ipad pro accessories for artists
The best iPad accessories
Included in this guide:
iPad accessories: Quick links
01. Styluses
02. Keyboards
03. Cases and covers
04. Headphones
05. Speakers
06. Stands
Discovering the best iPad accessories is a fantastic way to transform an already-impressive tablet into a creative powerhouse. They also make brilliant gifts so if you're ever stuck for a present for an Apple fan, this guide is the perfect place to start.
We've rounded up a range of cases and covers to protect your precious iPad, as well as headphones and speakers so you can maximise its audio output. Plus, there's a selection of handy stands so you can use your iPad with both hands wherever you are. In essence, we've chosen the best iPad accessories from across the spectrum; all you need to do it choose the ones that are right for you.
We also have a range of cases and covers to help keep your iPad protected from the bump and grind of daily life, as well as the best headphones and speakers for enjoying its audio output to best effect. And to round things off we have a selection of useful stands so you can make the most of your iPad without having to use it one-handed (or risk it slipping off your lap). Basically we've picked the best iPad accessories around; all you have to do it choose the ones that are right for you.
Not got an iPad yet, or looking to upgrade? Here are the best iPad deals right now. And if you've got your heart set on a stylus, you might want to take a look at our in-depth guide to the best iPad styluses, or the best Apple Pencil deals.
iPad accessories: Styluses
01. Apple Pencil (1st gen)
The original (and still pretty good)
Specifications
Compatibility: : Most iPads
Connections: : Bluetooth
Dimensions: : 175.7 x 8.9mm
Weight: : 20.7g
Reasons to buy
+Pressure and tilt-sensitive +Still great performance
Reasons to avoid
-No wireless charging
While most of the latest iPads are compatible with the all-singing, all-dancing Pencil, if you have a slightly older iPad the original Apple Pencil is still a fine option. It's pressure and tilt-sensitive, allowing you to easily vary line weight and create subtle shading effects, and while it lacks the Pencil 2's more attractive features such as the touch surface for changing tools and wireless charging, it nevertheless beats most of the competition.
02. Apple Pencil (2nd Gen)
Refined perfection
Specifications
Compatibility: iPad Pro 11 and 12.9 (3rd gen)
Connections: Bluetooth
Dimensions: 166 x 8.9mm
Weight: 20.7g
Reasons to buy
+Pressure and tilt sensitive +Wireless charging
Reasons to avoid
-Expensive -Hard to keep white
Being the official Apple stylus, the Apple Pencil (2nd gen) is near perfect for the job. It magnetically attaches to the iPad Pro and charges wirelessly while there. The Pencil features a double-tap sensor that allows you to switch pen styles easily. It's also both pressure and tilt sensitive so can be used more like a real pen. You can increase pressure for thicker lines or tilt for shading, all while leaning your hand on the screen without marking your work.
03. Adonit Jot Pro
An affordable yet stylish stylus
Specifications
Compatibility: Most iPads
Connections: N/A
Dimensions: 12.7 x 1mm
Weight: 59g
Reasons to buy
+Fine point accuracy +Magnetically attaches
Reasons to avoid
-Not as many options as Pencil -Risk of scratching
The Adonit Jot Pro is a great choice if you want to save some money without sacrificing on style (this bargain stylus looks good even when paired with the design perfection that is Apple's iPad). A magnetic core allows this to clip to your iPad while the precision head with clear plastic jot dot offers for super levels of accuracy – you can see exactly what you're pressing against. Of course, at this price, you sacrifice all the smart extras like pressure sensitivity and tilt support.
04. Griffin Balanced Pointer Stylus
Super-affordable and portable
Specifications
Compatibility: Most iPads
Connections: N/A
Dimensions: 12 x 1mm
Weight: 18.1g
Reasons to buy
+Super-affordable +Useful clip
Reasons to avoid
-Basic function -No real-world pen option
This is a super-budget stylus that works on all iPad devices. The Griffin Balanced Stylus Pointer, as the name suggests, is a simple way to get more control over drawing, writing and annotating on an iPad. Since it's passive, it'll work on most touchscreens, doesn't require charging or connecting and even comes with a handy clip so you don't lose it. Griffin is a well-known brand that is able to offer this quality stylus for a silly-cheap price.
