How to Connect a Keyboard to an iPad

A month ago, I switched from an Android tablet to an iPad. The transition was relatively smooth; most of the Android apps I have used are also on iOS, or if any is missing there are high-quality alternatives. The only struggle I had was connecting a keyboard to it. In this article, I wanted to share my experience connecting a keyboard to an iPad and how to do it properly.

Before we start, it’s worth noting that multiple keyboard types can be connected – wired (USB-C, USB-A, Ligthning), wireless (Bluetooth), and Apple-dedicated ones (Apple magic and smart keyboards).

Connecting Apple Smart Keyboard to an iPad

1. Check compatibility

First, you need to make sure if your iPad is compatible with the keyboard. The Smart Keyboard is only compatible with the following iPad models:

• iPad 7th, 8th, or 9th Generation
• iPad Air 3rd Generation
• iPad Pro 9.7-inch
• iPad Pro 10.5-inch
• iPad Pro 12.9-inch 1st or 2nd Generation

2. Connect Smart Keyboard

The next step is connecting the keyboard via the Smart Connector. The Smart Connector has three small magnetic contacts, and both your iPad and the Smart Keyboard have them. It is on the top edge of your Smart Keyboard and on the side of your iPad.

3. Place your iPad in the typing position

To get started, fold the back of your Smart Keyboard into a triangle and rest your iPad on it. Make sure it’s snug in the groove above the number keys. Your keyboard will be right in front of your iPad, ready for you to use!

4. Start typing to check if everything works

Now, just open any app where you can type (e.g., the Apple Notes app) and test if everything works (it should!). If you’d like to use the on-screen keyboard instead of your Smart Keyboard, simply tap the keyboard icon in the lower-right corner of your screen. Then, just hit the “Show Keyboard” button, which looks like a little keyboard. When you’re done and want to close the on-screen keyboard, just tap the “Dismiss” button, which has a keyboard icon with a downward arrow. Happy typing!

Connecting Apple Magic Keyboard to an iPad

1. Check compatibility

Before starting, make sure that your iPad is compatible with the keyboard. The Magic Keyboard is compatible with the following iPad models:

• The Magic Keyboard:
  • iPad Air 13-inch M2
  • iPad Air 11-inch M2
  • iPad Pro 12.9-inch 3rd, 4th, 5th, and 6th Generation
  • iPad Pro 11-inch 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Generation
  • iPad Air 4th and 5th Generation
• The Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro:
  • iPad Pro 13-inch M4
  • iPad Pro 11-inch M4

2. Position Magic Keyboard

First, position the Magic Keyboard on a flat surface with the Apple logo facing up and the hinge facing away from you. Then, open the lid of the Magic Keyboard until it reaches your desired angle or until it cannot open any further.

3. Connect your iPad to the Magic Keyboard

Position your iPad on the Magic Keyboard so the rear camera lenses align with the cutout in the top-right corner.

4. Start typing to check if everything works

Now, just open any app where you can type (e.g., the Apple Notes app) and test if everything works (it should!). If you’d like to use the on-screen keyboard instead of your Magic Keyboard, simply tap the keyboard icon in the lower-right corner of your screen. Then, just hit the “Show Keyboard” button, which looks like a little keyboard. When you’re done and want to close the on-screen keyboard, just tap the “Dismiss” button, which has a keyboard icon with a downward arrow. Happy typing!

Connecting Bluetooth wireless keyboard to an iPad

1. Activate pairing mode

Bluetooth is one of the most popular communication protocols used by various types of electronic devices. Any Bluetooth keyboard should work with a modern iPad device.

To start pairing your Bluetooth keyboard, turn it on and activate pairing mode. Pairing mode usually requires pressing or holding a specific button (for example, pressing and holding the power button for 3 seconds), but it varies from model to model. The most typical is either long pressing the power button, pressing a dedicated button, or pressing 2 specific buttons simultaneously.

2. Connect with iPad

To connect your keyboard to your iPad, first, open the Settings app. Next, tap on “Bluetooth” and ensure the switch is turned on. Your iPad will begin searching for nearby devices and will display your keyboard’s name under “Other Devices.” Simply tap on the keyboard’s name to start the pairing process. If a code appears on your iPad, enter it to complete the pairing.

3. Start typing to check if everything works

Now, just open any app where you can type (e.g., the Apple Notes app) and test if everything works (it should!). If you’d like to use the on-screen keyboard instead of your connected Bluetooth keyboard, simply tap the keyboard icon in the lower-right corner of your screen. Then, just hit the “Show Keyboard” button, which looks like a little keyboard. When you’re done and want to close the on-screen keyboard, just tap the “Dismiss” button, which has a keyboard icon with a downward arrow. Happy typing!

Connecting a wired keyboard to an iPad

1. Check keyboard – iPad compatibility

As a first step, it’s important to understand your iPad’s compatibility with wired keyboards. Most modern keyboards use USB-A or USB-C connection while iPads typically come with a Lightning port or a USB-C port for charging and data transfer. It’s crucial to check what type of port your iPad has. USB-C port is used in an iPad Pro (2018 and later). iPad (6th generation and earlier), iPad mini (5th generation and earlier) and iPad Air (3rd generation) uses a Lightning port.

