Why You Need an iPad Keyboard
Monday, August 23rd, 2010The 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.
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.





































