Having relied on my iPad Pro as my primary computer for nearly seven years, I can attest to the remarkable efficiency brought by accessories. When Apple unveiled the Magic Keyboard for the iPad, I was genuinely impressed by its aesthetic and functionality, effectively turning the iPad into a comprehensive computer setup. However, with a price tag of $350—more than a new iPad 11th-gen—I’m continuously seeking cost-effective alternatives and finally discovered an impressive Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil substitute that far surpassed my expectations. Let’s discuss these finds.
Before we dive deeper, be sure to check out our latest video showcasing how to create the ultimate budget iPad Air experience. In this video, I provide hands-on reviews of the ESR Rebound keyboard case and their Geo Pencil.
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I’ve been evaluating Magic Keyboard alternatives for years—some have impressed while others fell short. One significant challenge to replicate is the trackpad experience. Unlike the iPad’s direct pin connectors, third-party manufacturers mainly depend on Bluetooth for a satisfactory performance, resulting in varying experiences. The new ESR Rebound Case, however, stands out as the most comparable option I’ve found to the original! The gesture controls and functions are typically the hardest to get right, but ESR has achieved that nicely! Here are some key specifications:
- Floating cantilever design: Adjustable angles, magnetically attached.
- Function keys: Features for media, volume, and brightness management.
- Backlit Keys: Three brightness levels and seven backlight color options.
- Multi-Touch Trackpad: Full iPadOS gesture support included.
- Bluetooth connectivity: One-time pairing with the iPad, automatic future connections.
- Lightweight: Weighs only 610g.
- Apple Pencil protection: A magnetic flap keeps the Apple Pencil secure.
- Battery: USB-C charging; lasts three months without backlight or two weeks with backlight on.
My experience
After spending several days writing, editing, and navigating through iPadOS, I found I hardly missed my Magic Keyboard. The keys are responsive, the trackpad delivers precision, and the adjustable angles provide a laptop-like feel. Priced at just $79, if you can forego the USB-C port on the hinge for charging your iPad and don’t mind recharging the keyboard every month, this is an extraordinary value—over $200 less than Apple’s offering!
Similarly, the Apple Pencil is another phenomenal accessory that comes with a steep price. Apple charges $130 for the Apple Pencil Pro and $80 for the standard USB-C version. Fortunately, the third-party Apple Pencil market has significantly improved, offering fantastic value from various brands. The Geo Pencil delivers a wealth of features for just $25! Check out some of its noteworthy benefits:
- Find My support: Integrated tracking via Apple’s Find My app.
- Tilt sensitivity: Natural feel for sketching and handwriting.
- Palm rejection: Seamlessly operates in note-taking and drawing applications.
- Magnetic: Attaches easily to the side of the iPad (though it doesn’t charge this way).
- USB-C charging: Efficient charging via USB-C.
- Shortcuts: Customizable shortcuts accessible from the Geo Pencil’s “eraser” end.
My experience
As a user who utilizes their Apple Pencil for jotting down notes, doing quick sketches, signing documents, and as a finger extension, I find the Geo Pencil to be an ideal choice. I’m not an artist, and I seldom use advanced features like pressure sensitivity or hover functions. I would only recommend the Pencil Pro if you require these specialized functions; otherwise, the Geo Pencil provides 95% of the experience at just a fraction of the cost! The Find My support is a great addition as well!
Pricing & Availability
Both accessories are available now through Amazon and ESR’s website. The keyboard offers variations compatible with different iPad models and sizes, while the Geo Pencil is compatible with nearly all modern iPads as well! The ESR Rebound Magnetic Keyboard Case retails for $79, and the Geo Pencil is priced at only $25.
I highly recommend these products to most iPad users, as they deliver 98% of the Apple iPad experience at a considerably lower cost. For instance, you can acquire a new iPad Air M3 for $549, paired with the ESR keyboard for $79 and the Geo Pencil for $25, totaling approximately $650. In comparison, opting for Apple’s offerings would cost you $599 for the same iPad, $269 for the Magic Keyboard, and $129 for the Pencil Pro, summing up to nearly $1000! Unless you have a specific need for hover functionality or the unique squeeze gestures of the Pencil Pro, I suggest saving your hard-earned money.
