⌨️ Product Review: Apple Smart Keyboard for iPad Pro 9.7-inch (MM2L2AM/A) - Black (Renewed)
The Apple Smart Keyboard for the original 9.7-inch iPad Pro (model number MM2L2AM/A) was a groundbreaking accessory upon its release. It provided a unique, lightweight typing experience that utilized Apple’s innovative Smart Connector. Even today, as a renewed product, this keyboard remains a solid choice for users of the compatible iPad model who prioritize portability and seamless integration.
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| Product Review: Apple Smart Keyboard for iPad Pro 9.7-inch (MM2L2AM/A) - Black (Renewed) |
Design and Build Quality: The Smart Cover Aesthetic
The Smart Keyboard inherits the minimalist aesthetic of Apple's Smart Cover line. It's incredibly thin and lightweight, adding minimal bulk to the already svelte 9.7-inch iPad Pro.
Materials: The exterior features a durable, custom-woven fabric coated in a water- and stain-resistant finish. This material choice is a key design element, as it forms the entire surface, including the keys, making it resistant to spills and crumbs.
Form Factor: When closed, it serves as a simple front cover, protecting the iPad's display. When unfolded, it transforms into a triangular stand that holds the iPad at a single, comfortable typing angle.
Renewed Condition: When purchasing a renewed model, the condition of this fabric is the main variable. A well-refurbished unit should have minimal signs of wear, maintaining the integrity of the water-resistant coating and the key responsiveness.
Connectivity: The Magic of the Smart Connector
One of the Smart Keyboard's greatest strengths is its reliance on the Smart Connector. This magnetic, three-pin interface on the side of the iPad Pro offers distinct advantages over traditional Bluetooth keyboards:
Instant Connection: There is no need for pairing, plugging, or charging. Simply attach the keyboard, and it's instantly ready to use. This 'always on' convenience is highly valued.
Power Source: The keyboard draws all necessary power directly from the iPad Pro via the Smart Connector, meaning it has no internal battery to worry about.
The Typing Experience: Compact and Unique
The Smart Keyboard utilizes a novel key design. Instead of individual physical keys with mechanical switches, the keys are laser-ablated (etched) into the single sheet of fabric. The tension and tactile feedback come from the fabric itself.
Feel: The keys have a relatively shallow travel, which is expected given the keyboard's slim profile. The feeling is often described as unique—some compare it to typing on firm bubble wrap. However, it is a vast improvement over the on-screen keyboard for long-form typing.
Layout: It features a full-sized iOS keyboard layout, including roomy number keys and function keys like Control, Option, and Command, which are essential for using the various keyboard shortcuts available in iPadOS. The compact size of the 9.7-inch model's keyboard, however, can feel slightly cramped for those with larger hands, particularly around the punctuation keys on the right side.
Lack of Backlighting: Unlike modern Apple keyboards (like the Magic Keyboard), the Smart Keyboard does not feature backlighting. This is a drawback for those who frequently work in dimly lit environments.
Pros and Cons for the Renewed Model
| Pros (for a Renewed MM2L2AM/A) | Cons (Inherently) |
| Excellent Portability: Incredibly thin and light. | Single Viewing Angle: Fixed typing position. |
| Smart Connector: Instant connection, no charging/pairing. | No Backlighting: Difficult to use in the dark. |
| Durability: Water- and stain-resistant surface. | Shallow Key Travel: Typing feel is unique and takes adjustment. |
| Value: Renewed models offer a significant cost saving. | No Trackpad/Touchpad: Limited to touch interaction on screen. |
| Front Protection: Doubles as a protective screen cover. | Key Size: Can feel cramped, especially on the right side. |
Conclusion: A Reliable, Portable Workhorse
The renewed Apple Smart Keyboard for the 9.7-inch iPad Pro (MM2L2AM/A) represents a high-value purchase for the dedicated user of this classic iPad model. It sacrifices the deep key travel and trackpad functionality of newer, bulkier accessories for unrivaled portability and seamless, cable-free operation.
It's the perfect choice for the user who:
Needs a physical keyboard for occasional typing while maintaining the iPad’s tablet form factor.
Prioritizes a slim, lightweight cover that doesn't require a separate battery.
Wants the genuine Apple-designed accessory experience at a more accessible renewed price point.
If you are looking for the ultimate laptop replacement experience with a trackpad, newer accessories or a different iPad model may be necessary. However, if your primary need is an ultra-portable, reliable, and unique typing cover for your 9.7-inch iPad Pro, the renewed Smart Keyboard is still one of the best options available.