two very different approaches to a keyboard for our iPad

The iPad, whether it’s Pro or Air, changes a lot when we use it with a keyboard or keyboard cover. Certain tasks, especially those that require heavy use of writing, as well as those where trackpad accuracy is important, they greatly benefit from both the protection and the versatility of this class of accessories. Beyond Apple’s proposals, there are two benchmark keyboard covers on the market, the Logitech Combo Touch and the Brydge MAX +, let’s compare them.

Design and concept: quality with two very different approaches

I have to start by saying that while both are keyboard covers, their approach, design, and design are drastically different. Before we get into the differences, however, let’s talk about the similarities. Both covers are made with the best materials and have top quality finishes. Both have a generous trackpad and an additional strip of very interesting function keys, which we’ll cover in a few paragraphs.

And so far the similarities. So let’s see the differences. One of the first is the design of the cover itself. Logitech’s proposal consists of a IPad cover and keyboard that can be removed at will

. Meanwhile, at Brydge they go for a unit, with the advantage – or the downside if we prefer to protect our iPad at all times – that we can separate the iPad from the case to leave it fully self-contained.

Although I personally prefer the be able to remove any case by simply pulling hard on the iPad and the magnet that holds it in place, I understand a lot of people will prefer to have the iPad in a sleeve whether they’re using the keyboard or not. Here we must highlight the support provided by the Logitech alternative, which allows us to use the iPad in different positions even without a keyboard.

In addition to functionality, the two keyboard covers seek to give our iPad a different look. In the case of Brydge we turn iPad into Mac. All the aesthetics, including the legs of the same shell, make the iPad a collection and covers a miniature MacBook. A fun, original and aesthetically very convincing solution as well as practical.

Logitech, for its part, is looking for a different profile. With an extra-flat keyboard, almost at table height, and a textile design that is highly resistant to scratches and spills. A design that even reminiscent of a Microsoft laptop and that adds flexibility to the iPad from another point of view.

Similar but different keyboards

The two keyboards are similar and different at the same time. On the one hand, the keyboard itself cannot have large variations, on the other hand the difference in touch is something that after hours of writing is greatly appreciated. Based on Apple’s Magic Keyboard, I have to say that the Logitech case has considerably less key movement, while Brydge’s has almost double

. Here, I leave it to everyone to decide for one or the other.

In comparison, the Logitech keyboard is a bit quieter than the Brydge’s. On the other hand, the size of the keys is larger, which in my opinion is more comfortable. The MAX +’s keys are quite small, something that exaggerates their configuration, quite protruding. It takes a few hours to get used to the size, but it’s something that catches your eye. Switch the size allows Brydge not to resort to half hitches for accents, and some auxiliary keys, which is also appreciated.

As we have already commented a few paragraphs before, both keyboards have a row of most useful function keys. Brightness control, lock, escape key and others cover the top of the keyboard.

Two very interesting options depending on what you are looking for

There are a lot of little details that make one keyboard even more different from another. At the MAX + there is a charging port on the side, necessary to charge the keyboard, while the Logitech keyboard uses our iPad’s battery. On the other hand, it is important to note that the Brydge keyboard uses bluetooth, which requires us to pair our iPad.

It also makes that we can continue to interact with the iPad via the keyboard even outside of the case, which is a bit of a weird behavior. If the goods easier to open the Logitech box, it is also true that this requires an additional step, that of placing your rear support.

Finally, let’s mention that in certain situations, there may be friction between the metal part of the keyboard and the front of the iPad in the Brydge case. A pair of rubber spacers prevent direct contact, but pressure on the lid ends up crushing them and causing them both to rub.

Personally, if I had to choose between one of the two cases, I would go for the Logitech solution. It is clear that the two solutions come to offer different approaches to the task of adding a keyboard to our iPad. Brydge’s solution makes lathe work easier, for example, while Logitech’s has a more comfortable finish, in my opinion. In the end, one or the other cover will depend a lot on the use that we will give to our iPad.