You can connect most keyabords to an iPad, however it might require an adapter. If your keyboard has a USB-A connector and you have a newer iPad (USB-C), you will need a USB-C to USB-A adapter. On the other hand, if you have an older iPad with a Lightning port, you’ll need a Lightning to USB adapter (often referred to as the Camera Adapter).

2. Connect your keyboard to your iPad

For wired keyboards this is a straightforward step. Just plug-in the keybaord cable into your iPad port using adapter if needed.

3. Start typing to check if everything works

Now, just open any app where you can type (e.g., the Apple Notes app) and test if everything works (it should!). Happy typing!

Connecting ZAGG keyboard to an iPad

ZAGG is a familiar go-to brand for mobile accessories. Through its ZAGG and Mophie product lines, ZAGG offers the best in device protection, power solutions, and productivity. ZAGG takes pride in providing high-quality screen protectors, chargers, power banks, cases, and keyboards, all designed specifically for Apple products and other mobile devices. It is dedicated to helping users keep their tech safe and running smoothly.

It offers a range of keyboards—wireless, wired (general and iPad-dedicated). As the ZAGG keyboard is a common choice among iPad users, let’s examine how to connect it to an iPad.

Pairing ZAGG bluetooth keyboard with an iPad

Pairing ZAGG bluettoth keyboard is the same as with other bluetooth brands. Please follow Connecting Bluetooth wireless keyboard to an iPad section above.

Connecting ZAGG wired keyboard to an iPad

Connecting ZAGG wired keyboard is the same as with other wired brands. Please follow Connecting a wired keyboard to an iPad section above.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why is my keyboard not working after connecting it to my iPad?

If your keyboard is not responding, try the following troubleshooting steps:

• Ensure that your keyboard is properly connected to your iPad.
• If using a Bluetooth keyboard, make sure it is charged and paired correctly.
• Restart both your iPad and the keyboard.
• Forget the keyboard from Bluetooth settings and reconnect it.
• If using a wired keyboard, check if the adapter (if applicable) is functioning properly.

2. Can I use any Bluetooth keyboard with my iPad?

Yes, most Bluetooth keyboards are compatible with iPads. However, certain keyboards might lack iPad-specific function keys. Make sure your keyboard supports standard Bluetooth HID (Human Interface Device) profiles.

3. How can I disconnect a Bluetooth keyboard from my iPad?

To disconnect a Bluetooth keyboard:

• Open the Settings app.
• Go to Bluetooth and find your keyboard in the list of connected devices.
• Tap the i icon next to the keyboard name.
• Select Forget This Device and confirm.

4. Can I use multiple keyboards with my iPad?

Yes, you can connect multiple keyboards, but only one can be active at a time. If using a Smart or Magic Keyboard, disconnect it before switching to a Bluetooth or wired keyboard.

5. My keyboard is connected, but some keys don’t work. What should I do?

• Check for dirt or debris under the keys.
• If using a Bluetooth keyboard, try unpairing and reconnecting it.
• Ensure your iPad’s software is updated to the latest version.
• Test the keyboard with another device to determine if it’s a hardware issue.

6. Does an external keyboard drain my iPad battery?

• Bluetooth keyboards use minimal power, but keeping Bluetooth on may slightly affect battery life.
• Wired keyboards may draw power from the iPad, but the impact on battery life is generally minimal.
• Apple Smart and Magic Keyboards connect via the Smart Connector, which does not significantly impact battery life.

7. Can I use keyboard shortcuts on my iPad?

Yes! iPads support a variety of keyboard shortcuts. Here are some common ones:

• Cmd + Space – Open Spotlight Search.
• Cmd + H – Go to Home Screen.
• Cmd + Tab – Switch between apps.
• Cmd + Shift + 3 – Take a screenshot.
• Cmd + Shift + 4 – Take a screenshot and open it in markup.
• Cmd + Z – Undo the last action.

8. Will my iPad remember my keyboard’s connection?

Yes, iPads remember Bluetooth keyboards once paired. If your keyboard doesn’t automatically reconnect, go to Settings > Bluetooth and select your keyboard from the list.

9. Can I remap keys on my external keyboard?

Yes, in iPadOS, you can remap modifier keys for external keyboards:

• Open Settings > General > Keyboard > Hardware Keyboard > Modifier Keys.
• Select a key to remap (Caps Lock, Control, Option, or Command) and assign a new function.

10. What should I do if my Smart Keyboard or Magic Keyboard stops working?

• Make sure the keyboard is properly connected.
• Clean the Smart Connector with a dry, lint-free cloth.
• Restart your iPad.
• Update your iPad to the latest iPadOS version.
• If issues persist, contact Apple Support.

By following these guidelines, you should have a seamless experience using an external keyboard with your iPad. Happy typing!