iPad accessories: Quick links
01. Styluses
02. Keyboards
03. Cases and covers
04. Headphones
05. Speakers
06. Stands
To get the best from your tablet, you'll need the best iPad accessories. And iPad accessories can make fantastic Christmas gifts for the creative in your life – especially when you don't have the cash to buy them a whole new tablet. They're also the sort of thing you can buy as a cheeky Christmas gift to yourself, with the excuse that they'll help you work more productively in 2020.
From keyboards and stands to turn your iPad into a serious workstation, to cases to keep your tablet clean and protected, to speakers and headphones, there are plenty of iPad accessories that can improve your user experience.
The right stylus could mean you're best placed to create high-quality art work on your tablet, or it could help you annotate documents faster and more efficiently than ever before. Get yourself the right keyboard and you'll find your tablet becomes a powerful computer, so you can work at full capacity wherever you are. The small extra investment of an iPad accessory can be worth so much more to you or your loved one this Christmas.
In this guide, we've picked the best iPad accessories from a range of different categories. Use the quick links to jump to the section you're looking for. With all the work done, all you need to do is decide which iPad accessory will be the best Christmas gift this year.
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.
Styluses
01. Apple Pencil (2nd Gen)
Refined perfection
Compatibility: iPad Pro 11 and 12.9 (3rd gen) | Connections: Bluetooth | Dimensions: 166 x 8.9mm | Weight: 20.7g
Being the official Apple stylus, the 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.
02. Adonit Jot Pro
An affordable yet stylish stylus
Compatibility: Most iPads | Connections: N/A | Dimensions: 12.7 x 1mm | Weight: 59g
The 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.
03. Griffin Balanced Pointer Stylus
Super-affordable and portable
Compatibility: Most iPads | Connections: N/A | Dimensions: 12 x 1mm | Weight: 18.1g
This is a super-budget stylus that works on all iPad devices. The , 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.
04. Logitech Crayon
Affordable Pencil alternative
Compatibility: iPad Pro 10.5 | Connections: Smart Connector | Dimensions: 10.5-inch | Weight: 175g
If you want most of the features of the Apple Pencil but can't justify the expense, the 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.
05. Wacom Bamboo Sketch
The best complete iPad range compatible stylus
Compatibility: iPad range | Connections: Bluetooth | Dimensions: 142.2mm | Weight: 17g
The is the best stylus for use on any iPad thanks to its wide compatibility and Bluetooth connectivity. The 2,048 pressure levels of sensitivity make it ideal for drawing, hence that sketch name, but it will also do the job of annotating or signing documents just fine. The ergonomic triangular design of the pen makes for a very comfortable and accurate holding position while the fine tip and pressure sensitive nib offer a paper-like drawing experience. The USB-charged battery life is really impressive too and the Bluetooth means shortcut control buttons are quickly available.
Keyboards for iPad
06. Apple Smart Keyboard for iPad Pro 10.5
Official, sleek, minimal and efficient
Compatibility: iPad Pro 10.5 | Connections: Smart Connector | Dimensions: 10.5-inch | Weight: 175g
The official for 10.5-inch 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.
07. Microsoft Universal Foldable Keyboard
Very portable, and compatible with lots of devices
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
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 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.
08. Logitech Slim Folio Case (with keyboard)
Full iPad protection and an integrated BlueTooth keyboard
Compatibility: iPad 5th and 6th gen | Connections: Bluetooth LE | Dimensions (HxWxD): 18.2 x 24.8 x 2 cm | Weight: 445g
Logitech has been in the keyboard game for nearly as long as it has existed, which is just one of the reasons this 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.
09. Brydge 9.7
For a MacBook-style experience
Compatibility: iPad Pro 9.7 (2015 onwards) | Connections: Bluetooth | Dimensions: 23.9 x 16.8 x 0.8 cm | Weight: 510g
The is aptly named as it aims to bridge the gap between tablet and laptop. Using its Bluetooth connected keyboard, it offers a MacBook style experience with an iPad. You get a full QWERTY keyboard with dedicated iOS shortcuts, high-grade aluminium build, 3-level backlit keys and a lifetime warranty.
