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What Is The Best iPad Case?

Monday, October 4th, 2010

The best iPad case in the world would be indestructible, look amazing, be ultra thin and be made of the highest quality materials and do everything you could possibly want whilst making you a sandwich. Unfortunately, that does not exist so the best iPad case varies from person to person, although some iPad cases always seem to rise to the top of the pile. Our best iPad cases are as follows!

OtterBox iPad Defender Case
The best protection around for the iPad, the OtterBox iPad Defender Case gives the highest level of security for your iPad. Drop proof, this case incorporates three layers of hardcore protection plus some advanced features. Stowing your iPad away for the night or for your commute? Simply remove the back polycarbonate cover and snap it over the face for ultimate touch screen protection, giving you full body protection for your iPad! It also comes with a build in stand, so it’s versatile as well as heavy duty. Not only that, it is designed to accommodate the iPad Dock so you never have to remove the case, meaning it is always protected.

Piel Frama Apple iPad Folio Leather Case
When it comes to leather cases, Piel Frama is hard to beat. This stunning iPad case is hand made with incredible attention to detail, ensuring that it is the very highest quality especially when combined with selected grade 1ª leather from individually chosen cows. Quality wise, this is possibly the best leather iPad case available (or at least one of the top few). The folio style of this case allows it to open like a book while providing full protection of the screen when it’s not in use. With a magnetic closure system, this case lets you access the iPad quickly and easily whilst keeping it secure. It also allows access to all of the controls and ports at all times, meaning you have full functionality whilst it is still inside the case.

KeyCase iPad Folio Deluxe with Bluetooth Keyboard – Black
The iPad case that has taken the world by storm, the KeyCase iPad Folio Deluxe with Bluetooth Keyboard is exactly what the name suggests, a case with a fully functioning  iPad keyboard built in. With an integrated Bluetooth 2.0 Keyboard which seemlessly connects with the iPad for quicker and more comfortable typing – this innovative folio case is ideal for people who regularly use their iPad for e-mailing, making notes and writing documents. The clever design of this multi-functional case allows it to protect the iPad, whilst it can easily convert into the laptop style postion. If you don’t need the Keyboard it simply folds behind the iPad and out of sight, and with a working time of up to 90 hours per charge (and standby time of up to 100 days), it won’t be running out of power any time soon.

KeyCase iPad Folio Deluxe with Bluetooth Keyboard - Black

Macally METROLPAD Clear with Silicone Grip for iPad
This ultra slim iPad case is designed protection without adding any bulk to the device itself. Protecting the iPad from scratches, it features a hardshell back panel and a silicon edge for extra protection and grip.  The frosty coloured matt effect back feels great and allows the Apple logo to show through, while the tough silicone edge holds your iPad perfectly still and protects it from light shocks and damage. The back of this case has four small knobs which stabilize the iPad when lying flat and protect the case from scuffs. Keeping the original form of the iPad, this lightweight case will give you discrete protection for those that don’t want any extra bulk on their iPad.

Marware Eco-Vue for iPad
The Eco-Vue case for the iPad uses eco-leather so it’s eco-friendly! What’s so great about eco-leather? The tanning process used to make this leather uses fewer toxins than traditional leather tanning. This minimizes toxic runoff into the ground and water tables. No chlorine, no sulfuric acid, and no petroleum/chemical based dyes. This is real leather, without the environmental impact of standard tanning and dyeing processes. But that’s not all! This is actually an iPad case that would stand out from the crowd even without being eco-friendly. It delivers 3 soluutions into one case – it has a unique and innovative hand strap design allows you to fold back the cover and securely grip the device during usage – a feature not offered in many other cases or covers. The Eco-Vue opens like a book, and the front cover can be used as a stand. A foldaway display stand is ideal for lower-angled typing or viewing, and rounds out a broad array of features provided in a single case solution. So there you have it, an eco-friendly iPad case that can function as a typing stand, viewing stand and also has support for holding it in your hands.

iPad Case with External Battery Launched!