05. Logitech Crayon
Affordable Pencil alternative
Specifications
Compatibility: iPad Pro 10.5
Connections: Smart Connector
Dimensions: 10.5-inch
Weight: 175g
Reasons to buy
+Offers tilt sensitivity +Palm recognition tech
Reasons to avoid
-Only works with 6th-gen iPad -No pressure sensor
If you want most of the features of the Apple Pencil but can't justify the expense, the Logitech Crayon is a good alternative – this still offers the tilt sensor and palm recognition of the Pencil. It pairs instantly when turned on and features an anti-roll shape so can be set down easily. You lose the pressure sensing and tap features of the Pencil but you save a lot of money too. Be aware: this only works the 6th gen iPads.
iPad accessories: Keyboards
06. Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro 2020
Turn your new iPad Pro into a laptop
Specifications
Compatibility: : iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd or 4th gen), iPad Pro 11-inch (1st or 2nd gen), or iPad Air (4th gen)
Connections: : Bluetooth
Dimensions: : Not specified
Weight: : Not specified
Reasons to buy
+Full-size keyboard and trackpad +Adjustable viewing angle
Reasons to avoid
-Expensive
If you have a new iPad Pro (or indeed an older one or even the latest iPad Air), you can give it a more laptop-like feel and turn it into a serious productivity machine with the Magic Keyboard. It attaches magnetically and features a floating cantilevered design so you can set the viewing angle to anything up to 130 degrees, and with a full-size keyboard and multi-touch trackpad it makes your favourite apps even easier to use then before.
07. Brydge 10.5
Give your iPad that MacBook feel
Specifications
Compatibility: : iPad Air (2019) and 10.5-inch iPad Pro
Connections: : Bluetooth
Dimensions: : 24.89 x 17.27 x 0.69 cm
Weight: : 721.21g
Reasons to buy
+Full-size keyboard +LED backlighting
Reasons to avoid
-No trackpad
Here's a not-too-pricy option for making your iPad feel a bit more like a MacBook. The Brydge 10.5 features a full-size keyboard for precise feedback and increased accuracy, with three levels of LED backlighting. Its hinges enable you to angle your iPad at anything between 0 and 180 degrees so that you can get exactly the viewing angle you want, and it also features a full set of dedicated iOS shortcut keys.
08. Apple Smart Keyboard Folio for iPad Pro
Official, sleek, minimal and efficient
Specifications
Compatibility: iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd & 4th gen)
Connections: Smart Connector
Weight: 175g
Reasons to buy
+Top design +Excellent key quality
Reasons to avoid
-Pricey -No back protection
The official Apple Smart Keyboard Folio for iPad Pro is one of the best ways to turn your iPad into a laptop. You get Apple-quality design and build, which means top-quality keys for typing, as well as a luxurious finish to the case itself. Everything attaches easily thanks to the Apple Smart Connector, and the case is thick enough to offer protection but slim enough to stay mobile.
09. Microsoft Universal Foldable Keyboard
Very portable, and compatible with lots of devices
Specifications
Compatibility: iOS 7-9 (plus various Windows, MacOS, Android)
Connections: BlueTooth 4.0
Dimensions (HxWxD): 1.2 x 29.5 (14.7 folded) x 12.5cm
Weight: 340g
Reasons to buy
+Universally compatible +Very portable +Spill-resistant
Reasons to avoid
-Must be rested on a flat surface -Not widely available in the US
While this list is geared towards iPad accessories, if you've got devices from different brands, you'll want to go for a universal keyboard – the Microsoft foldable keyboard is compatible with iPad, iPhone, Android devices, and Windows tablets. Another great feature is its ability to be paired to multiple devices – switching over to the next device is as simple as pushing a button. Plus, with this being a foldable keyboard, it's easier to store when it's not in use, and nice and portable too.
