Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro designed for the M4 version also fits the M5 model. While online retailers may still list this accessory as dedicated solely to the M4, Apple confirms compatibility with both generations in its official specifications. You do not need to buy a new accessory if you are upgrading from M4 to M5.

Does the old Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro fit the M5?

No, older versions of the Magic Keyboard designed for 11-inch and 12.9-inch iPad Pro models from 2018-2022 do not fit the M5 model. Apple lists the Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro only for M4 and M5 models. Only the latest variant of the Magic Keyboard fits iPad Pro M5.

Does the iPad Air keyboard fit iPad Pro M5?

No, the Magic Keyboard for iPad Air is not compatible with iPad Pro M5. The model designated for Air only fits 11-inch and 13-inch iPad Air with M2, M3, and M4 chips, as well as the older 4th and 5th generation iPad Air. For iPad Pro, you need to purchase the Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro version.

Does the Logitech Combo Touch fit iPad Pro with nano-texture glass?

Logitech explicitly states in its product descriptions that the Combo Touch case is not intended for iPad Pro with a nano-texture glass display. If your tablet features this display finish, choose a different keyboard; Apple specifies the Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro for iPad Pro M4 and M5 without any such restriction.

Which keyboard layout should I choose?

Choose the variant with the key labels you are accustomed to, such as the US International layout. Pay attention to this when placing your order, as listings featuring the German QWERTZ or French AZERTY layouts are sold under separate catalog items. A mistake will result in receiving a keyboard with a completely different printed key arrangement.

Sources

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