Brydge MAX+ for iPad Pro Wireless Keyboard with Trackpad

The largest trackpad in an iPad keyboard case

Apple’s suggestion that an iPad can replace a laptop only really makes sense when you add a keyboard and trackpad. For anyone that’s not tried switching on mouse or trackpad support in iPadOS, it’s a game–changer for workflow. The Brydge MAX+ comes in two sizes for the two iPad Pro models — identical other than slightly different battery life. The keyboard is aluminum and the case is plastic. It weighs 766g (11–inch) and 970g (12.9–inch). Both models comes in space gray or white, while silver is for 12.9–inch only.

Your iPad snaps magnetically to the rear cover, which has a camera hole and two slight indents to make detaching easier. It’s held fitmly in place, and pairs to the Max+ over Bluetooth 5.0 using Brudge's Instant–On system which they claim links the two devices with no lag, as fast as a Smart Connector. Certainly, it seems instant in use.

The device charges over USB-C though there's no cable in the box, and Brydge claims up to 3 months of life at 2 hours a day with backlighting off, or up to 40 hours per charge with the backlight switched on. The edge–to–edge keyboard feels snappy and responsive to type on, and you get dedicated iOS shortcut keys as well as adjustable backlighting. The generous trackpad, is a joy to use — responsive and spacious to allow many gestures and multi–touch operations. When folded, the case offers good protection.

Adding a keyboard and a trackpad to iOS really does transform how fast you can work with apps. The MAX+ is well–built, significantly less expensive than Apple's equivalent Magic Keyboard ($100 cheaper) and truly opens up the potential of your iPad.