trishussey
on
Okay, fine, you caught me. In truth for this post (as you can plainly see from the pictures) I’m using the ZAGG folio for 3rd Gen iPad. However, the most important part of this whole system is the keyboard and whether you use the Logitech co-branded option or the ZAGGfolio option—you get the same great keyboard and (most) of the features. First let’s talk about keyboard.
The ZAGG keyboard is a simple, rechargeable, Bluetooth keyboard, with special iPad function keys (like to jump to Home, cut, copy, paste, lock the screen, etc. Pairing with my iPad was a cinch—and faster than pairing using the Apple Wireless Keyboard I must add—and the moment I started typing with the keyboard, I knew that this was going to be a keyboard that I was going to get a lot of use out of. Seriously. Remember, the key feature in getting an external keyboard for your iPad is to make typing easier and faster. A keyboard with small keys and bad key feel isn’t really much of an improvement is it?
How’s that flexibility!
Thus far, I’d be hard-pressed to see how another keyboard for the iPad could outmatch the ZAGG. I think ZAGG has not only been doing it the longest, but also has (I feel) really thought about how people are using their iPads for work and writing. Neither option (the Logitec keyboard only or the ZAGGfolio) ties you into keeping your iPad imprisoned in a case tied to a keyboard. In fact, I keep my iPad out of the case as much as I keep it in the case. Playing Draw Something and Words With Friends is a royal pain in the case…which is fine, the case isn’t designed for playing games or reading or other “I’d like to hold my iPad close to me” tasks. This is not a flaw or limitation, this is purposeful design. When I have my iPad connected with the keyboard I’m there for writing. I expect to type out notes, emails, presentations, posts, book chapters…you get the idea. So instead of trying to make this the case you never want to remove, it’s the case you use when you need to and stow when you don’t.
I did mention at the beginning that this is a little more expensive option. The ZAGG Logitech combo is about $100 and the folio is about $140. This is about what similar keyboards I’ve seen cost, so there is no real surprise there.
Buying advice:
Pros: Easy to use, light, easily packable. Rechargeable battery that is supposed to last for months of use.
Cons: The keys are smaller than “normal” keys, so you need to adjust. The charging cable is specific to this device, so if you lose it, you’re hooped.
Tris’ final word: I don’t think you can lose with this keyboard. ZAGG, I think, has done a great job at making a solid, workhorse keyboard that is as easy to take with your iPad as it is to leave behind (when you don’t need it).
The Logitech Keyboard Case for the iPad 2 & iPad (3rd Gen) by ZAGG is a great way to protect and use your iPad 2 tablet. It features a sleek protective casing, Logitech-designed wireless keyboard, a stand, and high density corner padding to cushion and protect your device.
