How to Check If an Apple Magic Keyboard Is Real or Fake

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Computer & tech specialist Luigi Oppido goes over the signs that an Apple Magic Keyboard may be fake

Co-authored by Hunter Rising Reviewed by Luigi Oppido

Last Updated: May 22, 2026 Fact Checked

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• Fake Keyboard Signs (Mac)
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• Fake Keyboard Signs (iPad)
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• Where to Buy
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• Alternatives

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Apple Magic Keyboards are great accessories for your computer or iPad, but fake versions of the products have popped up everywhere online. If you want to ensure you get an authentic product that’s built to last, we partnered with a computer & tech specialist to help you verify whether a Magic Keyboard is real or fake. Keep reading to learn the telltale signs of a fake Magic Keyboard for your Mac or iPad. Don’t worry if you’re on a budget, because we also have a list of cheaper alternatives with similar features you can try out.

Fake Apple Magic Keyboard: Top Signs

Computer & tech specialist Luigi Oppido says an easy way to tell if an Apple Magic Keyboard is fake is to enter the serial number on Apple’s website, which will tell you if the serial number is legit or fake. Here are a few other signs the keyboard is fake:

• The packaging has spelling errors, misaligned text, or dark and blurry images.
• The keys feel squishy instead of fast and responsive.
• The keyboard connects to an iPad with Bluetooth instead of magnets.
• The keyboard requires external charging when connected to an iPad.

Steps

Section 1 of 4:

How to Spot a Fake Magic Keyboard

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   The packaging has printing errors. Real Magic Keyboards from Apple come in clean packaging that has high-quality images and clear printing that’s free of errors. If you notice misspellings in the text, light or misaligned text, or darker print colors on the packaging, it may be a sign that you have a counterfeit.

   • If the keyboard is new but the packaging is already open, it could be a red flag that the product has been swapped out for a fake or repackaged to look authentic.
   • Many fake Magic Keyboards still include the stickers and information that’s listed on an authentic product.

   Meet the wikiHow Expert

   Luigi Oppido is a computer & tech specialist with over 25 years of experience in computer repair, data recovery, virus removal, and upgrades. He’s also the owner of Pleasure Point Computers in Santa Cruz, CA.
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   The serial number is invalid. The serial number is a string of 17 or 18 characters located on the bottom of the keyboard or on a sticker on the product box. Oppido suggests entering the serial number into the Apple Coverage Check, which will tell you if the number is legit or fake. If a message appears saying, “We’re sorry, we’re unable to check coverage for this serial number,” there’s a chance that the keyboard is a fake.

   • If the Magic Keyboard is authentic, then the page will list the purchase date, as well as if it’s still covered by AppleCare’s warranty.
   • Checking the serial number of a resold Magic Keyboard may not list the purchase date or warranty information.
   • If you’re having trouble verifying your serial number, contact Apple support and ask them to verify the number for you.
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   The keys feel squishy or low quality. Magic Keyboard users note that the real deal has keys that are easy to press and make a mechanical clicking sound as you type. If the keys feel soft or squishy and don’t have a little resistance when you’re typing, then you’re most likely dealing with a counterfeit.

   • If you have a friend with a Magic Keyboard, ask to try it out so you can compare how the keys feel.
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   The keyboard lists a different manufacturer in your System Information. Click on the Apple logo in the menu bar, hold down the Option key, and click on System Information. Check the Bluetooth tab if you connected your keyboard wirelessly or USB for a wired connection. A real Magic Keyboard will say “Magic Keyboard” and “Apple” under the manufacturer. If there are any other names or manufacturers listed, then you have a fake.
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   The price is lower than you’d expect. Magic Keyboards from Apple typically cost between $99-179 USD, depending on the model you get. If you see a Magic keyboard listed for a fraction of the actual price, there’s a good chance that it’s not authentic.
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Section 2 of 4:

How to Spot a Fake iPad Magic Keyboard

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   The Apple logo is missing on the product. The Magic Keyboards for the iPad have the Apple logo indented on the back of the case. If you cannot see the logo featured anywhere on the keyboard, then it’s a good sign you’re dealing with a fake.
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   The serial number is missing or invalid. The serial number on iPad Magic Keyboards is usually featured on the inner part of the case just above the main hinge. Run the serial number through the Apple Coverage Check. If it’s legit, information about the purchase date and warranty will appear, but it will display an error message if the serial number is invalid.

   • You may also access the serial number by going to Settings → General → About → Magic Keyboard. If you don’t see any information there, then the Magic Keyboard is a fake.
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   The keyboard uses Bluetooth instead of magnetic connectors. Real Magic Keyboards from Apple connect to your iPad using magnets and will work as soon as they’re attached. Oppido notes that most fake keyboards are connected via Bluetooth and not by a physical connection. So, if you have to go into your settings and add the keyboard to your Bluetooth devices, then it isn’t an official Apple product.

