Samsung Launches 'Pro Keyboard' for Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra

Samsung has officially launched a new 'Pro Keyboard' designed specifically for its Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra model. The accessory is now available for purchase on Samsung's online store.

The accessory is now available on Samsung's online store for $399.

This price point is nearly double that of the existing 'Book Cover Keyboard Slim' for the Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra and $50 higher than Apple's Magic Keyboard for the 13-inch iPad Pro.

Design and Connectivity

The keyboard's design resembles the lower half of a traditional laptop, providing a familiar form factor. It connects to the Tab S11 Ultra via rear pins, ensuring a direct and stable connection without requiring Bluetooth.

To support the tablet, the 'Pro Keyboard' includes a primary kickstand, allowing the device to be positioned at various angles. A secondary kickstand is also incorporated, designed to provide additional balance to the overall setup.

Key Features

The 'Pro Keyboard' boasts a full QWERTY layout, ensuring a comprehensive typing experience. A notable inclusion is a dedicated Galaxy AI key, likely intended to quickly access Samsung's artificial intelligence functionalities. It also features a full-size trackpad for precise navigation.

Operating without a built-in battery, the keyboard draws power directly from the tablet. This direct connection also means it does not require Bluetooth pairing to function.

Specifications and Combined Setup

When combined with the tablet, the keyboard allows the setup to be closed in a manner similar to a traditional laptop. The keyboard itself measures 5.3 mm thick, making it only 0.2 mm thicker than the Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra.

Weighing 636g, the keyboard is slightly lighter than the tablet. The total combined weight of the Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra and the 'Pro Keyboard' is approximately 1,300g (2.86lbs). The combined thickness of the two devices, with a small gap between them, is around 11mm.

Additional Functionality and Aesthetics

The keyboard does not include any additional ports for connectivity. However, it features customizable keys for app shortcuts, a functionality previously seen on other Samsung physical keyboards.

The 'Pro Keyboard' is offered in two color options: silver and gray.

Early Impressions and Criticisms

While the Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra Pro Keyboard is currently available for purchase, early reactions and reviews have raised concerns.

Early reactions and reviews have raised concerns.

Specific criticisms include the absence of backlighting, a lack of protection for the back of the tablet, and reported potential durability issues with the hinge.

Model Compatibility

There is currently no indication that this 'Pro Keyboard' will be released for the base Galaxy Tab S11 model. It appears to be exclusively designed for the Ultra variant.