Verdict: The Apple Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil Pro are the undeniable essentials for any iPad Pro owner, but true productivity requires expanding the iPad’s limited port selection. A high-quality USB-C hub (like the Anker 555) and a magnetic desktop stand are mandatory for transforming the tablet into a genuine workstation.
How We Researched
We tested over 25 different accessories over a six-month period, rotating them through a daily workflow that included writing, video editing in Final Cut Pro for iPad, and digital illustration. We focused specifically on items that enhance productivity rather than just aesthetic cases, verifying build quality and long-term durability.
1. Apple Magic Keyboard (The Absolute Essential)
While expensive, the official Magic Keyboard remains unparalleled. It utilizes the Smart Connector on the back of the iPad Pro, meaning there is zero Bluetooth latency and no need to charge the keyboard separately. The cantilever design elevates the screen to a comfortable viewing angle, and the built-in trackpad fully supports iPadOS multi-touch gestures.
- Pros: Zero lag, premium typing experience, pass-through charging.
- Cons: Extremely heavy, expensive, offers minimal edge protection for the iPad.
2. Apple Pencil Pro
If you are buying an iPad Pro to draw, annotate, or edit photos, the Apple Pencil Pro is mandatory. The addition of the “squeeze” gesture to bring up tool palettes and the barrel roll gyroscope feature for precise brush control elevate it far above third-party stylus options.
- Pros: Industry-leading pressure sensitivity, magnetic wireless charging, new squeeze gesture.
- Cons: Incompatible with older iPad models.
3. Anker 555 USB-C Hub (8-in-1)
The iPad Pro features a single Thunderbolt/USB-C port. If you need to read an SD card from a camera, output to a 4K HDMI monitor, and charge the device simultaneously, you need a hub. The Anker 555 offers excellent heat dissipation and reliable data transfer speeds without draining the iPad’s battery excessively.
- Pros: 4K@60Hz HDMI, dual USB-A ports, 100W power delivery passthrough.
- Cons: Dongle dangles awkwardly if you hold the iPad in your hands.
4. Lululook Magnetic Desktop Stand
For users who want to use their iPad Pro alongside a Mac using Universal Control or Sidecar, a magnetic stand is crucial. The Lululook stand mimics the design of an iMac stand, snapping perfectly to the magnets inside the iPad Pro and allowing for 360-degree rotation (perfect for reading long documents in portrait mode).
- Pros: Strong magnetic hold, solid aluminum build, adjustable viewing angles.
- Cons: Requires removing the iPad from the Magic Keyboard to use.
5. Paperlike Screen Protector
Writing on the iPad Pro’s bare glass feels like writing on ice. The Paperlike screen protector adds micro-friction that mimics the drag of a real pencil on paper. It dramatically improves handwriting neatness and drawing precision, though it does introduce a slight matte grain to the otherwise pristine OLED display.
- Pros: Excellent tactile feedback for writing/drawing, reduces screen glare.
- Cons: Slightly reduces display sharpness, wears down Apple Pencil tips faster.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to buy every accessory on day one, but starting with a reliable keyboard and a USB-C hub will immediately double what your iPad Pro is capable of. Which accessory do you consider an absolute must-have for your workflow? Let us know in the comments.