   • If you try to connect a fake Magic Keyboard, Oppido adds that in some cases, your iPad will tell you that it is not a genuine accessory.
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   The keyboard doesn’t have a charging pad or port. Oppido says that he’s noticed that most of the fake Magic Keyboards do not have charging pads or ports where the iPad connects to the keyboard’s faceplate. On legitimate keyboards, there are contacts on the back of the plate that connect to the iPad to give it power and charge (and vice versa). He notes that these are missing on fake keyboards.
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   The trackpad clicks instead of having haptic feedback. iPad keyboards with a touchpad typically require a soft touch or tap when you click on something. If you have to press the touchpad down so it makes an audible click when you use the cursor, then it’s a sign that the Magic Keyboard is a fake.
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   The keyboard feels heavier than expected. Magic Keyboards are typically made with lightweight materials so that they’re portable and easy to use. Fake Magic Keyboards tend to be heavier because they have extra batteries or internal hardware that are not built into the real deal.
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   The keyboard requires charging. Magic Keyboards connect directly to your iPad and use the charge from your iPad’s battery for power. If you have to charge your keyboard even though your iPad still has battery life, then it’s most likely a fake.

   • Keep in mind that real Magic Keyboards still have a charging port, but it is used to charge your iPad rather than the keyboard.
   • Oppido adds that most fake Magic Keyboards have their own battery instead of being powered by the iPad.
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Section 3 of 4:

Where to Buy Apple Magic Keyboards

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   Buy Magic Keyboards from the Apple Store or authorized sellers. Apple Stores and authorized sellers will only have legitimate products available, so you don’t have to worry about getting a fake. Locate the nearest seller to you, or purchase the keyboard online directly from the Apple Store.

   • Warning: Some users have noted that the Magic Keyboards they purchased on Amazon were fakes, even though the seller was listed as the Apple Store.
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   Get a Magic Keyboard from resellers if you can verify its authenticity. If you’re shopping on a budget, many resellers have used or refurbished Magic Keyboards for a little cheaper. When you’re shopping on sites like eBay or Facebook Marketplace, always double-check the pictures of the product, the details listed on the post, and the reviews of the seller.

   • If you’re unsure if a Magic Keyboard online is real or fake, ask the seller to send you more pictures or ask to test it out before purchasing. If the seller refuses your requests, err on the side of caution and look for a different keyboard.
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Section 4 of 4:

Apple Magic Keyboard Alternatives

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   Logitech MX Keys S If you’re looking for a compact and low-profile keyboard that has the same feel as the Magic Keyboard, the Logitech MX Keys S is the perfect alternative. The keyboard connects with Bluetooth or a USB-C connection, and it features indented keys that make typing a lot more comfortable.

   • Price: $99-119 USD
   • Average Amazon Review: 4.4 out of 5 stars
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   Lowfree Flow84 The Lowfree Flow84 is low profile, like the Magic Keyboard, but it has mechanical keys for even more precision. The keyboard connects over Bluetooth or a wired connection, and it has a durable aluminum build that’s made to last for a long time.

   • Price: $109-129 USD
   • Average Amazon Review: 4.1 out of 5 stars
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   Keychron K3 Max The Keychron K3 Max is one of the top sellers as a Magic Keyboard alternative because it has quiet mechanical keys that are responsive and comfortable for typing. You can plug the keyboard into your computer directly or pair it over Bluetooth if you want to work wirelessly.

   • Price: $63-115 USD
   • Average Amazon Review: 4.4 out of 5 stars
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   Satechi SM1 Slim The Satechi SM1 Slim is a compact mechanical keyboard with responsive, backlit keys. The keyboard connects wirelessly through Bluetooth, so you can pair it with Mac, Windows, or an iPad.

   • Price: $45-100 USD
   • Average Amazon Review: 4.4 out of 5 stars
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   Zagg Pro Keys The Zagg Pro Keys has one of the most durable cases for iPad keyboards and protects against any drops or falls. Your iPad attaches with a strong magnet and a Bluetooth connection, and the keys have a light feel that makes typing a breeze. The Zagg keyboard case also has a spot to store an Apple Pencil so that you don’t worry about losing it.

   • Price: $80-150 USD
   • Average Amazon Review: 4.2 out of 5 stars
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   Brydge Max The Brydge Max keyboard has a hard outer shell that resembles a laptop, and your iPad snaps into place with a magnetic connection. If you want to transform your iPad so it has the real feel of a MacBook, this case works seamlessly with your tablet.

   • Price: $80-180 USD
   • Average Amazon Review: 3.9 out of 5 stars
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   ESR Rebound Magnetic Keyboard Case The ESR Rebound Magnetic Keyboard Case attaches to your iPad using magnets and connects via Bluetooth. It has a similar look and shape to the actual Magic Keyboard with a cantilever stand that lets you adjust your iPad to the perfect angle.

   • Price: $80-120 USD
   • Average Amazon Review: 4.3 out of 5 stars
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   Logitech Combo Touch The Logitech Combo Touch keyboard acts like a case for your iPad when it’s closed, and it opens up to a full keyboard with a trackpad and kickstand. This keyboard is super sleek and portable so that you can use your iPad like a laptop wherever you go.

   • Price: $120-190 USD
   • Average Amazon Review: 4.5 out of 5 stars
   • Oppido notes that while Logitech and other brands have made aftermarket Magic Keyboards, in his opinion, Apple’s is still the best one.
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