A solid typing companion

Logitech's Bluetooth Tablet Keyboard for the iPad works like a charm.
By ZAM KARIM
bytz@thestar.com.my
One could be a proficient virtual keyboard typist on an iPad but having a physical companion around does come in handy, especially when you need to type for a longer period of time.
And plus, I'm sure most of us do miss the "clicky" sounds and the tactile feedback that only a real keyboard is able to provide.
But looking around for the right typing companion for the iPad can be quite a daunting task as there are plenty of options available. One of them is the Logitech Tablet Keyboard for iPad.
Its full-size keyboard design looks and works similar to Apple's own wireless keyboard. But while the latter is all clad in silver with white keys, Logitech's offering is all black with white lining that goes around three-quarters of the edges.
The slick device also ships with a hardcase protective cover, which when not in use, can be unfolded to double as a stand for the iPad.
But as most iPad owners would have probably invested in their own case or Smart Cover already, this is probably not going to be so useful and will add slightly more weight to the bag that you carry around.

DOUBLE DUTY: The Logitech Tablet Keyboard ships with a hardcase protective cover that can be double as a Tablet stand.

Additionally, the case does not come with any lid so you need to hold it the correct way otherwise the keyboard will fall out.
Power it up
The keyboard is powered by four AAA batteries, which Logitech claims will last several weeks of regular use.
The device connects to the iPad flawlessly and we were able to pair the devices on the first try without any hassle.

COMBO PRESS: The shortcut keys are labelled in blue and you need to press them together with the 'Fn' key to make them work.

The keyboard can be used as far as 30ft or 9m from the Tablet but why do you want to do that? Well, here's an idea - how about using the keyboard like a remote control to operate the iPad hooked to the LCD TV from the comfort of your sofa?
You get media controls - like play, pause, volume up and volume down - as well as photo, onscreen keyboard and lock functions right at your fingertips. These keys are labelled in blue and you need to press them together with the "FN" function key.
There is also a dedicated home key - which is easily identifiable as it sports the same "square-shaped" icon as on the iPad. Suffice to say, all these keys work as advertised.
The Tablet Keyboard for iPad is also easy to type on and we rarely hit the wrong key since they are all nicely spaced out.
The keys have a nice responsiveness to them but due to the keyboard's compact size, we felt the keys tended to give only a fraction of the tactile feedback found on a regular keyboard. Whether this is good or bad depends on your preference.
Final words
In terms of features, there is nothing much that the Logitech Tablet Keyboard can offer to users other than to make typing easier and faster.
But then again, that's probably what you are looking for when shopping for an external keyboard for the iPad.
Also it is fuss-free and not only works equally as well as the Apple wireless keyboard but it is RM30 cheaper.
And in case you are wondering, the Logitech keyboard model can also be paired with other Tablet devices such as the Galaxy Tab, which we personally tried.
But do take note that the shortcut keys will not work at all with the exception of the home key when used with the Android-based Tablet.
(Logitech sells a model specifically for Android, which comes with Android-specific function keys.)
Pros: Easy to use, no fuss Bluetooth connectivity, provides easy access to most used functions.
Cons: Nothing major.
Tablet keyboard for iPAD
(Logitech)
Wireless Bluetooth keyboard
CONNECTIVITY: Bluetooth
SPECIAL KEYS: 11 shortcuts and one home button
WEBSITE: www.logitech.com.my
PRICE: RM199
RATING: 4 stars
Review unit courtesy of Logitech Malaysia. Enquiries: Kaira Technologies Sdn Bhd (03) 2026-1669; Ingram Micro Sdn Bhd (03) 7952-8188