10. Logitech Slim Folio Case (with keyboard)
Full iPad protection and an integrated BlueTooth keyboard
Specifications
Compatibility: iPad 5th and 6th gen
Connections: Bluetooth LE
Dimensions (HxWxD): 18.2 x 24.8 x 2 cm
Weight: 445g
Reasons to buy
+Fully protected +Battery life
Reasons to avoid
-Not laptop level keyboard -No Smart Connector
Logitech has been in the keyboard game for nearly as long as it has existed, which is just one of the reasons this Logitech Slim Folio Case with Keyboard is sold officially on the Apple Store. Bluetooth LE connectivity, complete iPad protection, dedicated iOS shortcut buttons, a stand mode plus a staggering four year battery life make this a winner at that low price.
iPad accessories: Cases and covers
11. Apple Smart Cover
Official, solid and effective
Specifications
Compatibility: : iPad (8th gen)
Connections: : Bluetooth
Dimensions: : 25.5 x 19 x 0.8cm
Weight: : 210g
Reasons to buy
+Easy to use +Does the job perfectly
Reasons to avoid
-Not cheap
If you're after a cover for your iPad then it's hard to make a case for anything other than the official Apple Smart cover. It attaches to your iPad magnetically, it protects your screen, it'll turn your iPad on and off when you open and close it, and you can use it as a stand, too. Oh, and it comes in a variety of on-trend colours. What more do you want?
12. Cuvr Genuine Leather Cover for iPad Pro 2020
Add an extra degree of luxury to your iPad Pro
Specifications
Compatibility: : iPad Pro 2020
Connections: : Bluetooth
Dimensions: : 29.8 x 27.4 x 3cm
Weight: : 624g
Reasons to buy
+Shock-resistant +Pencil holder +Mmm, leather
Reasons to avoid
-Not vegan-friendly
Want to give your new iPad Pro that final touch of class? Cuvr's leather cover could be just what you need. Not only will it sheathe your precious in great-looking, fine-smelling leather, it works as a shock-resistant shell, it'll let you stand your iPad Pro at just about any angle, and it features a safe holder for your Apple Pencil too.
13. Griffin Survivor
Water- and shock-resistant toughness
Specifications
Compatibility: iPad Air, Pro, Pro 12.9
Connections: N/A
Dimensions: iPad 9.7-inch
Weight: 349g
Reasons to buy
+Water and shock resistant +Stand built-in
Reasons to avoid
-Quite weighty
The Griffin Survivor is a superb way to make sure your iPad stays protected. Yes this isn't the most sleek or attractive case, but then it can go all the places that a pretty case couldn't. This iPad accessory is great for those with children, or anyone leading a hectic life who wants to be able to throw their iPad in and out of bags as they travel around.
14. Skech Flipper case
Best iPad case for tough yet slim design
Specifications
Compatibility: Most iPad
Connections: N/A
Dimensions: Varies for iPad
Weight: 281g
Reasons to buy
+Solid fall protection +Apple Pencil holder
Reasons to avoid
-Not cheap
The Skech Flipper iPad case perfectly balances portability and protection meaning this won't add much bulk to your slate but it will offer protection for up to an eight foot drop. This is thanks to tough reinforced corners as well as a bezel protector for your screen. The case uses the active open and close to wake or sleep your iPad and it can also be propped up as a stand. There's even a small loop to hold your Apple Pencil and an option for a transparent rear to see your iPad in all its shiny glory.
iPad accessories: Headphones
15. AirPods Pro
Still magical after a year on sale
Specifications
Compatibility: : iPad Pro, iPad (5th gen or better), iPad Air (2nd gen or better), iPad Mini (4th gen or better)
Connections: : Bluetooth
Dimensions: : 45.2 x 21.7 x 60.6mm (in case)
Weight: : 46g
Reasons to buy
+Amazing sound quality +Stunning noise cancellation +Easy to use
Reasons to avoid
-Short battery life
We've rhapsodised many times about Apple's AirPods Pro, and over a year after they were first released we still love them to bits. Adhering firmly to the old Apple mantra of 'It Just Works', they're an absolute joy to use; they'll pair to your iPad in under a second, their active noise cancellation is nothing short of miraculous in something so small, and the sound quality (enhanced by the silicone ear tips which also mean they won't fall out) is outstanding. Yes, they're expensive, but even that's been put into perspective now that the AirPods Max are out.