10. Fintie Blade X1 iPad keyboard case
The best lightweight and affordable keyboard case
Compatibility: iPad 4, 3, 2 | Connections: Bluetooth | Dimensions: 25 x 19 x 3 cm | Weight: 435g
The is, as the name suggests, knife thin and as such it's plenty light too. The keyboard is Bluetooth for quick connectivity while the case uses a leather outer and anti-slip rubber for good looks, resilience and usability. Despite the detachable keyboard being a super-slim 7mm, the case unit also offers an adjustable stand for landscape iPad use, making it ideal for work and movie viewing sessions.
iPad cases and covers
11. iPad Smart Cover
Official, solid, simple
Compatibility: iPad Air, Air 2, iPad (5th and 6th gen) | Connections: Magnetic | Dimensions: iPad 9.7-inch | Weight: 86.2g
The is the original and defining iPad accessory that made tablet cases such a necessity. It not only protects the tablet display with a thin yet strong polyurethane and microfibre build, but it also acts as a stand when folded back. The case also features a magnetic connection to hold to the iPad, which allows for smart awakening and sleep when opened and closed. There are a number of copycat versions available now, too.
12. Griffin Survivor
Water- and shock-resistant toughness
Compatibility: iPad Air, Pro, Pro 12.9 | Connections: N/A | Dimensions: iPad 9.7-inch | Weight: 349g
The 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.
13. MoKo Case Fit iPad 9.7
Affordable complete protection
Compatibility: iPad 9.7 | Connections: N/A | Dimensions: 24.4 x 17.3 x 1.3 cm | Weight: 191g
The is an astonishing balance of super low price and multiple features. This offers the auto wake and sleep magnetic flip case of the official Apple smart cover, but also adds rear side protection with heat dissipating materials to avoid overheating. There is also shock absorption for drops and a screen protector to evade scratches. Overall, this case has a superb feature set for the low price.
14. Skech Flipper case
Best iPad case for tough yet slim design
Compatibility: Most iPad | Connections: N/A | Dimensions: Varies for iPad | Weight: 281g
The 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.
Headphones for iPad
15. AirPods
Official, battery case supported
Compatibility: iPad, iPhone, Mac | Connections: Bluetooth, Wireless | Dimensions: 44.3x21.3x53.5 mm in case | Weight: 46g with case
The official 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 new .
16. Bose QuietComfort 35 ii
Excellent noise cancelling, high quality audio
Compatibility: iPad any | RRP: £289 | Connections: Bluetooth | Dimensions: 8.1 x 17 x 18 cm | Weight: 236g
The 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.
17. Anker Soundcore Spirit Sports earphones
Bluetooth wireless yet affordable
Compatibility: Any iPad | Connections: Bluetooth | Dimensions: 60 x 3 x 1.3 cm | Weight: 13.6g
If you want to go for more subtle in-earphones but wish to stay wireless and on a budget, these are a great option. These sweat- and rain- resistant buds offer up to eight 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 affordable price.
Speakers for iPad
18. Bose SoundLink Revolve+
Powerful, wireless with Siri voice control
Compatibility: Any iPad | Connections: Bluetooth, wireless, USB | Dimensions: 18.4 x 10.5 x 10.5 cm | Weight: 898g
The 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.
19. Sonos One
Multi-room, Siri supported sound
Compatibility: iPad any | Connections: Bluetooth, wireless | Dimensions: 12 x 12 x 16.2 cm | Weight: 1.78 kg
Sonos started the multi-room speaker revolution and is still leading the way with quality products like the . 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.
20. Sony SRS XB-10
A portable and affordable iPad speaker
Compatibility: iPad any | Connections: Bluetooth | Dimensions: 7.5 x 7.5 x 9.1 cm | Weight: 259g
For Sony-quality sound on a budget, this is a great iPad accessory. This portable and affordable Bluetooth speaker will work with any iPad, and offers decent bass for the size and enough audio punch fill most rooms. The battery life is an impressive 16-hours and with IPX5 water and dust resistance you can take it pretty much anywhere you need to go.
Stands for iPad
21. Joby GripTight GorillaPod Stand Pro
A versatile and strong iPad stand
Compatibility: iPad, most | Connections: N/A | Dimensions: 29.7 x 7.6 x 5.4 cm | Weight: 244g
Despite the name, the 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.
22. Logi Base Charging Stand for iPad Pro
Stand and charger combo that looks great
Compatibility: iPad Pro models | Connections: Smart Connector | Dimensions: 11.4 x 17.8 x 8.2 cm | Weight: 358g
The 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.
23. Anker Portable Multi-Angle Stand
Super-affordable angled stand
Compatibility: iPad, most | Connections: N/A | Dimensions: 10 x 9 x 2 cm | Weight: 172g
The works with most iPads as well as a host of smartphones including the iPhone. This stand offers support for portrait and landscape viewing and can be titled to offer the perfect viewing angle. While this is great for videos and FaceTime, you won't have any cable hiding or charging support, but at this price would you expect to?
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