Wednesday, September 29th, 2010

Introducing the iPad PowerCase with Battery Pack

GearZap is proud to announce a brand new iPad Accessory. It’s called the PowerCase! This is basically a full leather iPad Case with an integrated external battery pack designed to charge your iPad Battery when you’re on the go. It also features a very sturdy iPad Stand which can be adjusted to 3 different angles – so it’s great for typing or watching movies too!

With an integrated external battery pack, the PowerCase for iPad is the perfect solution for people who travel and ideal when you’re using the iPad over long periods without access to power. Just connect the USB port on the PowerCase using a standard Apple cable and the iPad will begin to charge. The external 4400mAh Rechargeable Lithium Polymer Battery is easily re-charged using a computer or USB power socket.

The PowerCase is available to buy from GearZap now!

iPad Accessories – Best of 2010!

Friday, September 24th, 2010

With the hugely successful launch of the Apple iPad in Sping 2010, we have seen hundreds of cool iPad Accessories trying to fight for attention. There are numerous blogs with Top 10 lists, however many are now a little outdated. This article is a roundup of the Top 10 Best iPad Accessories released throughout 2010.

Best iPad Accessories of 2010!

1. OtterBox iPad Defender Case

Drop-proof your iPad with the OtterBox Defender Series for Apple iPad! This cutting-edge case incorporates three layers of hardcore protection plus some advanced features. Stowing your iPad away for the night or for your commute? Simply remove the back polycarbonate cover and snap it over the face for ultimate touch screen protection. We awarded the Otterbox Defender 1st Place in the Toughest iPad Case review.

2. Power Support Anti-Glare Screen Protector for iPad

Protect your ipad screen from scratches, dust and dirt with the added benefit of reducing glare and fingerprints. Static-cling adhesive film is incredibly easy to apply and leaves no residue if removed. The Power Support anti-glare film uses a special matte finish that effectively reduces glare and fingerprints and provides traction for improved responsiveness.

3. Just Mobile UpStand for Apple iPad

Just Mobile UpStand is the high-style desktop iPad Stand. Precision engineered from aluminum, the UpStand’s supporting grips are finished in rubber to hold your iPad firmly in place and keep it pristine. With solid construction and iconic design, the UpStand turns the iPad into a great centrepiece for any desk. It’s compatible with most iPad cases including the official iPad case too.

4. Ten1 Pogo Sketch Stylus for iPad

Express yourself on the iPad. Fingers are great, but when you need accuracy, look no further than the Pogo Sketch Stylus. It’s ideal for sketching and drawing! Superbly designed using a light-weight aluminum alloy and detailed graphics, the Pogo Sketch features a look that’s hard to ignore. The soft tip glides easily over the surface of your iPad display, Apple Mac/MacBook trackpad or Phone, making it fun and easy to sketch, take notes, or just slide to unlock. Sized for comfort, it does away with inaccuracies common to fingertip-only use.

5. KeyCase iPad Folio Deluxe with Bluetooth Keyboard

With an integrated Bluetooth 2.0 Keyboard which seemlessly connects with the iPad for quicker and more comfortable typing – this innovative folio case is ideal for people who regularly use their iPad for e-mailing, making notes and writing documents. The clever design of this multi-functional case allows it to protect the iPad, whilst it can easily convert into the laptop style postion.

6. CaseCrown Vertical Messenger Bag

This Vertical Multi Pocket Mobile Messenger Bag from CaseCrown is the perfect protection for your netbook or iPad. The main compartment has excellent padding to protect your device from unwanted damage. There is also a number of additional compartments for your charger, accessories and any other extras such as your music player, mobile phone etc. The top has a velcro closure to secure it while providing quick and easy access. Perfect for professionals and students!

7. Griffin PowerJolt Micro iPad Car Charger

PowerJolt Micro delivers the 2.1 amps of power your iPad needs, and for fastest possible charging for your iPhone or iPod. Charge from almost any vehicle 12 volt power outlet. Included dock cable can be used separately to charge or sync your iPad, iPhone, or iPod. To charge other devices, use the cable that comes with your device; just plug it into PowerJolt Micro’s USB port.

