Logitech Tablet Keyboard for iPad Review

I'm typing this review on Logitech's Tablet Keyboard for iPad. This Bluetooth keyboard comes in two parts -- a relatively light wireless keyboard and a relatively heavy block of plastic that doubles as a case and an iPad stand. If you're looking for a comfortable keyboard with flexible functionality then this is an outstanding choice. Read on for more details and pictures of the Tablet Keyboard for iPad.

Pairing the keyboard to the iPad is a snap. Just make sure you have the iPad's Bluetooth radio on, power up the keyboard, and hit the connect button on the bottom of the unit. Your iPad will tell you to enter a numeric code on the keyboard and you're ready to go. The keyboard also pairs with other iOS devices, in case you feel the need to write a novella on your iPhone or iPod Touch.

In terms of usage, the keyboard has a similar feel to a laptop keyboard. It only took me a few minutes to get adjusted to the keyboard's response and spacing. After that, writing was a breeze. In addition to this review, I wrote several tweets, emails, and dirty limericks with this keyboard over the course of two weeks. Compared to the Apple Wireless Keyboard, the Logitech doesn't feel as luxurious since it's mostly plastic and the Apple model features a lot of metal. That said, I was very satisfied with how comfortable typing feels on the Tablet Keyboard for iPad.

The case is the real make-or-break deal with this product. I think it's fantastic, but I could see how some users might feel that it's too heavy. The case offers solid protection for the keyboard and a weighty base for the iPad. The tradeoff is that the cover weighs nearly as much as the keyboard and the overall offering weighs more than the iPad 2 (1.33 pounds for the WiFi model). I'm sure there are some people that will feel that the 1.6-pound total-package (not Lex Luger) weight is too heavy and makes the product inconvenient for everyday toting. I don't mind the weight as this isn't something I would carry with me every day. For occasional use and road trips, the weight is just fine. This is a product that I would stash in my luggage while my iPad stayed with me on the airplane.

Other features include some iOS specific functions, such as volume control, iPad lock, onscreen keyboard activation, and photo gallery launch. The Tablet Keyboard for iPad runs off of four AAA batteries. An internal rechargeable battery would have raised the cost over the unit's 69.99 MSRP and added more convenience. However, AAA batteries are quite easy to find. Unfortunately, the unit lacks a good battery life indicator to let you know precisely how much juice you're working with. The indicator on the upper-righthand corner only gives you a vague idea of how much power you have left.

Logitech's Tablet Keyboard for iPad is one of my favorite iPad accessories on the market. It's a fantastic keyboard that allows you to type quickly and comfortably. It also comes with a great stand and keyboard cover. If you're looking for an iPad keyboard that feels great and you don't mind the extra weight then give this product a go.

Pros: Fast and comfortable typing experience; case offers great protection and a stable iPad stand

Cons: Battery-life indicator could be better; some might find 1.6-pounds too heavy for an accessory

Bottom Line: Logitech's Tablet Keyboard for iPad offers a smooth and comfortable typing experience. It's a great keyboard with a strong cover and stable stand, but weighs more than the iPad 2 itself.