The iPad 9 is the best iPad for those on a limited budget, offering iPadOS 17 support and a wide range of well-optimized apps. Though, if you plan to actively type on it, you may feel restrained by the included virtual keyboard. That's because it occupies almost half of the screen and is unintuitive to use for prolonged periods of time. So if you buy an iPad 9, we advise you to pair it with a keyboard or keyboard case. This way, you can take full advantage of its display, while you type more comfortably on the dedicated physical keyboard. To help you with your hunt, we've listed some of the best options currently available.
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Logitech MX Keys Mini
Editor's ChoiceThis wireless, metallic keyboard from Logitech has keys shaped for your fingertips, so typing feels more natural. The backlit keys automatically light up when your hands approach them and the lighting adjusts based on your environment.
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Apple Magic Keyboard
Official pickThis is the official Magic Keyboard from Apple, so you know it'll work great with your iPad 9. It has a premium build and offers the slim, minimalist design Apple is known for. It also includes a rechargeable battery through a Lightning to USB cable.
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Razer BlackWidow V3 Mini HyperSpeed
RGB pickThis keyboard offers three different connectivity modes. So you can depend on Bluetooth for typing on your iPad then switch to HyperSpeed Wireless or USB-C when using it with your gaming PC for reliability.
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Arteck Ultra-Slim Bluetooth Keyboard
Long battery lifeThis elegant keyboard from Arteck offers decent functionality for an affordable price. It's available in two color options and has a long battery life, so you won't need to worry about running out of juice after weeks of daily use.
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Sanwa Foldable Keyboard
Portable pickThis ultra-compact foldable keyboard from Sanwa has an exceptionally thin profile, making it another great pick for use on the go. It offers Bluetooth connectivity and 36 hours of battery life.
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OMOTON Wireless Bluetooth Backlit Keyboard
Affordable pickThis keyboard offers seven backlight colors, so you can switch to a color that matches your mood. It's ultra-slim, lightweight, and it includes a scissor mechanism for easier typing. At the bottom of the keyboard, there are four rubberized feet to prevent it from slipping.
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Apple Magic Keyboard with Touch ID and Numeric Keypad
Premium PickThis keyboard includes all of the features of the smaller Magic Keyboard but also comes with a numeric keypad. It's ideal for those who frequently work with numbers.
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Arteck Universal Bluetooth Keyboard
Universal pickArteck's Universal Bluetooth Keyboard is a great choice for those who want a full-sized keyboard with a dedicated numpad. It features a handy groove that acts as a tablet/phone stand.
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Logitech Slim Folio Keyboard Case
Best keyboard caseThe Logitech Slim Folio keyboard case is arguably one of the best you can get for your iPad 9. It offers a 4-year battery life, an Apple Pencil 1 holder, three use modes, and more.
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Typcase Keyboard Case
Versatile pickAvailable in a dozen different colors to choose from, this keyboard case offers 360º rotation support for the perfect viewing angle, auto sleep/wake, and a built-in trackpad.
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Arteck Keyboard Case
Magnetic mechanismThis ultra thin keyboard case offers the familiar Mac key layout, includes a magnetic attachment mechanism, and can be used for up to 100 hours after a 2-hour charge.
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Chesona Detachable iPad (2021) Keyboard Case
Professional-looking$36 $42 Save $6This case comes with a detachable keyboard, making it convenient for when you don't want a keyboard connected to your iPad. It uses magnets to attach, so the process is quite simple.
Our favorite iPad 9 keyboards and keyboard cases
The iPad 9 might not be the best tablet anymore, but it's still great if you're on a budget. If I personally had to choose one of these keyboards or keyboard cases for my iPad 9, I would go for the Logitech MX Keys Mini. I love its premium, metallic build and how minimalist its design is. I can also easily use it with other devices, such as my Mac. This configuration makes sense the most to me since a keyboard case would limit the keyboard's functionality to just the iPad.
Otherwise, you have plenty of other options from brands like Apple, Razer, and Arteck. And if you're unsatisfied with the keyboard cases, then we have also prepared a list of the best iPad 9 cases currently available. They might not offer you a keyboard, but they'll protect your tablet.
Apple iPad (2021)
The iPad 9 is the 2021 affordable tablet from Apple. It is powered by the A13 Bionic chip, supports the Apple Pencil 1, and is compatible with iPadOS 17.