8. Cool Bananas ‘BulletProof’ Hard Cover for iPad

The Cool Bananas ‘Bullet Proof’ iPad Hard Case is made from sturdy shock-resistant materials that deliver unrivaled protection for the iPad. The outside is constructed from a crush resistant EVA hard shell, while the inner core is made from shock-absorbing memory foam that absorbs knocks and drops. The durable double zip with rubber pullers make it quick and easy to get access to your iPad.

9. XtremeMac TuffWrap for iPad

We believe this is ‘THE BEST’ silicone case for iPad. Protect while adding grip with XtremeMac’s Tuffwrap case for iPad. Specially designed for the iPad, this form-fitting silicone case shields your iPad from scratches and dings. The tough material is designed so that it gives you full access to all the controls and ports at all times, meaning there is no reason to ever take it off.

10. Apple iPad Camera Connection Kit

With the genuine Apple iPad Camera Connection Kit, it’s incredibly easy to download photos from your digital camera to your iPad so you can view them on the gorgeous iPad display and share them with family and friends. After you make the connection, your iPad automatically opens the Photos app, which lets you choose which pictures to import, then organizes the selected photos into albums. When you sync iPad to your PC or Mac, the photos on your iPad are added to your computer’s photo library.

What’s the Best iPad Stylus for Sketching?

Wednesday, September 15th, 2010

One of the most impressive and innovative uses for the iPad is the potential for creating stunning artwork and sketches. Several iPad Apps now allow you to replicate different types of painting and sketch equipment. However, if you’ve ever tried sketching on the iPad then you’ll have discovered that a finger is not the best tool for precisely drawing the fine and detailed lines which are needed to create a masterpiece like the Beyonce sketch below (yes this was genuinely drawn on an iPad). If you’re serious about using your iPad to create artwork then you’ll need to buy a decent iPad Stylus. Keep reading to find out which iPad Styluses are best.

Essentially the type of stylus you use on an iPad is very important to the level of accuracy you see on the screen. We did a bit of research to find out what the experts were using to create life like sketches. Surprisingly, there were very few iPad Styluses which are suitable for artwork. It seems that almost everyone was using the Pogo Sketch Stylus or the DAGi Pen shown below.

1. Ten1 Pogo Sketch Stylus for iPad, iPhone, Mac & Tablet – Silver

Superbly designed using a light-weight aluminum alloy and detailed graphics, the Pogo Sketch features a look that’s hard to ignore. The soft tip glides easily over the surface of your iPad display, Apple Mac/MacBook trackpad or Phone, making it fun and easy to sketch, take notes, or just slide to unlock. Sized for comfort, it does away with inaccuracies common to fingertip-only use. This tool has a unique tip, engineered using a proprietary method to simulate a tiny finger tip. As a result it provides unrivalled accuracy on capacitive touch screens like the iPad.

2. DAGi Capacitive Stylus Pen for iPad & Tablet

The DAGi Stylus Pen is designed specifically for capacitive screens found on modern touch screens including the iPad, iPhone and tablet or touch screen computers. The unique selling point of this stylus is a sensitive transparent head which allows you to see exactly what you are pressing – a small red dot also allows the user to see the exact point where the stylus touches the iPad screen.

These styluses are now available to buy from GearZap.com – where you can buy EVERYTHING for your iPad including Cases, Bags, Stands, Docks, Screen Protectors and much more!

What’s the Best Value iPad Keyboard?

Thursday, September 9th, 2010

Are you looking for a cheaper alternative to the Apple Wireless Keyboard? You might be surprised to learn that the iPad can also be used with selected non-Apple Bluetooth Keyboards.

GearZap sell a wide range of iPad Keyboards, but some of these can be quite expensive. That’s why we’ve searched everywhere to find an iPad Compatible Bluetooth Keyboard that looks similar to the Official Apple Wireless Keyboard but costs less than half the price.

