keyboard cover for iPad Mini 2019 (gen 5)
I recently bought an iPad Mini 5. I'm now trying to find a keyboard cover/stand that I can use to more easily watch videos and play games without having to constantly support the screen. I know Logitech makes them but they haven't yet come out with a model that supports gen 5 (reference?), and I was told by a store clerk at a local retailer that the Gen 4 models aren't compatible since hardware buttons have moved (which buttons - the key caps?). Per this chat thread, here are my requirements.
The must have is connectivity and one standard USB charging connector
Nice to have are:
- printed AZERTY keyboard layout (even better if it's Belgian AZERTY) so I don’t have to use software layouts or modify the keys
- reliable bluetooth wireless connection to the iPad
- reasonably long battery life
- major brand that's known for quality and honoring warranty service without hassle
- charging port is lightning, micro USB second preferred
What brand and model would you recommend if you have experience knowing one works. Better, how can I understand what requirements / features are needed to evaluate which keyboards will work at all so I can then shop for price on the nice to have?
Solution 1:
Clearly, no one is making the cover you want in June 2019. You might need to get a cover and a keyboard if you don't want to wait.
Here are the keyboards I'd get if you need that first or can't wait:
Apple's actual keyboard nails your requirements for exact keyboard layout, bluetooth support, lightning charging, major brand known for quality keyboards (setting aside people’s love hate MacBook Butterfly keyboard issues)
- https://www.apple.com/be-fr/shop/product/MLA22F/A/magic-keyboard-fran%C3%A7ais
Apple’s bluetooth magic keyboard comes with and without numeric keyboards and also in space grey if you want to spend a bit more. They are not the same size as the mini (feature and/or bug) and you’ll get the best support since Apple made both software, firmware and hardware. If that doesn’t work, Apple has no excuse they didn’t expect you to use these together.
- https://www.logitech.com/en-us/product/ultrathin-keyboard-folio-for-ipad-mini
Logitech would by my next iPad mini specific recommendation. Solid, great warranty, sized right, support for iOS explicitly and you might even score a European model key layout.
I haven’t seen this yet in person, but am tempted to buy it sight-unseen knowing it’s featured at Apple Retail and from a trusted vendor.
- Logitech Keys-to-Go Ultra Slim Keyboard with iPhone Stand