16. AirPods Max
Astonishing audio with a price to match
Specifications
Compatibility: : iPad Pro, iPad (5th gen or better), iPad Air (2nd gen or better), iPad Mini (4th gen or better)
Connections: : Bluetooth
Dimensions: : 168.6 by 83.4 by 187.3mm
Weight: : 384.8g
Reasons to buy
+Staggering sound quality +Incredible noise cancellation +Spatial audio
Reasons to avoid
-How much? -No 3.5mm jack
Apple's AirPods Max are a tougher sell than the AirPods Pro. Apple could have made something out of a pair of cans that completely out-perform heart-stoppingly expensive audiophile headphones, which the AirPods Max almost do, except for the fact that they don't support hi-res audio. That said, Apple's active noise cancellation works even better with a pair of full-size headphones, and the sound quality you get out of them is truly exceptional. Whether it's £550-worth of exceptional is up to you.
17. AirPods
Official, battery case supported
Specifications
Compatibility: iPad, iPhone, Mac
Connections: Bluetooth, Wireless
Dimensions: 44.3x21.3x53.5 mm in case
Weight: 46g with case
Reasons to buy
+Auto on and auto connect +Quick Siri access
Reasons to avoid
-Limited battery life -Not a perfect ear fit
The official Apple AirPods have been designed from scratch to offer the ultimate wireless audio experience with an Apple device. That means a simple tap to connect and then automatic recognition when you pop them in your ears. A tap gets you Siri for voice controls without the need to touch your iPad. You get a 24-hour battery with charges from the case, plus decent audio for music and voice.
And if you really fancy pushing the boat out, you can also get the AirPods Pro .
18. Bose QuietComfort 35 ii
Excellent noise cancelling, high quality audio
Specifications
Compatibility: iPad any
RRP: £289
Connections: Bluetooth
Dimensions: 8.1 x 17 x 18 cm
Weight: 236g
Reasons to buy
+Excellent noise cancelling +Top quality wireless sound
Reasons to avoid
-Not cheap -Only in black
The Bose QuietComfort 35 ii headphones offer a fantastic way to drown out the world around you with active noise cancellation while giving wireless connectivity and decent battery life. These are ideal for travelling or at home where background noise can affect concentration. Comfort levels are high, meaning they can be worn for a long time without being noticed. They're the perfect flight companion.
19. Skullcandy Smokin' Buds 2 Wireless
Bluetooth wireless yet affordable
Specifications
Compatibility: Any iPad
Connections: Bluetooth
Dimensions: 12.95 x 3.3 x 18.29 cm
Weight: 62.37g
Reasons to buy
+Affordable +Wireless
Reasons to avoid
-No noise cancelling
If you want to go for more subtle in-earphones with a strap but wish to stay wireless and on a budget, the Skullcandy Smokin' Buds 2 are a great option. These buds offer up to six hours of listening before they need a charge. That makes them not only useful at home with your iPad but also great to head out the door for a run with your iPhone, getting you even more for that incredibly affordable price.
iPad accessories: Speakers
20. Apple HomePod
Amazing sound from a pretty smart speaker
Specifications
Compatibility: : iPad Pro, iPad (5th gen or better), iPad Air (2nd gen or better), iPad Mini (4th gen or better)
Connections: : Bluetooth
Dimensions: : 172 x 142mm
Weight: : 2.5kg
Reasons to buy
+Incredible audio +Compact design +Reassuringly weighty
Reasons to avoid
-Not quite so hot as a smart speaker
Smaller than you might expect and surprisingly weighty, Apple's HomePod is another great example of how the company's using software to squeeze the very best audio performance out of its hardware. The HomePod's already well-specced, with seven tweeters at the bottom and a punchy woofer at the top, but it's the A8 chip that takes everything to the next level, helping it analyse its setting and adjust its audio output for optimum performance. As a Siri-powered smart speaker it's maybe not up to Alexa's standards, but its amazing sound quality more than makes up for that.