This Portable Bluetooth Keyboard is fully compatible with the iPad. Simplypair the device once and your iPad will auto-connect whenever the keyboard is turned on. Even the shift and CAPS keys work to allow capital letters and character shortcuts – just like your Mac or PC. We tested this keyboard and discovered that even shortcuts like the volume controls work correctly with the iPad, so you could even use it like a media centre.

This iPad Keyboard works excellently when used in conjunction with an iPad Dock or iPad Stand (as seen above). It’s just like a mini PC! We recommend this setup for anyone who uses their iPad for email, making notes or typing documents.

Why You Need an iPad Keyboard

Monday, August 23rd, 2010

The iPad comes with everything that you need to use it built in which is great, but to have all of the functions in such a small package with so few buttons there have to be compromises. One of these comes in the form of the iPad on screen keyboard. Whilst it is definitely usable, the iPad keyboard takes up a large amount of the screen as well as leaving lots of nice fingerprints all over the screen where the keys are. What is the solution to this problem? Get a small separate keyboard, which will let you make better use of the high quality screen as well as keeping it fingerprint-free. It’ll also let you type and access some of the controls wirelessly from the iPad. Here are a few of the best and most practical iPad keyboards on the market.

Flexible Bluetooth Mini Keyboard
This flexible Bluetooth Mini Keyboard might be called “mini”, but the design makes it large enough for those who need to get some typing done on the move. The Flexible Bluetooth Mini Keyboard is designed to be a durable and portable bluetooth enabled keyboard. The slimline flexible design makes it ultra portable, perfect as a travelling companion for devices such as the iPad. Its flat design makes it comfortable to type with and silent keys for more discrete use. Add to that the fact that it is water and dust resistant means that it is a great device for portability and functionality. The keyboard comes supplied with a USB charging cable which means that it can still be used when low on power. Able to be rolled up for storage and transportation, this convenient keyboard makes typing on mobile devices much simpler and more comfortable.

Mini Bluetooth Keyboard – Black
Portability is the key with this Mini Bluetooth Keyboard. The iPad is a mobile device, so this ultra slim keyboard makes it a great travelling partner. This device is small enough to slip into your pocket or alongside the iPad in its carry case. Compatible with all Bluetooth enabled devices, this keyboard is useful for connecting to your iPhone and Playstation 3 too. This particular one comes in classic black but there is also a silver version if you prefer.

KeyCase iPad Folio with Integrated Bluetooth Keyboard – Black
This is the ultimate package for an all-in-one typing and transportation package. The iPad Folio is a protective case for the iPad with an integrated Bluetooth Keyboard which seamlessly connects with the iPad for quicker and more comfortable typing – this innovative folio case is ideal for people who regularly use their iPad for e-mailing, making notes and writing documents. The clever design of this multi-functional case allows it to protect the iPad, whilst it can easily convert into the laptop style position. This will support the iPad into an optimal viewing angle whilst you can type without worrying about the iPad being supported. If you don’t need the Keyboard it simply folds behind the iPad and out of sight. The keyboard design features quiet keystrokes, and is also dust-proof and spill-proof making it extra durable and ideal for travelling with. With a battery life of approximately 45 hours and using the same charger as the standard Apple power cable, this keyboard should never be running out of power.

Apple iPad Keyboard Dock

The Genuine Apple iPad Keyboard Dock combines a dock for charging your iPad with a full-size keyboard. The dock has a rear 30-pin connector, which lets you connect to an electrical outlet using the USB Power Adapter, sync to your computer, and use accessories like the Camera Connection Kit. An audio jack lets you connect to stereo or powered speakers. With the iPad Keyboard Dock, you get a useful home base for your iPad. It combines a built-in aluminum Apple keyboard with a dock for syncing, charging, and more. It also works with other iPad accessories, such as the iPad Dock Connector to VGA Adapter and the iPad Camera Connection Kit. The attached keyboard features a sleek anodized aluminum enclosure with low-profile keys that provide a crisp, responsive feel and an ultracompact design that fits on even the most crowded desk. Special keys provide one-touch access to a variety of iPad features — the Home screen, Spotlight search, display brightness, picture frame mode, the onscreen keyboard, and screen lock. Although not designed to be portable, this is a great dock and keyboard set for any desk.

