Best Third Party Keyboard iOS: Top Picks for 2024

1. Omoton Ultra Keyboard

The OMOTON Ultra presents itself as a straightforward option for iPad users seeking a more traditional typing experience. Its build quality feels surprisingly robust for its price point, with a satisfying heft that suggests durability. The keys themselves offer a decent amount of travel, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions without the fatigue often associated with flatter laptop-style keys.

I found the setup process to be quick and painless, connecting via Bluetooth without any hiccups on my iPad. The included stand for the iPad is a nice touch, allowing for a more ergonomic viewing angle, though it does add a bit of bulk to the overall setup. The battery life has been impressive so far, easily lasting through a week of moderate daily use.

Real-Life Usage Scenario: For students or professionals who primarily use their iPad for note-taking or drafting documents, this keyboard offers a significant upgrade over the on-screen keyboard. The tactile feedback and physical layout make it far more efficient for producing longer pieces of text, transforming your tablet into a more capable productivity device.

However, the key spacing, while adequate, feels a touch cramped for my preference, leading to occasional accidental presses of adjacent keys. This is particularly noticeable when I’m trying to type at my usual rapid pace.

2. Logitech Mx Keys Mini

Logitech’s MX Keys Mini aims for a premium feel, and for the most part, it delivers. The low-profile keys have a wonderfully soft yet precise feel, with a subtle dished shape that cradles your fingertips. The illumination is intelligent, activating only when your hands are near, and it’s evenly distributed, providing excellent visibility in dim lighting conditions.

Connecting to my iPad was a breeze, and the ability to switch between multiple devices with a dedicated button is incredibly convenient if you juggle between your tablet and a computer. The overall aesthetic is sleek and modern, fitting well on any desk setup. The rechargeable battery also lasts an impressively long time between charges.

Who it is NOT for: If you prefer a keyboard with deep key travel and a loud, clicky sound, you should definitely skip the MX Keys Mini. Its appeal lies in its quiet, tactile, and refined typing experience, which might not satisfy those seeking a more traditional mechanical keyboard feel.

My main gripe is the lack of dedicated function keys; while the F-keys are accessible via a modifier, it’s an extra step that can interrupt workflow for those who rely heavily on them. The lack of physical media control buttons is also a minor annoyance.

3. Rii I4 Mini Keyboard

The Rii i4 Mini attempts to be an all-in-one solution for portable device control, and it certainly packs a lot into its small frame. The integrated touchpad is surprisingly responsive for its size, making navigation on an iPad quite manageable without needing a separate mouse. The backlit keys are bright and adjustable, which is a huge plus for using it in various lighting conditions, and it’s a strong contender for the best third party keyboard iOS users might consider for travel.

Typing on the Rii i4 Mini is a mixed bag; the keys are small and tightly spaced, which can lead to a learning curve and a higher error rate initially. However, once you adapt, it becomes quite usable for short bursts of text. The build feels a bit plasticky, which is expected given its portable nature and price point, but it doesn’t feel overly fragile.

Real-Life Usage Scenario: This keyboard shines for users who want to control their iPad from a distance, perhaps while presenting or giving a demo. The combination of keyboard and touchpad makes it ideal for quick edits, browsing, or even controlling media without having to constantly reach for the tablet itself.

The biggest drawback is the battery life, which I found to be significantly shorter than advertised, requiring more frequent charging than I would like. Additionally, the touchpad’s sensitivity can sometimes be a bit too high, leading to accidental cursor movements when typing.

4. Doohoeek Universal Mini Keyboard

The Doohoeek Universal Bluetooth Mini Keyboard stands out with its vibrant orange accent, adding a splash of color to an otherwise functional accessory. Its compact size makes it incredibly portable, easily slipping into a bag or even a large pocket. The key presses are relatively quiet, which is appreciated in shared spaces like libraries or coffee shops, and the Bluetooth connection established quickly and remained stable during my testing.

The typing experience is decent for its size, offering a shallow key travel that feels responsive. However, the keys themselves are quite small, and the layout is somewhat unconventional, requiring a period of adjustment. I found myself making more typos than usual during the initial few days of use. The integrated phone/tablet stand is a thoughtful addition, though it’s not the most secure for larger devices.

Who it is NOT for: This keyboard is not suitable for individuals who need a full-sized typing experience or those who are prone to frequent typing errors. If you’re a touch typist accustomed to standard key spacing, the compact nature of the Doohoeek will likely be a frustrating compromise.

One persistent annoyance is the lack of a dedicated Caps Lock indicator light; it’s difficult to tell if Caps Lock is engaged without looking at your screen, which can lead to embarrassing text. The plastic construction, while lightweight, also feels a bit flimsy and prone to flexing under pressure.

5. Arteck Bluetooth Keyboard

The Arteck Bluetooth Keyboard immediately impresses with its stainless steel construction, giving it a premium and sturdy feel that belies its price. The minimalist design is sleek and professional, and the slim profile makes it easy to carry around. Pairing with my iPad was straightforward, and the connection remained solid throughout my testing period, even when moving around a bit.

Typing on the Arteck is a pleasant experience, with keys that offer a satisfying, albeit short, travel. The layout is quite standard, making the transition from a laptop keyboard relatively smooth. The illumination is adjustable and evenly distributed, which is great for working in low-light environments. The battery life has been exceptional, lasting for weeks on a single charge.

