Which Magic Keyboard can you use with the 12.9-inch iPad Pro (2021)?
Best answer: If you already own the original Magic Keyboard released in 2020, it is still functionally compatible according to Apple, but it may not be a precise fit for the new 2021 12.9-inch iPad Pro. For a perfect fit, the best option is the Magic Keyboard that released in April 2021. It is available in black or white.
iPad Pro 12.9 (2021) is thicker...just slightly
The iPad Pro 12.9-inch released in April 2021 and is equipped with Apple's M1 chip, a Liquid Retina XDR display with a mini LED design, a Thunderbolt port, 5G cellular speeds, and a new ultra-wide front camera with Center Stage. It is an upgrade in every way from the 2020 model, so it goes without saying that many previous iPad Pro owners will be looking to upgrade.
When comparing the size and weight of the 2021 model and the 2020 model, one spec that stands out is that the 2021 model is 0.5mm thicker. Couple that with the fact that the 12.9 inch Magic Keyboard from last year is unavailable and a new model was released, previous iPad Pro owners are rightfully nervous about having to spend $349 for another Magic Keyboard should they decided to upgrade. If you don't mind a less precise fit, you don't have to worry.
Functional compatibity
According to an Apple support document, the first generation of the Magic Keyboard is functionally compatible with the new iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2021) with Liquid Retina XDR display. Apple goes on to say,
Due to the slightly thicker dimensions of this new iPad Pro, it's possible that the Magic Keyboard may not precisely fit when closed, especially when screen protectors are applied."
This is great news for those who own the 2020 Magic Keyboard and are upgrading to the new iPad Pro. Although it remains to be seen just how the keyboard closes and what Apple means by "a precise fit," the keyboard will work, so that is one less barrier to upgrading.
Keyboard choices
Of course, if you never owned a Magic Keyboard and are purchasing the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2021), you can be assured that the one available now will fit the iPad perfectly. In addition to being available in black, the new Magic Keyboard is available in white for the first time. New iPad owners now have a Magic Keyboard color choice to make. The updated Magic Keyboard is also backward compatible with the 2018 and 2020 iPad Pro models.
If you still have the 2020 version of the Magic Keyboard, aren't concerned about a "precise fit," and like the look of a black keyboard, you can keep it and enjoy it with your new iPad Pro. If you never owned a Magic Keyboard, want a choice of colors, or just want it to fit your new iPad Pro perfectly, check out the new version.
Magic Keys
For the best typing and trackpad experience with your iPad Pro, you can't go wrong with Apple's own Magic Keyboard.
M1 chip and mini LED display
The iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2021) features Apple's M1 chip, a Liquid Retina XDR mini LED display, Thunderbolt port, optional 5G cellular, and a new ultra-wide front-facing camera.