Freedom i-Connex Bluetooth Keyboard
This solid keyboard is one of very few portable keyboards that feature a hard design, making it extremely easy to type on and also comes with a whole range of features. This iPad keyboard has an innovative folding design which allows you to quickly fold it away and carry around you everywhere. It even comes with a protective case to protect it against damage. HID Profile allows it to be connected to the iPad as well as iPhones and can also be connected to many HID compatible devices which have keyboard support such as Playstations 3′s, Netbooks, Laptop’s and PC’s. It also has 6 dedicated keys for media controls, control and function keys allow control of your mobile device from the keyboard and separate LED indicators to show power and connection status. For extra comfort when typing, it also has a pull out, folding device stand. It uses two AAA batteries for long life (Over 90 hours use and 3000 hours standby) and ease of replacement. Feature and layout-wise, this is one the keyboards that comes closest to replicating a full sized keyboard whilst maintaining its portability.

Must Have iPad Accessories

Tuesday, August 17th, 2010

If you are lucky enough to have an iPad, then you can be sure that you want the very best accessories to go with it.  iPad accessories can range from simple cases and bags to docks and keyboards. Here is a selection of iPad accessories designed to either protect the iPad or enhance your experience with it.

Apple iPad Keyboard Dock
The official apple iPad keyboard dock combines the practicality of having a seperate iPad Keyboard with the functionality of having a dock stand to support the iPad whilst it is syncing or charging. Designed by Apple, the iPad Keyboard Dock fits the iPad perfectly, and with the same design scheme as the iPad it makes a great accessory and addition to any desktop.

Genius iPad Stand
The Genius iPad Stand is designed to stand your iPad at the perfect angle, allowing you to watch movies, view photos or type in a more comfortable position. Made from a single piece of strong alloy metal, this modern stand fits perfectly with the entire range of Apple iPad. Blending perfectly with your iPad, it’s ideal for use as a photo frame or to hold your iPad at the perfect angle while you watch a movie. It can also be used to hold the iPad at an angle while you type.

Knomo 10″ Messenger Bag
An iPad bag is designed specifically so that you can carry your iPad and everything you need to do with it easily and securely. Slim and highly portable, the Knomo Netbook Messenger Bag is a sleek solution for the on-the-go professional. Made with genuine leather on the flap and sides, it’s highly practical and beautifully stylish. The adjustable strap and soft construction make it comfortable to carry ensuring it’s the perfect messenger. Capable of carrying the accessories to go with the iPad, this bag will transport and protect your iPad in style.

iPad Dock Stand
If you want the most secure dock for your iPad, this is definitely the one for you. The biggest iPad dock we have so far, this one provides maximum support for the iPad while it syncs and charges. With a large base, the iPad dock stand has extra stability and great quality and construction. Covering the whole length of the iPad base, this stand will hold your iPad up with no problems while it syncs and charges. Coming in a classic matte black finish, you can’t go wrong with this iPad dock. You can also use it with an iPhone or an iPod, although they may look a bit small on the large stand.

OtterBox iPad Defender Case
This is the toughest iPad Case on the market! Drop-proof your magical, new must-have gadget with the OtterBox Defender Series for Apple iPad! This cutting-edge case incorporates three layers of hardcore protection plus some advanced features. Stowing your iPad away for the night or for your commute? Simply remove the back polycarbonate cover and snap it over the face for ultimate touch screen protection. The built-in stand will come in handy while trying to watch a movie or video, and creates a comfortable browsing experience. When using your iPad on a flat surface, the silicone grip pads on the bottom will hold your device securely in place. We also designed this case to accommodate the optional iPad dock accessory! Take your iPad everywhere you go knowing that it is safe from the occasional drop, bump and/or scratch.


Power Support Anti Glare iPad Screen Protector
Well regarded as the best iPad screen protector in the world and our best selling iPad Screen Protector, the Power Support iPad Screen Protector protects your device from scratches, dust and dirt with the added benefit of reducing glare and fingerprints. Static-cling adhesive film is incredibly easy to apply and leaves no residue if removed. The anti-glare film uses a special matte finish that effectively reduces glare and fingerprints and provides traction for improved responsiveness. See every detail on the display – This custom-fit, die-cut, matte-finish film in no way affects the visual output of the LCD screen. And even better, it’s remarkably easy to install.