21. Bose SoundLink Revolve+
Powerful, wireless with Siri voice control
Specifications
Compatibility: Any iPad
Connections: Bluetooth, wireless, USB
Dimensions: 18.4 x 10.5 x 10.5 cm
Weight: 898g
Reasons to buy
+Powerful 360-degree sound +16-hour battery life
Reasons to avoid
-Pricey -Could be lighter
The Bose SoundLink Revolve+ is a powerful yet portable Bluetooth speaker that offers 360-degree sound to fill most rooms. It even comes with Siri support allowing for easy voice controls via your connected iPad. The battery should keep going for 16-hours, while the IPX4 rating means splash and dust resistance to set your mind at ease as you enjoy the high-quality sound.
22. Sonos One
Multi-room, Siri supported sound
Specifications
Compatibility: iPad any
Connections: Bluetooth, wireless
Dimensions: 12 x 12 x 16.2 cm
Weight: 1.78 kg
Reasons to buy
+Multi-room support +AirPlay compatible
Reasons to avoid
-Not cheap -Multiple required for best multi-room
Sonos started the multi-room speaker revolution and is still leading the way with quality products like the Sonos One. This enables you to connect using your iPad to control the speaker, or any other Sonos speaker in the home, using AirPlay for super simple access. It also supports Siri voice controls and allows you to use two speakers for stereo sound.
23. Sony SRS-XB12
A portable and affordable iPad speaker
Specifications
Compatibility: : Most iPads
Connections: : Bluetooth
Dimensions: : 74 x 74 x 92mm
Weight: : 243g
Reasons to buy
+Good value +Impressive bass for its size
Reasons to avoid
-No wi-fi
Want a wireless speaker that sounds good but won't cost a fortune? This little beauty from Sony is just the ticket. The Sony SRS-XB12 is cheaper than the rest of the speakers listed here by a country mile, but it can still pump out some impressive audio, boosted by Sony's EXTRA BASS technology. Its battery should keep going for 16 hours, it's waterproof, dustproof, sandproof and mudproof, and if you want stereo sound you can simply buy another and pair them.
iPad accessories: Stands
24. Joby GripTight GorillaPod Stand Pro
A versatile and strong iPad stand
Specifications
Compatibility: iPad, most
Connections: N/A
Dimensions: 29.7 x 7.6 x 5.4 cm
Weight: 244g
Reasons to buy
+Very versatile legs +Landscape and portrait modes
Reasons to avoid
-Pricey -Legs could be longer
Despite the name, the Joby GripTight GorillaPod Stand Pro actually fits lots of different iPad types. Thanks to its malleable legs, it can be manipulated to hold the tablet at varying heights and angles – ideal for watching video or (thanks to side-on tilting) FaceTime chatting. The rubber feet hold the unit in place and you can even wrap it around a chair back or pole, for example, to get it in place where you need.
25. Logi Base Charging Stand for iPad Pro
Stand and charger combo that looks great
Specifications
Compatibility: iPad Pro models
Connections: Smart Connector
Dimensions: 11.4 x 17.8 x 8.2 cm
Weight: 358g
Reasons to buy
+Charging +Attractive stand
Reasons to avoid
-No angle variation -iPad Pro only
The Logi Base Charging Stand for iPad Pro is a typical Apple style design that uses metallic minimalism at its best. The slither of a stand not only looks good and solid but also uses the Smart Connector for easy attachment and charging of the iPad Pro. The iPad can be placed in portrait or landscape mode for use as a video player, work station or even a FaceTime video chat interface.
26. AmazonBasics Multi-Angle Portable Stand
Simple, cheap and versatile
Specifications
Compatibility: : Most iPads
Connections: : Bluetooth
Dimensions: : 99 x 86 x 22mm
Weight: : 166g
Reasons to buy
+Cheap +Multi-angle
Reasons to avoid
-No charging -Small
You'll have a hard time finding a better-value stand than this model from AmazonBasics. As the name suggests, it's pretty basic, but it definitely does the job; it'll support anything up to a 10-inch tablet (with a maximum weight of 4.9kg), it has multiple viewing angles and a removable rubber pad so it won't scratch your iPad. And at that price it's an absolute no-brainer if all you need is something to keep your iPad upright.
Read more:
- Drawing apps for iPad: Incredible digital art options
- iPad Pro vs MacBook Air: which should you buy?
- iPad model list: Your complete guide to the different iPads
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ipad pro accessories for artists
Source: https://www.creativebloq.com/buying-guides/ipad-accessories
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