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iPad Bro

macrumors 6502
Original poster
May 2, 2021
392
290
So, I am in the need of a Magic Keyboard, but funds are tight and I can’t really afford $350 on the 2021 Magic Keyboard. I have the 12.9” 2021 iPad Pro and I’ve watched videos on YouTube saying that the 2020 Magic Keyboard works just fine with it, but I have a question they never touched on: Does the added tightness cause the keys to press against the screen? I don’t want to mess up my iPad Pro just because I want a cheaper a Magic Keyboard, but I figured I’d ask you guys to see what the truth on the matter really was.

Thanks so much for the help! ?
 

johntw

macrumors regular
May 29, 2016
210
239
A few folks have mentioned seeing marks on the screen with this combo of hardware. But most haven’t. You can check other threads in this forum for more info.
 

jazz1

Contributor
Aug 19, 2002
4,499
18,210
Mid-West USA
A few folks have mentioned seeing marks on the screen with this combo of hardware. But most haven’t. You can check other threads in this forum for more info.
I get grease outlines of the keyboard on my screen (2021 MKB and 2021 iPad Pro 12.9") if I don't keep the keyboard and iPad's screen clean. I use Zeiss lens cleaner wipes. Seems to work fine. Note, people have posted you should be wary about putting a screen protector on your 2021 iPP, and using the 2020 MKB. It is too tight a fit.
 

RiotMilk

macrumors member
Oct 30, 2020
53
40
I use a 2020 MK i got on sale before the 2021 IPP came out and have had no issues whatsoever with it! Note that I don't use a screen protector, though. I was quite nervous about this beforehand as my return window ended for the MK before getting the ipad, but have had absolutely no problem and love it. I have the 12.9"
 
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iPad Bro

macrumors 6502
Original poster
May 2, 2021
392
290
Anyone else using a 2020 Magic Keyboard with a 2021 iPad Pro? It seems to be a “go” for me all-around from what I’ve seen online. DailyTekk and AppleInsider both documented that it was just fine to use them together, so it looks promising. Not worth the $120+ for the 5th Gen.
 

papbot

macrumors 68020
May 19, 2015
2,143
996
Anyone else using a 2020 Magic Keyboard with a 2021 iPad Pro? It seems to be a “go” for me all-around from what I’ve seen online. DailyTekk and AppleInsider both documented that it was just fine to use them together, so it looks promising. Not worth the $120+ for the 5th Gen.
Unless you’re using a thicker screen protector there are absolutely no issues doing this. I’ve used my 2021 12.9 iPP with my 2020 Magic Keyboard from day one. Even those using a screen protector have said there haven’t been any issues, but screen protectors come in varying thicknesses so there could be potential issues. Without a screen protector the keys do not touch the screen as the keyboard is recessed into the bottom side of the case and there is a lip or edge around the keyboard area that the screen will rest against when closed.
 

Artsketch

macrumors regular
Oct 22, 2019
204
146
I'm not sure if the gap, which is barely visible using the 2020 magic keyboard, is enough to protect the 12.9“ iPad Pro 2021 from the keyboard and dust in between, which can easily cause scratches.
 

papbot

macrumors 68020
May 19, 2015
2,143
996
I'm not sure if the gap, which is barely visible using the 2020 magic keyboard, is enough to protect the 12.9“ iPad Pro 2021 from the keyboard and dust in between, which can easily cause scratches.
There are those that are using a screen protector which is probably at least the thickness of dust if not more so. One could always use such a screen protector and be assured of no dust scratches. I’ve had no screen issues in the months that I’ve used my 2020 MKB with my 2021 iPP with no screen protector but I make sure not to leave crumbs or actual dirt on my keys when shutting the case. I’m certain with just reasonable care there won’t be any issues. Otherwise the forums would be howling.
 

iPad Bro

macrumors 6502
Original poster
May 2, 2021
392
290
So, you would recommend getting the 2020 MKB for use with the 2021 iPP? I can’t exactly afford the 2021 one right now, but Best Buy has the 2020 MKB for $199. That fits my budget.
 

papbot

macrumors 68020
May 19, 2015
2,143
996
I would jump on that immediately if I didn’t already have my 2020 version. I have used it ever day since the 2021 iPP was released. Absolutely no issues. But I do not use a screen protector.
 
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