Top 5 iPad Bags

Monday, August 16th, 2010

There are a lot of ways to carry and protect your iPad, with a huge range of cases, sleeves, skins and so on designed to protect your device. While these are all great, they are not exactly ideal for carrying them around when you have accessories to go with or if you just want a carrying handle or strap for it. An iPad bag which is specially designed for the iPad will always be a better fit than a standard bag and have the padding needed to protect it while you carry it around, and this is why you need an iPad bag. These are the top 5 iPad bags designed to carry your iPad and iPad accessories.

1. Knomo 10” Messenger Bag
The top end of iPad bags, this luxurious leather messenger bag combines style and practicality into one high quality package. Well known for their high quality leather products for portable devices, this Knomo messenger bag is one of their best products to date. Incorporating style and function together, Knomo accessories are designed in London by a team that combines the innovation and functional expertise of product designers with the flair and style of fashion designers. Slim and highly portable, the Knomo Netbook Messenger Bag is a sleek solution for the on-the-go professional. Made with genuine leather on the flap and sides, it’s highly practical and beautifully stylish. The adjustable strap and soft construction make it comfortable to carry ensuring it’s the perfect messenger. With separate compartments and a zipped pocket, this iPad bag is functional enough to carry all of your important items and stay organised. Knomo also has its own unique ID tracker system to help you find your Knomo bag in case it gets lost.

2. Booq Taipin Slim XS iPad Bag
This compact yet surprisingly roomy and lightweight iPad bag features a nicely padded iPad compartment and an extremely functional interior for your power adapter and other iPad accessories. The first thing you notice when holding the Booq Taipan iPad Bag is the quality of the construction and materials used. The reinforced design and padded sides will certainly protect your iPad if it was dropped from a height. This bag is suitable for carrying an iPad with or without an additional case. Equipped with two convenient tuck-away carrying handles and a completely removable shoulder strap made from seatbelt nylon, you can carry your Taipan slim briefcase-style or over the shoulder. The durable exterior fabric also has a water repellent coating, and with pockets at the front, back and inside and a super-soft internal lining it’s ideal for iPad users on the move! And if you ever lose this bag, keep in mind that each Taipan slim is equipped with a unique Terralinq badge and serial number, designed to help you recover your lost & found bag.

3. Cool Bananas 24Seven iPad Shoulder Bag
This iPad shoulder bag is an absolute eye-catcher. The combination of nylon, hard shell and leatherette puts this stylish bag into focus. The front zipper pocket provides space for small accessories such as your mobile phone. The slim bag is designed to for a snug fit on the iPad, making it great if you want a smaller iPad bag to just carry it around. The hard shell gives the iPad excellent shock resistance and will also protect against scratches and bumps. Either used as a shoulder bag or – due to the removable shoulder strap -tucked away into a backpack, the 24seven Slim is a chic all-rounder.

4. CaseCrown Vertical Messenger Bag
This Vertical Multi Pocket Mobile Messenger Bag from CaseCrown is the perfect protection for your iPad. Able to carry your iPad with plenty of room for accessories and other items such as books and documents, this messenger bag is highly versatile and practical. The main compartment has excellent padding, giving you premium protection for your device from unwanted damage. There are also a number of additional compartments on the front, back, interior and sides for your charger, accessories and any other extras such as your music player, mobile phone etc. The top has a Velcro closure to secure it while providing quick and easy access to all of your items when you need it. With a stylish design and great storage capacity, it’s perfect for professionals and students!

5. CaseCrown iPad Messenger Bag – Classic
For CaseCrown fans that like their bags a bit more horizontal, the classic iPad Messenger Bag delivers. This Horizontal Multi-Pocket iPad Messenger Bag from CaseCrown is ideal for transporting your iPad along with all your other kit. Similar in design to the vertical messenger bag, the main compartment has excellent padding for a high level of protection for the iPad. It also has the high level of compartments so you can separate all of your iPad accessories and belongings. Great for students and professionals, this bag is ideal for anyone who wants to carry around more than just their iPad.

