(Credit: Sarah Tew/CNET)
The one differentiating feature separating the iPad from portable computers such as Netbooks for many people, other than the OS, is a keyboard. Yes, the iPad has its own onscreen virtual keyboard, but some will be tempted to explore alternatives to get "serious" writing done.
Keyboards for iPads have drawbacks: they add bulk to your bag, and the Bluetooth connection will add some drain to an iPad's battery life. Aside from that, you'll also have to consider whether you prefer a standalone keyboard, or a case that has a keyboard built in.
Keyboard cases can make for one-stop peripheral shopping, but they tend to be thick and sport compressed key layouts. A standalone keyboard has flexibility and a large, comfortable typing area, but you'll also need to bring along a way to prop up your iPad.
Listed below are the keyboard cases (and one standalone keyboard) we've reviewed over the past year. Many are iPad 2 specific, but a few also fit the original iPad. (Our favorite? Probably the standalone Logitech Tablet Keyboard.)
Targus Versavu Keyboard and Case for iPad 2
Targus' previous Versavu case was notable for its solid construction and ability to swivel the iPad 2 around into landscape or portrait orientation. The keyboard-added version of the Versavu has a thick, protective leather outside and a Bluetooth keyboard ensconced in padded microfiber.
It's the best case we've seen that has a keyboard, but the Versavu works better when the iPad 2's in vertical portrait mode, and the keyboard compresses some of its punctuation keys in an attempt to add space.
ZAGGfolio for iPad 2
Zagg makes excellent iPad keyboards (see below), but its iPad folio-style keyboard case is a mixed bag. When folded down into keyboard mode, it's excellent. However, the flimsy-feeling plastic shell pales in comparison with more form-fitting alternatives, and it's hard to remove the iPad 2 once it's in the case.
Interesting plus: the keyboard can be removed from the case, and the iPad 2 will still stand up in the standalone keyboard. Why, then, do you need the case?
iLuv ICK826 Detachable Bluetooth Keyboard Case for iPad 2
iLuv's $99 case (it can be found for even less at some online sites) is all-leather, and even the keyboard has a leather palm rest. The keyboard can be removed from the folio case; it's attached with Velcro strips. The keyboard, however, is very flat, unlike the types of keyboards you find on most laptops. The case stays open thanks to an easel-like stand that pops open in the back, and closes shut with a large flap emblazoned with the iLuv logo.
It's a business-friendly leather case, but it wasn't as comfortable or as stylish as we'd have preferred. Its prop-up-style back stand also means it's virtually impossible to use on a lap.
Logitech Keyboard Case by Zagg for iPad 2
Zagg's slim, aluminum keyboard doubles as a case of sorts for the iPad 2 (there's also a version for the original iPad), although it only covers the front face and leaves the back awkwardly exposed. Some people might get freaked out by pressing the iPad 2's glass against the keyboard, but rubber bumper pads keep the two separated.
Our proposal: don't consider it a case; think of it instead as a superportable Bluetooth keyboard that has its own stand and forms an attractive and functional package when placed on a desk. For commuting distances longer than the local coffee shop, you'll still want to put this keyboard/iPad combo in a sleeve.
Logitech Tablet Keyboard for iPad
Instead of a keyboard case, some might prefer going with a Bluetooth keyboard for their iPad instead. One of the best we've seen that's optimized for the iPad is Logitech's. The wide, full-size keyboard (nearly the same as Apple's Bluetooth Keyboard) feels great and comes with iPad-specific hot keys. Typing on it feels as good as typing at a regular desktop computer. And, unlike the keyboard cases we've seen, Logitech's keyboard uses AAA batteries.
Its most impressive feature, however, might be its sleeve: the magnetically hinged cover folds back and becomes an iPad stand that's perfectly angled, and will accept the iPad in landscape or portrait mode. This stand will support the original iPad as well as the iPad 2. Android users, rejoice: Logitech makes a version for you, too.
Apple Wireless Keyboard
Apple's $69 classic may be the go-to keyboard for many of you, simply because you might already own one; it comes standard with the iMac. The clean, crisp white keyboard has excellent response, and its dedicated volume-control and play/pause/skip keys actually work with the iPad. Apple's keyboard uses removable batteries, like Logitech's. It's very thin, but it's also wide and flat, and a bit longer than the iPad. It might require a larger bag than your average iPad murse. Yes, this Apple keyboard technically doesn't include a case at all, but we thought we'd include it because it's probably a solution most people will choose--and, thanks to the Smart Cover's ability to prop up the iPad 2, it's not such a bad option.
No comments:
Post a Comment