When Microsoft announced its upcoming rival to the iPad,
Surface, the feature that seemed to get people most excited was the keyboard
built into its snap-on case. ‘Apple must be wishing it had thought of that,’ remarked the
PC press, shrewdly. What Apple understands, though, is that just because you
think of something, that doesn’t mean you have to do it.
Not everyone who buys an iPad needs a keyboard case. But if
you do, there are plenty of companies who’ll be happy to sell you one. And that
means you get to choose from around a dozen options, not just two.
We tested six of the most promising and best iPad keyboard cases,
from big names and less familiar makers. So now you’ll know which to buy, with
the money you saved when your iPad didn’t come with one that you didn’t want. Wish
you’d thought of that, Microsoft? All these keyboard cases are available for
ipad, ipad 2 and the new ipad 3. If you have new ipad 3 than visit ipad3games.co to find out more best ipad 3 cases.
LogitechUltrathin Keyboard Cover ($97.99)
Logitech has taken a slightly different approach with its Ultrathin
keyboard case. Rather than a folio that makes your iPad look like an anonymous
executive folder, the Ultrathin is more like an Apple Smart Cover with a
keyboard attached. However, instead of a flappy lightweight plastic structure,
the Logitech has a solid base to protect your iPad’s precious screen.
Like the other models on test, the keyboard connects via
Bluetooth and contains a rechargeable battery; Logitech claims this will last
for six months between charges based on two hours of typing a day. We didn’t
quite have the time to test that fully, but with average use we don’t doubt it.
Your iPad is held magnetically in the trench across the top
of the keyboard, and although we had doubts about this scheme, in use it’s
excellent. The base and iPad feel incredibly sturdy in this configuration and
it makes for a very good typing experience. The single viewing angle might not
appeal to all – especially if you’re in an awkward position on a train or plane
– but that’s a minor gripe.
The Logitech is an excellent keyboard and, as the name promises,
very thin and light. If you’re looking for something that protects your iPad
completely, this probably isn’t for you, since it gives just the bare minimum
of coverage. But as a handy portable keyboard it’s excellent.
KensingtonKeyFolio Expert ($99.99)
Now, here’s an idea. How would you like to stick your iPad
into a case, quite literally?
Kensington has come up with the idea that, rather than
fiddle with a plastic clip-in solution or a fabric case that you slip your iPad into, it
would be more convenient just to use a sticky pad. Here – well, it’s interesting. You
align your iPad with the sticky oblong and press firmly until it grabs on. The surface that
adheres to the iPad’s rear is multi-use, so you can attach and remove it as many times as
you like.
The keyboard itself is large, and the case allows for a good
selection of viewing angles. The case wraps around your iPad and is both thin and
lightweight; our only criticism is that it’s all flaps and creases, making it difficult to
quickly grab your iPad and move on.
The main advantages of the Kensington are the multiple
angles provided for by the sectioned case and the nicely proportioned keyboard.
However, we have reservations about the attachment system. We never felt completely safe
carrying the iPad in the KeyFolio, especially as the open ends mean it could
theoretically slide out as you move about. You have to put a lot of faith in that sticky patch.
ZAGG ZAGGfolio
ZAGG’s keyboard case for the original iPad was one of our
favourite early accessories. The ZAGGfolio, for iPad 2 and the new iPad, is
neater but still hugs your tablet similarly; it’s more of a protective shell
than a folio case, despite the name. But it has a pleasant soft-touch finish so
it doesn’t feel like a cheap plastic cover.
Your iPad slides into the top half of the case and is held
firmly in place; a minor quibble is that you have to remove the keyboard from
the case to charge it. With the keyboard and iPad together, the Zagg is
relatively heavy, though still easily portable.
The clasp that holds the iPad shut works, but it’s not a
great design – not easy to clip shut and tricky to undo. And the way your iPad
sits in the keyboard means you get just the one viewing angle; it’s fine for most
situations, but some cases provide more flexibility. Still, the chunky base does mean the ZAGG can be used easily
on your lap, which is not something most of the other cases allow for.
The ZAGG is similar to the Adonit keyboard in that it’s one
of the better options for fast or touch-typists. But you’ll still have a few
frustrating hours getting used to the more cramped keys.
The ZAGG is a great protective case, and despite the small
shortcomings of the clip and the weight, it remains an excellent choice.
AND
ALSO…
Although we didn’t have room on the test bench for all the
keyboard cases we found, these are also worth considering:
BelkinYourType Keyboard + Folio ($54.99)
Cygnett Lavish Connect ($99.95)
Nuu SoftKey ($29.99)
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