Top 3 iPad Bluetooth Keyboards

Wednesday, August 11th, 2010

The iPad is proving to be incredibly popular with everyone from casual users through to businesses introducing them into their daily lives. It’s great for internet, gaming and reading, but with Pages and Numbers available for the iPad, it’s also great for writing your reports, essays and letters on while you’re out and about.

Like the iPhone, the iPad has a touchscreen keyboard which is really easy to type on, but not everyone gets on with it as the lack of feedback when you press a key does feel a little strange. To overcome this one of the best iPad accessories you can invest in an iPad Bluetooth Keyboard.

These come in a range of shapes and sizes and are incredibly easy to set up – just turn it on, go to the Bluetooth Settings on your iPad and select the keyboard. Once you’ve entered your passkey you’re ready to start typing at full speed on a normal keyboard.

GearZap sell a number of iPad Keyboards, so I thought I’d take some time trying out some of our most popular ones and here’s how I got on with each of them.

KeyCase iPad Folio Case with Built in Bluetooth Keyboard

This is a great idea and I’m surprised that no other manufacturers have released one yet. It’s a protective carry case that has a bluetooth keyboard built into the inside cover and folds so that you can also use it as a desk stand. The keyboard is made from a soft silicone, so you won’t get the firm clicking that you’ll get with a regular desktop keyboard, but you do get more feed back from it than you would by using the on screen keyboard.

iPad Folio KeyCase with built in Keyboard

iPad Folio KeyCase with built in Keyboard

Unlike most of the Bluetooth Keyboards, you don’t need to worry about having to constantly replace batteries. The keyboard has a built in rechargable battery that uses the same charger as your iPad. As it’s made for iPad, the keyboard features all the standard Mac buttons, including volume, music controls and the command and option keys. This may not sound like that big a deal, but if the keyboard didn’t have them you wouldn’t be able to use any of the keyboard shortcuts (such as Cmd-A to select all, Cmd-C to copy etc..) while using your iPad.

Building the keyboard into the case is a great idea as it means you’re always going to have it with you. The case doesn’t add a lot of bulk to your iPad and the soft silicone keypad helps to protect the screen of your iPad when the case is closed.

Apple Bluetooth Keyboard for iPad

This is the same Bluetooth Keyboard that’s included with all new Apple iMacs. It’s an incredibly thin, full sized keyboard that pairs quickly and easily with the iPad. It’s obviously got all the Mac keys, so all your shorcuts will work. It looks great and has proper keys that press and click as any desktop keyboard would. The only slight down side is that it’s powered by two AA batteries rather than being rechargable – having said that I’ve been using one of these keyboards for a few months with my Mac at home and the battery life is excellent. The keyboard goes into power saving mode as soon as it’s not being used and comes back on as soon as a key is pressed.

Apple iPad Bluetooth Keyboard

Apple iPad Bluetooth Keyboard

The keyboard is light and portable, but the keys do stand out from the keyboard, so you’ll need to be careful carrying this around in your bag as it’s likely to get damage or lose a few keys, so for that reason I’d say this is a better option if you want a keyboard to leave at home or on your desk rather than to carry around with you.

Flexible Bluetooth Mini Keyboard

I’ve got mixed thoughts on this one as it’s clearly been designed with Windows users in mind. Its a compact silicone keyboard that rolls up when not in use, making it perfect for carrying around and using on the go – in a way. Because this keyboard is flexible, you need to use it on a flat surface, so if you’re planning on using this on the train, or on a park bench in your lunch break, you’re not going to find it particularly easy.

Flexible Bluetooth Mini Keyboard

Flexible Bluetooth Mini Keyboard

The keyboard has a built in rechargeable battery, but charges using a USB cable connected to your PC and uses a different cable to your iPad. The keys on it are similar to those on the Folio Case – a soft silicone that is dust and splash proof and is silent to use, but as I mentioned earlier, this keyboard has been designed for Windows and Symbian devices, more so than the iPad.

