Review: eiP Hyperkeys keyboard case for M4 M5 iPad Pro

Review unit provided by eiP

The eiP Hyperkeys keyboard case is an alternative to the M4/M5 iPad Pro Magic Keyboard. At the time of review, this keyboard case is selling for USD 79.90 and USD 94.90 on Amazon US for the 11-inch and 13-inch models, respectively. For comparison, the Apple Magic Keyboard is selling at USD 299 and USD 349 for the two sizes.

This keyboard case uses a laptop-style folding design. Once opened, the tablet "floats" above the keyboard. The tablet attaches magnetically to the back, allowing it to be removed quickly and easily. Since this keyboard case is made for different iPad models, make sure you choose the correct model and size.

From the back, it looks just like the Apple Magic Keyboard, except for an additional magnetic flap that prevents the Apple Pencil from accidentally dislodging.

Shown here is the eiP Pencil X Classic attached to the iPad Pro.

Like most keyboard cases, it is heavy, but not heavier than other iPad keyboard cases I've tested. It will obviously add extra weight and thickness to the tablet.

The USB-C charging port is located next to the hinge.

The interior backing features a soft material that feels luxurious. The magnets are strong. When the tablet is attached, the setup becomes top-heavy, so using it on your lap may result in more wobbling.

Build quality is good. The exterior is smooth PU leather.

The finishing looks great.

The 13-inch keyboard case features a full-size layout. I suppose the 11-inch version will have smaller keys, much like most 11-inch keyboard cases.

The keyboard layout is standard and easy to get used to. It is backlit, and you can use keyboard shortcuts to adjust the brightness.

The keyboard has a dedicated Siri key. I would prefer a right-Cmd key instead, though I don't use keyboard shortcuts that often on the iPad. However, if you rely on the right-Cmd key frequently, its absence will be a huge inconvenience.

The touchpad is large enough and supports multi-touch gestures. Default tracking speed feels slow, but you can adjust it in the iPadOS settings.

The typing experience is good, offering decent key travel and feedback. While the keys don't feel quite as premium as Apple's more expensive keyboard case, I'd rate the feel a 4/5. Given the significantly lower price point, I have no major complaints.

The keyboard comes with a companion app that allows customization of shortcuts, lighting, sleep timer, and touchpad settings, as well as checking the battery level.

Battery life is rated for up to 200 hours without the backlight (roughly 25 days typing 8 hours a day). With backlight level 1, it lasts 30 hours, and at backlight level 5 (brightest), it drops to 5 hours. Checking the battery status using the onboard indicator light isn't very clear, so you might want to add a battery widget to your iPad home screen instead.

There are five shortcut buttons on the function row that can be customized with shortcuts for Procreate, Notability, Goodnotes, and iPadOS.

These buttons cannot be configured for other apps. You can set up shortcuts for up to four apps and press Fn + eiP key to toggle between them.

A status light illuminates when switching between app shortcut profiles. Note that if you use your right hand to press Fn + eiP, your hand will block the indicator light.

This keyboard offers exceptional value for money. It looks great and performs well. I honestly do not understand why anyone would buy the Apple Magic Keyboard at such heavily marked-up prices.

Availability

The eiP Hyperkeys keyboard case is available on Amazon US. Just make sure to select the correct model and size for your specific iPad.