The Salt Lake Tribune
Updated Jan 17, 2011 03:49PM
Before, it would have been almost impossible to write this review on my iPad.
The virtual onscreen keyboard on Apple’s computer tablet is a pain to use. It’s a chore to type anything on a touchscreen longer than a terse email.
But I’m actually typing this review on my Apple iPad, and it’s been a breeze thanks to a new locally-produced accessory for the tablet that’s part case, part keyboard.
It’s the new ZAGGmate, and it’s a great accessory for anyone who wants to turn their content-consuming iPad into a content creator.
The ZAGGmate is a silver aluminum case that on one side looks just like the brushed-metal casing of the iPad. But on the other is an inset Bluetooth keyboard that can be wirelessly connected to the tablet.
You can put the iPad inside the case face down, and it doesn’t add that much thickness, leaving just the back of the iPad exposed (which is a downside, as it’s susceptible to scratches). It fits snugly in the case thanks to dense foam lining the inside. There’s no concern the iPad would ever accidentally fall out of the case.
The magic, however, is when you take out the tablet, click a folded plastic piece into place, and lean the iPad in front of the keyboard. You pair the Bluetooth keyboard to the tablet (it’s an easy process), and now you’re working with a full keyboard.
Though the keys are slightly cramped — especially for fat fingers like mine — they feel good to the touch, and there’s no lag. They also include function keys for some of the iPad’s main features, like one for the Home button, the search bar, photo slideshow, and to put the device in sleep mode.
It runs on a built-in battery, and ZAGG claims it will operate for at least a week under normal usage.
It would be better if the spacebar was a bit longer, and the plastic piece that the iPad leans against feels like it could break off over a lot of use. And at $99, it seems a bit pricey.
The ZAGGmate, however, feels like a real keyboard and offers the closest experience to typing on a laptop. Other similar products use rubberized keys that are hard to get a feel for, but ZAGG’s solution uses real keys with a tactile touch.
Anyone looking to turn their iPad into a writing tool will like the ZAGGmate, which transforms that Netflix viewer/”Angry Birds” game player into a real productivity tool.
