iPad Keyboard Cases

Posted on by Julie Youm

(09/13/2012) Update: We have also had the opportunity to evaluate the Crux360 case by CruxCase.

CruxCase Crux360
Cost: $99.00

Pros

  • The clamshell design of the case gives the impression that your iPad + keyboard is now a mini-laptop. Opening up the case and using it with the keyboard is one motion, i.e., no propping of the iPad, adjusting velcro, etc. as with the other keyboard cases we evaluated, and it is this feature that distinguishes the Crux360 the most from other keyboard cases. (Note: The ClamCase also offers this design, but costs $50 more than the Crux.)
  • The 360 hinge allows three viewing positions which Crux refers to as laptop mode, movie mode and tablet mode.
  • The keyboard has hot keys for selecting, cutting and pasting text, a Home button (great for getting to the multi-tasking bar), locking the screen and navigating the music/podcasts.

Cons

  • The location and size of the Shift key allows accidental movement of the cursor when intending to shift case. (Note: A future model available through Kickstarter, the CruxSKUNK case, appears to resolve this issue.)
  • The bluetooth connection from iPad to keyboard is often delayed after opening the case.
  • The case feels heavier than the others we have evaluated, though a protective panel can be removed from the back of the case (to exposes the Apple logo on the back of the iPad) to make it lighter if necessary.
  • The case does not stay completely closed in carry mode.

 

(08/03/2012) Here is a very brief review of three iPad keyboard cases that are available at the UCI Computerstore:

Belkin YourType Folio + Keyboard
Cost: $99.95

Pros

  • The keyboard is removable from the case.
  • The size of the keyboard is the full-length of the iPad. The tactile feel of the keyboard is good and responsive when typing. The location and size of the individual keys are as expected, for example, the Shift and Enter keys are easy to find.
  • The keyboard has hot keys for selecting, cutting and pasting text, a Home button (great for getting to the multi-tasking bar), locking the screen and navigating the music/podcasts.
  • It is easy to remove the keyboard to use simply as a folio case.
  • The case feels lightweight for a keyboard case.

Cons

  • The keyboard is attached to the case by velcro which could wear over time.
  • The keyboard casing is made of plastic which does not seem as strong as the keyboards on other cases.
  • There are three positions that the iPad and keyboard can be positioned. However, two of these can only be achieved by removing the keyboard from the case which makes it most useful on a flat surface, not a lap.
  • The sueded microfiber interior lining of the case may not be easy to clean in a clinical setting.

Adonit Writer
Cost: $79.95

Pros

  • The keyboard is removable from the case.
  • Magnets are used to secure the keyboard into position. This design allows for many different viewing angles while typing.
  • The size of the keyboard is the full-length of the iPad. The tactile feel of the keyboard is good and responsive when typing.
  • The keyboard has hot keys for selecting, cutting and pasting text, a Home button (great for getting to the multi-tasking bar), locking the screen and navigating the music/podcasts.
  • The case feels lightweight for a keyboard case.
  • This case comes in at a lower pricepoint than the other keyboard cases of similar quality.

Cons

  • The location and size of the Shift key allows accidental movement of the cursor when intending to shift case.
  • The keyboard just flaps around when the case is used as simply a folio and the keyboard has not been removed. When the keyboard has been removed, too much of the iPad seems to be exposed.
  • The sueded exterior and interior covers are hard to keep clean.

ZAGGfolio
Cost: $99.99

Pros

  • The keyboard is removable from the case.
  • The iPad fits into a thin groove to stand on the keyboard. With the iPad and keyboard removed from the case, the iPad can be placed in either a portrait or landscape position for typing.
  • The size of the keyboard is the full-length of the iPad. The tactile feel of the keyboard is good and responsive when typing. The location and size of the individual keys are as expected, for example, the Shift and Enter keys are easy to find.
  • The keyboard has hot keys for selecting, cutting and pasting text, a Home button (great for getting to the multi-tasking bar), locking the screen and navigating the music/podcasts.
  • The textured carbon fiber exterior of the case offers a good grip and seems easy to wipe down.

Cons

  • The keyboard needs to be removed from the case to charge it.
  • The snap to open the case is a little difficult at times.

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