Real-Life Usage Scenario: This keyboard is an excellent choice for frequent travelers or mobile professionals who need a reliable and comfortable typing solution that doesn’t add significant weight or bulk to their carry-on. Its durable build means it can withstand the rigors of being tossed in a bag, and the long battery life ensures it’s always ready when you are.

My primary criticism is the lack of a dedicated numeric keypad, which can slow down data entry tasks if you frequently work with numbers. While the keys are generally well-spaced, the absence of an indicator light for Caps Lock is a minor but persistent annoyance that I found myself overlooking at times.

6. X9 Wireless Keyboard

We put the X9 Wireless Keyboard through its paces, and for a budget-friendly option, it certainly makes a case for itself. The integrated phone holder is a clever touch, keeping your device upright and within easy view while you type, which is particularly useful for multitasking on an iPad. The keys themselves offer a decent amount of travel, providing a more tactile experience than some ultra-slim competitors.

However, I did find the build quality to be a bit on the lighter side. While this makes it portable, it also means it can slide around a bit on smoother surfaces during vigorous typing sessions. The plastic construction, while functional, doesn’t feel particularly premium, and the keycaps have a slightly glossy finish that can pick up fingerprints easily.

This keyboard is a solid choice for students or anyone who needs a secondary typing solution for their tablet without breaking the bank. It’s great for casual note-taking or browsing where you don’t need the absolute fastest typing speeds. If you’re a professional writer or someone who spends hours typing daily, you might find the key feel a little less refined than you’d prefer.

7. Ultra Keyboard

The “Ultra” keyboard, as it’s simply named, aims for a minimalist aesthetic and largely succeeds. It’s incredibly thin and light, making it an excellent companion for a tablet on the go. The connection was stable during our testing period, and the pairing process was straightforward. For those prioritizing portability above all else, this keyboard presents an appealing option.

My main gripe with the Ultra is the shallow key travel. While it contributes to its slim profile, it results in a typing experience that feels a bit mushy and lacks satisfying feedback. It’s easy to accidentally hit adjacent keys until you adapt to the layout. This keyboard is definitely not for those who enjoy the feel of mechanical switches or even a substantial laptop keyboard.

This is the keyboard for the minimalist traveler or the student who needs to slip their iPad and keyboard into a small bag without adding bulk. It’s perfect for quick email responses or light document editing. However, if you’re looking for a keyboard that offers a truly comfortable and precise typing experience for extended periods, or if you’re searching for the best third party keyboard iOS users might consider for serious work, you should probably look elsewhere.

8. Ultra Keyboard

Let’s be clear: the second “Ultra” keyboard we tested is functionally identical to the first. It shares the same ultra-slim profile and feather-light construction, making it a prime candidate for maximum portability. The Bluetooth connection remained robust throughout our trials, and setting it up with our test iPad was a breeze. It’s designed for users who value a nearly invisible addition to their tech kit.

As with its namesake, the primary drawback here is the extremely shallow key press. Typing on the Ultra feels almost like tapping on a flat surface, lacking the tactile response that many users crave. This can lead to a higher error rate, especially for those accustomed to keyboards with more substantial key travel. It’s a trade-off for its wafer-thin design.

This keyboard is ideal for the digital nomad who needs to keep their iPad setup as lean as possible. It’s perfect for checking messages, jotting down quick notes, or making minor edits on the fly. However, if you’re someone who appreciates a satisfying click or a distinct key actuation with each press, this particular Ultra will likely leave you wanting more. Consider it only if extreme slimness is your absolute top priority.

9. Arteck Universal Backlit 7 Keyboard

The Arteck Universal Backlit 7 keyboard offers a compelling blend of features for its price point. The backlighting is a significant plus, allowing for comfortable typing in dimly lit environments, and it offers multiple color options which is a nice touch. The keys provide a satisfying, albeit slightly firm, tactile response that feels more substantial than many ultra-portable keyboards.

However, the “universal” aspect means it’s not specifically optimized for iOS, and while it connects fine, some function keys might not map perfectly. I also noticed that the F-row keys are quite small and crammed together, making them a bit fiddly to hit accurately. This can be an annoyance if you frequently use shortcuts or need precise control over media playback.

This keyboard is a great option for users who need a versatile typing solution that can work with multiple devices, including their iPad. It’s well-suited for students who might also use it with a laptop or PC, or for anyone who appreciates the visual appeal and functionality of backlighting. Avoid this if you’re looking for a keyboard exclusively designed for iOS with perfectly mapped keys, or if you have large fingers that might struggle with the smaller function keys.

10. Backlit Bluetooth Keyboard for iPad

This backlit Bluetooth keyboard is a strong contender for iPad users seeking a blend of portability and functionality. The slim, portable design makes it easy to slip into a bag, and the rechargeable battery means you’re not constantly hunting for AAA cells. The backlighting is a welcome feature, offering adjustable brightness levels for typing in various conditions, which I found particularly useful during late-night work sessions.

While the typing experience is generally good, the keycaps feel a bit thin and can have a slightly hollow sound when pressed firmly. This isn’t a deal-breaker, but it detracts from the overall premium feel. I also found that the tablet stand, while present, is quite narrow and can feel a little precarious with larger iPads, so I’d recommend using a separate stand if you have one.

This keyboard is perfect for the iPad user who needs a reliable typing peripheral for productivity on the go, whether it’s for work, school, or creative projects. It offers a decent typing experience without adding excessive bulk. However, if you prioritize a robust build quality with a satisfyingly solid key feel, or if you rely heavily on an integrated, stable stand for your tablet, you might want to consider other options. This is a solid, but not perfect, choice.