I’m not quite ready to replace my MacBook Air with an iPad, but the 128GB iPad combined with the ZAGGkeys PROplus (US$129) brings me a step closer.
The PROplus is an ultra-thin Bluetooth keyboard accessory for the iPad 2, 3 or 4. I say “accessory” rather than simply “keyboard” because it doubles as a protective front cover when it’s not being used as a keyboard. Place the iPad facedown on the ZAGG product, and it magnetically snaps into place.
Remove the iPad, sit it in the special groove on the PROplus (in either landscape or portrait mode), pair the two via Bluetooth and you’re ready to type. Not only is the keyboard tactilely pleasing with good feedback, it has the added benefit of backlit keys. There are dedicated function keys to operate specific iPad features. Finally, the aluminum construction is a perfect match for the look and feel of the Apple tablet.
I don’t recommend using the PROPlus/iPad combo for typing on your lap. It’s footprint is so small that the combo tends to be top heavy, making it a bit wobbly. It’s best used on a desk or table.
If you plan on use it on your lap, get a laptop stand designed for use while sitting in bed. That will cost you another 20 bucks or more, but it will be worth it if you plan on typing with the ZAGG keyboard from the couch or bed.
The ZAGGKeys PROPlus is one of the coolest products I’ve test driven this year. Who knows? The day may be closer than I thought when my iMac will be my main work machine, and my iPad my “Mac supplement” for use when I need to do some article writing when I’m away from my desktop.
ADR rating: 10 out of 10
Product URL: http://tinyurl.com/bd2yqd9
Obvious question that the reviewer forgot to ask:
How is this zagg kb different from the seemingly identical logitech kb? –
With the noteable (and welcome) exception of the backlit keypad!