What is the best external keyboard for the iPad Air? Which iPad Air models support an external keyboard? What about an external mouse?

The iPad Air 4 and current iPad Air 5 models are compatible with a size-specific Apple Magic Keyboard (11") and Apple Smart Keyboard Folio 2 (11").

By contrast, the now discontinued iPad Air 3 models are compatible with a size-specific Apple Smart Keyboard.

The original iPad Air and iPad Air 2 do not support the Apple Smart Keyboard, but can work with just about any Bluetooth-equipped external keyboard.

Originally, the iPad Air models only supported external mice as an accessibility feature, but the iPad Air 2 and later iPad Air models running iOS 13.4 or higher also are capable of operating with a Bluetooth external trackpad or mouse.

If you are not certain which iPad Air you have, the easiest way to identify each is by its Model Number located toward the bottom on the back of each device.

Best External iPad Air 4 and iPad Air 5 Keyboard Case

Available from site sponsor Adorama and other resellers, the Apple Magic Keyboard (11") (MXQT2LL/A) and Apple Smart Keyboard Folio 2 (11") (MXNK2LL/A) are ideal options for the iPad Air 4 and iPad Air 5 line.

Photo Credit: Apple, Inc. (iPad Air 4 with Magic Keyboard)

Best External iPad Air 3 Keyboard Case

The 10.5" Apple Smart Keyboard (MPTL2LL/A) is the best option for the now discontinued iPad Air 3 series.

Photo Credit: Apple, Inc. (iPad Air 3 with Smart Keyboard)

Best External iPad Air & iPad Air 2 Keyboard Cases

For the original iPad Air and iPad Air 2, a full-size Bluetooth keyboard like the Logitech Bluetooth Multi-Device Keyboard K480 also will work, and it might meet your needs if you mostly use your iPad at a desk. If you instead prefer to essentially convert your iPad Air into a notebook-style computer, a keyboard case is a better option.

Two of the best keyboard cases for these iPad Air models are the Logitech Slim Folio and the Brydge 9.7" (no longer available).

Photo Credit: Logitech Slim Folio

The Logitech Slim Folio is a soft case that wraps around the iPad Air and provides some protection and a firmer keyboard than the sponge-like Apple Smart Keyboard. It also provides a loop to hold the original Apple Pencil in place; a welcomed addition.

Photo Credit: Brydge 9.7"

The Brydge 9.7" is a rigid, mostly metal -- and nicely backlit -- keyboard that attaches onto the iPad Air and provides a typing feel closer to a high quality traditional notebook computer.

Choosing the Best iPad Air Keyboard for You

Ultimately, for those with a iPad Air 3, iPad Air 4, and iPad Air 5, Apple has you well covered with specific keyboard options, but for earlier iPad Air models, the options from Logitech are at least as good and definitely make typing on these tablets much faster and easier than using the onscreen keyboard.