Brydge and Logitech's keyboard cases for the iPad Pro and iPad Air are cheaper alternatives to the Magic Keyboard, but which of them is better?
For iPad Pro and iPad Air users choosing between third-party keyboards, the Brydge MAX+ and the Logitech Combo Touch are good options to consider. The Magic Keyboard for iPad is Apple's premium keyboard case for the iPad Pro and iPad Air but is pretty expensive in comparison to third-party options. These keyboards not only have all the features of the Magic Keyboard but also pack some extras. Apple is positioning the iPad, particularly the Pro models, as a laptop replacement, but it needs a keyboard to serve that function.
Apple's own keyboard accessories might be the first choice for a lot of iPad owners but there are plenty of third-party options, some of which cost less and have more features. While a keyboard case is always the best option as users not only get a keyboard but a case that keeps their device safe, users can also pair a regular Bluetooth keyboard or even connect a wired one to their iPads. Apple will even allow users to pair the Magic Keyboard for Macs to the iPad.
Brydge is a household name when it comes to keyboard accessories for iPad, and the MAX+ is its top-end model. The keyboard case is designed to transform compatible iPad Pro or Air models into a MacBook. The MAX+ is made of two materials — an upper plastic magnetic case that the iPad attaches to and the lower aluminum keyboard. Logitech needs no introduction and the Combo Touch is a testament to its years-long experience in making keyboards. The Combo Touch is actually a two-piece accessory — one part is a bumper case while the other half is the keyboard. So, unlike the Brydge MAX+ which has its case and keyboard connected by a hinge, the Logitech Combo Touch can be separated, allowing the user to remove the keyboard when needed. Both pieces of the Logitech keyboard case are covered in woven fabric and come in Sand and Oxford Grey. The Brydge MAX+ comes in Space Gray, Silver, and White.
The Brydge MAX+ and Logitech Combo Touch have some similarities such as a multi-touch trackpad. Both trackpads support gestures but the Logitech keyboard doesn't support iPadOS gestures. The two keyboards also have a dedicated row of shortcut keys, a feature missing on Apple's own keyboard. Another common feature they have is backlit keys, and the brightness is user-adjustable, unlike with the Magic Keyboard. In terms of the differences, the Brydge MAX+'s design allows it to be used only in laptop mode. Its hinge has a limited angle and can't even tilt to 180 degrees. In contrast, the Logitech Combo Touch has a built-in kickstand with a 50-degree angle of tilt that allows it to lay almost completely flat. Also, the fact that the keyboard can be detached is a plus, as it makes it easy to switch from laptop to tablet or drawing mode.
The MAX+ connects via Bluetooth 5.0 and Brydge says that it has been able to eliminate lag completely, thanks to an Instant-On feature which keeps the keyboard instantly connected to the iPad for up to four hours. The Logitech Combo Touch connects to the iPad using the Smart Connector. This means it also draws power from the iPad as there is no need for a built-in battery. The Brydge has a built-in battery that will last up to three months (two hours per day without backlight) on a single charge. With the backlight on, the battery life drops to 40 hours. Thankfully, it charges via USB-C like the iPad Pro and iPad Air. The Brydge MAX+ has the advantage of a larger trackpad, better-spaced keys, and support for iPadOS gestures. While its keyboard's aluminum build may be a plus, it is heavier (970 grams for the 12.9-inch model and 766 grams for the 11-inch). Also, the plastic case doesn't provide enough protection when compared to the bumper case of the Logitech Combo Touch.
Logitech's keyboard case is thinner and lighter (780 grams for the 12.9-inch model and 574 grams for the 11-inch), doesn't need to be charged, and the keyboard is detachable. The Logitech Combo Touch is also cheaper — currently priced at $159.99 for a version that's compatible with iPad Pro 11-inch and iPad Air (4th and 5th gen) models, and $183.99 for the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (5th gen) version. Apple also sells the Logitech Combo Touch on its website but at a higher price. The Brydge MAX+ is priced at $159.99 for the 11-inch model (supports 1st, 2nd, and 3rd gen iPad Pro, iPad Air 4, and iPad Air 5) while the 12.9-inch version costs $199.99.
