iPad 2 folio style case with keyboard

[MacDaddy08]

I just ordered my iPad 2, waiting on it to arrive. I would like to have protection for it by the time it gets here and since it's going to take 3-4 weeks I think I have plenty of time.

I was wondering if anyone has any experience with any of the keyboard cases made for the iPad 2? I'm looking for something that is professional looking, folio style that also has a bluetooth keyboard built in, I will using this a lot at work in meetings to take notes so I think a keyboard would be a great addition.

I would like to hear from someone using a case like this to see what they think. I would also like the ability to fold the case around and just use the iPad normally without the keyboard if possible.

I REALLY like the Zaggmate iPad 2 Case with Keyboard but I don't like the idea of the back being exposed. I do plan to put an invisible shield on it like I have with my iPhone but I would still prefer something to be over it.

Any thoughts?

 

[MikePA]

I REALLY like the Zaggmate iPad 2 Case with Keyboard but I don't like the idea of the back being exposed. I do plan to put an invisible shield on it like I have with my iPhone but I would still prefer something to be over it.

While it's obvious, the ZaggMate is not a folio case.

The only folio cases you are going to find use the 'rubbery' keyboard that has no Shift key on the right side of the keyboard. Kensington, Brookstone and Sena all make folio cases with a keyboard for the iPad1, so I imagine they will offer them for the iPad2.

I've tried and returned both the Sena and Kensington cases. I could not stand the feel of the keyboard and could never get used to not having a Shift key on the right side of the keyboard. The Sena case was very professional looking (leather) but was horrible to use. Also, the keyboard was not attached to the case, it simply slipped into the right side of the case and a leather flap was tucked in under it. There's nothing to keep the keyboard centered in the opening. You can remove the keyboard if you want to.

I have a ZaggMate with keyboard plus a ClamCase for my iPad1. I prefer the ClamCase because there's no 'set up' needed. With the ClamCase, you just open it whereas with the ZaggMate you have to remove the iPad from the base, lock the stand in place, then lean the iPad against the stand. As all the other thread on this same topic have mentioned, you have to be very careful moving this ZaggMate/iPad combination because there's no physical connection between the keyboard and the iPad. I also put small, stick-on rubber feet on the bottom of the ZaggMate keyboard to keep is from moving on smooth surfaces.

While the ClamCase is not a shining example of Apple-like quality, I prefer it to the ZaggMate and will probably get the ClamCase for my iPad2. I am currently using the Apple BT keyboard and I carry both in a Waterfield iPad Wallet.

 

[MacDaddy08]

Thanks for the reply.

I know the Zaggmate isn't a folio case, I just really love the way it looks. The only really I really want a folio case is for the all-around protection so I was wondering if the Zaggmate with a IS installed would provide good all-around protection for the iPad.

Thank you for mentioning the Clamcase, I just looked it up and that's definitely the best looking case I've seen so far. I wish it was coming out earlier than June though. I'll definitely be looking into getting this when it comes out. Do you use a protective film like the IS or another one in addition to the Clamcase or just the case itself?

I looked into the Waterfield bag and I really like it also. It seems like there is plenty of room. I think I may have found my winning combo.

 

[MikePA]

Do you use a protective film like the IS or another one in addition to the Clamcase or just the case itself?

When I used the ZaggMate, I had one of their leather skins on the back of my iPad1. It looked pretty good when carrying it, almost like a leather folio case.

I do not use a skin on the back of my iPad1 when it's in the ClamCase, although I think there'd be room, since a clear skin isn't very thick. However, I never saw the need for it.

Keep in mind, ClamCase has a very poor track record with meeting their delivery dates. So, while they might say June, I would not plan on it.

 

[TimTheEnchanter]

I saw this at Amazon the other day...
http://www.amazon.com/Menotek-Bluet...1?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1301064040&sr=1-1

Microcenter had this one, but it's for iPad 1. I like that the keyboard is removable (held on with magnets) so you can have a slim, lightweight option.
http://www.qmadix.com/bluetooth/qmadix-portfolio-removable-bluetooth-keyboard.asp

 

[MikePA]

I saw this at Amazon the other day...
http://www.amazon.com/Menotek-Bluet...1?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1301064040&sr=1-1

Microcenter had this one, but it's for iPad 1. I like that the keyboard is removable (held on with magnets) so you can have a slim, lightweight option.
http://www.qmadix.com/bluetooth/qmadix-portfolio-removable-bluetooth-keyboard.asp

Based on the picture, the Menotek uses the same 'rubbery' keyboard without a right Shift key as the Sena, Kensington and Brookstone. No thanks.

The Qmadix looks good, has a right Shift key and I bet it'd hold the iPad2 just fine albeit not quite as tightly as the iPad1 but probably tight enough, of course the camera and speakers wouldn't line up right, but that wouldn't bother me too much.

Qmadix Review ---> Click Here.

 

[dcmetro]

Interesting. Keep us posted what u finally decide.

 

[MacDaddy08]

After much thought, I've decided to not go with a keyboard case.

I didn't like the idea of it not being as functional using in tablet mode as a normal case, I don't want the keyboard to be on the back when I'm just using it as a tablet. I've decided to just try it out without a separate keyboard and if I think I'm going to need a keyboard I'll probably just buy the Apple bluetooth keyboard for it and use that when I need it.

My decision is now between the DODOCase, Portenzo and Octavo cases. I love the book look to the case. Right now, the Portenzo and Octavo are leading the DODOCase simply for the DODO not having support for the rear facing camera, I don't want to take my iPad out just to use the camera.

I will let you know what I've decided overall but I'm leaning towards a Portenzo or Octavo with a BSE clear skin on the front for protection.