There are a number of keys on it that won’t do anything with iPad, and as there are no Mac buttons you won’t be able to use any keyboard shortcuts either.

Summary

If you need a simple, portable keyboard for occaisional typing then the Flexible Bluetooth Mini Keyboard will do the job nicely, but if you plan on using it more often or want the abilty to use keyboard shortcuts, then I’d recommend going for one of the other two keyboards instead.

There are other iPad Bluetooth Keyboards available, these are just the three that I think work the best with the iPad. If you’ve seen an iPad Keyboard that works really well that we’ve not mentioned here, let us know using the comments form below.

Top iPad Docks

Monday, August 9th, 2010

The iPad is a great piece of technology. You can use it to watch movies, listen to music and use the endless amount of apps available to it. All you have to do is sync it to a pc (if you have all your media on there), let it transfer and you are ready to go. The only thing is, while you sync it through a USB cable most people don’t want to leave their precious iPad lying around with cables dangling from it. What about when you want to use it to watch that great movie, you could prop it up with something lying around on your desk or just hold it for an hour but the only real solution to these problems is to get an iPad dock.

An iPad dock is the all-in-one solution to your syncing and viewing problems. It lets you sync and charge an iPad easily, it’s quick and simple to attach and detach the iPad from the dock so you dont need to mess around with wires and cables any more. However, probably the most important function of it is that you can use it as a stand to watch movies or view images. The iPad dock will keep your iPad upright and stable so you are free to sit back and watch the film or use it to show of the great looking iPad as part of your desk. Combine this with the fact that it will sync and charge while being used as a display and you will never have to worry about the battery dying while your film is playing. An iPad dock is easily one of the most essential and simple iPad accessories you could ever buy, so here is a few that we think are the best.

iPad Docking Station

This glossy black iPad dock features a back plate which can adjust the resting position of the iPad which allows the dock to be compatible with many slimline iPad skins or covers (up to 4mm thick). Have a nice decorative skin for your iPad (something like one of these Gelaskins maybe)? This dock will be perfect for it. You can also change the viewing angle on it to get rid of that annoying glare you might have on the screen when you watch your movie. The back plate comes in a nice illuminated blue for that extra bit of style. It’s also compatible with the iPhone and iPod, so you’ll only ever need one dock.

Desktop iPad Cradle

This desktop cradle, as the name suggests, is ideal for your desk. Perfect for simple syncing and charing of the iPad, it’ll hold it upright so you can watch your movies and slideshows while it charges. Coming in white, the iPad cradle matches the back of the iPad nicely. The iPad cradle also comes with adjustable viewing angles to make sure you have the perfect angle to watch the movie comfortably. Not only that, you can make sure that there is enough room for the iPad to fit even with the biggest of iPad cases on. Have a large book style leather case or shell on the iPad? No problem! It’s also compatible with the iPhone and iPod too.

iPad Dock Stand

If you want the most secure dock or stand for your iPad, this is definitely the one for you. The biggest stand we have so far, this one provides maximum support for the iPad. With a large base, the iPad dock stand has extra stability and great quality and construction. Covering the whole length of the iPad base, this stand will hold your iPad up with no problems while it syncs and charges. Coming in a classic matte black finish, you can’t go wrong with this iPad dock. You can also use it with an iPhone or an iPod, although they may look a bit small on the large stand.

Classic iPad Dock
Simple styling and sleek design make this a great accessory for the iPad. Coming in the classic iPad white, this accessory matches the iPad design perfectly. It has also designed for a tight fit against the iPad, making it that little bit more secure and with no gaps it looks just that much better. With the iPad Dock, you get easy access to a dock connector port for syncing or charging, and an audio line out port for connecting to powered speakers via an optional audio cable. The iPad Dock also supports other iPad accessories, such as the iPad Dock Connector to VGA Adapter and the iPad Camera Connection Kit. As with the other docks, it is also compatible with iPhone and iPods.